Relocation Guide

SO, YOU WANT TO MOVE TO THE BOISE AREA

Located in the Southwest quadrant of Idaho, the Boise Metropolitan Area is a recreationalist’s paradise. If you value the outdoors and time spent among rivers, mountains, canyons, deserts, and lakes – and all the activities encapsulated therein – it’s worth a serious look.

The Boise Metropolitan Area consists of many different cities and each have their own appeal and set of amenities. This guide will take you through the city life of Boise, the suburbs of Meridian and Eagle, the peaceful country living of Kuna, Star, and Middleton, and the smaller city living of Nampa and Caldwell.

BOISE METRO welcome to the

ABOUT THE CITY OF TREES

Boise is booming. New construction is all over the area. Locally sourced food and drink dominate the summer patio scene. Boise’s residents may spend their days enjoying nature, but they fill their evenings dining on locally sourced cuisine, enjoying an opera performance, and sipping delicious cocktails.

Idaho’s capital sits squarely on the boundary of urban and rural, civilized and wild, refined and raw. Yes, there are wilder places. Yes, there are more urban places, and it’s a good place to live if you like both.

LEARN MORE AT: VISITBOISE.COM

FUN FACTS

PRONUNCIATION

Boise is pronounced BOY-SEE not BOY-ZEE!

POPULATION

1.9 million people call Idaho home, with a population of 781,000 people living in the Boise metro. The Boise metro is currently growing at a rate of 1.7% annually making it the 15th fastest growing city in the U.S.

THE CITY OF TREES

Even though technically Boise is a mountain-desert climate it is known as “The City of Trees”. When French Canadian explorers came across the area they exclaimed “Les Bois!”or “The Trees!” in French.

BASQUE IN BOISE

Boise has a large ethnic Basque community of about 15,000 people, which is the largest in the United States and the 5th largest outside of Mexico, Chile, Argentina and the Basque Country in France and Spain. Visit the Basque Block in Downtown Boise to enjoy the rich culture, food, and drink. Every five years, the Basque Block is home to a vibrant Basque Festival called Jaialdi - which is one of the biggest events in the state.

ROAD TRIP DISTANCES

SALT LAKE CITY, UT

Miles: 340 miles

Time: 4 hours 49 minutes

A GLANCE AT THE WEATHER

PORTLAND, OR

Miles: 430 miles

Time: 6 hours 30 minutes

SEATTLE, WA

Miles: 493 miles

Time: 7 hours 30 minutes

LAS VEGAS, NV

Miles: 624 miles

Time: 9 hours 35 minutes

SAN FRANCISCO, CA

Miles: 640 miles

Time: 9 hours 47 minutes

DENVER, CO

Miles: 814 miles

Time: 11 hours 55 minutes

FINDING YOUR perfect place

The cities of Boise, Meridian, Eagle, Kuna, Nampa, Caldwell, Star, and Middleton make up Idaho’s Treasure Valley. Each city offers a unique living experience to both native and prospective residents. Whether you want immediate access to all of the convenient amenities, or the tranquility of a more rural setting, the Treasure Valley has it all!

city of BOISE

The City of Boise has many smaller neighborhoods and areas and each has its own charm and appeal. Whether you prefer to be right in the heart of the city in the middle of the action downtown, or prefer to be in a quieter area to raise a family, Boise has it all!

SOUTH BOISE

South Boise is home to the Edwards Entertainment Complex and has easy access to I-84, the Downtown Connector, and the Boise Airport. Many of the neighborhoods in this area were built in the 1960s to 1980s. Recent planned development changes have brought in a good number of master planned communities and new construction homes. Commercial amenities are also following closely behind. Home to some of the lowest property tax rates in the area.

HIGHLANDS/FOOTHILLS

Scattered neighborhoods dot the foothills above Boise’s North end; a portion of which are known as the highlands. The prices tend to be a little higher in this area, for good reason - many of these neighborhoods have stunning views!

SOUTHEAST/NORTHEAST

Head east from Downtown Boise and you’ll find yourself in the heart of Southeast and Northeast Boise, home to the growing community of Harris Ranch. Just 10 minutes from Downtown Boise and offering its own small downtown area in the neighborhood - this is the perfect spot if you are looking for somewhere out of the city center but close enough to city amenities. Nestled between the Boise River and foothills, it’s easy to see why this is one of Boise’s fastest selling areas.

DOWNTOWN

Downtown Boise is where you’ll see the tallest buildings in Idaho in addition to a collection of upscale shops, restaurants, and hotels. It is the cultural center of the Treasure Valley and where you’ll find the state capital building, the Basque Block, the Egyptian Theatre, the Boise Art Museum, Julia Davis Park, the Boise Transportation Center, and Zoo Boise. The Boise River flows through downtown, so there is easy Greenbelt access.

NORTH END

Boise’s North End contains many of the city’s older and historic homes. It is known for its treelined drives, such as Harrison Boulevard, and for its quiet neighborhoods near the downtown and mountain trail areas – walking distance for most residents. The North End is a gateway to the Boise Foothills, home to Camel’s Back Park and the historic Hyde Park. If you are looking for charming and convenient, this is the place to be.

NORTHWEST BOISE

Northwest Boise lies between the Boise foothills and the Boise River. It is a combination of homes built in the valley and in the foothills. State Street, containing every kind of commercial convenience you could want, is a major artery through the area. Residents like the proximity to the new Whitewater Park and Quinn’s Pond. Downtown Boise is minutes away in one direction and Downtown Eagle is minutes away in the other.

BOISE BENCH

The bench is exactly that. It sits on a bench above the Boise River that is 40-60 feet higher than downtown or the North End. This is an ancient shoreline from when the river had a different channel. The Bench is home to the Boise Depot and Platt Gardens, and Morris Hill Cemetery, where many famous Idaho Governors and other statesmen are buried. The Bench is centrally located, making access in any direction easy. Known for its eclectic nature of homes and businesses, the Boise Bench is a definate hot spot.

GARDEN CITY

Much of Garden City touches the Boise River and Greenbelt and many local hotspots and businesses have taken advantage of that placement. Follow the river East toward Downtown Boise and you’ll get why people flock toward the convenient area. Packed with brew houses and wine tasting areas, as well as established golf course communities.

HIDDEN SPRINGS

If you drive further in the foothills towards the west just above Garden City, you will run into the Hidden Springs area. This master planned community has become a little city of its own. The houses are gorgeous and the city has a little village feel. With its own school, merc, and culture, most people either fall in love or run away from the hills, literally.

WEST BOISE

West Boise is home to Boise Towne Square Mall, the largest in the state, as well as numerous restaurants, strip malls, and residential developments ranging from new subdivisions to apartment complexes. The Ada County complex and Hewlett Packard’s printing division are also located here. The major thoroughfare is Fairview Avenue which connects downtown with Central Meridian.

NORTH MERIDIAN

Boise’s most populated suburb, Meridian is home to neighborhoods that range greatly in both price and age. Eagle Road runs along the east side of N. Meridian and is home to local and chain businesses, shopping, and eateries! The Village at Meridian is a huge hot spot for shopping, dining and family entertainment. You can find anything from new construction to older homes on larger lots to luxury communities. Home to many master-planned communities with schools close by or within the neighborhoods. One of the top selling areas in this part of the valley is Northwest Meridian.

SOUTH MERIDIAN

South Meridian is being developed heavily right now and consists of mostly new home communities ranging in price and featuring different builders and developers. In South Meridian you can still find patches of farmland and undeveloped area mixed in between various neighborhoods. This area is ideal for growing families with plenty of park areas, larger family-sized homes, and Wahooz Family Fun Center and Roaring Springs close by!

city of MERIDIAN city of KUNA

KUNA

Another city experiencing tremendous growth, Kuna is a family-focused community that has garnered attention of many looking to move to Idaho. High on the affordability index with a median home price of $485K. 18 minutes from Meridian and 25 minutes from Boise, Kuna provides the convenience and charm of a small town with access to city amenities. Home to Lowe’s Family Farmstead, featuring Fall’s biggest festival in the area with hayrides, pumpkin patches, and flower fields. Kuna is still very agricultural with beautiful farmland and pastures with livestock.

city of STAR city of EAGLE

Star is on the verge of becoming the next “boom town” in the Treasure Valley! With growth in both residential and business opportunities, this town is a sought after destination for all looking to move to the Gem State. Only 30 minutes from Downtown Boise, Star gives you access to all the city amenities, while providing a tranquil living environment.

EAGLE

This booming city between the Boise River and the foothills is where you will find the well-known Eagle Island State Park and a quaint historical downtown with shops and restaurants. Eagle is known for its luxury home communities, low property taxes, and highly rated schools. It has the highest median home price in the valley at $924,900. The city has easy access to Highway 55 mountain towns, McCall, and all the recreational opportunities of the Idaho mountains. Eagle is well funded and makes continuous improvements to its portion of the Boise River Greenbelt and its park and public water features.

city of NAMPA

NORTH NAMPA

Offering easy access to Interstate 84, N. Nampa is a convenient base to access the surrounding Treasure Valley. This area is seeing growth, with a range of new communities and apartments dotting the city. Home to the Ford Idaho Center - Idaho’s premier event center; great shopping at the Treasure Valley Marketplace, Costco, and Target; and state-of-the-art healthcare from St. Alphonsus Medical Center.

SOUTH NAMPA

South Nampa is home to the city’s downtown area which boasts charming brick buildings and its own historical train depot. Offering a variety of boutiques and restaurants, the Nampa Rec Center, Northwest Nazarene University, Amity Dog Park - it’s easy to see why South Nampa is the fastest growing area in Canyon County. Despite this, it’s not uncommon to share the road with someone on horseback. Residents can enjoy home lots with acreage, the views and recreational amenities of the Owyhee Mountains to the south.

city of CALDWELL

NORTH CALDWELL

Located to the west of Nampa, North Caldwell boasts the city’s bustling downtown area where visitors can find Indian Creek Plaza - a venue that offers diverse events year round. This area provides convenience and charm including easy access to the freeway, hiking and recreation at Jump Creek Falls, and close proximity to Middleton. With a local branch of the YMCA and the College of Idaho Campus, residents of all ages call Caldwell home.

SOUTH CALDWELL

Home to the majority Idaho’s award-winning wine region, the Snake River, Lake Lowell, and more - South Caldwell features some of the state’s hidden gems. Residents can take advantage of the convenient location to access recreation at the Owyhee Mountains, an abundance of fruit orchards and stands, and miles of biking trails. With the lowest median home price in the area, it’s no wonder so many people are flocking to South Caldwell.

City of MIDDLETON

Middleton is the oldest town in Canyon County and was given its name by being located halfway between the Boise and Snake River ferries. Providing all the conveniences of a modern town, Middleton has kept its agricultural look and feel. Home to many acreage and equestrian properties, Boise River access, and a slower pace of life. With a number of new home developments, this town is catching the eyes of many looking to move to the area.

MOUNTAIN LIVING

MCCALL

Nestled in Idaho’s picturesque mountains, McCall is a vibrant resort town approximately 100 miles north of Boise. Named after its founder, Tom McCall, the city is situated on the southern shore of beautiful Payette Lake and is bordered by towering, pine-covered mountains. With Brundage Mountain, Payette River, Whitetail Club, Winter Carnival, and more — McCall is a destination for outdoor recreation and adventure enthusiasts.

DONNELLY

Donnelly has a multitude of recreational activities; such as hiking and/or biking through the gorgeous scenery, spending a day on Lake Cascade, rafting, skiing and snowboarding at Tamarack Resort, snow-shoeing, fishing, ice fishing, and even antiquing and thrifting. There’s racquetball courts, a lovely park for families to enjoy, and a beautiful farmer’s market in the summer months.

SUN VALLEY

A world-famous resort town found in Idaho, named for the 15-hour long summer days and home to the nation’s first destination ski resort. The slopes at Bald Mountain and nearby Dollar Mountain boast short lines and gorgeous day lodges and restaurants. In the summer, you’ll find miles of mountain trails, peaceful meadows, and an unrivaled arts and culture scene for a town of its size.

GARDEN VALLEY

The hidden gem of Idaho provides Boise residents easy access to some of the state’s most scenic beauty. Spring and summer bring the return of wildlife and thrill seekers alike, and the winter offers beautiful snow-covered scenery and picturesque hot springs. Located only an hour north of Boise, Garden Valley is a destination for anyone looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

MAKING memories

FREAK ALLEY GALLERY

210 N 9th St, Boise www.freakalleyboise.com

IDAHO SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL

5657 E Warm Springs Ave, Boise | www.idahoshakespeare.org

BOISE ART MUSEUM

670 Julia Davis Dr, Boise | www.boiseartmuseum.org

BASQUE MUSEUM & CULTURAL CENTER

611 W Grove St, Boise | www.basquemuseum.eus

DISCOVERY CENTER

131 W Myrtle St, Boise | www.dcidaho.org

ROARING SPRINGS WATER PARK 400 W Overland Rd, Meridian | www.roaringsprings.com

WAHOOZ FAMILY FUN ZONE

1385 S Blue Marlin Ln, Meridian | www.wahoozfunzone.com

ZOO BOISE

355 Julia Davis Dr, Boise | www.zooboise.org

BOISE RIVER FLOAT

4049 S Eckert Rd, Boise | www.boiseriverraftandtube.com

BOGUS BASIN

2600 N Bogus Basin Rd, Boise | www.bogusbasin.org

IDAHO BOTANICAL GARDEN

2355 N Old Penitentiary Rd, Boise | www.idahobotanicalgarden.org

GREENBELT

Multiple Access Points along Boise River | www.cityofboise.org

BOISE STATE UNIVERSITY FOOTBALL

1400 Bronco Ln, Boise | www.broncosports.com

BOISE HAWKS BASEBALL

5600 N Glenwood St, Garden City | www.boisehawks.com

IDAHO STEELHEADS HOCKEY

233 S Capitol Blvd, Boise | www.idahosteelheads.com

COYNE’S

676 E Riverside Dr · 208.609.5550

LOOKING FOR A BITE TO EAT?

BOISE

FORK

199 N 8th St · 208.287.1700

Located in one of Boise’s most historic landmarks, Fork is dedicated to local food with a menu that is as surprising as it is familiar. With handcrafted cocktails and exceptional service, it’s easy to see what makes Fork so well-loved.

THE LIVELY 505 W Bannock St · 208.209.5503

WYLDER 501

W Broad St · 208.209.3837

CRAVE KITCHEN & BAR

165 E Colchester Dr · 208.702.7283

Developed to honor a family tradition of good food and good conversation, Coyne’s offers great ambiance paired with delicious food and drinks. With a vast menu and knowledgeable staff, there’s something here for everyone.

Combining exceptional food, atmosphere, and service — this beautiful and modern restaurant is one of Eagle’s premier dining spots. Claim a spot on the rooftop patio for a view that’s just as good as the food you ordered.

NAMPA

MESSENGER PIZZA

1224 1st St S · 208.461.0081

A local favorite with a vibrant atmosphere, delicious pizzas, and great selection of microbrews. Diners can get creative and build their own pizza or try one of the many specialty pies. Perfect for a night out on the town with friends.

CAFE DE COCO

117 13th Ave S · 208.465.6428

BODACIOUS PIG

34 E State St · 208.514.0068

Traditional meets contemporary at this vibrant barbeque restaurant. Slow smoked barbeque is made fresh each morning and due to their dedication to never serve reheated meat, once it sells out for the day — it’s gone! Get there early!

BRICK 29 BISTRO

320 11th Ave S · 208.468.0029

Located in historic downtown Nampa, this cozy cafe is known for its generous portions and extensive tea menu. Enjoy an afternoon perusing the gift shop while trying any of their melt-inyour-mouth dessert selections.

Comfort food reinvented! The Brick 29 Bistro team prides themselves on creating dishes using only the freshest local ingredients and out of this world flavors. Featuring a rotating seasonal menu and local wines.

MERIDIAN

KAHOOTZ

1603 N Main St · 208.895.9861

EPI’S

1115 N Main St · 208.884.0142

Locally owned and operated with over 40 beers and ales on tap and vast menu of high-quality dishes. Fresh herbs, seasonal ingredients, regional prime beef, hand carved steaks, and more make Kahootz a destination you won’t want to miss.

Located in the heart of Meridian, this authentic Basque restaurant will make you feel right at home. The owners welcome diners in to enjoy their home-cooked meals made with fresh ingredients and traditional techniques.

GRANT’S NEIGHBORHOOD GRILL

1835 W Cherry Ln · 208.338.5000

AMANO

702 Main St · 208.453.6410

Cozy and casual atmosphere that offers diners American fare with an unparalleled attention to detail. Enjoy regionally sourced fresh ingredients, expertly made cocktails, and don’t forget to leave room for dessert!

A craft Mexican Kitchen located in the bustling downtown Caldwell area. Serving hand-crafted cocktails, regional Mexican dishes, and homemade tortillas, this vibrant and authentic dining spot leaves locals impressed time after time.

CHOP SHOP BBQ

716 Arthur St · 208.402.6781

Focusing on locally sourced, and sustainably farmed ingredients,

The Chop Shop BBQ is not your average barbeque restaurant.

Known for their innovative rotating menu, delicious meals, and welcoming atmosphere.

INDIAN CREEK STEAKHOUSE

711 Main St · 208.780.1100

Nestled in the heart of Caldwell, this family owned and operated restaurant is guaranteed to satisfy your cravings. Whether you grab a table or saddle up at the bar for a drink, the staff here will make you feel right at home.

Southwestern Idaho’s award-winning wine country is the hidden gem of the Treasure Valley. Over the last decade, wineries in the region have increased by 75% - and for good reason! The ancient volcanic soil, fourseason climate, and an abundant water supply make Idaho an ideal region to grow grapes and make wine. Whether you swing by for a tasting or schedule a tour, the region’s wineries are sure to impress.

BITNER VINEYARDS

16645 Plum Rd, Caldwell 208.455.1870

www.bitnervineyards.com

HAT RANCH WINERY

15343 Plum Rd, Caldwell 208.994.6416

www.hatranchwinery.com

HUSTON VINEYARDS

16473 Chicken Dinner Rd, Caldwell 208.455.7975

www.hustonvineyards.com

STE. CHAPELLE WINERY

19348 Lowell Rd, Caldwell 208.453.7843

www.stechapelle.com

VIZCAYA WINERY

8987 S Greenhurst Rd #1105, Kuna 208.870.8354

www.vizcayawinery.com

FUJISHIN FAMILY CELLARS

15593 Sunnyslope Rd, Caldwell 208.649.5389

www.fujishinfamilycellars.com

HELLS CANYON WINERY

18835 Symms Rd, Caldwell 208.454.3300

www.hellscanyonwine.com

KOENIG DISTILLERY

20928 Grape Ln, Caldwell 208.455.8386

www.koenigdistillery.com

TELAYA WINE COMPANY

240 E 32nd St, Garden City 208.557.9463

www.telayawine.com

3 HORSE RANCH VINEYARDS

5900 Pearl Rd, Eagle 208.863.6561

www.3horseranchvineyards.com

NOTES NOTES