10 Reasons To Live In Meridian, ID

10 Reasons To Live In Meridian, ID

If you’re thinking about moving to Idaho and are curious about the Treasure Valley, you’re likely considering Meridian, Idaho, as a potential new home for you and your family.. We’re here to help you decide if Meridian is the right fit for you. We’re Vantage Moving Solutions, a locally owned moving company based right here in Meridian, ID.

In this blog, we’ll provide you with a brief history of Meridian and give you a comprehensive look at what life is like here. We’ll explore the neighborhoods, discuss the schools, amenities, and the city’s central location. Plus, we’ll walk you through  10 Reasons To Live In Meridian, ID, where we share compelling reasons why we believe Meridian is a great place to live. Whether you’re relocating from out of state or just moving within Idaho, we’re here to assist you every step of the way.

10 Reasons To Live In Meridian, ID

Where is Meridian, ID Located?

Meridian, Idaho is nestled between the Boise Foothills and the Owyhee Mountains. This city uniquely combines small-town charm with large-town amenities, making it a desirable location for new residents relocating from out of state. On a map of the Treasure Valley, Meridian is centrally located: Boise is to the east, Nampa to the west, Eagle to the north, and Kuna to the south. This central location makes it convenient for commuting to work or school, depending on your family’s needs.

Additionally, if you enjoy weekend trips to the mountains, Meridian offers a quick and easy route past Eagle to McCall. This central positioning within the valley ensures that you are never far from shopping centers, cities, or the airport. We’ll delve more into drive times and key locations later, but for now, know that Meridian’s location is one of its many appealing attributes.

About Meridian History

Before we talk about what it’s like to live in Meridian today, let’s look at its interesting history. Meridian was founded in 1891 when the Oregon Shortline Railroad came through, turning a desert area into a thriving community. Meridian was first called Hunter, but it was renamed Meridian because of a survey line running through it.

In the 1890s, irrigation systems were introduced, making Meridian a great place for farming and dairy production. By 1929, it was known as the Dairy Center of Idaho. Meridian became an official city in 1903 with just 200 residents. Since then, it has grown a lot and is now the second-largest city in Idaho, with around 140,067 people living here as of 2024.

Houses In Meridian

Housing is one of the key factors that influence people’s decisions on whether to move to a new city or state. In Meridian, the median sale price for homes is $499,000, which is more affordable compared to some of the surrounding cities. There are many great communities in Meridian that might suit your needs, depending on what you’re looking for.

A significant advantage of living in Meridian is the opportunity for new construction. It is generally more affordable to live in Meridian than in Boise or Eagle. Many large builders, such as CBH and Hubble Homes, are developing new communities with affordable pricing. These new neighborhoods often feature amenities like pools, clubhouses, and well-maintained public areas, providing a nice, organized feel in a budget-friendly location.

While Boise offers great locations close to downtown and the Foothills, the homes there tend to be older and may require more maintenance. In contrast, Meridian offers beautiful, brand-new homes and communities, while still being close to business centers, shopping centers, and family-friendly places.

Meridian is Centrally Located

One of the biggest advantages of living in Meridian is its central location. Situated in the heart of the Treasure Valley, Meridian is perfectly positioned between the Boise Foothills and the Owyhee Mountains. It’s centrally located with Boise to the east, Nampa to the west, Eagle to the north, and Kuna to the south.

This makes commuting to work or school convenient, no matter where you need to go. Additionally, weekend trips to the mountains are quick and easy, with a direct route past Eagle to McCall. Whether you’re heading to shopping centers, other cities, or the airport, Meridian’s central location ensures you’re never far from where you need to be.

Meridian Has Excellent Schools

Meridian has really good schools for kids from elementary to high school. But because lots of people are moving here, some schools have too many students, which can make things crowded.

Even with this challenge, Meridian is working hard to keep providing excellent education, and they’re making plans to build more schools to help with the growing number of students.

Meridian Offers Plenty of Activities

When it comes to things to do in Meridian, you’re in for a treat! One of the highlights is The Village, an awesome outdoor shopping center surrounded by beautiful trees. Here, you’ll find everything from coffee shops to food joints and, of course, plenty of places to shop.

But it doesn’t end here – in the winter, you can enjoy ice skating, while in the summer, a lively fountain and play structures for kids make for perfect family outings.

Meridian is also dotted with parks, ranging from large public ones to cozy local spots in your own neighborhood. If you’re into pickleball, you’ll love all of the new courts popping up all over town. Plus, many communities have their own pools, perfect for cooling off during the summer months. And let’s not forget about Topgolf  Meridian– the latest addition to Meridian’s entertainment scene! Whether it’s a day at Wahooz Fun Zone or a splash at Roaring Springs Water Park, Meridian offers endless opportunities for family fun and community gatherings.

Healthcare in Meridian

In terms of healthcare, Meridian offers Saint Luke’s Meridian Hospital, along with several urgent care facilities. Additionally, as you move closer to Boise, you’ll find more hospitals outside Meridian. With these options available, residents of Meridian have access to a variety of healthcare services right in their own community, reducing the need to travel to downtown Boise for medical care. Whether it’s routine check-ups, urgent medical needs, or specialized treatments, Meridian provides comprehensive healthcare options for its residents.

Meridian Has A Strong Job Market

Job growth in Meridian has been booming, expanding at more than double the national rate. With its growing economy and low unemployment rate, Meridian is becoming known as a hub for employment opportunities. While fields like science and healthcare are growing rapidly, there are also plenty of other job opportunities available in various sectors. Whatever your expertise, chances are you can find both living and working opportunities in Meridian.

Additionally, the average income in Meridian surpasses the national average, attracting people from across the country in search of better job prospects and a more affordable lifestyle. The city’s rapid growth is fueled by the appeal of employment opportunities and a higher quality of life. 

Low Cost Of Living in Meridian

Many people are flocking to Meridian from all corners of the country to embrace a richer, more budget-friendly lifestyle. While wages in the area remain competitive, the cost of living is notably lower compared to many other regions.

Housing expenses and everyday commodity costs in Meridian are significantly lower than national average

Meridian Is A Tight-Knit Community

Despite its rapid growth, Meridian maintains a welcoming small-town vibe. It offers the perfect blend of convenience and neighborly warmth. People here are nice and there are a lot of seniors who have moved from states like Washington, Oregon and California as well as young professionals from all over the state.

Meridian is large enough to cater to all your needs yet intimate enough for everyone to know your name. The city hosts a variety of community events designed to bring people together.

Meridian & The Treasure Valley Is The Perfect Place For Outdoor Lovers

Meridian is the perfect city for people who love the outdoors. Just a few minutes away from the city center you can find parks and trails for some great outdoor fun. Here are some of our favorites just right outside Meridian: 

  • Freak Alley in Boise: A must-see attraction, Freak Alley is an ever-changing outdoor gallery featuring vibrant street art. Park along nearby streets to explore this colorful alley.
  • Table Rock Quarry Trail in Boise: This trail offers panoramic views of the Treasure Valley and is suitable for hikers and bikers of all skill levels.
  • Boise River Float: Enjoy a leisurely float down the Boise River starting from Barber Park and ending at Ann Morrison Park, perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts.
  • Sunset at Lake Lowell in Nampa: Capture stunning sunset views over the mountains at Lake Lowell, a serene spot for relaxation and photography.
  • Kuna Caves : Explore the Kuna Caves for a unique outdoor adventure. Accessible via Kuna Cave Road, these caves offer a glimpse into Idaho’s geological history.
  • Stack Rock Loop in Boise: This scenic loop trail near Boise offers spectacular views of the city and surrounding valleys, making it a favorite among locals for hiking and photography.
  • Mountain Biking at Bogus Basin: Experience thrilling mountain biking adventures around Bogus Basin, with trails suitable for all skill levels and breathtaking mountain views.
  • Cervidae Peak in Boise: Hike to the summit of Cervidae Peak for stunning 360-degree views of the surrounding landscapes and abundant wildlife sightings.
  • Guffey Butte Trail in Melba: This trail near Melba offers a short but rewarding hike with views of the Snake River and opportunities for wildlife spotting.

Celebration Park: Located near Melba, Celebration Park offers a variety of recreational activities including boating, fishing, hiking, and educational tours.