When COVID-19 hit and more people started working from home, those in big cities like New York and San Francisco began to seek out destinations where the cost of living is lower, where there are beautiful natural settings, and where homes are more spacious. Idaho fits the bill in all regards and has quickly become one of the premier home-buying destinations in the U.S.
There’s much to like about Idaho, which boasts a vibrant culture, beautiful scenery, and plenty of desirable communities. Let’s dive into why Idaho has become such an appealing destination for buyers.
Gorgeous Nature and Outdoor Recreation
One of the first things most people will note about Idaho is its unmatched natural beauty and boundless outdoor recreational opportunities. Idaho’s Mountain West location contributes to making it one of the most scenic places in the country. The presence of the Rocky and Smoky Mountains, as well as several other ranges, gives it a mountain backdrop throughout the state. Idaho also has some of the most beautiful and lush forests in the U.S., with seven national forests covering 20.4 million acres, which is around 40% of the state.
Idaho is a hub for outdoor recreation with so many beautiful natural settings. It offers year-round appeal, with exciting summer and winter activities. In the summer, hiking, fishing, and camping are wildly popular. In the winter, Idaho is a top skiing destination. It is the perfect state to live in for outdoor lovers.
Growing Tech Sector and Economy
For people to pack their bags and move to a new state, many factors need to be considered. Arguably the most important one is the state of the local economy and job market. Part of the appeal of Idaho is that its economy has blossomed in recent years. It is now a state with an emerging tech sector, particularly in the Boise area, that could lead to years of sustained growth. There are excellent high-paying jobs that will draw new residents in. Numerous businesses, such as HP, Micron Technology, and Western Aircraft, have headquarters or offices in Boise.
Appealing Cities and Towns with Affordable Options
The Mountain West has become significantly less affordable over the past several years because buyer demand has increased dramatically while supply hasn’t been able to keep up. This is the case in Idaho. But there are still pockets of affordability throughout the state and plenty of desirable cities and towns for buyers to choose from.
Boise is Idaho’s biggest city and the center of its economy. Surrounded by the Rocky Mountains with an abundance of parks, it is a big city in a pristine natural setting. Idaho Falls is an appealing city in eastern Idaho where the median home price is about $400,000, according to Realtor.com. Also, Meridian is Idaho’s second-largest city with an emerging economy and plenty of excellent real estate options.
