The list of reasons people move to Boise is seemingly endless, though, there are a few common themes that seem to make the mark for the top ten reasons people move to this wonderfully scenic location. What makes Boise, Idaho one of the top mid-sized cities to live in? Boise is one of the last great western cities left and is set by the beautiful foothills of the Rocky Mountains, drowning in a sea of luscious trees. Boise is filled with character and history, and being one of the only secluded metropolitans in the country, its developed its own unique culture and vibrancy you wont find anywhere else. With one of the most livable urban city cultures set upon a rural backdrop that provides countless recreational opportunities for everyone, Boise is nothing but awesome. Boise is a top destination on a variety of Best Of publications and provides a multitude of positive reasons for anyone whos dabbling with the idea of moving here. Here, we look at ten different reasons why people love living in Boise:
No. 1 The top concern for many folks is an areas affordability, and Boise is no stranger when it comes to inexpensive housing and other costs associated with living. And the best part about it? No sacrifices need be made. When you examine average housing costs, utilities, healthcare, transportation, groceries, and various other necessities, Idaho ranks as one of the lowest in the western states, according to the ACCRA Cost of Living Index. Idaho and its capital boast about a lot of things, but a high cost of living has never been one of them. Even as the economy changes along with peoples needs, Idaho has managed to retain its enviable living cost.
No. 2 Boise has one of the most business-friendly atmospheres in the country. Youll see it everywhere, whether its on Forbes or CNBC – Idaho is a top state for doing business, and the Boise metro area is Idahos crown jewel. CNBC selected Idaho on its Americas Top States for Business 2013 list, ranking Idaho in at number 7 for the Cost of Doing Business, no. 5 for Business Friendliness, plus no. 3 for Cost of Living, which weve already covered. Overall, Idaho came in with the no. 10 spot. Idahos capital embraces unique ideas and new opportunities, making it one of the best cities to let creativity loose.
No. 4 Its hard to talk about Boises greatness without mentioning the climate. Boise, Idaho is a true all-season destination. That means it receives the variety of temperatures that all four seasons have to offer. Boise is absolutely gorgeous in the fall with a mix of changing colors and ideal temperatures. In the winter, you can get your favorite snow adventures packed in at the local Bogus Basin Ski Area, or for world-class skiing, a quick drive up to Sun Valley is all it takes. The valley itself does experience snow and rain, but for the most part, its the surrounding mountains that receive it the most. Yes – Boise has sunny days, chilly temperatures, and pleasant summertime winds. With largely a kind disposition, the climate here is suitable for just about everyone.No. 3 From a study done by the Farmers Insurance Group, the Boise metro area was ranked at no. 11 as being the Most Secure in the Nation. They examined large metropolitan areas with a population of over 500,000 people, looking at factors such as crime, weather, air quality, foreclosures, economic stability, life expectancy, employment numbers, and other serious statistics to produce their list. Mark Toohey of Farmers Insurance stated, “we congratulate the residents of all large metropolitan areas named in the top 20 rankings. They are fortunate to have dedicated local government, law enforcement, fire, medical and education leaders who work hard and have earned the Farmers Insurance most secure large city recognition.”
No. 5 We havent mentioned the recreation yet? Folks trip over recreational opportunities here. No matter which way you search, youll find that its hard to escape the active lure the city has over people. Theres really no limit to the things you can do here, whether its in the surrounding hills and mountains, the Boise River, or lakes of all shapes and sizes. Idaho is a fishermans paradise, a hikers playground, a bikers sprawling raceway, and a boaters clear blue front. On top of all that is the aesthetic value of the natural landscape and rural backdrop. Theres no escaping Idahos vast outdoors.
No. 6 Boise, Idahos culture is second to none. With a remote location, folks might breed the misconception that not a whole lot is going on here, but they couldnt be any further from the truth. Boise has a vibrant arts and culture scene, and not to mention several high caliber performing arts companies (think the Idaho Shakespeare Festival and the Boise Philharmonic) as well as many exciting venues for live music and other big-time events. In Boise, youll also find several festivals, museums, and art galleries. In 2012, a study established by Americans for the Arts, both public and private arts in Boise is a 48 million dollar per year industry.
No. 7 Boises downtown area is excellent for several reasons. Among bikers and walkers, the well-maintained sidewalks and nearby greenbelt provide alternate routes for getting around with ease. The streets are beautiful and safe, and the shops and restaurants are diverse and exciting. Downtown Boise is a thriving business community with more than 30,000 people who work in the area. Office and retail space are among the lowest in the region, and the entertainment options include Zoo Boise, museums, movie theaters, and art galleries.
No. 8 Traffic. We all cringe at the word, but take heart – Boise has some of the lowest commute times around. With an average commute time of 20.2 minutes, thats 20 percent faster than the national average and far less than other urbanized locations in the West. Boises traffic is reasonably hassle-free, and the alternate transportation routes provided by the Boise River greenbelt and the dozens upon dozens of bike lanes make it easier than ever to ditch the car and hit the pavement.
No. 9 When youre in Boise, youll likely soon encounter that small-town friendliness that so many people talk about. Folks who live in Boise are often genuine and kind because theyre in the exact place they want to be. People who live and work in Boise embrace the many charms that make this urban meets rural “little-big town” the gem that it is. Boise is packed with big-city amenities with a small-town atmosphere, so its no wonder those who come here, stay here. After all, the low stress life is quite contagious.
Sources:http://livability.com/top-10/top-10-downtowns-2012/boise/idhttp://www.kivitv.com/news/local/213146191.html
