Thinking of moving to Idaho? You aren’t alone. The Gem State is quickly becoming one of the most popular states in America. In fact, according to the 2020 Census, Idaho is the second fastest growing state in the country, with a population growth of 17.32 percent since 2010. What makes the state so attractive? A low cost of living, lots of jobs and plenty of wide-open spaces are just a few reasons why newcomers are making Idaho their home. The Gem State’s natural beauty and stunning wildlife also make it one of the most beautiful places in the world to live. Need more convincing? Here are 10 reasons why you should consider moving to Idaho.

The economy is booming

Idaho is quickly becoming one of the most popular places to live, thanks to its booming economy and thriving job market. data shows that the state’s unemployment rate is 3.9 percent, which is below the national average of 4.7 percent. According to 2021 U.S. News Best States rankings, Idaho also took the number one spot for economic growth and ranked fourth for fiscal stability. “The state also posted strong showings for its business environment, growth and employment,” according to the rankings.

The cost of living is well below the national average
No doubt about it: Idaho is one of the most affordable states in the country. In fact, according to AreaVibes, the overall cost of living index for Idaho is 93, which is seven points lower than the national average. The Gem State also had a particularly low housing index score of 88, making it a fantastic place for home buyers to purchase an affordable home. According to the U.S. Census, the median value of an owner-occupied home is $212,300. In addition, the cost of goods and services, healthcare, groceries and utilities are all below the national average as well. All in all, if you’re looking for a place to stretch that dollar, Idaho is it.

It’s a tax-friendly state
In addition to affordable real estate and inexpensive goods and services, Idaho is a tax-friendly state, depending on your income level and source. According to SmartAsset, Idaho is especially tax-friendly for retirees. The finance tech company states that “Social Security retirement benefits are not taxed at the state level in Idaho. Additionally, the state’s property and sales taxes are relatively low.” According to Idaho Commerce, the state is also tax-friendly towards businesses. The organization states on its website that “in 2021, Idaho lowered its top tax rate to just 6.5 percent, making it more competitive and attractive to businesses. Furthermore, Idaho simplified its tax code, cutting the number of income brackets from seven to five.” The organization also points out that the 1.5 percent property tax and 6 percent general sales tax give Idaho the “lowest per capita tax burden of any state.”

You won’t find prettier surroundings
There’s no denying that the Gem State is truly a gem. Idaho is certainly one of the most beautiful states in the country. From Yellowstone National Park and the beautiful Tetons to the scenic Salmon River and the natural Goldbug Hot Springs, there are so many spectacular places to see and explore throughout the Gem State. No matter where you turn, you’re sure to be surrounded by some of the world’s most wondrous natural beauty and unique wildlife.

  1. There’s plenty to do outdoors
    In addition to being one of the most beautiful states in the country, Idaho happens to have a plethora of outdoor activities for residents and visitors to enjoy. In fact, every year, the state attracts millions of visitors who tour Idaho’s many parks and outdoor attractions. Whether it’s hiking, skiing, snowboarding, white water rafting, fishing, camping or mountain biking you enjoy, you’ll be able to do it (and more) here in Idaho.
  2. It’s an extremely safe place to live
    One of the many benefits of living in Idaho is its safe surroundings and low crime rates. The capital city, Boise, has particularly low crime rates compared to the rest of the country. AreaVibes data shows that Boise’s crime rates are 25 percent less than the national average. According to, the Gem State is one of the top 10 safest states in the country. U.S. News also reports that Idaho is 10the for best crime and corrections rankings.
  3. You’ll enjoy shorter commute times to work
    Leave the heavy traffic, delayed trains and busy highways behind when you move to the Gem State. One of the benefits of living in Idaho is the short commute to work. The U.S. Census found that the average travel time to work for workers in Idaho was 21.1 minutes. That’s less than the national average of 26.4 minutes, per Best Places. Reasons for a shorter commute time most likely have to do with the fact that Idaho is simply less dense than other states. You won’t run into the same kind of traffic jams and congestion that you might in other places.
  4. The residents are friendly
    Idaho residents are sure to welcome you with open arms. The state is known for its especially warm and friendly residents. So, don’t be surprised when outgoing Idahoans (strangers or otherwise) wave, smile and chat with you. Residents are genuinely nice and interested in others – making this state one of the friendliest in the country.
  5. It’s environmentally friendly
    It’s not just the residents who are friendly here in Idaho. The state has a particularly clean environment with higher than average air quality and sparkling clean water. U.S. News ranked Idaho as the 12th best state for environmental quality. According to Best Life, Idaho is the second cleanest state in the country. The study examined the amount of trash buried per capita, amount of waste produced each year and air pollution levels – among other factors.

 

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