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Living in Idaho: Is It a Good Place to Live?

What is Idaho known for?

Idaho is widely known for its natural beauty, outdoor activities, and affordability. Residents can access vast outdoor spaces like Coeur d'Alene and Sawtooth National Forest for hiking, fishing, and skiing. The cost of living is a few percentage points below the national average, with the median home price at about $260,000. The economy thrives on agriculture, technology, and manufacturing, with companies like Micron Technology employing locals. Boise's Downtown offers arts, music, and dining. Idaho ranks high for safety and cleanliness; the community bond is strong with a family-friendly atmosphere.

Idaho is considered moderately conservative. Christianity dominates religious life, with 54% Protestant, 13% Catholic, 8% other religions, and 25% identifying with no religious group / non-religious. The race profile is 81% White, 13% Hispanic or Latino, 3% with two or more races, 2% Asian, and 1% Black. Minority groups are relatively small, but there has been an increase in the Hispanic community over recent years. People of faith are actively involved in community services, with organizations like Idaho Faith-Based Recovery Coalition playing a pivotal role.

Retirees in Idaho can find solace in quieter, scenic towns like Coeur d’Alene, which offer a peaceful setting near lakes and mountains. For singles, Boise has a burgeoning downtown area with cultural events and an evolving nightlife that feels more manageable than big city scenes. Families will appreciate the abundance of outdoor activities, from skiing to camping, often viewed as a communal affair with neighborhoods organizing group outings. Students may find programs like environmental sciences particularly strong due to the state’s rich natural resources. People of different backgrounds and beliefs may find Idaho more conservative and a place with strong community values. Couples will enjoy the romantic backdrop of natural beauty and a slower pace of life, ideal for relationship-building. Regarding gender diversity, larger cities like Boise are becoming more progressive and offer more resources for LGBTQ+ communities.

Data Sources for Idaho: Overview