Idaho is quite famous in the international sphere for its potatoes. However, the state has more to offer than its agricultural product. Leaning against two Northwest states, Washington and Oregon, Idaho is blessed with breathtaking natural beauties composed of farmlands, rivers, and mountain peaks.
Considered the 11th largest state in size, Idaho only ranked 39th in terms of population. Nonetheless, it is among the western states that have the lowest cost of living.
In this day and age where everything is becoming more and more expensive, we are all trying to find means to better our living situations. One way is by moving away from big expensive cities to quieter mid-sized Western cities.
One of the best U.S. cities to move to is Idaho. Though you may have heard distasteful myths, there are several reasons moving to Idaho might be the best decision you will ever make.
- It Is an Outdoor State
Idaho is a state blessed with a number of national parks, monuments, wildlife preserves, and other national recreation areas. In fact, the states attract thousands of tourists each year.
Idaho is reportedly also one of the states with the highest resident percentage who participates in outdoor recreation activities every year.
One of the favorites outdoor activities are rafting and kayaking in Salmon River. The place is deemed to be one of the nation’s top wilderness rivers. These activities are done during the summer months.
During the winter season, Idaho offers tons of resorts for everyone to enjoy. For instance, Sun Valley is a world-renowned site for a lot of Olympic contenders. It is even the home for the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Nordic ski team.
Even during the summer months, the ski trails, particularly that of Sandpoint, offer scenic views for mountain bikers.
- It Has a Very Low Crime Rate
Based on statistics, the crime rate in Idaho is quite low. That applies to both violent and property crimes. Accordingly, the violent crime rate in the state is only at 2.7 crimes very 1000 individuals as compared to the national average of 4.5 crimes per 1000 individuals.
With respect to violent crimes, it is only 21.3 crimes per 1000 people. Statistics show that of all the cities in Idaho, Middleton has the lowest violent crime rates, while Hailey is credited as the city/town having the lowest property crime rate.
It is said that one of the major reasons why Idaho has a low crime rate throughout its state is because
- It Has High Emphasis on Education
When it comes to higher education, Idaho is competitive as well. Based on records, Idaho has a college or university in every 20,000 population.
The largest public university in the state is Boise State University. The Episcopal Church was founded in 1932 and has been home to thousands of baccalaureate and master’s degrees since 1963.
It is followed by the Idaho State University and the University of Idaho. Notably, Lewis-Clark State College is the only public, non-university college in the state.
Nonetheless, there are other notable higher education institutions in the state of Idaho. These include McCall College, College of Idaho, College of Eastern Idaho, and North Idaho College.
It should be noted too that most of the higher learning institutions in the state are predominantly religious-affiliated.
- Its Housing Market Is Buyer Friendly
When it comes to housing, it is noted that Idaho has historically offered cheap housing until the last few years. With the surge in population, the state has experienced an increase in housing prices. Nonetheless, it is to be noted that Idaho remains to be one of the states that offer cheaper housing rates.
It is to be noted however that getting home insurance is highly recommended if you live in Idaho.
As of date, the median home price is $250,000. About 69 percent of the adult population owns a home in the state. When it comes to rental homes, the average rent rate is around $800 percent. It is still way below the national average.
With these tempting home prices, go ahead and contact your trusted local mover now and schedule your moving date.
- Its Job Market Is Extremely Competitive
The unemployment rate in the state of Idaho is reportedly just 2.9 percent as compared to the national average rate of 4.1 percent.
Even though the current minimum wage is only at $7.25 per hour, it makes up for living expenses since the average cost of living in the state is low.
There are several surveys as well that pointed out that Idaho is one of the favorable states in the U.S. to look for a job. In fact, in 2017, Forbes ranked Idaho as No. 9 among the top states where it is easy to find a job.
So what are you waiting for? Go ahead and start packing for Idaho.
