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People who are relocating to Boise, Idaho often find themselves choosing between urban living downtown or suburban options in the surrounding area.
It’s a big choice, because it affects everything from your budget to your lifestyle.
This home buying guide provides an overview of the housing options for both Boise downtown living and the surrounding suburban cities.
Also referred to as Treasure Valley, the Boise metropolitan area is situated in southwestern Idaho against the foothills of the Rocky Mountains.
Boise itself is the state capital and most populous city in the Boise-Nampa metro area. The city stretches across a large area and offers a wide range of living environments.
Home buyers who prefer to reside within the city of Boise can choose from the dense, urban core downtown to the more suburban neighborhoods further out from the center.
Boise is surrounded by a number of suburban cities, each with its own character and amenities.
Home buyers aren’t limited to choosing between the city of Boise and its neighboring suburban cities. Even within the city of Boise itself, you’ll find options that include the walkable downtown area as well as suburban neighborhoods with larger lots and quieter streets.
In terms of housing in downtown Boise, the area is mostly comprised of condos and lofts. The properties range from luxury units with city views and high-end amenities to more modest apartments and renovated spaces in older buildings.
While less common, some historic homes and townhouses can be found in areas immediately adjacent to the downtown core.
Detached single-family homes are rare in the central downtown area. So if that’s what you’re after, you’ll have to venture further out to the suburbs.
Living in downtown Boise puts you in the middle of the action. You’ll have walkable access to many restaurants, bars, cafes, shops, and theaters, as well as the Boise River Greenbelt.
Downtown living often appeals to young professionals, empty nesters, and those who seek an active social life with entertainment options and a car-optional lifestyle.
Generally, the price per square foot for condos and lofts in downtown Boise tends to be higher than in many suburban areas, due to the prime location and urban density.
Note: These are general estimates. Specific property prices can vary widely, so you might want to view listings online or get help from a local Boise real estate agent.
Suburban homes in Boise offer a much wider variety of housing types, with an emphasis on single-family detached homes.
You’ll find everything from established neighborhoods with mature trees and older homes to new construction developments with modern offerings.
Boise-area suburbs offer more neighborhood parks, access to trail systems (beyond the immediate Greenbelt), and a strong sense of community. Many people who live in the surrounding suburbs commute to downtown or other employment centers for work.
Boise’s suburbs appeal to families who are seeking good schools, safe environments, and room to grow. They also appeal to individuals and families who want more space and privacy, which isn’t always available downtown.
Here are some of the most popular cities and best Boise neighborhoods in the area:
Meridian is one of the largest and fastest-growing suburbs in the Boise area. The population has grown significantly over the past five years or so. This city is known for having a family-friendly atmosphere, good schools, and numerous parks. Meridian offers a wide range of housing, including a lot of new construction.
Located in the foothills north of Boise, the city of Eagle is an upscale suburb that features larger homes, equestrian properties, and a charming downtown area. You’ll also find golf courses, spas, and green spaces like riverside Eagle Island State Park, with hiking trails, a swimming beach, and a zip line course.
Located further out, these two suburbs west of downtown Boise offer more affordable housing options and a more rural or small-town feel, while still providing access to amenities. As with Meridian, these two communities have seen significant growth in recent years.
This small city of Star, Idaho is another growing Boise-area suburb with a small-town feel. It offers a mix of housing options and access to outdoor activities.
These communities are located within Boise city limits but offer a more suburban feel. Here you’ll find a variety of established neighborhoods with a mix of older and newer homes, while still being relatively close to city amenities.
Southeast Boise is known for its proximity to the Boise River, foothills, and universities, while “The Bench” offers diverse housing and a central location.
The Boise metro area real estate market has changed dramatically over the past decade. This transformation was accelerated during the COVID pandemic, when a flood of new residents moved into the area, driving up prices.
The Boise real estate market has cooled since those frenzied days, but it remains highly competitive due to an ongoing inventory shortage.
The median home price for the Boise-Nampa metro area is currently around $450,000. But you will find that prices vary considerably among the different communities, especially when you get further out from the downtown area.
Well-maintained homes located in desirable areas can sell quickly, so buyers should be prepared to make a strong offer based on current sale prices.
In summary, Boise downtown living certainly has its perks, but so does living in the suburbs, as we’ve touched upon in this Boise neighborhood guide. If you’re thinking of moving to Boise Idaho, be sure to weigh the perks and drawbacks of each and work with a local real estate agent to find a home that best suits your lifestyle.
Once you’ve found a home you love, be sure to team up with a seasoned Boise mortgage company to finance this big purchase.
Sammamish Mortgage has been supporting home buyers in Boise, ID for many years. We offer a wide variety of mortgage options and can help you choose the right option based on your specific needs! Contact us today to have your questions answered, or visit our website to get an instant rate quote.
Whether you’re buying a home or ready to refinance, our professionals can help.
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No Obligation and transparency 24/7. Instantly compare live rates and costs from our network of lenders across the country. Real-time accurate rates and closing costs for a variety of loan programs custom to your specific situation.