This Northwestern State Was Named One of the Best Places to Live in the U.S. for Quality of Life and Affordability

In recent years, Idaho has led the country in population growth and is on its way to reaching two million residents. Its capital, Boise, was recently named the second-best city to live in by U.S. News, scoring higher than Naples, Florida, the No. 1 city on the list in the value and quality of life categories.

“Boise is a recreationalist’s paradise. If you value the outdoors and time spent among rivers, mountains, canyons, deserts, and lakes — and all the activities encapsulated therein — it’s worth a serious look,”  U.S. News stated.

Boise is home to about 237,000 residents, who benefit from year-round access to public parks and exhilarating outdoor experiences. The Boise River runs through the city, and each year, hundreds of thousands of residents and travelers float on it in rafts, kayaks, SUPs, tubes, and boats. Anglers don’t have to travel far to enjoy their hobby either. Parkcenter Park in east Boise is a scenic fishing pond teeming with trout, bass, and salmon.

Boise also lives up to its nickname, “the City of Trees.” With over 100 parks dotting the city and its surroundings, there’s a green patch for everyone — from playgrounds and modern sporting facilities to rugged trails (even a 41-mile loop trail dedicated to Idaho’s potatoes) and wild vistas. One of the most popular spots to unwind is Ann Morrison Park, one of Boise’s largest parks, offering 153 acres of fun along the banks of the Boise River.

Boise’s cultural life is also not to be underestimated. Drawn by the Gold Rush, Basque immigrants started arriving in the city from Spain and France in the 1800s. Today, Boise is home to the largest Basque population in the U.S. Both residents and guests can explore the city’s fascinating heritage downtown, where many restaurants and cultural centers continue to preserve the city’s Basque legacy.

Multiple indoor and outdoor performance arts venues, including a quirky music festival, speak to the city’s affinity for music, while art enthusiasts can wander the hallways (and gardens) of several top-notch museums. 

However, one of the main draws for new residents is the affordable cost of living and the strong job market. Currently, unemployment in Boise stands at 3.6 percent — the city has a growing tech center, among other industries. What’s more, the estimated monthly expenses for a single person are $1,045 without rent, according to Numbeo. The company points out that a one-bedroom apartment in the city center costs, on average, $1,582. The median home value in the city is $490,000, and prices are stabilizing as the housing supply is improving. (Niche.com ranks Sunset, Boise Heights, and North End as the best neighborhoods in the city with top-rated public schools.)

You can read U.S. News’ report on the best places to live in America on usnews.com.