Approximately 40 miles west of Boise, the agricultural community of Wilder is the place to be if you long to get away from the relentless pace of big city life.Â
Between the Boise and Snake Rivers in western Canyon County
Approximately 1,685 people live in the city
Close-knit, friendly, rural
Imagine waking to the sound of birds chirping rather than blaring horns and sirens. Or imagine taking a leisurely stroll outside without worrying about crime. These are just a few perks of living in Wilder, where the incredible healing benefits of nature are all around.
Wilder has many outdoor spaces for pets.
Housing prices in Wilder have recently decreased moderately, and homes in Wilder typically stay on the market for about 64 days before being sold. On average, homes sell for around their list price.Â
Houses in Wilder rent for about $1,400 per month on average.
Home list prices have recently decreased in the rural community of Wilder.
Wilder has several new subdivisions within the Snake River Basin with gorgeous mountain views.
The Wilder School District serves approximately 650 students. Unfortunately, it’s ranked in the bottom 50% of all Idaho school districts.
Just 18% of students in the district are performing well enough in math to be considered proficient, while 36% achieve proficiency in reading. These figures are significantly below the state averages. However, it’s not all bad news. Between 2008 and 2022, the district’s graduation rate increased by over 10%.
Though small, the agricultural community of Wilder is nestled between the Boise and Snake Rivers, offering beautiful views of the Owyhee Mountains. For outdoor enthusiasts, it’s a great place to explore!
Wilder City Park, the only park within town limits, is a fantastic spot for a summer picnic. After enjoying your meal, take a brisk walk along one of the park’s scenic paths or hike the 7.5-mile Wild Horse Creek Trail, with its stunning alpine meadows and sweeping vistas of the surrounding mountains.Â
Wilder has several small stores that sell basic necessities, such as groceries, paper goods, and snacks. It also has a hardware store. However, for more extensive shopping, residents typically drive to Caldwell or Nampa.Â
For a small town, Wilder has a few decent dining options. You’ll find burger joints and mouth-watering Mexican cuisine. Its local farm market also boasts an exceptional variety of locally sourced fruits, veggies, dairy products, beef, and honey.
As a rural community, Wilder lacks comprehensive public transportation. While the downtown area is walkable, most residents get around by personal car. Ride-sharing services are also available.
Wilder has a variety of activities for outdoor enthusiasts and adventurers. The 7.5-mile Wild Horse Creek Trail is a favorite among locals. Wilson Creek Trail, in nearby Marsing, is a 10.3-mile moderately challenging loop that is fantastic for hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking.Â
If you’re an angler, the town offers plenty of opportunities to practice your hobby. The nearby Snake River is a prime fishing destination. Spring and summer are the best times to catch bass and catfish. In autumn, trout are plentiful.Â
Because Wilder is so tiny, it hosts few community events. However, between June and September, Thirsty Thursdays at Red Top Market are a fantastic way to spend a summer evening. There you’ll find beer, wine, food, live music, and the freshest produce around.Â
Some Wilder residents get their holiday shopping done early at the Friends Academy Country Christmas Bazaar in nearby Greenleaf. It features a variety of unique handmade crafts and seasonal treats.Â
Wilder’s population has grown slowly but steadily, increasing 0.5% between 2021 and 2022. During that same period, the median household income saw a significant jump of 20%, rising from $45,313 to $54,375. Wilder provides jobs for 764 people, although employment has declined by 4.5% since last year.
The most common employment industries in Wilder are agriculture, forestry, fishing, and hunting; manufacturing; and healthcare and social assistance.
Wilder is about 38 miles from Boise, and the drive typically takes about 45 minutes.
CrimeGrade.org gives Wilder an overall crime grade of B+. This means that crime in Wilder is lower than average, making it a relatively safe place to live.Â
Below average
The Wilder Police Department is dedicated to serving with a professional, friendly, and helpful attitude. It strives to promote, preserve, and deliver a feeling of safety throughout the town through educational and community-building initiatives.
