Pros and Cons of Living in Boise, Idaho
Whether you’re looking for a fresh start, a cheaper cost of living, or challenging outdoor opportunities, moving to Boise could be the right decision for you. Commuting outside the city can be a challenge if you don’t own a car.
This city is becoming increasingly popular with millennials, tech professionals, and those seeking quality of life. This blog post will explore the pros and cons of living in Boise, Idaho and what it’s like to live there as an adult. If you’re considering a move to Boise – keep reading! Let’s explain why and how to move to Boise and what you should consider.
The Pros Of Living In Boise
1. Boise Has A Low Population Density That You Can Enjoy
Despite having a population of over 700,000, Boise’s population density is quite low. The population density of Boise is 3,500 people per square mile, even though there are only 2.59 people per square mile.
2. Despite Its Size, The Cost Of Living In Boise Remains Relatively Low
Living near a state capital can provide numerous benefits to which you may not otherwise have access, but such privilege comes at a cost in most states. That is not the case if you choose to live in Boise, Idaho. The main reason the city’s cost of living index is about 4% higher than the national average is that the city’s property prices are higher. If you can find a nice place to live within your budget, or if you don’t mind a daily commute of about 30 minutes, you can completely remove that one-cost issue and live in Idaho for a surprisingly low cost.
3. Rent In Boise, Idaho, Is Still Reasonable
Although some households may find it difficult to purchase real estate in Boise, the city’s rent is competitive for a city of this size. Only a few years ago, a 1-bedroom apartment with excellent downtown access could be rented for less than $800 per month, which was more than 10% less than the state median. That savings percentage also applied to larger homes, including single-family residences. This benefit of living in Boise, Idaho is dwindling.
4. The Employment Opportunities In Boise Are Excellent
Boise is located in an area rich in agricultural production and is thus surrounded by many jobs related either directly or indirectly to agriculture. As you get closer to the city, you’ll find more administrative, healthcare, and government jobs. Because of this unexpected combination of factors, the unemployment rate tends to hover around 2% when the national economy is doing well.
Because of the region’s emphasis on agriculture, the Boise area’s unemployment rate is expected to be two percentage points below the national average, even during recessions. Mining, manufacturing, and technical services all have high-paying jobs available.
5. Boise Has Excellent Educational Opportunities
Boise’s educational system has improved significantly over the last 20 years. What was once one of the country’s lamest learning environments is now one of its best. The city’s K-12 public schools graduate roughly 95% of students, nearly nine percentage points higher than the national average.
The Cons Of Living In Boise
1. Boise Has Less Diversity Than Other Cities In The United States
When you first move to Boise, you will notice little cultural diversity aside from the city’s ethnic Basque population. This community has over 15,000 members, making it the largest center for this demographic in the United States.
2. The Weather In Boise Can Be Difficult For Some Families
Because of its northwestern mid-continental location, Boise experiences all four seasons. That means the summers will be dry and hot, while the winters will be windy and cold. When you first move here, there are no temperature extremes to worry about because the average high in the summer is 72°F. Even so, there is a time frame in July and August when daytime highs and humidity soar, making it a little uncomfortable. Winters typically do not bring much snow.
3. You Might Have Trouble Finding A Place To Live In Boise
Boise’s housing market is booming due to the many people moving there. Although some properties are available for less than $200,000 per year, the lower living costs tend to keep salaries lower than in other communities. If you and your partner earn around $14 per hour, you can afford a house, but you will need a good credit history and strong financial planning skills.
4. Some Say The Law Enforcement Community Has A Bad Reputation
Officers fired from the police department in Boise (or elsewhere in Idaho) can be rehired at another agency. Since 2016, safeguards have been in place to protect against this process, and new policies do a good job of revoking credentials. According to the Idaho Statesman, some departments do not perform background checks or choose to ignore the results.
Is Boise Safe?
Yes! Boise is a very safe city overall. The city has a lower violent crime rate than the rest of the U.S. You’ll find that Boise residents are extremely cautious regarding safety. Walking around the city, you’ll notice everyone is careful about locking their doors and watching for suspicious activity.
If you’re living in Boise, Idaho with your kids, you won’t have to worry about letting them play outside or walk to school. You’ll find that the climate is mild enough that you can let your kids play outside year-round. There are a few areas around Boise that you may want to avoid. The East End is a low-income neighborhood with a higher crime rate than the rest of the city. You’ll also want to be careful in Downtown Boise and walking around the Boise State University campus.
Do You Need An Extra Hand Before Moving?
If you’re hiring a moving company in Idaho, it’s important to do your research. You want to hire movers in Boise like Vantage Moving Solutions with a good reputation, dependable, and charging reasonable prices. These guys will help you during the whole process and you don’t need to do anything by yourself.
Asking family and friends for suggestions is another way to find reputable movers. Moving companies charge by the hour, and the price varies depending on the location you’re moving from. Compare different moving companies to ensure you’re getting a fair price.We would recommend getting in touch with these guys! They are the best in this industry.
Final Words
Finding a new job, meeting new people, and adjusting to a new city cannot be easy. A fresh start can do wonders for your mental health, especially if you’ve been feeling stuck or overwhelmed by life. This can be even more overwhelming if you’re also trying to find a place to live. If you feel like moving to Boise is right for you, start planning as soon as possible.
You’ll want to find a job, decide where you want to live, and ensure you have all the necessary documents. You may even want to talk to your employer about a remote job so you can stay in your current city longer. Don’t forget! Before moving, you have to do some good research about living in Boise, Idaho pros and cons things. Good luck!