While each state has its stereotypes, one of Idaho’s most infamous ones is that it is the land of potatoes… and you’re not wrong. Idaho does grow some of the best potatoes, but it is so much more than that. Idaho has a lot to offer all those who visit and has worked its charm on many in the past years, raising the population 55% from 1990 to 2010. Many people have come to recognize what Idaho has to offer, but in case you still need convincing, here are four reasons to live in Idaho.
1. Cost of Living
Perhaps the most ideal aspect of living in Idaho is the cost. With a living wage for single adults at $11.09, it’s no wonder that Californians are rushing to the Gem state. Besides the living wage, the cost of living is 100.2, meaning that Idaho is cheaper than the U.S. average—the biggest difference being in housing at 116.5, just 16.5 points over. The cost of living has a huge influence on why people are rushing to the small towns of Idaho. With so many new people there is more home construction, mostly in the more urban parts of the state like Boise, Idaho Falls, Dover, and Twin Falls. However, there are plenty of homes available in more rural areas, like Teton Springs.
2. Jobs
In a land of many prairies and small towns, many people wonder what Idahoans do for a living. The largest percentage of people work for the government or hold positions in healthcare. This is understandable considering that Idaho is home to the Federal Bureau of Reclamation, the National Interagency Fire Center, the U.S. Forest Service, and other state and federal government agencies as well as large hospitals. Unsurprisingly, another popular occupation type in Idaho is agricultural jobs—who do you think grows those potatoes? However, new jobs are appearing at a growing rate in fields of web development, property management, and real estate.
3. Landscape
One of the greatest benefits of living in Idaho is the scenery. Idaho is home to 21 state parks, 10 national forests, seven national park sites, and six national wildlife refuges. Some of the most well-known sites are Craters of the Moon national monument, Yellowstone National Park (which takes up only a bit of Idaho), Hells Canyon national recreation area, and Harriman state park (located in the infamous Island Park caldera). With prairies of sagebrush, forests of pine trees, and the glorious view of the Teton mountain range (if you are in southeastern Idaho, that is) your heart will be pining after the beautiful landscape of Idaho.
4. Seasons
Though the landscape itself is beautiful, seeing them in each season is also rewarding. The four seasons are distinct in Idaho and each one allows for a different outdoor sport. Idaho is notorious for its exciting outdoor activities. In the fall, you’ll see many river banks featuring fishermen trying to catch steelhead, while in the winter you’ll find many locals gearing up for a day of skiing, snowboarding, or snowmobiling. The spring excites people into hiking and visiting hot springs, while the summer weather is perfect for mountain biking, camping, and white water rafting. The seasons make for extraordinary scenic views and the best collection of outdoor activities.
Idaho is a wonderful place, and with so much beauty and potential for everyone to enjoy, you’ll be packing your moving boxes in no time.
