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California has seen a continuous trend of population decline in the last five years. Some are looking for cheaper places to live, while others are chasing after job opportunities in other cities. Although not everyone is leaving the Golden State, the trend is significant enough to catch the attention of many experts.
If you’re a renter looking for better options while still staying out west, Boise might have crossed your mind. So, out of all the cities, why is Boise worth consideration?
Key Highlights:
- Thriving job market with rapid growth in tech, healthcare, and major employers like Micron, HP, and Meta fueling opportunities.
- Low crime rates make Boise safer than most U.S. cities, offering peace of mind for families and young professionals alike.
- Affordable cost of living compared to California and other large metros, with competitive salaries that support comfortable lifestyles.
- Abundant outdoor recreation, including 190+ miles of foothill trails, rivers, state parks, and 200+ sunny days each year.
- Tight-knit and welcoming community where cultural events, festivals, and friendly neighborhoods make it easy to feel at home.
- A balanced lifestyle that blends career opportunities, safety, affordability, and quality of life, making Boise an attractive choice for Californians seeking a fresh start.
1. High-Paying Jobs
Several sectors are thriving in Boise, especially in the tech industry. Idaho has seen a 61% growth in a decade, with a higher concentration in the Boise Metro area. Some of the prominent tech companies in the city include Micron, Hewlett-Packard, and Meta.
Even others, like the healthcare sector, are growing due to investments, expansions, and overall economic growth. With an increasing number of job openings, you’ll find more opportunities waiting for you in the city, especially in the metro area.
2. Low Crime Rate
Compared to the national average, Boise’s crime rate is significantly lower. Data shows that violent crime rates per 1,000 people are around 19.76 in the typical year, making it safer than 64% of the cities in the country.
The southern part of the city is considered the safest, with only a 1 in 80 chance of becoming a victim of crime. This makes Boise a good option for families, as well as young professionals looking to move into the city.
3. Affordable Cost of Living
Although the cost of living in Boise is higher than the national average, it is relatively affordable compared to other major cities. The average cost of living for one person is $2,201 per month. For a family of four, it can reach up to $4,902.
A one-bedroom apartment in the city center would cost around $1,475 per month, which is enough for a young professional with a decent-paying job. The average monthly salary after tax in Boise is $4,159, making it possible for a single person to live comfortably.
4. Great Environment
When you get time away from work, you get to experience many outdoor activities in the area. With rivers and hiking trails, you can enjoy what nature has to offer. There are plenty of water activities suited for both families and friends.
The Boise Foothills alone have over 190 miles of expansive trails. Idaho’s state parks offer views of waterfalls and a chance to surf sand dunes. Even without visiting these sites, walking around Boise is easier with over 200 sunny days per year.
5. Welcoming Community
The city has a vibrant cultural scene, not to mention a tight-knit community. Residents often say that there is an active neighborhood all around, and you can always participate in local festivals and activities to feel more connected.
This is a significant factor for many who plan to move to other cities, especially if they are moving alone. The sense of community makes it easier to settle into the city, as well as feel comfortable for long-term residence.
Before You Move
Moving to a new city is a big step, and you must consider important factors to ensure that it will be a smooth transition. You need to ask these questions to determine whether now is the best time for you to move.
Are you financially stable?
It might not be much of an issue if there’s a job waiting for you in Boise. If not, then it’s important that you account for being unemployed for a period of time. Compute rent by researching the housing market and other costs of living. The city is relatively affordable due to job opportunities, but you should always be prepared.
Do you like the climate?
Most would prefer Boise because of its many sunny days, but to each their own. This can mean that you won’t have to worry much about rain, which is a concern for people who use public transportation.
What is your mode of transportation?
If you use public transportation, you need to calculate how much you would spend overall. A local transport ticket will cost you $1.49, and a five-mile cab ride costs around $16. If you have your own vehicle, gas can cost $0.94 per liter.
Do you like the property?
When you set your sights on a property, it’s important that you see it in person. At the very least, check if it has virtual tours for your convenience. There are things you cannot spot in pictures alone.
Boise Housing FAQs
Is Boise more affordable than California?
- Yes. While Boise’s housing market has grown, it remains significantly cheaper than most California cities. For example, the median home price in Boise is around $525,200, compared to over $775,058 in California statewide.
Is the cost of living in Boise high?
- Boise’s cost of living is slightly above the U.S. average, but much lower than California’s metro areas like Los Angeles or San Francisco. A single person spends about $2,200/month (including rent), while a family of four averages $4,900/month.
How safe are Boise neighborhoods?
- Boise’s crime rates are well below the national average. The southern neighborhoods are often considered the safest, with crime risk as low as 1 in 80.
Is Boise a good place to buy or rent for the long term?
- Yes. Boise continues to see steady job growth, population increase, and infrastructure expansion, making it a strong market for long-term investment and an attractive place to settle.
Ready to Move? Look No Further
Wave Property Management offers a diverse range of rental listings to meet your needs. You can filter by location, property type, number of beds & baths, and price range.
Let us make your transition easier. View our application criteria or contact us today!
