Topic description: Thinking of moving to Boise, Idaho? Nestled along picturesque Boise River, Idaho’s capital is the most populous city in the state for a reason. With plenty of green spaces and cultural venues, it’s one of the best places to live in the United States for recreationalists. Whether you enjoy the great outdoors or a quiet moment contemplating a piece of art, there’s something for you in B-Town.
In this post, we go into detail on what exactly makes Boise such a fantastic place to live. From food and drink to recreation and real estate, you’ll wonder why you didn’t pack your bags sooner.
U.S. News ranked Boise among the Best Places to Live in the United States for the high quality of life, recreational facilities, and community events that residents enjoy.
The cost of housing in Boise is more than reasonable – the city is considered relatively affordable compared to other metro areas in the Northwest.
But where in this fantastic city should you live? Read on for tips on Treasure Valley’s residential pockets as well as general information on day-to-day life in this Northwest city.
Where to live in Boise, Idaho
Boise has appeared in numerous Best-Of lists, including Best Places to Raise a Family, Best U.S. Downtowns, and Best Places to Retire – so no matter your lifestyle or interests, you’re bound to find something here.
- South Boise – Originally known for Ranch-style homes on oversized lots, South Boise offers quiet suburban living and is widely considered one of the best places to raise a family in the city. Today, its housing stock has come to include a wide range of architectural styles.
- Southeast Boise – Home to Boise State University, this is where you’ll find the majority of the city’s student population. Something of an intellectual hub, the South End naturally attracts academics, artists, scholars, and college sports fans.
If you need mental stimulation, or simply enjoy supporting the BSU’s sports teams, this might be the place for you.
- Southwest Boise – Known for its suburban environment, this section of town is home to some of Boise’s biggest and most sought after residential developments.
- North End – The quintessential Boise neighborhood, the North End has plenty of charm and character that are apparent in its remarkably preserved historic homes and tree-lined streets.
It’s also a great spot for recreation, with quick access to hiking trails and green space. Hyde Park’s cafés and restaurants are just a short walk away.
- Northeast Boise – The northern edge of this residential pocket commands stunning views of the Boise Foothills, while State Street, the main thoroughfare, is lined with stores and cafés that cater to residents’ needs.
- East Boise – Tucked away in the Boise Foothills, this enclave is known for opulent mansions along with new construction homes. As one of the city’s oldest and most established neighborhoods, this area attracts the crème of the crop.
- West Boise – Development in this area mostly took place in the 1970s. Today, it is common to see Ranch-style homes that date back to that area. Some of the newer homes were built sometime in the early 2000s.
- Boise Bench – Here you’ll find gorgeous Mid Century Modern and Post-War Storybook homes, making it an architectural marvel for those with a deep appreciation for design and history.
Neighborhoods in Boise
There are over 35 recognized neighborhood associations throughout the city. These associations ensure the cleanliness and order in Boise’s residential pockets, as well as work towards the preservation of their respective neighborhoods’ unique charm and identities.
Neighborhood associations also work with the City of Boise for neighborhood planning to make sure that development is handled correctly and that residents have a voice in any changes made to their communities.
Energize Our Neighborhoods is a city-wide initiative to align resources, drive neighborhood engagement, and get residents involved in the improvement of their communities. This initiative is also meant to help jumpstart livability projects throughout Boise.
Life in Boise, Idaho
With access to mountains, lakes, and rivers, residents spend their downtime hiking, snowboarding, swimming, and fishing. For one, the city is just 16 miles from Bogus Basin Mountain Recreation Area, a popular spot for skiers and snowboarders from all over the U.S. The recreation area features seven chairlifts, 900 acres of groomed runs, 23 miles of Nordic trails, and an 800-foot tubing hill.
Lush greenery is part of everyday life – also known as “Treasure Valley”, Boise is a designated City of Trees, with a wealth of green spaces and tree-lined streets with plenty of shade.
Aside from these outdoor attractions, those who live in this city have plenty to do indoors as well – Downtown Boise is lined with cafés, bars, and restaurants. Drinks and dishes made with locally sourced ingredients dominate the dining scene. Located in Potato Country, Boise shows a healthy appreciation for bacon grease-coated spuds and all things potato.
As far as entertainment goes, residents are spoiled for choice, with a range of theatres, cinemas, and festivals to keep them occupied all year long.
Popular festivals include:
- Boise Music Festival
- Blues and Bones BBQ and Blues Festival
- Hyde Park Street Fair
- Spirit of Boise Balloon Classic
- International Food and Culture Festival
There’s also sports – the Bronco Stadium is home to the BSU Broncos and hosts the Famous Idaho Potato Bowl each year.
Are you ready to be part of this wonderful city? Let First Service Group Real Estate and Property Management help you find the perfect home. Get in touch with us here. You can also reach out to Chris Todd at 208.343.9393 and Chris(at)FirstServiceGroup(dotted)com.