81,708 people moved to Idaho in 2024—higher than anywhere else in the US, and it’s not just for the potatoes! With the 3rd highest projected job growth and an economy that ranked 6th best in the nation, Idaho isn’t just growing—it’s thriving.
And when work is done, Idaho brings the fun. Boise’s got craft breweries and big-city energy. Moscow is full of cool, artsy vibes, and Coeur d’Alene is the kind of lake town you never want to leave. Let’s explore the best places to live in Idaho to find you a perfect match.
Where is the Best Place to Live in Idaho?
| # City | Weighted Average Scores* | Median House Price | Median Income | Cost of Living | Community Wellbeing | Crime Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Lewiston | 59.8 | $390K | $89K | 3.1% ⬇️ | 54 | 31 |
| 2. Twin Falls | 59.8 | $340K | $71K | 7.6% ⬇️ | 57 | 21 |
| 3. Nampa | 59.4 | $392K | $78K | 0.2% ⬆️ | 50 | 36 |
| 4. Boise | 59.0 | $510K | $95K | 1.2% ⬆️ | 65 | 29 |
| 5. Idaho Falls | 56.2 | $350K | $80K | 7.5% ⬇️ | 50 | 25 |
| 6. Meridian | 55.7 | $525K | $107K | 14.8% ⬆️ | 65 | 60 |
| 7. Post Falls | 55.5 | $464K | $82K | 5.1% ⬇️ | 56 | 41 |
| 8. Pocatello | 54.9 | $315K | $76K | 9.2% ⬇️ | 49 | 24 |
| 9. Caldwell | 50.9 | $375K | $71K | 0.1% ⬆️ | 50 | 39 |
| 10. Moscow | 46.1 | $423K | $80K | 5.3% ⬇️ | 51 | 30 |
*These cities are ranked based on our research methodology.
To simplify your search in the Idaho housing market, we’ve sorted the top 10 cities into four categories: for young adults, for families, for retirees, and beach towns. Each city is evaluated based on career opportunities, affordability, community wellbeing, and lifestyle.
3 Best Places to Live in Idaho for Young Adults 💼
1. Moscow
- Median House Price: $423K
Cost of Living: 5.3% ⬇️ than the national average.
Crime Rate: Safer than 30% of US cities.
Unemployment: 6.4%
Walkability Score: 9; car-dependent city.
Home to the University of Idaho, Moscow is often referred to as the Fest City. Festivals like the Lionel Hampton Jazz Festival will keep you busy year-round. Besides, nearby The Latah Trail and Bill Chipman Palouse Trail provide the perfect escape when you need a breath of fresh air.
Beyond the festivals and outdoors, Moscow is known for its good quality of life, too. With affordable living, great jobs, and outdoor spaces it’s got the whole package. This makes it one of the best places to live in Idaho for young adults.
» Moscow Homes for Sale: Search homes in the best place to live in Idaho for young adults.
2. Pocatello
- Median House Price: $315K
Cost of Living: 9.2% ⬇️ than the national average.
Crime Rate: Safer than 24% of US cities.
Unemployment: 5.4%
Walkability Score: 8; car-dependent city.
Nestled in the foothills of the Rockies at an elevation of 4,462 feet, this city is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream. Skiers flock to Pebble Creek Ski Area for fresh powder in winter, while the hot springs provide the perfect spot to unwind after a day of adventure.
Besides this, with 42% of locals working in retail, healthcare, or education, Pocatello offers more than just pretty views. Plus, Idaho State University and events including the Wildflower Festival, make it one of the best places to live in Idaho for young adults.
» Pocatello Homes for Sale: Explore homes in one of the best towns to live in Idaho for young adults.
3. Nampa
- Median House Price: $392K
Cost of Living: 0.2% ⬇️ than the national average.
Crime Rate: Safer than 36% of US cities.
Unemployment: 3%
Walkability Score: 13; car-dependent city.
Situated just a short drive from Boise, Nampa offers a slower pace but never lacks in things to do. Lakeview Park is perfect for outdoors, while events like the Fandemonium convention put on the ultimate showcase of geek culture.
The city’s healthcare sector thrives with over 14% of the residents employed, followed by the retail and manufacturing sectors. Proximity to Boise, abundance of recreation, and a rich cultural scene make it one of the best places to live in Idaho for young adults.
» Nampa Homes for Sale: Search for homes in one of the best cities to live in Idaho for young adults.
3 Best Places to Live in Idaho for Families 👨👩👧👦
1. Meridian
- Median House Price: $525K
Cost of Living: 14.8% ⬆️ than the national average.
Crime Rate: Safer than 60% of US cities.
Unemployment: 2.7%
Walkability Score: 83; very walkable.
Meridian isn’t just a place—it’s a vibe. You can catch a free outdoor movie in the summer, hear engines roar at the local speedway, and still be home in time to tuck the kids in. It’s like a Hallmark movie, but with bigger backyards and more room for the kids to run wild.
Meridian schools outperform 89.1% of schools in the US, and healthcare is the largest sector with over 15% of the jobs. With a strong economy, a safe environment, and a community that values simple joys, Meridian stands out as the best place in Idaho for families.
» Meridian Homes for Sale: Explore homes in one of the best towns to live in Idaho for families.
2. Post Falls
- Median House Price: $464K
Cost of Living: 5.1% ⬇️ than the national average.
Crime Rate: Safer than 41% of US cities.
Unemployment: 3.3%
Walkability Score: 64; somewhat walkable.
Post Falls is the secret ingredient to the perfect Idaho recipe! With friendly faces, charming parks like Q’emiln and Falls Park, and endless outdoor fun, it’s where families make lasting memories. Whatever your calling is, every day here feels like a new adventure!
Post Falls is family-friendly with schools that rank higher than 65.7% of US districts. Besides, the town has a solid job market too with 37% of residents employed in healthcare, retail, and hospitality. This makes it one of the best places to raise a family in Idaho.
» Post Falls Homes for Sale: Find properties in one of the best places to live in Idaho for families.
3. Caldwell
- Median House Price: $375K
Cost of Living: 0.1% ⬇️ than the national average.
Crime Rate: Safer than 39% of US cities.
Unemployment: 5.1%
Walkability Score: 13; car-dependent city.
Located just a short drive away from Boise, Caldwell is a bustling suburb. With 12 parks, two golf courses, and a skatepark, every weekend feels like a mini vacation with your family. Besides this, the Indian Creek Festival is a cultural event with food, fun, and tug-of-war competitions.
On the work front, around 15% of locals are employed in healthcare, followed by strong manufacturing and retail sectors. The combination of community, culture, and recreation makes it the best place to live in Idaho for families who want to raise kids.
» Caldwell Homes for Sale: Look for properties in one of the best towns to live in Idaho for families.
2 Best Places to Retire in Idaho 🏖️
1. Twin Falls
- Median House Price: $340K
Cost of Living: 7.6% ⬇️ than the national average.
Crime Rate: Safer than 21% of US cities.
Unemployment: 3.1%
Walkability Score: 88; very walkable.
Think big cities have all the fun? Twin Falls says, “Hold my craft beer”. Cruise on the Snake River or take a short trip to unwind at the majestic 213-foot Shoshone Falls. And when you are done with the outdoors wrap it up with fresh market produce and a craft beer.
Besides this, with annual events like the Twin Falls County Fair and Snake River Music Festival, the fun never stops here. Plus, the city’s healthcare is top-notch with St. Luke’s Magic Valley Medical Center right in town. This makes it one of the best towns to retire in Idaho.
» Twin Falls Homes for Sale: Search for homes in the best place to retire in Idaho.
2. Idaho Falls
- Median House Price: $350K
Cost of Living: 7.5% ⬇️ than the national average.
Crime Rate: Safer than 25% of US cities.
Unemployment: 4.8%
Walkability Score: 24; car-dependent city.
Idaho Falls is like your favorite diner—friendly, cozy, and always serving up something good. The downtown is packed with shops and family-owned restaurants, while the Colonial Theatre’s got you covered with concerts, plays, and events.
Besides this, you can visit Saffron for traditional Indian or Sushi Ya for Japanese food. And for outdoor enthusiasts nearby Yellowstone National Park keep things exciting. The low cost of living and good a lively environment make it one of the best cities to retire in Idaho.
» Idaho Falls Homes for Sale: Find homes in one of the best cities to live in Idaho for retirees.
2 Cities With the Best Weather in Idaho ☀️
1. Lewiston
- Median House Price: $390K
Cost of Living: 3.1% ⬇️ than the national average.
Crime Rate: Safer than 31% of US cities.
Unemployment: 3.2%
Walkability Score: 56; somewhat walkable.
Lewiston sits at the confluence of the Snake and Clearwater Rivers. Average July temperatures hit a comfortable 91°F, and the dry heat ensures no sweaty afternoons. Plus, with winters averaging a balmy 41°F, December brings a sprinkle of snow.
Apart from this, thanks to its semi-arid climate, Lewiston enjoys approximately 200 sunny days per year. With its affordable housing, good safety scores, and excellent climate, Lewiston is known to have the best weather in Idaho for all sorts of demographics.
» Lewiston Homes for Sale: Find homes in the best place to live in Idaho for weather.
2. Boise
- Median House Price: $510K
Cost of Living: 1.2% ⬆️ than the national average.
Crime Rate: Safer than 29% of US cities.
Unemployment: 3.8%
Walkability Score: 89; very walkable.
The capital city offers a dynamic urban experience complemented by a strong sense of community. The city is nestled within the Treasure Valley, along the Boise River. The city is known to have 4 seasons with hot, dry summers and mild winters.
Situated at an elevation of 1040m above sea level, the city offers panoramic views and over 200 sunny days a year. It’s got the perfect blend of mild winters and hot, dry summers, so whether you’re outdoorsy or you like cozy winters, Boise offers the best weather in Idaho.
» Boise Homes for Sale: Explore homes in the city with the best weather in Idaho.
Mortgage Pre-Approval: Your First Step to Buy a Home 🏡
Mortgage pre-approval simplifies the home-buying process by giving you a clear picture of your budget and borrowing capacity. Additionally, the sellers are more likely to accept your offer if you’re pre-approved since it shows you’re a serious buyer.
With the current low mortgage rate of 6.6%, there is an increase in home-buying demand in Idaho. So, don’t wait. Get a mortgage pre-approval today and avoid bidding wars!
Is Idaho a Good Place to Live for You?
The growing job market, strong economy, and low cost of living make it one of the best places to live in the US. Besides, the price of living in Idaho is also 7% lower than compared to other booming states.
The Gem State also offers a rich quality of life with vibrant cities like Boise and Moscow, plus endless outdoor adventures. Whether you’re seeking adventure, better quality of life, or career advancement, Idaho is the ultimate destination.
Research Methodology for the Best Places to Live in Idaho
This study ranks cities using a weighted average scoring model based on eight parameters. We’ve linked the resources used in our study of the best places to live in the Gem State:
- Redfin[1]: Median House Price
- Zipatlas[2]: Population, Median Income, Expenses, Unemployment Rate
- Salary.com[3]: Cost of Living
- Sharecare[4]: Community Well-Being
- Neighborhoodscout[5]: Crime Index Score
The total score for each city combines a weighted score for its rank. Here’s the weightage: population (10%), home price (20%), income (20%), expenses (15%), unemployment (15%), cost of living (10%), crime index (5%), and well-being (5%).
Additionally, we have listed the best cities to live in Idaho for varying demographics. These include the best places to live for families, young adults, and retirees.
