BustNMoves Moving and Storage is a licensed and insured moving company located in Eastern and Southern, Idaho. We are locally-owned and operated and we focus on getting the job done with integrity and skill. Let our professionals do the heavy lifting and minimize the stress of moving. We work with you to make your next moving experience a pleasant one.
Thinking about living in Idaho? If you’re looking for a fresh start, a slower pace of life, and endless outdoor activities, Idaho has something for you. Known as the Gem State for its rich natural resources and stunning landscapes, Idaho offers breathtaking scenery, affordable living, and a welcoming community. But is Idaho a good place to live? For most, the answer is a resounding yes!
Idaho’s history is deeply rooted in exploration, agriculture, and the great outdoors. Originally home to Native American tribes, the area later became a key stop along the Oregon Trail. It officially became the 43rd state in 1890. Today, Idaho is known for its wide-open spaces, friendly small towns, and booming cities like Boise. With access to Yellowstone National Park, the Sawtooth Mountains, and the Snake River, the state is a dream destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
In this blog, we’ll explore the benefits of living in Idaho, from its thriving economy to its unmatched natural beauty. Whether you’re drawn to its peaceful landscapes or opportunities to achieve the American Dream, here are the things to know before moving to Idaho.
Is Idaho a Good Place to Live?
Idaho is a good place to live. Idaho offers a slower pace of life, allowing people to leisurely enjoy everything the Gem State has to offer. When living in Idaho, you can enjoy outdoor recreation, friendly neighbors, and a low cost of living.
The Gem State is known for its natural beauty and opportunities to achieve the American Dream. After moving to Idaho, you can enjoy various outdoor activities at places like Yellowstone National Park and Snake River. Living in Idaho has never been better!
Situated in the northwestern region of the United States, Idaho is a landlocked state known for its natural beauty and rugged wilderness. If you’re living in Idaho, you’ll find yourself surrounded by gorgeous landscapes, from mountains to rivers. The state shares its borders with Montana to the northeast, Wyoming to the east, Utah and Nevada to the south, Oregon and Washington to the west and the Canadian province of British Columbia to the north.
Idaho’s geography includes the Sawtooth Mountains, the Salmon River, and even a small slice of Yellowstone National Park, allowing you to enjoy the great outdoors when living in Idaho. While Idaho’s major cities like Boise, Idaho Falls, and Coeur d’Alene are growing, the state remains less crowded compared to neighboring metropolitan hubs like Salt Lake City and Las Vegas.
Are you ready to make living in Idaho a reality? The Idaho movers at BustNMoves are ready to help! Give our Idaho moving company a call at any time for a free estimate!
Transportation in Idaho
Whether you’re already living in Idaho or moving to Idaho, understanding the state’s transportation system is essential. While Idaho is known for its open spaces and rural areas, it has a well-maintained highway network and a few public transportation options in larger cities. Most residents rely on personal vehicles for travel, but there are still some transit services and airports for those needing alternative transportation.
Does Idaho Have Public Transportation?
Public transportation is limited in Idaho, especially in rural areas. However, larger cities like Boise, Idaho Falls, and Pocatello offer bus services. Valley Regional Transit operates buses in the Boise metropolitan area, providing a convenient option for commuters.
What Major Highways Run Through Idaho?
When living in Idaho, you’ll enjoy access to several major highways.
Roadway
Direction
Interstate 84 (I-84)
The main east-west highway, connecting Boise to Salt Lake City and Portland
Interstate 90 (I-90)
Runs across northern Idaho, linking Coeur d’Alene to Spokane, Washington
Interstate 15 (I-15)
Travels along eastern Idaho, connecting the state to Montana and Utah
U.S. Route 95 (US-95)
Runs from north to south, passing through Moscow, Lewiston, and Coeur d’Alene
How Many Airports Are in Idaho?
For those needing to travel by air when living in Idaho, there are a few options, but the major hub in the state is Boise Airport (BOI). Other options include Idaho Falls Regional Airport (IDA) and Spokane International Airport (GEG). While the latter airport is located in Washington, many residents in Northern Idaho use it as their primary airport.
What is the population of Idaho? There are currently 1.83 million people living in Idaho. The Idaho population has grown nearly 15% over the past decade.
A few metro areas to choose from when living in Idaho include the Boise metropolitan area, the Idaho Falls metropolitan area, and the Coeur d’Alene metropolitan area.
Idaho Demographics
Sex ratio: 50.3% male, 49.7% female
Median age: 36.9
Racial & ethnic composition: 92.5% White (80.3% non-Hispanic), 2.8% two or more races, 1.7% American Indian, 1.7% Asian, 1.0% Black or African American, 0.2% Native Hawaiian
Average income in Idaho: $74,636
Educational attainment: 91.7% high school degree (or higher), 31.2% bachelor’s degree (or higher)
Foreign-born population: 5.7%
What Famous People Are From Idaho?
When living in Idaho, you’ll live in zip codes where several notable people have also resided. Here are a few notable people from Idaho.
While Idaho is known for its landscapes and outdoor recreation, it also has several major cities that offer job opportunities and growing communities. If you’re living in Idaho or considering moving to Boise or another urban area, understanding the state’s largest cities can help you choose the right place to settle. Below is a list of big cities in Idaho, ranked by population.
Boise (240,000+): The state capital and largest city, located in Southern Idaho.
Meridian (130,000+): A rapidly expanding suburb of Boise Idaho.
Nampa (105,000+): Located in Southern Idaho, perfect for agricultural professionals living in Idaho.
Idaho Falls (67,000+): One of Idaho’s major cities and the largest city in Eastern Idaho.
Caldwell (63,000+): A fast-growing city to consider when living in Idaho. Located in the Treasure Valley.
Pocatello (56,000+): Located in Central Idaho and home to Idaho State University.
Cities in Idaho Map
What Are the Best Places to Live in Idaho?
No matter why you are moving to Idaho, the state offers a wide range of communities suited to different lifestyles. From urban areas to rural areas, living in Idaho provides plenty of options for families, young professionals, and retirees alike. Below are some of the best cities in Idaho based on different lifestyles.
Best Places to Live in Idaho for Families
There are several wonderful options for families living in Idaho.
Meridian: One of the fastest-growing cities in the state, many residents love Meridian for its top-rated schools and family-friendly parks.
Idaho Falls: A great choice for families seeking affordability, good schools, and access to Yellowstone National Park.
Twin Falls: Located in Southern Idaho, Twin Falls offers a lower cost of living and outdoor attractions like Shoshone Falls.
Is Idaho a good place to live? The cost of living in Idaho plays a major part in answering this question. So, how much does it cost to live in Idaho? The Idaho Cost of Living Index is 77.9, meaning that living in Idaho is 22.1% more affordable than the national average of 100. This low cost of living is one of the major draws for people moving to Idaho.
While the average cost of living in Idaho is low, some of the major metro areas are more expensive. For example, the Boise cost of living is 19.6% higher than the national average and 41.7% higher than the Idaho average.
Typical Living Expenses in Idaho
Is Idaho expensive? Let’s take a look at the average expenses you’ll encounter when living in Idaho.
One of the benefits of living in Idaho is its reputation as a tax-friendly state. Idaho has low taxes compared to many other states, with a progressive income tax ranging from 1% to 5.8%. The sales tax is 6%, and property taxes are lower than the national average.
Where Is the Cheapest Place to Live in Idaho?
Looking for affordable living in Idaho? Here are a few affordable places to live in Idaho.
City
Population
Cost of Living Compared to National Average
Pocatello
58,064
10.8% more affordable
Rexburg
39,975
6.6% more affordable
Lewiston
34,836
5.7% more affordable
Mountain Home
16,703
14.7% more affordable
Burley
12,146
16.4% more affordable
Idaho Housing Market
Do you want to buy or rent Idaho real estate when living in Idaho? Luckily, there are plenty of options to choose from when living in Idaho! According to Redfin, home prices are up 26.4% compared to last year, while the number of homes for sale fell by 4.7%.
Will you be renting real estate after moving to Idaho? According to RentCafe, the average rent for an apartment in Idaho is $1,593 per month, which is lower than the national average of $1,729. The most affordable cities to rent in Idaho include Mountain Home ($1,100 per month), Driggs ($1,277 per month), and Pocatello ($1,326 per month).
What Is the Average Home Price in Idaho?
If you’d rather buy real estate when living in Idaho, then there are plenty of options for you. According to Redfin, the average home price in Idaho is $471,300, which is only slightly above the national average of $430,000.
The Idaho climate varies depending on the region, with everything from snowy mountain winters to hot, dry summers. When living in Idaho, you’ll experience four distinct seasons, making it a great place for nature lovers who enjoy a variety of outdoor activities year-round.
What Type of Climate Does Idaho Have?
According to the Köppen Classification, Idaho has a continental semi-arid climate, with some regions experiencing a humid continental climate.
Does It Snow in Idaho?
Yes, it snows in Idaho, but the amount varies based on location. The Idaho annual snowfall will be light in lower elevations and heavy in mountain areas.
How Much Rain Does Idaho Get?
The Idaho annual rainfall is relatively low, as much of the state is dry or semi-arid. Boise receives about 12 inches per year, while Idaho Falls receives about 11.
What Is the Average Temperature in Idaho?
The average temperature in Idaho depends on the location. Idaho’s average winter temperatures range from 30ºF to 40ºF, while summer temperatures range from 75ºF to 90ºF.
Are There Any Extreme Weather Conditions in Idaho?
Idaho is not prone to hurricanes or tornadoes, but it does experience other extreme weather conditions. Wildfires can happen during dry summers, significantly impacting the air quality in the state. Additionally droughts and cold snaps are fairly common during summer and winter, respectively.
Things to Do in Idaho
Living in Idaho is a paradise for nature enthusiasts, offering a perfect blend of outdoor adventure, history, and culture. From beautiful national parks to big-city attractions, the state has plenty of fun things to do in Idaho. If you’re wondering what to do in Idaho, here are some of the top attractions and activities to check out.
While mainly in Wyoming, Yellowstone National Park’s western entrance is in Idaho. This is one of the best things to do in Idaho and offers incredible hiking trails and amazing views.
Head over to this clear lake surrounded by mountains and enjoy fishing, boating, hiking, and more. This is one of the best attractions for water sports lovers living in Idaho.
This interactive science museum is a great place for families, with hands-on exhibits, educational displays, and fun activities for things to do in Idaho with kids.
The Museum of Idaho is a great place to learn about the state’s natural history and local heritage with science, history, and cultural exhibits.
Map of Idaho Attractions
Idaho Sports Teams
While Idaho doesn’t have major professional sports teams, it has a strong sports culture, particularly in college athletics and minor league teams. If you’re living in Idaho or moving to Idaho, you’ll find plenty of ways to get involved in sports.
College sports are a big deal, with Boise State University’s football team, known for its blue turf, being especially popular. Idaho State University also has strong programs in football and basketball.
For minor league action, the Boise Hawks (baseball) and Idaho Steelheads (hockey) offer exciting games.
Is Idaho Safe?
Is living in Idaho safe? If you’re considering moving to Idaho, this is likely one of your top questions. Luckily, many cities in Idaho enjoy low crime rates well below the national average, making it a very safe place to live.
What Is the Crime Rate in Idaho?
Before you start living in Idaho, take a look at these crime statistics.
Overall crime in Idaho: 1,168 crimes per 100,000 people (66% lower than the national average)
Violent crime in Idaho: 241 crimes per 100,000 people (42.2% lower than the national average)
Property crime in Idaho: 927 crimes per 100,000 people (71% lower than the national average)
These low crime rates make Idaho a very safe place to live.
What Are the Safest Cities in Idaho?
Here are a few safe cities to check out when living in Idaho.
City
Population
Crime Rate Compared to State Average
Hailey
9,789
44.9% lower
Shelley
5,232
24.7% lower
Priest River
1,810
29.0% lower
Pinehurst
1,784
71.2% lower
Hagerman
989
30.7% lower
What Are the Most Dangerous Cities in Idaho?
These are a few more dangerous cities you may want to take caution in when living in Idaho.
City
Population
Crime Rate Compared to State Average
Boise
239,074
24.2% higher
Garden City
12,279
127.3% higher
Blackfoot
12,437
118.9% higher
Gooding
3,741
23.5% higher
Homedale
3,095
57.7% higher
What Is the Murder Rate in Idaho?
The murder rate in Idaho is 2.7 per 100,000 people.
Idaho Economy
The job market is abundant for those living in Idaho. There are thousands of incredible jobs in Idaho, with health care, agriculture, and education being some of the most popular industries. According to Idaho Commerce, Idaho was recently ranked as the 6th-best state economy and the 3rd-highest projected job growth rate.
What Are the Top Employers in Idaho?
A few of the top employers you can explore when living in Idaho include Micron Technology, a leader in semiconductor manufacturing, Idaho Power, a major utility company, and St. Luke’s Health System, which provides healthcare across the state.
The best places to work in Idaho often include companies like Micron Technology, Idaho Power, and Simplot.
What Is the Average Salary in Idaho?
According to Payscale, the average salary in Idaho is $70,000.
Are There Any Fortune 500 Companies in Idaho?
Yes, Idaho is home to one Fortune 500 company, Albertsons Companies, a major grocery retailer that is headquartered in Boise.
Education in Idaho
If you’ll be living in Idaho with children, then you’ll want to explore Idaho high schools, elementary schools in Idaho, private schools in Idaho, and more.
Where Does Idaho Rank in Education?
WalletHub ranks Idaho as the 37th-best state for education.
When living in Idaho, you’ll want to choose a school district that sets your student up for success. These districts are home to some of the best high schools in Idaho as well as some of the best educational programs.
Here are some fun facts to know when living in Idaho.
Idaho produces one-third of all the potatoes grown in the United States
Idaho has more than 3,100 lakes and reservoirs
The longest free-flowing river in the United States is the Salmon River
Idaho is home to the deepest river gorge in North America, Hells Canyon
Idaho’s state bird is the Mountain Bluebird
Idaho has more wilderness areas than any other state in the contiguous United States
Living in Idaho Pros and Cons
Is Idaho a good place to live? Here are some pros and cons of living in Idaho.
Pros
Gorgeous natural attractions
Affordable cost of living
Low crime rates
Abundance of outdoor recreation
Fast-growing economy
Cons
Limited public transportation
Harsh winters
Limited cultural amenities
Job market competition
Should I Move to Idaho?
Is Idaho a good place to live? Yes! There are plenty of reasons to move to Idaho, and the Gem State has something to offer families of all sizes. If you’re thinking about moving to Idaho, then the team at BustNMoves is ready to help you every step of the way. Our dedicated Idaho movers are expertly trained to make your life easier before, during, and after moving day.
If living in Idaho sounds great to you, then give our team a call at (208) 557-3328 to get started with a free quote.
BustNMoves Moving Company
Taylor Kerbs, Founder of BustNMoves:
Taylor Kerbs founded BustNMoves Moving Company in 2021 after identifying a growing need for professional moving services in Southeast Idaho. His journey in the moving industry began in his teenage years, where he gained hands-on experience coordinating and executing numerous residential relocations. This practical background, combined with his detailed market research and business planning, established the foundation for BustNMoves.
Under Taylor's leadership, the company has grown from a weekend operation to a full-service moving business with three dedicated trucks and year-round staff. He has personally overseen moves ranging from single-bedroom apartments to 9,000-square-foot homes throughout Idaho. Taylor's commitment to transparent pricing and customer service has helped establish BustNMoves as a trusted moving solution for residents in Pocatello and surrounding communities.
As a local business owner who has lived in the region since 2014, Taylor brings both professional expertise and community knowledge to every moving project.
