Are you thinking about moving to Boise? You’re in for a treat! Known for its beautiful scenery, bustling downtown area, and friendly residents, Boise is one of the most desirable cities in the Pacific Northwest. Whether you’re drawn to the outdoor adventures of the Boise Foothills, the urban energy of Downtown Boise, or the peaceful charm of the neighborhoods along the Boise River, there’s a perfect place for you in the Boise area.
Boise is in the heart of Treasure Valley, but there are also fantastic cities around Boise Idaho like Meridian, Eagle, and Nampa, offering great options for those looking to live near the state’s capital. In this guide, we’ll explore the best neighborhoods in Boise, highlighting what makes each one unique so you can find the right fit for your lifestyle. From Boise Idaho neighborhoods for families to the best Boise neighborhoods for young professionals, we’ve got you covered.
Downtown Boise | Busy Neighborhood in the Heart of the Action
Downtown Boise is the busy city center, offering culture, entertainment, and outdoor recreation. As one of the best neighborhoods in Boise for young adults, it’s packed with trendy restaurants, breweries, and music venues. Catch a show at The Egyptian Theatre or enjoy a cocktail at places like Suite 104 and 10th Street Station. Stroll along the Boise River Greenbelt, a scenic network of walking paths providing easy access to nature while staying close to the action.
Downtown Boise is also home to Boise State University, adding a youthful energy to the neighborhood. History lovers will appreciate the Idaho State Capitol and the historic homes scattered throughout the neighborhood. While the Boise cost of living is slightly higher here compared to Boise neighborhoods in suburban areas, the convenience and walkability make it worth it.
Downtown Boise Information
- Population: 2,432
- Average rent: $1,632
- Median home price: $768,000
- Downtown Boise crime rate: 876 crimes per 100,000 people (53.2% lower than the Boise average)
Southeast Boise | One of the Most Desirable Neighborhoods in Boise
Southeast Boise is one of the best neighborhoods in Boise and is full of both suburban comfort and outdoor adventure. Located along the Boise River, this neighborhood provides easy access to the Boise Foothills, making it a dream for nature lovers. Residents can enjoy biking or jogging on the scenic Greenbelt, kayaking on the river, or exploring nearby parks like Barber Park, a popular spot for floating the Boise River in the summer.
Families are drawn to Southeast Boise for its highly rated schools, including Timberline High School and Riverside Elementary. The neighborhood is also close to shopping and dining at Brown Crossing and offers a short commute to downtown. With beautiful tree lined streets and stunning views of the Treasure Valley, Southeast Boise is a top choice for those looking to settle down in the area.
Southeast Boise Information
- Population: 35,197
- Average rent: $1,836
- Median home price: $535,000
- Southeast Boise crime rate: 1,829 crimes per 100,000 people (18.9% higher than the Boise average)
Northwest Boise | One of the Best Neighborhoods in Boise for Nature Lovers
Northwest Boise is one of the best neighborhoods in Boise, and is a peaceful, quiet area not too far from Downtown Boise. With its tree-lined streets, access to outdoor recreation, and a mix of newer and established homes, this area is perfect for families and nature lovers.
One of the top things to do in Boise is exploring the foothill trails at Polecat Gulch, a local favorite for hiking and biking. Residents can also enjoy easy access to the Boise River, where they can fish, kayak, and walk along the water. The neighborhood is also just a short drive away from the shopping centers and restaurants in West Boise, making it a convenient place to live. It is also one of the most affordable Boise neighborhoods, with a median home price of $487,000 (just a bit higher than the national median home price of $418,000).
Northwest Boise Information
- Population: 1,661
- Average rent: $1,715
- Median home price: $487,000
- Northwest Boise crime rate: 2,790 crimes per 100,000 people (59.4% higher than the Boise average)
Depot Boise Bench | One of the Best Boise Idaho Neighborhoods
Depot Boise Bench is one of the best neighborhoods in Boise and is situated just south of Downtown Boise, offering easy access to the city’s best attractions. The Boise River Greenbelt runs through this neighborhood, perfect for outdoor activities like biking, jogging, and walking.
Food lovers will appreciate the neighborhood's proximity to some of the best places to live in Boise, with plenty of local restaurants, including the popular Red Feather Lounge and charming local coffee shops. The Boise Bench neighborhood is also home to Boise State University and the historic Morris Hill Cemetery. Additionally, golf lovers can enjoy easy access to the Hillcrest Country Club, which offers a championship golf course, tennis, wellness, aquatics, dining, and more. The area is full of incredible historic homes with a median home price of just $445,000.
Boise Bench Information
- Population: 9,013
- Average rent: $2,090
- Median home price: $445,000
- Boise Bench crime rate: 2,957 crimes per 100,000 people (64.6% higher than the Boise average)
Harris Ranch | Amazing Master-Planned Community in Boise
Harris Ranch is a 1,300-acre master-planned community in Southwest Boise and is one of the best places to live in Boise Idaho. It is one of the best neighborhoods in Boise for families, offering easy access to Downtown Boise as well as the other surrounding communities.
The neighborhood features more than 1,000 residences, including single family homes and townhomes available for purchase. The community is pedestrian-friendly, and everything is connected by walking and biking paths, allowing you to get around easily on foot. There are pools, fitness centers, and more for you to utilize right in your own backyard. Additionally, you’re only a few minutes away from the Warm Springs Golf Course, Brown Crossing, and the Boise Airport. Additionally, you can enjoy plenty of restaurants and coffee shops within just a few minutes of your home.
Harris Ranch Information
- Population: 3,590
- Average rent: $1,981
- Median home price: $689,000
- Harris Ranch crime rate: 675 crimes per 100,000 people (76.5% lower than the Boise average)
Collister | Beautiful Boise Neighborhood With Stunning Views of the Foothills
Collister is one of the best neighborhoods in Boise Idaho, offering breathtaking views of the Boise Foothills. Known for being one of the safest neighborhoods in Boise Idaho, it boasts a crime rate that is 56.5% lower than the Boise average, making it an ideal place to settle down and raise your family. This area is also a popular spot among retirees due to its close proximity to the popular Quail Hollow Golf Course.
When living in this beautiful neighborhood, you can enjoy easy access to outdoor activities, with nearby hiking trails in the foothills and the Boise River Greenbelt just a short drive away. For those who enjoy shopping and dining, the area is close to the busy Downtown Boise scene, offering plenty of options, such as The Wylder and Chandlers Prime Steaks and Fine Seafood.
Collister Information
- Population: 7,507
- Average rent: $1,632
- Median home price: $463,000
- Collister crime rate: 845 crimes per 100,000 people (56.5% lower than the Boise average)
East End | One of the Most Popular Boise Neighborhoods
When it comes to the best neighborhoods in Boise, you can’t skip out on the East End. Situated near the Boise Foothills, residents have easy access to outdoor activities and stunning views right at their doorstep. The neighborhood is also just a short distance from the Boise River, making it perfect for those who love water sports.
The East End is also one of the best Boise neighborhoods for families, offering excellent schools including Boise High School and several top-rated elementary schools. If you love nature, you’ll enjoy the Idaho Botanical Garden, which is located in the Foothills and hosts seasonal events and showcases the beauty of local nature.
East End Information
- Population: 6,724
- Average rent: $1,521
- Median home price: $805,000
- East End crime rate: 1,465 crimes per 100,000 people (3.1% lower than the Boise average)
Highlands | One of the Best Neighborhoods in Boise for Nature Lovers
Situated in the Boise Foothills, The Highlands is one of the best neighborhoods in Boise. This neighborhood is known for its amazing views and proximity to outdoor recreation, as the nearby foothill trails are ideal for mountain biking, hiking, and more.
As part of the suburbs of Boise Idaho, The Highlands provides a peaceful escape from the city hustle, while still being just a short drive away from Downtown Boise. With spacious homes along tree-lined streets, it’s one of the most desirable Boise Idaho neighborhoods.
Highlands Information
- Population: 1,366
- Average rent: $1,432
- Median home price: $799,000
- Highlands crime rate: 2,086 crimes per 100,000 people (31.9% higher than the Boise average)
North End | Eclectic Neighborhood in Boise Idaho
The North End is considered one of the best neighborhoods in Boise, thanks to its rich history and proximity to outdoor activities. The North End provides access to numerous hiking and biking trails in the nearby Boise Foothills, offering ample opportunities for adventure. Stop by Camels Back Park to enjoy amazing views and a cool outdoor North End gym, or head to Elm Grove Park to enjoy walk paths and playgrounds.
In addition to its proximity to nature, North End is also a great place for shopping and dining. Hyde Park Street is nearby, offering a great mix of cafes, shops, and restaurants. A few popular spots include Hyde Perk Coffee House, Lost Grove Brewing, and Hyde & Seek.
North End Information
- Population: 9,133
- Average rent: $1,715
- Median home price: $950,000
- North End crime rate: 1,555 crimes per 100,000 people (2.8% higher than the Boise average)
Boise Neighborhoods Map
Check out this map of the best neighborhoods in Boise.
Ready to Settle in One of the Best Neighborhoods in Boise?
Out of all the best neighborhoods in Boise, you’re sure to find something that suits your specific needs. There are plenty of Boise Idaho neighborhoods perfect for people of all ages and families of all sizes. Once you’ve decided on a neighborhood, get in touch with the team at BustNMoves.
Our reliable Boise movers will get you settled into your new home in no time, allowing you to start enjoying your new life in the City of Trees. To get started with a free quote, give our team a call at (208) 557-3328.
