If you’re looking for an excellent place to call home, Boise, Idaho, may be just what you need. Located in the Pacific Northwest, this city offers captivating scenic views, a blossoming economy, and a cozy suburban feel. This article discusses the pros and cons of Boise, Idaho.
Whether you’re a young professional searching for opportunities, or looking for a place to retire, Boise has much to offer.
Is Boise, Idaho a Good Place to Live?
Boise, Idaho, can be a great place to live. It’s a capital city with fun activities, a robust arts scene, and a strong sense of community. It can be an excellent place for people from all walks of life to put down roots.
Pros and Cons of Boise, Idaho: Perks of Boise
Boise has plenty to offer its residents, from a host of outdoor activities to its ever-growing job and economic growth opportunities! Here are a few of the most notable perks of residing in Boise:
Ample Outdoor Activities
If you love the great outdoors, Boise has plenty to offer. The area is teeming with hiking and walking trails ideal for enjoying the fresh air and nature’s serenity. A diverse collection of parks reside in and around Boise. This taste of nature provides the perfect place to unwind and enjoy the outdoors.
The Boise River Greenbelt provides a remarkable list of activities on its own, with so much to choose from.
Affordable Cost of Living
When we look at the pros and cons of Boise, Idaho, it’s important to discuss the cost of living there. Compared to large metropolitan cities and capitals of surrounding states, Boise has an affordable cost of living. For example, while Boise living costs sit approximately 8% higher than the national average, living in Seattle, Washington, costs a whopping 50% more than the national average. Portland, Oregon, living costs are approximately 24% higher than the national average.
So, while Boise isn’t the cheapest place to live, it offers much more affordable costs than those of other large cities in surrounding states. When looking at how much it would cost to live in Boise versus the cost of housing, it is important to consider that compared to other major cities it is much more affordable and budget-friendly.
Comforting Suburban Feel
Unlike many capital cities, which build up instead of out, Boise offers a comforting suburban feel. The city sprawls through the picturesque Treasure Valley, boasting numerous neighborhoods with a cozy, suburban feel.
Boise has a strong sense of community, hosting many local events and farmers markets that create a welcoming atmosphere.
Because of its livability, it is also a great place to build a home, with all of the open space. It is important before deciding whether to buy or build in Boise, consider this custom home building checklist, and what to expect before buying a home.
Low Crime Rates
Boise is a reasonably safe place to live, boasting lower crime rates. Historically it also offers lower violent crime rates than the national average. While some regions of the city have higher crime rates, much of Boise is safe, making it a great place to settle down.
Growing City With Room for Growth
Boise is a booming capital city, earning its place as the fifth-fastest growing city in the United States between 2022 and 2023. The explosive growth opens many doors for its residents. The city provides ample opportunities for job growth and economic growth as a whole.
Given the ever-growing list of opportunities, Boise can be an ideal place for young professionals to put down roots. Due to its sprawling space, it is also considered a prime location for purchasing land and having a home built there.
All 4 Stunningly Beautiful Seasons
Boise is lucky enough to enjoy the best of each season. Residents of this area get to bask in balmy summers, taking advantage of the numerous hiking trails in and around the city. The city is a kaleidoscope of fall colors when summer gives way to autumn. The fall season features a beautiful blend of warm yellows, burnt oranges, and crimson reds.
Boise winters are generally mild. Winters here often feature snow that doesn’t stick around for more than a few days in the valley. The surrounding mountains and upper panhandle experience much harsher winters, but Boise residents don’t have to worry about this aspect.
When the grip of the winter chill is loosened and ebbs into spring, trees in Boise are seen blossoming and landscapes sweeping with green. While spring temperatures can be somewhat finicky, the springs in this area often escort in beautiful weather.
Pros and Cons of Boise, Idaho: Drawbacks of Boise Living
Living in Boise offers a full array of remarkable perks, but, like any city, it has its drawbacks. Here are a few disadvantages to consider before you move:
Limited Transportation Options
Despite being the capital city of Idaho, Boise’s public transportation options are limited. The city offers a bus service called Valley Ride, but its routes are limited and may not service the area you live promptly. Due to the lack of public transportation, certain parts of Boise are highly car-dependent.
Isolated From Surrounding Cities
Several smaller cities speckle the landscape surrounding the bustling city limits of Boise, but the city is somewhat isolated. Large cities are more than a short drive away, making it feel secluded.
Potentially Lower Wages
While the lower cost of living is a notable perk of this area, it can come with a wage decrease. Of course, this depends entirely on your occupation and career path, as some positions have consistent pay across the board. However, this is an important consideration given the impact of lower wages.
Build Your Dream Home in Boise With Oakmont
Boise, Idaho, can be the perfect place for young professionals, growing families, and retirees alike. With its affordable living costs, solid employment prospects, and ample recreational activities, Boise has plenty to offer incoming residents.
If you’re ready to put down roots in this beautiful, bustling city, Oakmont can help. We offer a full range of stunningly designed move-in-ready homes in and around Boise to help you fast-track your move into the city.
Or, if you prefer the luxuries of a custom build, we can help you bring your dreams to life. We pride ourselves on providing an ultra-customized process that puts the power in your hands, allowing you to make your dreams a reality. Whether you’re seeking a move-in-ready home or a custom home builder to craft your home from scratch, our skilled artisans at Oakmont can help! Contact us today to get started.
