Retiring in Idaho & Boise Area: Pros & Cons

• Benefits of Retiring in Idaho
• Cons of Retiring in Idaho
• 6 Places to Retire Idaho
• Find a Retirement Community in Idaho
• Why Choose Shea Homes for Your Next Chapter?

Estimated Reading Time: 8 minutes

Benefits of Retiring in Idaho

Retiring in Idaho means enjoying a life filled with stunning natural landscapes, fun outdoor activities, a vibrant culture, and much more! Let's explore the specific benefits that make Idaho a top choice for retirees:

Endless Outdoor Adventures

Idaho's four distinct seasons offer an ever-changing playground for outdoor enthusiasts, especially those near Boise. In the winter, you can enjoy winter activities, like downhill and cross-country skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, or snowmobiling, all within a short drive from Boise. As the snow melts, soak in summers packed with boating, river rafting, fishing, kayaking, and other water sports along Idaho’s vast rivers and lakes. During the spring and fall, immerse yourself in a colorful landscape of breathtaking foliage by running, hiking, or biking through the Gem State’s extensive trail system. The Boise area is also home to many golf courses, where you can spend your days out on the course, surrounded by Idaho’s natural beauty.

Abundant Natural Beauty

Idaho's breathtaking natural attractions open opportunities to appreciate the wonders of our world. Popular destinations include the Snake River Canyon, Shoshone Falls, Hells Canyon, and the Thousand Springs Scenic Byway. For those looking to explore further, the majestic Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks straddle the border between Idaho and Wyoming, offering world-renowned natural beauty.

For those seeking to strengthen their ties to the land, Idaho offers numerous community events and activities that connect with the natural environment. In Boise and the surrounding areas, residents can join running, hiking, and cycling groups that explore the area’s extensive trail systems, and participate in trail associations dedicated to maintaining and expanding Idaho’s outdoor pathways. Additionally, Idaho residents can volunteer with natural conservation groups, like the Idaho Conservation League and Idaho Wildlife Federation. These groups regularly host events and activities so people can give back to the environment while enjoying its splendor.

Potential Tax Benefits

Idaho may offer tax benefits that appeal to those looking to maximize their retirement income. According to SmartAsset, one key benefit is that Idaho currently does not tax Social Security benefits. Idaho also exempts prescription drugs from sales tax in most cases, according to the Idaho State Tax Commission.
 
According to the Tax Foundation, as of January 2024, Idaho’s marginal state individual income tax rate is 5.6%–lower than California at 13.3% or Oregon at 9.9%. However, Idaho’s flat income tax rate is higher than Colorado’s 4.4% or in Nevada, Florida, and Texas, where there is no income tax.

Vibrant Arts and Culture

Boise, the state's capital, is a cultural hub packed with activities and events. Explore First Thursdays, where local galleries and shops keep their doors open late to celebrate Boise’s vibrant art scene. Get a taste of the region’s farm-to-table culinary scene, which highlights Idaho’s agricultural community. Boise's farmers markets also offer an opportunity to experience locally grown produce and artisanal goods. Or enjoy a serene escape at the Idaho Botanical Garden, where you can connect with nature without leaving city limits. During the summer, don't miss Alive After 5, a free concert series in downtown Boise that brings the community together for live music and entertainment.

Outside Boise, Idaho's cultural landscape shines on. Put on your cowboy boots for the Caldwell Night Rodeo and enjoy family-friendly entertainment and a taste of Western heritage. Sip Syrah at a winery in Boise or on the Sunnyslope Wine Trail along the Snake River Valley, which Food and Wine calls “one of the Northwest’s most exciting wine regions.” Get creative at the Sun Valley Writers' Conference, where literary lovers gather to share their work in an inspiring mountain setting. This event features renowned authors, engaging discussions, and a vibrant community of readers and writers.

Access to Healthcare

Idaho offers many healthcare services, especially in and around Boise, with medical centers like St. Luke’s Boise, St. Alphonsus Regional, and the VA Boise. Beyond Boise, Idaho has additional healthcare facilities, including the Eastern Idaho Regional Medical Center in Idaho Falls and the Kootenai Health in Coeur d’Alene.

Cons of Retiring in Idaho

Idaho offers many appealing qualities as a retirement destination. However, it's essential to consider a few potential downsides. That way, you can make a fully informed choice before choosing the Gem State as your home.

Colder Winters

Idaho's colder winters might seem intimidating if you're from a warmer area. However, despite the mountainous landscape, much of the state, including Boise, experiences relatively little winter snow when compared to other major cities in the Rocky Mountain region. According to BestPlaces, the average annual snowfall in Boise is 17.9 inches. In comparison, Salt Lake City gets an average snowfall of 53.6 inches, while Denver averages 60.2 inches of snowfall annually.

Rural Communities

To some, Idaho’s rural communities and small towns might seem more isolated from urban amenities. However, rural Idaho has many benefits worth considering. In these smaller areas, residents can savor a slower pace of life and opportunities to connect with nature.

Limited Options for Public Transportation

Public transportation options can be limited in Idaho, especially in more rural areas. However, local bus and shuttle services provide connections between rural areas and nearby urban centers. Rideshares such as Uber and Lyft also operate in many parts of the state, offering a flexible transportation option.
 
Teleservices can also help reduce the need for travel by providing remote access to many services, from healthcare to online classes. Additionally, larger cities like Boise are well-equipped with public transportation options, such as Valley Regional Transit, which offers an extensive network of bus routes.

Access to Healthcare in Rural Areas

Some parts of Idaho can be quite far from in-person healthcare services. However, resources like telehealth, mobile clinics, and transportation services have improved accessibility, ensuring that both urban and rural retirees in Idaho can receive high-quality care. In fact, Forbes gave Idaho special recognition for implementing innovative telehealth policies in 2023.  

6 Places to Retire in Idaho

Idaho has many communities for retirees. Explore a few from across the state:

Boise: Urban and Outdoor Playground

Population: 235,684

Boise, the capital of Idaho, offers a dynamic lifestyle that makes it an excellent place to retire. As a bustling urban center, Boise is rich with cultural experiences, featuring events like First Thursday, the Boise Music Festival, and the Idaho Shakespeare Festival. Boise’s lively downtown area is home to many restaurants, breweries, and shops, ensuring that there is always something to do.

Beyond its urban appeal, Boise is a gateway to incredible outdoor opportunities. Retirees can enjoy skiing in the nearby Bogus Basin, hiking in the Boise Foothills, and golfing at one of the many beautiful courses in the area. The city also boasts a 25-mile Greenbelt along the Boise River, perfect for walking, biking, and wildlife watching.

Kuna: Vibrant, Growing Community

Population: 24,845

Kuna is an emerging residential hub with a rising population. Located within the Boise City Metropolitan Area, the city of Kuna maintains a small-town feel with the convenience of being just 16 miles from downtown Boise. Named the second-best city for weather in Idaho in 2020 by Movoto, Kuna enjoys a pleasant climate, adding to its appeal.

The city is also home to Trilogy® Valor, a 55+ resort-style community that provides countless ways to live your best life. Falcon Crest Championship Golf Course at Valor* also offers a premier golfing experience. With its beautiful scenery, proximity to Boise, and welcoming community, Kuna presents a perfect blend of serenity and convenience for retirees.

*Golf course is planned to be private and access requires the purchase of a separate golf membership from the course owner.

Sandpoint: Lakeside Tranquility

Population: 10,024

Sandpoint has many qualities that make it a fantastic place to retire. Nestled along Lake Pend Oreille, Sandpoint is all about serenity and enjoying life your way. With year-round activities such as skiing at Schweitzer Mountain Resort, cultural and musical experiences, and boating and fishing, there is always a fun activity to participate in. Or, if you prefer, enjoy your days relaxing by the lake and taking in every inch of Sandpoint’s gorgeous scenery.

Sun Valley Area: Luxurious Living

Population: 24,242 (Blaine County)

As a premier destination for retirees seeking a blend of outdoor activities, cultural events, and upscale amenities, Sun Valley and neighboring towns Ketchum and Hailey offer an exclusive lifestyle popular with the rich and famous. The region is renowned for its world-class skiing at the Sun Valley Resort and year-round adventures from kayaking to snowshoeing. After a full day outside, residents can indulge in amenities like 5-star dining, rejuvenating spas, and boutique shopping. Sun Valley is also a highly desirable travel destination in Idaho.

Burley: Small-Town Charm

Population: 11,704

Burley is a laid-back retirement option that, according to SoFi, has a lower cost of living than other Idaho cities like Boise and Sandpoint. This charming small town gets residents away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Located on the Snake River and surrounded by multiple national forests, reserves, and monuments, Burley is a haven for anyone seeking a life surrounded by nature.

Idaho Falls: Scenic River City

Population: 64,818

Idaho Falls has an ideal mix of urban amenities and natural beauty. As the largest city in Eastern Idaho, it serves as the cultural and business hub of the region, providing residents with access to excellent healthcare, diverse dining options, and a vibrant arts scene. The city is home to attractions such as the Idaho Falls Symphony, the Museum of Idaho, and various galleries and theaters.

Idaho Falls also offers numerous outdoor recreational opportunities. The Snake River runs through town, providing beautiful riverfront parks and walking trails. With Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks only two hours away, residents can access some of the world’s most famous landscapes.

Find An Amazing Retirement Community in Idaho

With its natural beauty and rich cultural experiences, Idaho offers retirees a fulfilling and vibrant lifestyle. Whether you're drawn to the dynamic city life, the tranquility of its smaller towns, or a little of both, Idaho truly provides something for everyone. Explore the resort-style 55+ communities in Idaho and discover why so many choose the Gem State as their new home.

Why Choose Shea Homes For Your Next Chapter

Embark on your next chapter with Shea Homes at Trilogy® Valor in Kuna, Idaho. Located a short drive from Boise, this 55+ community features a rich array of activities and resort-style amenities against the Treasure Valley’s stunning natural backdrops. With exceptional facilities and a dedicated hospitality team, Shea Homes’ Trilogy® Valor is committed to creating a home that fits your lifestyle. The lifestyle is already in full swing at Trilogy® Valor. So, join us to see what it's all about.
 
Learn more about Trilogy Valor