Let’s face it. Idaho is growing. The population has steadily been increasing over the years, especially in the more urban areas of the state. In response to this, most Idahoans jest that people should stop moving to Idaho out of fear that our great state will somehow change with the influx of people. The truth is, though, that people are moving to Idaho because they like it how it is. And how could they not? It’s the best place in the world. Here are 15 reasons why:
- It’s incredibly affordable.
Matt Hintsa/Flickr The cost of living is quite low in Idaho, especially in comparison to other places in the Pacific Northwest region! Some things money just can’t buy.
- Idaho has four distinct seasons.
Aaron Hawkins/Flickr The seasons are incredible in Idaho. They are usually quite mild, and you get four different seasons rather than just “Hot” or “Cold”.
- Idaho is safe.
Kent Kanouse/Flickr Idaho has one of the lowest crime rates in the entire country.
- Boise is the capital.
Jonni Armani/Flickr Boise is the perfect combination of small town vibes and the busy-ness of a big city. What’s not to love? Boise has even made several national “Top Ten” lists such as “Best Travel-Worthy State Capitals” by USA Today in 2016.
- There’s pretty much no traffic. Ever.
Sergei/Flickr Okay, sometimes there is a little bit of traffic, but we’re talking around 30-40 minutes for a commute during “rush hour”. That’s nothing compared to some places!
- It’s an outdoor lover’s paradise.
Sean Quinn/Flickr You’ll never run out of things to do. Whether you’re into skiing, snowboarding, hiking, biking…if it’s an outdoor activity, you can do it here in Idaho.
- The vast wilderness areas that are right in your backyard.
Christof Teuscher/Flickr There aren’t many places besides Idaho where wilderness areas are just a short drive away! We’ve got the Sawtooths, Frank Church Wilderness Area, Boise National Forest…the list goes on and on.
- So. Much. Craft. Beer.
Svend Knutsen/Flickr A local brewery is just a stone’s throw away in Idaho. Seriously.
- And local wine!
Laura Gilmore/Flickr We have probably just as much wineries, too!
- Good agriculture means good food.
Billy Gast/Flickr Agriculture is big here. And that means fresh meat and produce probably only had to travel a few hours to get to your table!
- Road trip, anybody?
Tom Kelly/Flickr With so many places to see and so many scenic highways at your disposal, a weekend road trip around Idaho’s most beloved attractions is always an option!
- Idahoans are ridiculously friendly.
Jonni Armani/Flickr We might joke that you shouldn’t move here, but truthfully Idahoans are the nicest people in America. It’s not uncommon to make eye contact with a stranger and receive a smile and a friendly “Hello!” in exchange.
- It’s secluded.
dcgreer/Flickr Living in Idaho, you’re guaranteed a certain amount of elbow room all to yourself. The Gem State may be physically big, but there really aren’t that many people here.
- Idaho loves art.
Treefort Music Fest/Flickr In Idaho, there are many ways to get your entertainment and art fix no matter where you are. Spend a week at Boise’s Treefort Music Festival, catch some movies at Sun Valley’s Film Festival, see a world class play at Idaho Shakespeare Festival, the possibilities are endless!
- The best reason of all? It’s the most beautiful place in the world.
Dallas R/Flickr Enough said.
What do you think? What do you think makes Idaho such a great place to live?
Matt Hintsa/Flickr
The cost of living is quite low in Idaho, especially in comparison to other places in the Pacific Northwest region! Some things money just can’t buy.
Aaron Hawkins/Flickr
The seasons are incredible in Idaho. They are usually quite mild, and you get four different seasons rather than just “Hot” or “Cold”.
Kent Kanouse/Flickr
Idaho has one of the lowest crime rates in the entire country.
Jonni Armani/Flickr
Boise is the perfect combination of small town vibes and the busy-ness of a big city. What’s not to love? Boise has even made several national “Top Ten” lists such as “Best Travel-Worthy State Capitals” by USA Today in 2016.
Sergei/Flickr
Okay, sometimes there is a little bit of traffic, but we’re talking around 30-40 minutes for a commute during “rush hour”. That’s nothing compared to some places!
Sean Quinn/Flickr
You’ll never run out of things to do. Whether you’re into skiing, snowboarding, hiking, biking…if it’s an outdoor activity, you can do it here in Idaho.
Christof Teuscher/Flickr
There aren’t many places besides Idaho where wilderness areas are just a short drive away! We’ve got the Sawtooths, Frank Church Wilderness Area, Boise National Forest…the list goes on and on.
Svend Knutsen/Flickr
A local brewery is just a stone’s throw away in Idaho. Seriously.
Laura Gilmore/Flickr
We have probably just as much wineries, too!
Billy Gast/Flickr
Agriculture is big here. And that means fresh meat and produce probably only had to travel a few hours to get to your table!
Tom Kelly/Flickr
With so many places to see and so many scenic highways at your disposal, a weekend road trip around Idaho’s most beloved attractions is always an option!
We might joke that you shouldn’t move here, but truthfully Idahoans are the nicest people in America. It’s not uncommon to make eye contact with a stranger and receive a smile and a friendly “Hello!” in exchange.
dcgreer/Flickr
Living in Idaho, you’re guaranteed a certain amount of elbow room all to yourself. The Gem State may be physically big, but there really aren’t that many people here.
Treefort Music Fest/Flickr
In Idaho, there are many ways to get your entertainment and art fix no matter where you are. Spend a week at Boise’s Treefort Music Festival, catch some movies at Sun Valley’s Film Festival, see a world class play at Idaho Shakespeare Festival, the possibilities are endless!
Dallas R/Flickr
Enough said.
Did you know the best city in America is right here in Idaho? Check out our full article here!
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