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.
Are you thinking about moving to Star Idaho? This charming small town in the Treasure Valley offers the perfect blend of rural tranquility and urban convenience. Located just 20 miles northwest of Boise, living in Star Idaho means enjoying wide-open spaces, family-friendly neighborhoods, and a genuine, strong sense of community while staying connected to the amenities of Idaho's capital city.
Star is a city in Ada and Canyon counties that was officially incorporated in 1905, though the area was first settled in the 1860s. The town got its unique name from a local store called the Star Merchandise Company. What is Star Idaho known for? This wonderful place is famous for its agricultural heritage, equestrian culture, and stunning views of the nearby Boise Foothills. With excellent schools, newer housing developments, and easy access to outdoor recreation, Star is a great town that consistently ranks as one of the best places to live in the Boise metro area.
Living in Star Idaho offers residents a peaceful suburban lifestyle without sacrificing convenience. Whether you're raising a family, seeking more space, or looking for a tight-knit community, Star is a great place that delivers on all fronts. In this comprehensive guide, we'll cover everything you need to know about moving to Star Idaho - from neighborhoods and schools to recreation and real estate. And when you're ready to make the move, our Star Idaho movers are here to make your transition seamless!
Where Is Star Idaho?
If you’re wondering what county Star Idaho is located in, you’ll be surprised to know that it's actually in two different counties - Ada and Canyon counties in southwestern Idaho, approximately 20 miles northwest of downtown Boise. It's part of the Boise metropolitan area and serves as a peaceful bedroom community for young professionals and families working in Boise, Meridian, and Nampa. For families moving to Star Idaho, the location provides a rural small-town atmosphere while maintaining excellent commute times to major employment centers.
Star borders Middleton to the north, Eagle to the east, and Nampa to the west. The city sits along State Highway 44, which provides a direct route into Boise. It's about 17 miles from Star to Eagle, ID, and approximately 23 miles from Star to Boise, ID. Commute times to downtown Boise typically run 25-30 minutes, making it manageable for daily travelers.
The Treasure Valley landscape surrounding Star features agricultural land, rolling hills, and spectacular mountain views. Living in Star Idaho means enjoying expansive western skies and that quintessential Idaho scenery.
Star Idaho Population & Demographics
How many people live in Star, Idaho? According to the 2020 U.S. Census, Star's population is 13,231 residents. Star is one of the fastest-growing cities in Idaho. Still, despite its rapid growth, Star maintains its small-town character and friendly atmosphere, making it a perfect place for those seeking a sense of community.
Moving to Star Idaho means joining a young, growing community that's attracting families and young professionals from across the Northwest. The city’s demographics highlight its growing diversity within the broader Boise metro area, with approximately 82% of residents identifying as white, 1% as Black or African American, 1% as Asian, 4% as two or more races, and about 11% identifying as Hispanic or Latino.
Star has been home to several notable figures, including James A. Brown, a respected football and basketball coach; Davey Hamilton Jr., a professional racing driver; and Lori Otter, former First Lady of Idaho and wife of Governor Butch Otter.
Is Star Idaho Safe?
Safety is a top priority for anyone considering moving to Star Idaho. Well, the good news is that Star consistently ranks as one of the safest communities in the Treasure Valley, along with Boise, with crime rates significantly below state and national averages.
According to Star’s 2023 Annual Report, violent crimes in the city have decreased, and the crime-clearance rate (violent + other serious crimes solved or cleared) has been near 70% for the third year in a row.
In Star, crime rates are about 83% lower than the national average, and violent crime is approximately 76% lower than the U.S. average.
For context, Idaho’s state crime data shows violent crime rates around 230-± per 100,000 people (2024), with property crime rates around 736-± per 100,000.
So yes - Star is very safe by almost any comparative measure: much lower violent crime, much lower overall crime, with law enforcement showing strong performance in solving cases.
Cost of Living in Star Idaho
Is Star Idaho expensive? Living in Star Idaho comes with a moderate cost of living that's higher than the Idaho state average but reasonable compared to many western metropolitan areas. According to the Economic Research Institute, Star has a Cost of Living Index of 95, meaning it's about 5% less expensive than the U.S. average.
Typical Star Idaho Living Expenses:
Meal at an inexpensive restaurant: $20.00
Cappuccino: $5.88
Gallon of milk: $3.44
Dozen eggs: $4.43
Gallon of gas: $3.49
Average monthly utilities: $145.18 *
* Includes electricity, heating, water, and garbage
According to the Economic Policy Institute's Family Budget Calculator, a family of four would need to earn approximately $112,757 per year to afford a modest yet adequate standard of living in Ada County.
Star Idaho Real Estate
As of late 2025, the median home value in Star Idaho is approximately $555K according to Redfin, with an average price per square foot of $279. Homes in Star typically sell within 87 days of listing, with inventory ranging from established ranch-style homes on larger lots to brand-new construction in modern subdivisions.
If you're renting, the average rent in the Boise metro area is $1,833 per month, according to Redfin, though rental inventory in Star itself can be limited.
Idaho has a flat state income tax rate of 5.8%, and property taxes in Ada County average around 0.73% of assessed home value - quite reasonable for the region.
Neighborhoods in Star Idaho | Where to Live in Star Idaho
Is Star Idaho a good place to live? Absolutely! This growing city offers a variety of neighborhoods that cater to different lifestyles. Whether you're a young family moving to Star Idaho or professionals seeking more space, you'll find welcoming neighborhoods with that small-town feel.
Legacy is one of Star's premier newer developments, featuring contemporary homes with community amenities. This neighborhood appeals to families moving to Star Idaho who want modern construction and a strong sense of community.
Riverbend Area – Established Neighborhood with Mature Landscaping
The Riverbend area features older homes on larger lots with mature trees. This quiet residential neighborhood offers a more traditional rural feel, with many properties on half-acre to full-acre parcels - ideal for those seeking privacy while living in Star Idaho.
This area showcases Star's evolution from an agricultural community to a growing suburb. You'll find everything from historic farmhouses on acreage to newer subdivisions, attracting buyers moving to Star Idaho who want options and variety.
Star Idaho Weather
Star Idaho experiences a semi-arid climate with four distinct seasons and low annual precipitation.
Summers are hot and dry, with average daily highs ranging from 86°F in late June to 94°F in late July - ideal for enjoying the area’s outdoor trails and river spots. Winters are cold but manageable, with average highs around 39°F in January and lows near 25°F.
Star receives around 11 inches of precipitation per year, with most rainfall occurring from November through May. Snowfall is light compared to northern Idaho, averaging about 12 inches annually. The best times to move to Idaho or visit Star are late spring (May–June) and early fall (September–October) when temperatures are comfortable and humidity is low (WeatherSpark).
Things to Do in Star Idaho
Whether you're visiting or moving to Star Idaho, you'll discover a welcoming community with outdoor recreation and family-friendly attractions. You'll find convenient shopping at Star Marketplace and Ridley's Family Market for everyday needs.
Located along the Boise River, Star River Walk Park is one of the city’s most beloved outdoor destinations. The park features a scenic walking path that connects to the regional Greenbelt, offering space for jogging, cycling, birdwatching, and riverside picnics. Visitors can enjoy open green spaces, fishing access, and beautiful views of the water - making it an ideal spot for both relaxation and recreation.
Just minutes from downtown Star, Firebird Raceway is a nationally recognized dragstrip that’s been thrilling motorsports fans since 1968. The family-owned NHRA-sanctioned track hosts major racing events throughout the season, including the Fox Hunt, Nightfire Nationals, and high-speed bracket racing. With a lively atmosphere and events for all ages, Firebird Raceway is a must-visit for adrenaline seekers and car enthusiasts alike.
A local favorite for golfers across the Treasure Valley, River Birch Golf Course offers a scenic and challenging 18-hole layout surrounded by rolling hills and farmland views. Known for its well-maintained greens and welcoming staff, the course features practice facilities, a full-service clubhouse, and affordable rates for players of all skill levels. It’s an excellent choice for a relaxing round or a weekend outing with friends.
The City of Star Parks and Recreation Department manages local parks and organizes community events. Check their website for seasonal celebrations, including Star Days in July and farmers markets. Living in Star Idaho means being part of a community that values fun and connection!
Star Idaho Restaurants
Star's dining scene reflects its small-town character with local favorites and convenient options. While more limited than neighboring Boise, you'll find quality establishments and coffee shops serving everything from comfort food to Mexican cuisine. Here are local spots worth trying when living in Star Idaho.
For fresh, made-to-order sushi and Japanese favorites, Idaho Sushi Company delivers big-city quality with small-town hospitality. It’s the perfect spot for a relaxed lunch or dinner with friends.
A true taste of Mexico in the heart of Star, El Mariachi Loco Restaurante serves authentic Mexican dishes made from family recipes. Guests rave about the flavorful tacos, sizzling fajitas, and refreshing margaritas. The lively atmosphere and friendly service make it a great spot for casual dining or weekend gatherings.
A Star staple for food, drinks, and community, Sully’s Pub & Grill offers a welcoming atmosphere with hearty pub fare, craft beers, and weekly live entertainment. Whether you’re watching a game or grabbing dinner with family, Sully’s is a local favorite for good times and great food.
For more variety, residents living in Star Idaho can easily drive to Eagle or Meridian for additional restaurants. New businesses continue opening throughout the area, and some venues feature live music on weekends.
Jobs in Star Idaho
Moving to Star Idaho provides excellent access to employment opportunities throughout the Treasure Valley. According to PayScale, the average salary in the Boise metro area is approximately $76,000 per year, equivalent to $21.86 per hour.
Star is served by the West Ada School District (Meridian School District), which consistently ranks among the top-performing districts in Idaho. Schools include Star Elementary School (K-5) and Rocky Mountain High School in Meridian, among others. The district is known for innovative programs, strong athletics, and impressive graduation rates - a major draw for families moving to Star Idaho.
In terms of higher education near Star, there are several excellent institutions within easy driving distance:
Moving to Star Idaho offers the perfect combination of small-town community, family-friendly atmosphere, and convenient access to Boise metropolitan amenities. With excellent schools, safe neighborhoods, abundant hiking and biking trails, and a welcoming population, Star continues attracting families and young professionals seeking the Idaho lifestyle. Whether you're drawn by the open spaces, equestrian culture, or simply want more room to breathe, Star is a wonderful place that delivers on the promise of western living.
When you're ready to make your move, BustNMoves has the local expertise to make your transition smooth and stress-free. Our experienced Star movers understand the area and can handle all the logistics. Call us today at (208) 557-3328 to get started on your move to Star Idaho!
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.
