If you’re thinking about moving to Boise, Idaho, you’re not alone. In recent years, this once under-the-radar capital city has been showing up on more and more “best places to live” lists—and for good reason. But is it the right fit for you?
In this guide, we’ll walk through the pros and cons of living in Boise, from outdoor perks and city culture to the realities of weather and cost. Whether you’re relocating for work, lifestyle, or just need a change of pace, this post will help you figure out if Boise is your next home base.
Quick Snapshot: What’s the Buzz About Boise?
Let’s begin with the basics. Boise (pronounced “Boisey”, not “Boize”) is the capital of Idaho and the largest city in the state, with around 237,000 residents. It’s part of the Treasure Valley, a region that includes surrounding towns like Meridian, Eagle, Star, and Nampa.
Despite being in a high desert, Boise is famously lush in spots, earning it the nickname “City of Trees.” That contrast—dry climate with forested charm—is part of what makes the area so appealing.
Furthermore, Boise is surrounded by mountain ranges in nearly every direction, offering the best of both city access and mountain escapes.
The Pros of Living in Boise, Idaho
1. Nature is Never Far Away
One of the biggest reasons people move to Boise is simple: the outdoors are incredible. Whether you’re into hiking, biking, rafting, or just want to float down a river with a drink in hand, Boise delivers.
- The Boise River winds through the city and is popular for tubing in summer.
- The Greenbelt, a 25-mile tree-lined pathway, makes commuting by bike or foot a real joy.
- You’ll find 150+ trails in and around the Boise Foothills, with favorites like Stack Rock and Camel’s Back.
- Ski resorts like Bogus Basin (just 1 hour away), Tamarack, and Brundage (around 2 hours out) are winter staples—and they’re just as popular in summer for mountain biking.
In short, if you enjoy year-round outdoor activities, it’s hard to beat Boise.
2. You’ll Actually Get All Four Seasons
Boise gets hot, it gets cold, and sometimes… it gets both in the same week. While this might seem like a downside to some, many locals love the variety.
- Expect hot, dry summers with temps in the 90s
- Winters are snowy but manageable, especially compared to other northern cities
- Spring and fall can be unpredictable—think snow in May—but they’re full of color and fresh air
Because of the high-desert setting, you’ll get 300+ days of sunshine on average. That alone is a win for many transplants from gloomier climates.
3. Cost of Living: Still Reasonable Compared to Major Cities
While home prices have risen in recent years, Boise is still more affordable than cities like San Francisco, Portland, or Seattle.
Here’s what stands out:
- Utilities tend to cost less
- Property taxes and insurance are below national averages
- Sales tax is 6%, which is lower than many states
One local mentioned that they live in a 2,400-square-foot home on an acre, and their gas + electric bill runs about $200/month. That kind of setup would be hard to find—let alone afford—in many major metros.
That said, grocery and consumer goods are about the same as anywhere else. So while your mortgage might be lower, your grocery cart total won’t feel like a steal.
We cover more about cost of living in this video here
4. Active Lifestyle is Built Into the Culture
In Boise, being outside isn’t just something to do—it’s part of the lifestyle. This shows up in all kinds of ways:
- The area is bike-friendly, with BMX parks, paved paths, and downtown lanes
- Golf lovers will find 12+ courses in Boise, plus Top Golf for a modern twist
- Big events like the Twilight Criterium turn downtown into a pro cycling racecourse
- Locals flock to nearby reservoirs for boating, jet skiing, and fishing (think: Lucky Peak, Arrow Rock, Black Canyon)
On weekends, expect to see families biking downtown, paddleboards strapped to car roofs, and hiking gear on every other SUV.
5. The Downtown Scene Has Personality
No, Boise isn’t a mega-city. But downtown offers a charming mix of local flavor and city convenience. Here’s what stands out:
- Julia Davis and Ann Morrison Parks bookend the downtown green space
- Events like Art in the Park and the Spirit of Boise Balloon Classic add color to the city calendar
- You’ll find breweries, local restaurants, and low-key nightlife—not wild, but plenty lively
It’s also walkable, clean, and friendly. People hold doors, say hello, and wave from bikes. If you’re used to fast-paced cities, that might take some getting used to—but it’s part of the charm.
Curious what homes are available in Boise, we’ve got the listings here:
Now that we’ve covered some of the Pros of living in Boise, Idaho, let’s get into some of the Cons.
The Cons of Living in Boise, Idaho
1. The Weather Can Be Weird
Yes, Boise has all four seasons—but sometimes they overlap in strange ways. Snow in May? Check. 80 degrees in October? Also check out this video where we covered weather more in depth:
For people coming from coastal or humid climates, the dry air and elevation can also take some adjustment. Stock up on lotion and a humidifier.
2. It’s Still a Small City
Boise is growing, but it’s not a cultural capital. Don’t expect:
- Major league sports teams
- Huge international airports
- A diverse, global food scene
If you thrive on late-night ramen, weekend gallery hopping, or packed public transit, Boise might feel a little sleepy.
3. Groceries and Goods Aren’t Cheap
While housing may be affordable, day-to-day goods are not a bargain.
- Groceries are on par with most U.S. cities
- Consumer goods (like electronics, clothing, and furniture) come with typical price tags
So, while you’ll save on taxes and housing, don’t expect Costco runs to be wildly cheaper than elsewhere.
4. Growth Has Its Side Effects
The secret’s out—Boise is booming, and with that comes some growing pains:
- Traffic is increasing, especially during rush hour on I-84
- Housing costs have gone up significantly over the last few years
- Some locals feel the city is losing its small-town feel
This isn’t unique to Boise—many attractive mid-size cities are seeing similar trends. Still, it’s something to consider if you’re looking for peace and quiet.
Boise Landmarks You’ll Actually Want to Visit
No move is complete without exploring what makes a place special. Boise’s local landmarks aren’t just tourist spots—they’re places locals actually enjoy:
- Boise River Greenbelt: Ideal for weekend walks or daily commutes
- Table Rock Cross: A 60-foot cross that overlooks the city, reachable via a popular hike
- The Train Depot: Great views and peaceful gardens
- Idaho State Capitol Building: One of the few in the U.S. heated by geothermal water, and especially beautiful during the holidays
These spots help define the character of Boise—and make it feel like home.
Is Boise Right for You? Let’s Break It Down
Here’s a quick comparison to help you decide:
| You Might Love Boise If… | You Might Not Love Boise If… |
| You love hiking, biking, or skiing | You crave big-city nightlife |
| You’re looking for lower home costs | You need nonstop cultural events |
| You prefer open space and clean air | You hate snow or unpredictable weather |
| You want a friendly, slower pace | You want public transport + walkability |
Ready to Take the Next Step?
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