Living In Boise

It’s no surprise that Boise is one of the fastest growing cities in the nation - home to nearly 240,000 residents. Boise has been a best-kept secret for a long time, boasting wilderness and adventure only minutes away from its lively downtown. Boise is characterized by diverse outdoor recreation options, craft breweries, creative art festivals, friendly and easy-going locals, and four uniquely beautiful seasons. You’ll find locals downhill skiing and snowshoeing in the winter, hiking and mountain biking in the foothills in the spring, cooling off while floating the Boise River and boating at Lucky Peak during the summer, and taking in the beautiful autumn colors while fishing or golfing in the fall.

The state capital of Idaho and is filled with a variety of smaller communities, such as the historic Northend with charming tree-lined streets, the stately East End with sprawling parks and iconic mansions, and the Boise Bench with wildly diverse architectural styles. Boise is surrounded by many flourishing nearby cities such as Eagle, Meridian, Star, and Nampa. Locals can’t help but love our Boise State Broncos on the blue turf and appreciate the cultural diversity and cuisine of the largest Basque community in the United States. Boise is large enough to have everything you could want in shopping, dining, and recreation yet small enough to navigate with ease and feel at home.

Boise’s neighborhoods are conveniently named by their location in the city—be sure to check them all out!

  • Downtown Boise is the vibrant heart of Idaho's capital city, boasting a charming mix of historic and modern architecture. It’s filled with unique boutiques, delicious dining options and bars, seasonal farmers markets, and a lively nightlife. The cleanliness and friendliness of downtown Boise is unlike any other capital city in our nation.

  • In addition to being the most prestigious and high-demand neighborhood in all of Boise, this area also offers easy access to downtown, the Boise River, greenbelt paths, and foothills recreational activities. The stunning historic mansions on Warm Springs Avenue, along with the Old Idaho Penitentiary, MK Nature Center, Idaho Botanical Gardens, a geothermally heated public pool, and the Shakespeare Festival make up some of the attractions of northeast Boise. This is also where you’ll find the upscale new neighborhood of Harris Ranch which offers residents more than just a comfortable home, but also provides a wonderful lifestyle and community. River Heights is a picturesque neighborhood where luxury living and recreation coexist with the foothills at your doorstep.

  • The Northend is one of the oldest and most desirable neighborhoods in Boise and it’s no surprise why people want to live here. Quaint and cozy coffee shops, Camel’s Back Park, Hyde Park district, historic Harrison Boulevard, boutiques and popular eateries, and the classic Goody’s ice cream parlor are just some of the treasured places to frequent. The Northend is known for its strong community pride, historic charm, tree-lined streets, and quiet neighborhoods even though it’s located right next to Boise’s downtown core. Are you an avid dog walker? You’ll be in good company here. The residents of the Northend enjoy living outdoors as much as indoors in their charming bungalows and grand estates.

  • The Boise Highlands is a neighborhood nestled at the base of the mountains surrounding the valley, making it the ideal location for hiking enthusiasts. It is surrounded by hiking trails at Camel’s Back Park, Hulls Gulch Reserve, and the Foothills Learning Center, offering differing levels of difficulty for hikers of any ability. Mountain bikers utilize the nearby Ridge to Rivers Trail System which offers over 190 miles of trails with beautiful views of nature. During the winter months, the Highlands is a go-to destination for skiing, snowboarding, sledding, and even snowshoeing. The Highlands are close to downtown Boise, allowing for an easy night out, but far enough to allow for the peace that comes from being immersed in nature. The area is easily one of the most desirable neighborhoods in Boise—especially for those looking for the closeness of the city while retaining the peaceful feeling of being in nature.

  • The Bench is located roughly 60 feet above downtown and offers some of Boise’s best urban and mountain views. The majority of these homes were built in the 1950’s and are full of character and charm - many with large lots and tree-lined streets - and a good amount of mid-century modern architecture. This diverse area is home to older properties where you can create your own style as well as million-dollar estates along Crescent Rim with a fantastic view of the Spirit of Boise Balloon Classic and 4th of July fireworks display in Ann Morrison Park. The historic Boise Train Depot is located here and boasts the iconic view looking down Capitol Boulevard to the capitol building. “Benchies” find a deep sense of community with one another, family-friendly amenities, and that classic Boise charm. Some residents believe it’s quickly becoming the next “northend” in Boise as many homes are restored and tastefully updated.

  • Southeast Boise is home to one of the most diverse communities in Boise, extending all the way from the Boise State University campus to the outskirts of the city. Bown Crossing has quickly become a top choice for families looking to move to the Boise area, featuring a new library, various local shops, and some of the best food in the Treasure Valley. Whether you’re looking for a well-established community in Lakewood or a new adventure in Harris Ranch, Southeast Boise has it all. The lush valley is surrounded by various locations to hike, bike, and fish, making it the ideal destination for nature lovers. The Boise River Greenbelt is easily accessible and flows through the heart of Southeast Boise, providing miles of walking and biking paths. Situated at the base of the Boise foothills, Southeast Boise has endless options for outdoor activities just minutes from your front door.

  • West Boise, while not the heart of Boise, is the link between Downtown Boise and the suburbs of Meridian and Eagle. West Boise is home to some of the best shopping and food centers in town. Boise Towne Square Mall, strip malls, and various restaurants allow for easy access to shopping and great eateries. A quick drive can take you to Downtown Boise, into Meridian for your favorite shopping, and even the restful farmland of Nampa. West Boise is also close to the attractions of Eagle Road and the Village at Meridian, a popular outdoor mall with a wide variety of upscale retail and food options. West Boise was one of the first residential developments in Boise, pioneering the transition into the rapidly growing suburbs of Boise, Meridian, and Eagle. The still-growing, more affordable residential neighborhoods of West Boise make this area highly desirable for anyone who loves being close to accessible activities.

  • Residential development in Southwest Boise has blossomed in past years, giving the area a distinctly suburban feel with its convenient proximity to both the city center and the airport. Original housing was built here in the 70’s and 80’s - many with oversized lots to provide some space to spread out, hobby farm, and enjoy country living right next door to the amenities of the city. Indian Creek golf course is found here, making this area very desirable on or near the greens. Southwest Boise is quickly becoming a popular choice for both newcomers and long-term residents due to the proliferation of affordable new homes and neighborhoods in the area. Home prices in this area are often lower than other areas of Boise, allowing buyers to get more house for the money!

  • Northwest Boise is a highly desirable area with lush tree-lined streets, greenbelt access, and quick downtown access. This area boasts a mix of historic and modern homes with meticulously maintained parks and nearby hiking and biking trails. Along its northern boundary are the Boise foothills, making this area attractive not only for its convenience but also for its natural beauty. This area is known for its friendly ambiance, outdoor activities, and convenient access to shopping and dining. Additionally, it contains highly rated schools and is a top pick for both families and young professionals alike. Northwest Boise contains several coveted neighborhoods such as Quail Ridge, Cartwright Ranch, Avimore, and Hidden Springs. Hidden Springs is known as Boise’s first planned community offering a small-town feel and its own mercantile nestled in the foothills. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at Sunset Park, go for a drive up to Bogus Basin, grab a drink at Sockeye Alehouse, or bring a blanket to relax and unwind next to the Boise River.

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Boise Statistics

Population (2022)

234,000

Median Age

38

Median Household Income

$76,402

Median Home Price

$485,000

Best City To Live

#2

Unemployment Rate

3.1%

Boise Properties For Sale