Don't Move to Idaho in 2025 [Unless You Can Handle This]

Tens of thousands of people have moved to Idaho in recent years, but Idaho might not be the right fit for you. And in this video, I'm covering the downsides of living here, specifically in the Boise, Idaho area, that you absolutely need to know. If you're worried about things like traffic, housing costs, or harsh winters, we're diving into all of that, but stick around because, at the end, I'll cover the positives that keep people moving here and why Idaho might still be the place for you if you want to call it home.

So let's start with my story and why I moved here. My family and I moved from California to Idaho. While it was certainly one of the best decisions that we've ever made, it was not taken lightly. We spent a long time weighing our options and even considered several other states before we finally decided that Idaho was the right place for us.

First, why did we leave California? Well, it wasn't just one thing but rather a combination of factors that added up over time. The cost of living in California, especially in San Diego, where we lived, had become rather unmanageable. Housing prices were skyrocketing, and even though we were in a good financial position, we wanted a larger home for our growing family without breaking the bank.

There were also lifestyle factors. San Diego is absolutely gorgeous with some of the best weather in the country, but the severe homeless problem there and the rising crime had become absolutely impossible to ignore. We wanted a place where we could raise our kids and have them grow up in a place where they felt safe and could enjoy a better quality of life. San Diego also had some of the strictest COVID lockdowns in the country, and we felt like every aspect of our lives was being restricted. We were ready for a change.

So we started looking and considered Texas, Tennessee, and Florida. Each state had its own appeal, but in the end, the severe weather like tornadoes, hurricanes, and the intense humidity, combined with being far from family, made us decide we really wanted to stay in the western part of the United States. We loved the drier climate and the natural beauty of the mountains, and that led us to Idaho. It checked so many boxes for us: affordability, safety, freedom, and access to the outdoors. Plus, Idaho offers a slower pace of life that felt like the right fit for our family.

The decision to move wasn't easy, but once we visited Idaho, we knew it was the place we wanted to call home.

Now let's dive into those pros and cons of living here so you can decide if it might be the right fit for you too. We'll start with the negatives, and let's talk about traffic first. The population boom has certainly taken its toll on infrastructure. Highways like I-84, especially around Nampa and Caldwell, can back up during rush hour. These roads were designed for a much smaller population, and while there's been progress in widening some areas, the growth has outpaced the updates. For example, a typical morning commute might seem smooth, but during rush hour, it's common to hit slow-moving traffic that can add 20 to 30 minutes to your drive if you're coming from those areas. If you work a traditional nine-to-five job, you definitely need to factor that in. However, if you're retired or work remotely, it's easier to avoid those peak travel times. Personally, I try to schedule trips during off-peak hours, which definitely makes a big difference.

Now, affordability isn't what it used to be either. Some people imagine they can find a big property with acreage for just a couple hundred thousand dollars, but that's no longer the case. While Idaho is still very affordable compared to most places in California, those days of cheap, expansive properties are over. Properties with five acres, room for a barn, or RV storage are often million-dollar-plus homes, especially in areas like Star, Eagle, or the foothills. Suburban homes are more affordable but come with tradeoffs like smaller lots. However, you'll still find larger backyards compared to California. A typical Idaho home may have enough space for kids to play or for a garden. If you're dreaming of wide-open spaces without a big budget, you may need to adjust your expectations.

Idaho winters are definitely no joke. Temperatures can drop into the single digits, and we experience an inversion where cold air and clouds get trapped for weeks, resulting in gray skies and colder-than-usual days. If you're used to California's mild winters, this will be an adjustment. Summers bring their own challenges too. Last year, we had nearly a month of 100-plus degree days. While that's not typical, Idaho's high desert climate can get hot and dry. On the bright side, you don't have to worry about humidity like in Texas or Florida. But if you dislike temperature extremes, Idaho's weather could be a drawback.

You may have heard the phrase "Don't California my Idaho." This reflects concerns locals have about newcomers bringing political changes. Honestly, I've found people here to be super kind and open. Most Idahoans are protective of their way of life and hope newcomers embrace the slower pace, focus on family, and community-centered culture.

Now let's dive into the positives. While prices have risen, Idaho is still significantly more affordable than California. For the price of a modest home in San Diego, you can buy a larger home here with more square footage and a yard. Property taxes are lower, and the overall cost of living is easier to manage. This affordability allows families to invest in their homes, save for the future, or enjoy a higher quality of life. It's one of the biggest reasons people continue to move here.

Idaho is also known for its freedom, whether it's gun rights, fewer regulations, or less red tape. Many people are drawn here for personal liberties. For example, buying a firearm is straightforward and doesn't require a waiting period. Open carry and concealed carry are common, and people deeply value the Second Amendment. Beyond that, Idaho's smaller government means less interference in daily life, a fresh change for those feeling over-regulated elsewhere.

Crime rates in Idaho are among the lowest in the nation. Home invasions and violent crimes are rare, and the overall sense of security is a huge draw. Families will appreciate the safe neighborhoods and community-focused atmosphere.

Idaho's natural beauty is breathtaking. Within an hour, you can be hiking in the foothills, fishing in a mountain stream, or enjoying a peaceful countryside drive. The state is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering skiing and snowboarding in winter, and kayaking and hiking in summer. For my family, this access to nature was a huge reason we chose Idaho. It's a place where you can truly disconnect and enjoy the outdoors.

Life in Idaho moves at a slower pace. It's peaceful, with plenty of country roads and small-town charm. People here value their neighbors and take the time to know one another. For families, this environment is perfect for raising kids with strong values and a love for the outdoors. Idaho also has a thriving sense of community, with local farmers' markets, festivals, and neighborhood gatherings that bring people together.

If you're considering a move to Idaho and want a smooth transition, my team and I specialize in helping people relocate. Whether you're nine days, 90 days, or even two years out, we'll help you find the perfect area and home for your needs. All you need to do is reach out via phone, text, or email. We'll schedule a Zoom call to answer all your questions and guide you through everything from finding the right neighborhood to navigating Idaho's real estate market. Moving can be stressful, but with the right guidance, it can also be an exciting and rewarding experience.

If you're still unsure about where to live in the Boise, Idaho area and want to learn more, check out this video about the best neighborhoods and communities in the Boise area. Thanks for watching, and I'll see you in the next video.