10 Amazing Things Idaho Has Going for It
Where to even begin with Idaho? From breathtaking natural landscapes to a booming job market and excellent real estate opportunities, this gem of the Northwest has it all! The positives just keep on stacking up… And when it comes to attractive and affordable property options, for instance, you only have to look at a fantastic waterside development such as the Lake Pend Oreille Real Estate to quickly appreciate why Idaho is such a draw for so many who come to visit and end up falling in love with the place.
Let’s run some compelling reasons why Idaho is an outstanding place to live, work, and play.
Lots of spectacular outdoor recreation opportunities on your doorstep
Quite simply, Idaho is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream. It offers an incredible range of recreational activities. It boasts over 4.7 million acres of public land, where you can enjoy hiking, fishing, camping, skiing, and boating year-round. A fine example would be Sun Valley, which is a world-renowned ski destination. This is just one of many places to enjoy winter sports. In the warmer months, rafting and fishing along the Salmon and Snake Rivers are popular. Whether you’re a fan of mountain landscapes or tranquil lakes, Idaho’s natural beauty makes it enticingly easy to stay active.
Breathtaking national and state parks that you will never tire of
Idaho is home to some breathtaking national and state parks, each ably showcasing the state’s natural diversity. For example, Sawtooth National Recreation Area offers rugged peaks, alpine lakes, and untouched wilderness, which are ideal for hiking and camping. Another breathtaking destination is Shoshone Falls Park, known as the “Niagara of the West”. Then there’s Hells Canyon, which has the deepest river gorge in North America, offering incredible hiking and river-rafting experiences.
If you are after awe-inspiring natural beauty, Idaho’s parks are very hard to beat.
Affordable property ownership and real estate opportunities
Idaho’s real estate market is another major draw, especially if you are looking to escape the high cost of living in states like California and Washington. The state has a wide range of property ownership options, from urban apartments to amazing waterfront residences.
The icing on the cake is the fact that Idaho’s property tax rates are among the lowest in the country, making home ownership more affordable. Plus, property values have been appreciating in recent years, making buying in Idaho a likely sound investment.
Enjoy the warm feel of its thriving small-town communities
If you’re looking for a close-knit community feel, Idaho’s small towns are hard to beat. You’ll get a warm welcome in towns like Sandpoint, McCall, and Hailey, for instance, all of which have unique characters, with locally-owned shops, community events, and a slower, more relaxed pace of life.
These towns are renowned for their friendly residents, picturesque settings, and strong sense of community. Living in Idaho makes it easy to feel right at home.
Take advantage of an emerging food and drink scene
You will be pleasantly surprised to discover that the state has a surprisingly diverse food and drink culture. Boise, in particular, has seen an explosion of innovative restaurants, food trucks, and farm-to-table eateries. The food and drink scene here is ideal for those who love culinary adventures and enjoy savoring local flavors.
The cost of living is more affordable in Idaho
Compared to neighbouring states, Idaho offers a much lower cost of living. Housing, utilities, groceries, and healthcare all tend to be more affordable in Idaho than in many parts of the country. This affordability makes it easier for families, retirees, and young professionals to stretch their budgets further and enjoy a higher quality of life. Plus, with a relatively low state income tax and no sales tax on groceries, Idaho is a place where your money tends to go further.
Benefit from a mild four-season climate
You will discover that Idaho’s climate is diverse and largely depends on where in the state you are, but overall, it offers a mild four-season experience that’s appealing to many.
As you would expect, winters bring snow and skiing opportunities in mountainous areas, while summers are sunny and warm without the extreme humidity often found elsewhere. Fall and spring are especially pleasant, with beautiful foliage and mild temperatures.
Idaho’s climate has something for everyone, throughout the year.
Improve your career prospects with the help of a strong job market and economic growth
Idaho’s economy has been booming in recent years. This growth has been driven by stellar growth in certain industries, such as technology, agriculture, manufacturing, and healthcare industries.
Major companies have expanded into the area, especially in Boise, which has developed a strong tech scene with a number of large blue-chip companies having a strong presence in Idaho. This has led to a healthy job market, and if you are looking to start a business, Idaho’s business-friendly environment and relatively low taxes also make it a great place for entrepreneurship.
Great for growing families with highly-rated schools and education options
Idaho has an enviable reputation for its strong public education system, with several districts and schools consistently ranking high in terms of quality and performance. Boise State University, the state’s largest university, is highly regarded for its programs in business, engineering, and health sciences.
Idaho is also home to the College of Idaho and Idaho State University, offering a range of academic programs and degrees. For families, Idaho’s focus on quality education makes it a good place to raise a family, especially if you are prioritizing your children’s educational opportunities.
Idaho has a unique cultural heritage with lots of festivals to enjoy
Last but not least, Idaho has a rich cultural history and hosts several unique festivals and events throughout the year. Boise’s Basque community is one of the largest and the annual Jaialdi Festival is a prime example of the exciting itinerary.
Other popular events include the Treefort Music Fest, which is an eclectic music and arts festival that has gained national recognition. It is also well worth mentioning the McCall Winter Carnival, which is a family-friendly winter celebration featuring ice sculptures and parades.
These events, along with the state’s many museums, galleries, and historic sites, make Idaho a vibrant and interesting place to live with a thriving cultural scene.
Without question, Idaho’s appeal goes far beyond its picturesque landscapes. Whether you’re drawn to its small-town charm, investment-friendly property market, or adventurous outdoor lifestyle, Idaho has something for everyone.
Idaho truly is a state of opportunity and adventure.