Key Things To Know About Living In Idaho – Before You Move!
Is Idaho a good place to live? Today’s goal is to answer that question by reviewing the pros and cons of living in Idaho. Let’s get started.
Is Idaho A Good Place To Live?
Idaho is an excellent place to live because of the modest cost of living, low crime rate, strong economy, and exciting outdoor adventure scene. Residents benefit from the strong employment market, and when it’s time to relax and explore, the state’s scenic beauty is second to none.
Here are Idaho’s pros and cons for a broader and more balanced viewpoint.
Pros and Cons Of Living In Idaho: Side By Side Comparison
| Living in Idaho Pros | Living in Idaho Cons |
| 1. Jobs & economic growth | 10. Housing prices |
| 2. Low cost of living | 11. Increasing urbanization |
| 3. Friendly residents | 12. Lagging infrastructure |
| 4. Low crime | 13. Rugged winter weather |
| 5. Clean, sustainable living | 14. Isolation |
| 6. Scenic beauty | 15. Guns |
| 7. Outdoor recreation | 16. Politics |
| 8. Distinct weather seasons | 17. High income tax rate |
| 9. Cultural options | 18. Limited diversity |
Next, let’s examine the pros and cons in more detail so you can decide whether or not Idaho is a good place to live for you and your family.
Disclosure: At no cost to you, I may get commissions for purchases made through links in this post.
Living In Idaho: The Pros
1. Idaho Has A Robust Economy And Plenty Of Job Opportunities
Idaho’s economy is one of the most productive in the nation (Source: U.S. News).
After moving to Idaho, you will be part of a state that ranks highly for its:
- Business environment
- Employment
- Growth
The state’s economy is resilient during difficult economic times because of the wide variety of industries operating here, including:
- Manufacturing
- Agriculture
- Food processing
- Technology
- Health care
- Outdoor recreation and tourism
As a result, Idaho has one of the lowest unemployment rates in the country. And, if you like to roll up your sleeves and get your hands dirty, the state has roughly 25,000 active farms and ranches.
2. Resident Enjoy A Low Cost Of Living In Idaho
Idaho offers a reasonable cost of living to support your desired lifestyle.
For example, utilities, food, healthcare, goods, and services all run between 4% to 18% less than the national average (Source: RentCafe)
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3. Friendly And Welcoming People Live In Idaho
Idahoans are friendly and relaxed. They mind their own business but are willing to lend a helping hand when needed.
The state’s lower population density contributes to:
- A slower pace
- Close-knit communities
- Civic engagement
Related reading: 5 Best States to Live in Out West
4. Idaho Gets High Marks For Low Crime
Moving to Idaho provides peace of mind because you know you’re in a safe place. For example, U.S. News ranks Idaho as one of America’s top 10 safest states.
The state’s low violent and property crime rates contribute to the safety ranking. Furthermore, Boise, Idaho, is known to have more police officers per resident than most other cities in the country.
5. Clean And Sustainable Living In Idaho Is A Priority
Idaho’s urban areas are clean.
Both the residents and government organizations take cleanliness and the appearance of their cities seriously.
Idaho residents value sustainability.
Green energy production and neighborhood recycling programs are high priorities.
6. Moving To Idaho Means Abundant Natural Beauty
Idaho has a beautiful landscape.
The land contains mountains, streams, rivers, stunning waterfalls, and lakes. Thousands of acres of remote wilderness are home to diverse wildlife that love living in Idaho, too.
In western Idaho, along the border with the amazing state of Oregon, lies Hells Canyon National Recreation Area. It is home to the deepest river gorge in North America. The scenic views are unbelievable.
Although technically located in the alluring state of Wyoming, Grand Teton National Park is one of my favorite national parks. Locals can access the park approximately 90 miles from Idaho Falls using Idaho’s Granite Canyon park entrance.
Idaho’s Sun Valley is another beautiful area. The city is in south-central Idaho, near Bald Moutain, Dollar Mountain, and Proctor Mountain.
7. Idaho’s Outdoor Recreational Activities Are Virtually Limitless
Idaho is a top-notch state for outdoor recreation options. Your opportunities will be limited only by your time and imagination.
After moving to Idaho, you can:
- Fish the Salmon River
- Hike the Sawtooth National Forest
- Boat on Redfish Lake
- Horseback ride in the mountains
- Ski at Schweitzer Mountain Resort
- White water raft the Snake River.
Related reading: What living in Montana is like
8. The Weather In Idaho Has So Much Variety To Offer
The benefits of living in Idaho include the weather. State residents enjoy all four weather seasons, including nearly 200 sunny days yearly.
Warm summer temperatures are common here from June through August. October is a great time to enjoy a fall foliage tour.
The cold temperatures and abundant snowfall are great for winter sports. And the spring thaw fills the mountain streams and lakes as the seasons start anew.
9. There Are Good Entertainment And Cultural Options In Idaho
Idaho has even more to offer when you need a break from the outdoors.
First, country music is a favorite of music-loving locals.
Next, for wine lovers, Idaho has over 50 wineries and over 1,000 acres of vineyards. Craft beer breweries are also growing in popularity.
Idaho has developed an artsy reputation. In and around Boise, museums, theatres, music festivals, ballet, and opera flourish.
The state’s universities also contribute to the cultural options, including sporting events and educational opportunities. Relocate near one of the following schools to bring some college vibe into your new Idaho lifestyle:
- University of Idaho (Moscow, ID)
- Idaho State Univesity (Pocatello, ID)
- Boise State University (Boise, ID)
- Lewis-Clark State College (Lewiston, ID)
Finally, after relocating to Idaho, visit the Idaho Potato Museum. The museum is located in Blackfoot, ID, also known as the potato capital of the world.
Okay. That concludes the best things about living in Idaho. However, a thorough discussion to determine whether or not Idaho is a good place to live is incomplete without examining the other point of view. So, let’s dive into the reasons not to move to Idaho in the first place.
Living In Idaho: The Cons
10. Idaho’s Real Estate Market Has Been On Fire
Moving to Idaho has become a popular choice. For example, there has been a lot of interest in moving to Idaho from California.
As a result, the real estate market in Idaho has been red hot. Unfortunately, popularity has a price that has come from higher housing costs.
The median selling price of homes has increased 25% over the past three years. Idaho’s median home value is now 7% higher than the national average (Source: Redfin).
Prices are highest in the most popular cities. Meanwhile, remote, rural living options are less in demand and much cheaper, bringing down the above-mentioned averages.
11. The Negative Effects Of Urbanization Have Locals Grumbling
Idaho has become more urbanized because of the growing population. Many long-time locals are frustrated by the thousands of new people flocking to their cities and small towns.
For example, Boise’s popularity has greatly contributed to the population surge, resulting in more congestion and greater demand for services.
12. Idaho’s Infrastructure And Amenities Are Falling Short
Idaho’s rapid growth has meant less time to plan and implement necessary infrastructure improvements.
Furthermore, the amenities and conveniences a growing population of outsiders expects are often lacking.
Some examples include…
Idaho’s largest airport is located in Boise. The facility is only equipped to handle domestic and regional flights.
The state’s roads and bridges require a more rapid rate of expansion, maintenance, and repair to keep pace with the wear and tear.
Idaho’s public transportation options are underdeveloped and not as efficient as possible. Thus, plan on owning a car.
Luxury and high-end shopping options are limited.
13. Be Prepared For Cold And Snowy Winters After Moving To Idaho
Idaho’s winters are not for the timid.
There are frigid temperatures and lots of snowfall, particularly in the higher elevations. Mountain roads become impassable and close during heavy snowfall and cold, icy conditions.
Dense fog is another winter weather challenge, reducing visibility and making it difficult to get around safely.
14. Isolation Is A Real Issue In Parts Of Idaho
Idahoans are friendly but have a healthy respect for privacy and enjoy independence. As a result, locals like to keep their lives private and prefer to stay out of other people’s business.
In extreme cases, the state’s low population density and barren central region lead to a higher-than-desired feeling of isolation for some.
15. Not Everyone Agrees With Idaho’s Liberal Gun Laws
Idaho’s gun laws are fairly liberal.
Hunting is popular in this state. And people place a high value on personal protection.
Depending on your stance on the issue, this may be a pro or con. I listed the item as a con since I do not own a gun. You may feel differently, and that’s okay.
For example, you can carry a gun openly in Idaho, and residents are often allowed to carry a concealed firearm. According to the state’s gun laws, a permit is not necessary to purchase a gun, and a license is not required to carry a weapon.
16. Political Views Lean To The Right
In Idaho, most people are Republicans and lean toward conservative views. They typically vote for Republican candidates during election season.
So, if you subscribe to the liberal side of the political spectrum, your views may not carry much weight in Idaho.
17. Idaho Has A High State Income Tax
Idaho has a flat 5.8 percent individual income tax.
This tax rate is high, in my opinion, considering you can move to nearby Wyoming and pay zero state income tax.
Related reading: The tax benefits of living in Wyoming
18. Idaho Lacks Racial And Ethnic Diversity
Idaho’s population is predominantly white.
If you identify with a minority group, moving to Idaho may mean you won’t fit in as easily compared to other places. Thus, local restaurants and social activities may not represent your heritage, culture, or perspective.
Okay. That completes today’s Idaho pros and cons. Allow me to wrap up with some parting thoughts.
Living in Idaho: Wrapping Up The Pros And Cons
I hope this discussion has given you the information necessary to answer some important questions.
Such as…
1) What is it like living in Idaho?
and…
2) Should I move to Idaho?
Good luck with your decision. No matter where you decide to live.
More Reading About Living In Idaho And Beyond
- Where to move and why you should
- Another place to live in the Pacific Northwest
- Top tips on every state
Author Bio: Tom Scott founded the consulting and coaching firm Dividends Diversify, LLC. He leverages his expertise and decades of experience in goal setting, relocation assistance, and investing for long-term wealth to help clients reach their full potential.
