Introduction and Overview

If you're thinking about moving to the Boise, Idaho area and Star is on your list, this guide is for you. In the video, I take you on a full driving tour through Star and break down why it has become one of the hottest suburbs in the Treasure Valley. We cover the big reasons people love it, the real drawbacks that can be deal-breakers for some buyers, and what daily life actually feels like.

Star has that small-town, country feel, but it’s growing fast. You’ll see brand-new communities, river access, parks, and foothills views, all while still feeling a little bit removed from the busier parts of Boise and Meridian.

Why Star, Idaho is Becoming a Relocation Hotspot

Many of my relocation clients moving to the Treasure Valley are choosing Star because it offers a mix of newer homes, open space, and a family-friendly vibe. You’re close to the Boise River, you have quick access to the foothills depending on where you live, and there are some truly unique community amenities going in.

• Small-town atmosphere with rapid growth
• Boise River access in certain communities
• Foothills nearby for trails, views, and that Idaho feel
• Lots of new construction options compared to more built-out cities
• Strong community events like the Star Fourth of July parade

Freedom Park and Star’s Best Amenities

One of the biggest highlights we visited is Star Freedom Park. It’s a major new feature for families and anyone who loves being outdoors. It’s the kind of amenity that makes Star feel like it’s leveling up fast.

• Public beach access and sandy areas
• Docks and ladder access for swimming and summer fun
• Playground features including monkey bars
• Frisbee golf course nearby
• Nearby neighborhoods like Heron Estates with homes on the water

Star is going to keep adding amenities like this. That’s a big reason why people are choosing it now, especially if they want long-term growth and a strong lifestyle component.

Star’s Location, Growth, and What to Expect

Star sits northwest of Boise and has grown rapidly in recent years. It’s still a smaller city compared to Boise, but it’s expanding quickly with new communities and infrastructure changes coming.

• Star is roughly 20 minutes to downtown Boise in ideal conditions
• Population growth has been significant over the last few years
• New construction is the dominant housing option, with fewer resale choices
• You’ll still see a lot of open land, farmland, and “country” feel

Downtown Star, Local Landmarks, and the Core Vibe

Star has a small downtown core that gives it character. The main intersection is Star Road and Highway 44, also known as State Street. This area is where you’ll find older institutions, local shops, and newer restaurants that are starting to make Star feel more complete.

The Star Merc

Star Merc is one of those places everyone talks about. It’s a local staple and a good example of the small-town community feel that Star still has.

Toontown and Local Restaurants

Along State Street you’ll see Toontown, a western-themed cluster of shops and spots. Star is also adding better dining options, which has historically been a knock on Star and Middleton compared to Eagle.

• Sea Salt for ice cream
• Proof for cocktails and pizza
• Tap Room style options for pub food and drinks

The Two Biggest Drawbacks: Traffic and Affordability

Traffic on State Street and Star Road

Star is growing faster than the infrastructure. The biggest traffic issue comes from limited routes in and out of town, especially during commuting hours. State Street (Highway 44) and Star Road are key corridors, and they bottleneck through the core of town.

The positive news is that Highway 16 is being developed to help relieve traffic by connecting Interstate 84 up toward Emmett. Once fully completed, it should take pressure off Star Road and improve overall flow.

Affordability is Getting Tough

Star used to be the “more affordable alternative” to Meridian and Eagle. That gap has narrowed. Land values have risen, and many homes now price closer to Meridian, and in some pockets, even higher.

• Finding homes under $500,000 is difficult
• Many family-sized homes push $600,000 to $800,000+
• Higher-end communities and larger homes can exceed $1,000,000

There are still opportunities depending on builder, size, and phase timing, but you need a strategy, especially if affordability is a priority.

Builders and Communities We Covered

One of the best parts of Star is the variety. You can find everything from more affordable options to semi-custom and luxury builds, including communities with ponds, golf course views, foothills access, and even river access.

Highway 16 Corridor: Eagle and Star Growth Meets

The eastern edge of Star is where a lot of the newer growth and new subdivisions are happening. It’s also a great area to consider if you want better access to Highway 16.

Toll Brothers

We visited Toll Brothers at Crested del Sol and talked about what makes the product unique, including modern layouts, taller ceilings, and features like balconies that you don’t see with many builders.

• Crested del Sol (near sellout phases)
• Regency at Milestone Ranch (55+ community)
• Other nearby Toll communities in the area

Other Notable Builders Mentioned

• Hubble Homes (some communities recently sold out)
• Hayden Homes (near sellout in certain pockets)
• CBH Homes (often the most affordable option available)
• Richmond American (select opportunities depending on inventory)
• Woodbridge Pacific Group (larger, higher-end homes, often $1M+)

Boise Hunter Homes: River Park Estates

We also toured Boise Hunter’s Table Rock model and showed why River Park Estates is a standout, especially for buyers who want community ponds, private beach areas, and even river access.

• High-end finishes and impressive ceiling details
• Large community ponds and lifestyle-focused design
• Pool and clubhouse amenities
• Equestrian center and river access (unique feature)

Important Detail: Star is Split Between Ada County and Canyon County

One thing that surprises many buyers is that Star isn’t all in one county. Parts of Star fall in Ada County and parts fall in Canyon County. That can affect taxes, services, and sometimes even how buyers think about location, so it’s worth confirming early when you’re narrowing down neighborhoods.

Who Star is a Great Fit For

• Families who want a quieter suburb with newer homes and community events
• Buyers who want foothills access and a “country feel” without being rural
• People who value long-term growth and appreciation potential
• Golf, river, and outdoor lifestyle buyers
• Retirees looking for communities like 55+ options

If your daily commute is a major factor, we’ll want to be strategic about where in Star you buy. Location inside Star can make a big difference when it comes to traffic patterns.

Final Thoughts and How to Reach Me

Star is one of the most exciting growth areas in the Treasure Valley right now. It offers a mix of brand-new communities, unique lifestyle amenities, and that Idaho “space” feeling that so many relocation buyers want. At the same time, the two biggest things you need to plan for are traffic and affordability.

If you're thinking about making the move to Star, or anywhere in the Boise area, I’d love to help you map out a plan. Whether you're 9 days, 90 days, or 2 years out, we can build a clear roadmap based on your budget, timeline, and what matters most to you.

📲 Call or text Curtis Chism at (208) 510-0427
📥 Ready to relocate remotely? Download our Boise Relocation Guide