Idaho
Listen up, outdoor adventurers: Living in Idaho provides a perfect launching pad to outdoor fun and thrills. This stunning state’s collection of rivers and jagged peaks means residents have more than enough options to stay active — from skiing and snowboarding at Sun Valley, an official training site for the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Nordic ski teams, to whitewater rafting and kayaking on the Salmon River to hiking through one of its 25 state parks.
But activities in the sun are just part of what living in Idaho has to offer. The Gem State boasts a thriving business scene for companies both small and large, and industries like energy, science, technology and agriculture are experiencing great success. Hello, job opportunities!
Living in Idaho also provides access to top universities, like Boise State, Idaho State and the University of Idaho — not to mention that almost every city here with a population of more than 20,000 has a college or university.
Add to all of this a low cost of living, access to a number of antique shops, must-try restaurants and independent stores, wineries, and numerous opportunities to attend one of the state’s many music festivals, and you’ve got yourself a pretty amazing state to call home.
Read on to learn more about working and living in Idaho, from the best places to live to details about education and careers to fun things to do.
Southern Idaho
This digital edition of the Southern Idaho is sponsored by Twin Falls Area Chamber of Commerce.
Eastern Idaho
This digital edition of the Eastern Idaho is sponsored by Regional Economic Development for Eastern Idaho.
On the Palouse
This digital edition of the On the Palouse is sponsored by Moscow Chamber of Commerce + Visitor Center and Pullman Chamber of Commerce.
Nampa, Idaho
This digital edition of the Nampa, Idaho is sponsored by Nampa Chamber of Commerce.
Quick Facts About Idaho
- Median Household Income
- $78,668
- Average Property Tax
- $2,966
- State Population
- 2,012,737
- Sales Tax Rate
- 6 %
- State Income Tax
- 1%
- Median Monthly Rent
- $1,115
Idaho Businesses & Brands to Know
Places We Love In Idaho
Cities in Idaho on Livability.com
- Ammon, ID
- Blackfoot, ID
- Boise, ID
- Buhl, ID
- Burley, ID
- Caldwell, ID
- Chubbuck, ID
- Coeur d’Alene, ID
- Eagle, ID
- Emmett, ID
- Fruitland, ID
- Garden City, ID
- Gooding, ID
- Hagerman, ID
- Hailey, ID
- Hayden, ID
- Idaho Falls, ID
- Jerome, ID
- Kuna, ID
- Lewiston, ID
- Meridian, ID
- Middleton, ID
- Moscow, ID
- Mountain Home, ID
- Nampa, ID
- Payette, ID
- Pocatello, ID
- Post Falls, ID
- Preston, ID
- Rathdrum, ID
- Rexburg, ID
- Rupert, ID
- Sandpoint, ID
- Shoshone, ID
- Star, ID
- Twin Falls, ID
- Weiser, ID
Experiences & Adventures in Idaho
7 Winter Destinations to Add to Your Summer Bucket List
The best time to visit these famous winter destinations? During the dog days of summer.
7 State Parks That Rival National Parks — Without the Cost or the Crowds
Want an unforgettable outdoor experience without the hassle, cost and crowds? Check out these fantastic state parks.
Explore the Great Outdoors in Nampa, ID
This beautiful gem near Boise is a great place to have fun while staying fit and healthy.
Food Scenes in Idaho
6 One-of-a-Kind Food Museums You Have to Visit
From potatoes to popcorn, these are some of the nation’s most interesting and eclectic cuisine-based collections.
The Official Food of Each State in the U.S
Eat your way through America the beautiful with our guide to the official food of each state.
Get Your Fill of Great Places to Eat in Southern Idaho
Sure, people come to Twin Falls and the Magic Valley for the stunning scenery, but they linger for this region's fabulous food and drink scene.
Healthy Places in Idaho
In Southern Idaho, Kids Stay Healthy Through Fun
Programs focus on physical and emotional health and wellness in Twin Falls and the Southern Idaho region.
Find Innovative Health Care in Southern Idaho
Here, in addition to excellent health services close to home, you'll find lifestyle programs aimed at keeping people well.
Find Outstanding Heath Care in Meridian, ID
Residents enjoy an ever-expanding list of options to stay healthy in Southwest Idaho.
Make Your Move to Idaho
Can Where You Live Shape Your Personality?
Have you ever wondered if the connection between place and personality influences where you live? Here's how your environment can influence your traits, values and worldview.
Idaho: Where to Live Now
Top 25 Best Places to Live Out West
These 25 cities out West all have something special.
The 10 Best States for Retirement
Ready to retire? Based on affordability, health care and lifestyle, these are the 10 best states for retirees to spend their golden years.
9 Reasons to Move to Nampa, Idaho
In this Idaho gem just west of Boise, you'll find a family friendly community full of job opportunities, outdoor attractions and so much more.
Education, Careers and Opportunity in Idaho
Nampa Schools Keep Talent Pipeline Flowing
Career programs in Nampa prepare students to work in the region’s growing industries.
Where Is the “Silicon Valley of Food”?
The food industry in Twin Falls and Southern Idaho has grown into a national leader in food production, processing and advancements.
Students Get a Smart Start in Southern Idaho
Workforce development programs in Twin Falls and the region connect tomorrow’s talent to career opportunities in the Magic Valley.
Idaho: Love Where You Live
50 Things You Didn’t Know About the Olympics
Can't make it to Milano Cortina for the Winter Games and have some serious FOMO? Us, too! Here are 50 things you might not know about the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic Games.
The 12 Greatest Things About Living in the Pacific Northwest
The Pacific Northwest gives us Aplets & Cotlets, Sunbreaks, the Seahawks and so much more. Here are 12 reasons why residents love the PNW.
The Most Romantic City In Every State
This Valentine's Day hit the open road with your honey and explore the most romantic cities around the country.