Whether you’re relocating for work, searching for more space, or simply looking for a lifestyle shift, West Boise continues to be one of the Treasure Valley’s most sought-after neighborhoods. With its suburban feel, family-friendly parks, and access to shopping and dining, this area strikes a rare balance between convenience and comfort.
Let’s dive into the top questions buyers and locals are asking about West Boise—and what you need to know before making your move.
1. What’s the Overall Cost of Living in West Boise?
West Boise, like the rest of Boise, sits just above the national average for cost of living. Here’s a breakdown based on 2022 data:
- Housing: 1.0% more expensive than the national average
- Groceries: 3.9% more expensive
- Utilities: 23.2% cheaper
- Transportation: 8.9% more expensive
Home prices in West Boise typically range from $375,000 to $550,000 depending on the neighborhood.
Source: LivingCost.org – Cost of Living in Boise
2. What’s the Crime Rate in West Boise?
Boise Police Department reports show a steady decline in both violent and property crime citywide, including West Boise:
- Violent crime rate: 2.19 per 1,000 residents in 2022 (down from 2.62 in 2021)
- Property crime rate: 12.51 per 1,000 residents in 2022
Source: City of Boise – 2022 Annual Police Report (PDF)
3. What Are the Top-Rated Schools in West Boise?
Families choose West Boise in part for its strong public school options:
- Centennial High School – Graduation rate: 83%
- Borah High School – Also 83% with a solid extracurricular offering
- Boise High & Timberline High – Top-ranked for college readiness
All are part of the Boise School District, which continues to receive national recognition.
Sources: Boise School District Rankings – U.S. News , SchoolDigger – Boise High Schools
4. What’s the Job Market Like in Boise?
Boise’s job market in 2022 was among the strongest in the western U.S.:
- Unemployment rate: 2.6% in August 2022
- Top industries: Tech, healthcare, construction, education
- Employers: Micron, St. Luke’s, Boise State University
Sources: Mployer Advisor – Boise Employment Snapshot , Idaho Department of Labor – 2022 Economic Report (PDF)
5. Who Lives in West Boise?
West Boise’s demographics mirror Boise City as a whole:
- Population: ~234,192 in 2022
- Median household income: $76,402
- Ethnic makeup: 80.4% White (Non-Hispanic), with growing Latino and Asian communities
Sources: Data USA – Boise City, ID , Census Reporter – Boise Demographics
6. What’s There to Do in West Boise?
The West Boise lifestyle is built around easy access to fun and nature:
- Bogus Basin – Summer and winter outdoor sports
- Boise River Greenbelt – 25+ miles of paved trail
- Aquarium of Boise – Great for families with kids
- Fairmont Park – Pool, tennis, shaded picnic areas
7. Are There Parks and Green Spaces in West Boise?
West Boise’s park system is designed for both relaxation and recreation:
- DeMeyer Park – Playground, basketball, volleyball, picnic shelter
- Sycamore Park – Small, family-friendly with shade
- Fairmont Park – Includes tennis courts and pool
8. What Are the Best Places to Shop in West Boise?
You won’t have to travel far for essentials—or indulgences:
- Boise Towne Square Mall – Macy’s, Apple, H&M, Cheesecake Factory
- Fairview Ave Corridor – Costco, Target, Lowe’s, local eateries
- Neighborhood plazas – From Five Mile to Maple Grove
9. What Kind of Homes Are Available?
West Boise homes appeal to a broad range of buyers:
- Single-family homes: 1,500–3,000+ sq. ft., 3–5 beds
- Townhomes and condos: Affordable options near shopping hubs
- New construction: Especially booming south of Gowen Road
West Boise Real Estate Highlight: Move-In-Ready Home Under $500K
Searching for a home under $500,000 in West Boise? This renovated home for sale in West Boise offers a rare opportunity to own a beautifully updated, turn-key property in a sought-after Boise neighborhood. Located at 8830 W Lancelot, this listing combines comfort, upgrades, and unbeatable privacy.
Top Features of 8830 W Lancelot, Boise ID
- ✅ Primary Bedroom Retreat: Vaulted ceilings, custom beadboard wainscoting, walk-in tile shower, and large walk-in closet
- ✅ Upgraded Kitchen: Granite countertops, butcher block island, stainless steel sink, under-cabinet lighting, scenic window view
- ✅ Open-Concept Living Area: Vaulted ceilings, abundant natural light, and custom dining room shutters
- ✅ Exterior Amenities: RV parking with sewer dump, two powered storage sheds, covered front patio, carport, and freshly painted trim
- ✅ Privacy: No rear neighbors, full wooden fencing, and landscaped yard
Additional Property Details
- Year Built: 1988
- Garage: 2-car attached
- Cooling: Central Air Conditioning
- Heating: Natural Gas Forced Air
- Exterior Construction: HardiPlank & Vinyl Siding
- Roof: Composition Shingle
- Foundation: Crawl Space
- Appliances Included: Refrigerator, Oven/Range, Dishwasher, Garbage Disposal, Water Softener
- Lot Features: Sprinkler System, RV Parking, Powered Sheds, Finished Driveway
- School District: Boise School District #1
Perfect For:
- ✅ First-time homebuyers looking for a Boise starter home under $500K
- ✅ Empty nesters or retirees wanting single-level living in West Boise
- ✅ Real estate investors seeking rental properties in Boise
- ✅ Families who want to live near top-rated Boise schools
Listing Agents – Contact for Showings or More Info
Rachael Gerber
📧 rachael@goodnewsrealtygroup.com | 📞 (208) 897-2760
Joshua Connell (Co-Agent)
📧 josh@goodnewsrealtygroup.com | 📞 (208) 897-2760
10. Is West Boise Good for Families?
With great schools, safe streets, and plenty of parks, it’s no wonder so many families put down roots here.
- Family-friendly design
- Walkable neighborhoods
- Quick access to shopping and childcare
Is West Boise a good place to raise a family? Yes. It offers a mix of affordability, amenities, and top-rated schools in a safe setting.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Whether you’re thinking of relocating, buying your first home, or just staying informed on the Idaho housing market, we’ve got everything you need to make confident moves.
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