Best and Worst Cities in Idaho for Your Move
Idaho is a state rich with natural beauty and diverse opportunities. From vibrant cultural scenes to outdoor adventures, each city here offers unique advantages and challenges. If you're considering a move to Idaho, this article can help you decide which cities might best suit your needs.
Best Cities in Idaho
Boise
Boise is celebrated for its high quality of life and vibrant cultural scene. Known for its outdoor activities, Boisemarker is also a hub for job seekers with a solid job market and a strong sense of community. Additionally, the presence of Boise State University contributes to a youthful and inclusive atmosphere.
Pros: Vibrant cultural scene Abundance of outdoor activities Strong job market Excellent community vibe Contributions from Boise State University
Cons: Rising housing costs due to rapid population growth
Coeur d'Alene
Boasting a beautiful lake, Coeur d'Alene offers charming downtown areas and a friendly community, making it a popular tourist destination. However, during the summer tourist season, the city can become crowded.
Pros: Attractive lake and outdoor recreation opportunities Charming downtown area Communal friendly environment Popular tourist destination
Cons: Can be crowded during the summer tourist season
Idaho Falls
Idaho Falls stands out for its affordable housing and access to world-class outdoor activities. It's also strategically located near national parks such as Yellowstone, providing ample opportunities for exploration.
Pros: Affordable housing Access to outdoor activities Strong growing economy Nearby Yellowstone National Park
Cons: Limitations in nightlife and cultural activities
Twin Falls
Renowned for its natural beauty and outdoor activities, including the iconic Shoshone Falls, Twin Falls offers a lower cost of living. However, the smaller size of the city limits the availability of amenities and job opportunities.
Pros: Natural beauty and outdoor activities Low cost of living
Cons: Smaller size limits amenities and job opportunities
Pocatello
Pocatello is the home to Idaho State University, providing educational and cultural opportunities. It offers affordable housing and a strong sense of community, but economic opportunities may be more limited compared to larger cities.
Pros: Home to Idaho State University Strong community vibe Affordable housing Cultural events and educational opportunities
Cons: Limited economic opportunities
Worst Cities in Idaho
Nampa
While Nampa offers affordable housing, it suffers from urban sprawl and traffic issues, which makes it less desirable compared to Boise.
Cons: Affordable housing Urban sprawl and traffic issues
Sandpoint
Sandpoint, despite its natural beauty, can be quite isolated. The cost of living is relatively high compared to wages, and job opportunities can be limited.
Cons: Natural beauty and isolation High cost of living compared to wages Restricted job opportunities
Moscow
Moscow has a lively college town atmosphere due to the University of Idaho, but it can be somewhat insular with a less diverse job market.
Cons: Lively college town atmosphere Insular and less diverse job market
Burley
Burley is a smaller city with limited amenities, offering fewer economic opportunities and lacking the cultural vibrancy of larger cities.
Cons: Limited amenities Less abundant economic opportunities Less cultural vibrancy
Blackfoot
Blackfoot is a smaller, less developed city with limited recreational and cultural options, resulting in fewer economic opportunities.
Cons: Small, less developed city Sparsity in recreational and cultural options Sparse economic opportunities
Conclusion
When considering a move to Idaho, it's crucial to evaluate what values are most important to you—whether it's outdoor activities, a strong job market, or a vibrant community. Cities like Boise and Coeur d'Alene are often favored for their well-rounded amenities and lifestyle. Smaller towns such as Twin Falls and Pocatello may appeal to those seeking a quieter, more rural lifestyle.