Picture this: as you prepare to hike the picturesque Alice Lake with your faithful canine companion, you take in the awe-inspiring sight of sunlight streaming over the majestic peaks of the Sawtooth Mountains.
The rugged footpath ushers you deep into the woods, where nature treats you to mesmerizing vistas of shimmering lakes, meadows ablaze with wildflowers, and babbling brooks.
After your strenuous yet reinvigorating hike, you meet some friends for a sumptuous meal at a farm-to-table restaurant that serves fresh food grown mere miles away. You end the day watching the latest indie film at a chic art-house theater.
When you move to Idaho, experiences like these can occur every day. You’ll enjoy more than natural wonders. The state’s cities and towns also have a laid-back ambiance that set them apart from most other American cities.
Idaho is a place where locals still wave to strangers and gather at farmers’ markets to not only shop but also exchange the latest news and advice. Hot new tech startups flourish alongside century-old farms, and retired farmers teach newcomers how to can peaches at community center events.
If you’re searching for the best place to live in Idaho—whether a bustling city or a quiet mountain town—you’ll find everything you need to know to make your decision in this guide.
Best cities in Idaho
Boise
With a booming economy and an abundance of recreational options, it’s easy to see why Boise, Idaho’s capital, consistently ranks as one of the best places to live in the state—and even the country. The city, fueled by rapid job growth and a booming tech scene, is becoming an increasingly attractive place to do business for both startups and established companies.
While housing prices are starting to rise, it remains more affordable than many coastal cities. Downtown Boise pulsates with energy, offering plenty of dining, arts, and entertainment options.
Meridian
Considered one of the best cities to live in Idaho, Meridian is the perfect choice if you’re looking for thoughtfully designed neighborhoods with easy access to amenities.
If you want to burn off energy and take in the natural beauty Idaho is known for, take an invigorating morning run or peaceful evening stroll at its 58-acre Julius Kleiner Memorial Park. You can also shoot hoops on the basketball court or try your hand on the nine-hole disc golf course. If you’re an angler, fish for rainbow trout or largemouth bass at one of the park’s fully stocked ponds.
Foodies will be be ecstatic to hear that the city serves up a culinary smorgasbord that’s as diverse as it is delicious. Start your day with a rich, velvety latte from Deja Brew Laugh a Latte paired with their house-made huckleberry scones—a nod to Idaho’s favorite berry.
For lunch or dinner, treat yourself to the farm-to-table dining scene at Epi’s Basque Restaurant, where you can savor authentic flavors rooted in Idaho’s Basque heritage.
The Village at Meridian, the city’s crown jewel, is a one-stop destination for dining, shopping, and entertainment. The fountain—with its hourly light-and-music show—is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. For more information, check out our comprehensive guide to living in Meridian.
Idaho Falls
Idaho Falls constantly attracts new residents due to its irresistible blend of small-town charm and economic opportunities. It’s home to the world famous Idaho National Laboratory (INL), which is dedicated to advancing innovations in nuclear research, renewable energy systems, and security solutions. The laboratory employs about 6,000 individuals, including researchers and support staff.
If you’re looking for a job in the medical field, there’s no shortage to choose from in the city. Eastern Idaho Regional Medical Center (EIRMC), the largest full-service hospital in the region, is always looking for trauma nurses, cardiac specialists, and other healthcare practitioners.
Mountain View Hospital and Idaho Falls Community Hospital are also hiring, offering plenty of opportunities for nurses, technicians, and specialists in a range of fields. In addition, the city offers plenty of job opportunities in advanced manufacturing, agriculture, and tech.
Downtown Idaho Falls has lots of quirky shops to check out. Kick things off at Shaddow Domain, where you can browse for unique metaphysical gifts like tarot cards and dowsing rods. If you’re hungry, head on over to The SnakeBite Restaurant and dig into one of their intriguingly named burgers.
Twin Falls
With its booming economy and a burgeoning downtown scene, it’s no wonder so many people are moving to Twin Falls. Its awe-inspiring Shoshone Falls, nicknamed the “Niagara of the West,” also makes Twin Falls one of the coolest places in Idaho. Standing 212 feet—taller than Niagara—this waterfall is a dramatic example of nature’s grandeur, especially during spring runoff, when the water roars with incredible force.
The Perrine Bridge, spanning the Snake River Canyon, is one of the few places in the US where BASE jumping is legal. Below the bridge, the Snake River offers endless opportunities for kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing.
Coeur d’Alene
Coeur d’Alene is the place to be if you’re inspired by breathtaking natural beauty. However, it offers more than postcard-worthy scenery—it also provides a plethora of recreational opportunities for hikers, bikers, and boaters.
Boaters flock to Lake Coeur d’Alene for its jaw-dropping scenery. Thanks to its deep, nutrient-rich waters filled with plankton, insects, and smaller fish, Lake Coeur d’Alene is one of the best places to fish for kokanee salmon in the entire state. Whether you grill it with a squeeze of lemon, smoke it, or bake it in hearty fish pies, the naturally high oil content of this salmon gives it a rich, buttery flavor.
Downtown Coeur d’Alene is home to the renowned Coeur d’Alene Resort, a destination whose luxurious amenities draw thousands of people every year. Golfers come from all over to play a round on its world-class championship course with a famous floating green.
Guests also love to pamper themselves with hot stone massages and rejuvenating facials at the Coeur d’Alene Spa. If you’re up for a culinary adventure, check out Beverly’s, an upscale restaurant offering panoramic lake views, a carefully curated wine list, and dishes crafted from locally sourced ingredients.
Best small towns to live in Idaho
Idaho is more than cities. In fact, it’s the small towns that truly embody the spirit of the Gem State.
Sandpoint
You’d swear the picturesque town of Sandpoint was plucked straight from a storybook. Located on the shores of Lake Pend Oreille and surrounded by the majestic Selkirk Mountains, it’s a fantastic place to live for nature lovers who enjoy activities like kayaking, hiking, and biking. If you’re into winter fun, Schweitzer Mountain Resort—just minutes away—offers some of the best skiing and snowboarding in the region.
But Sandpoint is more than a haven for nature lovers—it also has a vibrant arts scene. The annual Festival at Sandpoint is two weeks of unforgettable music right on the edge of the lake. Over its 40-plus years, the festival has welcomed some of the most legendary names in music, including Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson, ZZ Top, and the Beach Boys.
Eagle
If you crave a peaceful lifestyle but want to be close to urban amenities, Eagle could be what you’re looking for. Just 10 miles northwest of Boise, its historic downtown area oozes small-town charm, boasting quaint shops and mom-and-pop eateries.
The 545-acre Eagle Island State Park is fantastic for swimming and picnicking. It includes over five miles of scenic trails for horseback riding, hiking, and dog walking as well as a 19-hole disc golf course. For more information, check out our comprehensive guide to living in Eagle.
Middleton
Located just 28 miles from Boise, Middleton offers a slower pace while being close enough to the capital city for work, shopping, or a night out. The town has housing options to fit every lifestyle and budget, whether you’re in the market for a tiny home or a sprawling farm with room for gardens, chickens, or even horses.
Middleton prides itself on its robust community spirit, and events like the Fourth of July Parade and the Harvest Festival bring residents out by the hundreds. If you’re a nature lover, the area has some excellent trails and parks. For more information, check out our comprehensive guide to living in Middleton.
Honorable mentions
Idaho has no shortage of amazing places to call home. Here are a few more spots to check out if you’re considering moving to the state:
Hailey/Ketchum (Sun Valley Area)
Nestled in Idaho’s breathtaking Wood River Valley, Hailey and Ketchum are more than picturesque mountain towns—they’re destinations where outdoor adventure and vibrant culture go hand in hand.
The nearby Sun Valley Resort has some of the best skiing and snowboarding in the entire country. Its legendary slopes attract everyone from Olympic athletes to first-time skiers.
But there’s so much more to Hailey and Ketchum than outdoor thrills. The two towns host some fantastic cultural events. The Sun Valley Film Festival draws filmmakers and actors from around the globe, offering cutting-edge films, engaging industry panels, and unforgettable post-screening events. Art lovers will find inspiration at Gilman Contemporary, a gallery that showcases provocative works you’d expect to see in New York or LA but with a uniquely local flair.
Foodies won’t be disappointed either. Dining options range from farm-to-table spots serving fresh, locally sourced dishes to high-end restaurants like Michel’s Christiania, where you can enjoy French-inspired cuisine steps from the slopes.
Yes, the cost of living here is on the higher side, but for many, it’s a trade-off worth making. The combination of stunning natural beauty, a vibrant arts scene, and world-class recreation makes the area an appealing place to settle down.
Post Falls
Just west of Coeur d’Alene and a short drive from Spokane, Washington, Post Falls is one of northern Idaho’s most exciting up-and-coming communities.
Outdoor enthusiasts are drawn to Post Falls for its stunning natural surroundings. The Spokane River is a popular place for kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing. Falls Park has beautiful hiking trails that offer close-up views of the town’s namesake waterfall. At nearby Q’emiln Park, popular activities include swimming and picnicking. And if you’re a thrill seeker, there’s a rock climbing area.
The location is hard to beat. Whether you’re looking to enjoy the serene waters of Lake Coeur d’Alene, head into Spokane for a night on the town, or relax in the beauty of northern Idaho, Post Falls is ideally situated to offer the best of everything.
Rexburg
Rexburg, home to BYU-Idaho, has a relatively low crime rate and safe neighborhoods. When summer hits, the Rexburg Rapids Water Park is the town’s go-to spot for cooling down. Older kids and adults love floating down the lazy river and going down the waterslides, while little ones can’t get enough of Splash Park, with its fountains, water blasters, and ever-popular giant tipping bucket. In the winter, there are plenty of places to ice skate and sled.
Just a short drive away is Yellowstone National Park, where visitors can not only hike and sightsee but also explore amazing geothermal wonders like Old Faithful and the Grand Prismatic Spring. Closer to home, the St. Anthony Sand Dunes is a great place for an adrenaline-pumping ATV ride.
People also ask: Quick FAQs about living in Idaho
What is the best place to live in Idaho for weather?
If you’re looking for mild winters and sunny summers, you want to be in a southwestern city like Boise and Meridian, which offer a comfortable climate year-round. But if snowy winters are more your thing, consider moving to a northern town like Coeur d’Alene.
Is Idaho affordable compared to other states?
While the cost of living is increasing in the most popular cities (e.g., Boise), Idaho remains more affordable than many other states. Towns like Sandpoint and Eagle combine lower housing prices with an exceptional quality of life, offering a perfect balance for those who want affordability without sacrifice.
What are the best towns in Idaho for outdoor lovers?
For year-round outdoor adventures, Sandpoint (skiing and lake life), Coeur d’Alene (hiking, boating, and fishing), and Idaho Falls (proximity to Yellowstone) are unbeatable choices.
What are the best places to live in Idaho for retirees?
With its unparalleled natural beauty and relatively low cost of living, Idaho has a lot to offer retirees, especially those who seek an active retirement. It is also generally tax friendly for older generations, and it offers tax-free prescription drugs. For good access to medical facilities, recreation centers, and retirement communities, consider retiring in Sandpoint, Emmett, or Idaho Falls.
Conclusion: Discover your perfect place in Idaho
Idaho’s cities and towns are as diverse as its landscapes, each offering something unique. From the urban energy of Boise to the tranquil beauty of Sandpoint, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re seeking affordability, career opportunities, an ideal retirement, or outdoor adventure, Idaho has a community that matches your lifestyle and priorities.
The best way to find your perfect fit? Visit a few of these incredible locations. Walk their streets, chat with locals, and explore what makes each place unique.
