Are People Moving to Idaho? The Numbers Tell the Story
Short answer: absolutely. Long answer: it’s been one of the biggest migration stories in America, and it’s not slowing down anytime soon.
As the seventh fastest growing state in the nation, Idaho is now home to over 2 million people, crossing that milestone for the first time in 2024. But here’s what makes this really interesting: migration accounts for 90% of growth, meaning most of our new neighbors are choosing Idaho rather than being born here.
Where Are They Coming From?
The pandemic changed everything. Moves in from Washington increased from 2,285 to 2,776 (21.5%) in recent years, and California continues to be a major source of new residents. Between 4 and 5 percent of the new population comes from outside the country entirely.
But here’s something that might surprise you: most new residents in the Boise area actually come from other parts of Idaho. People are moving from rural areas to urban centers, particularly the Treasure Valley.
Where Are They Going?
Meridian attracted the most new residents, adding 17,056 (14.5% growth) between 2020 and 2023. Other areas around Boise are seeing similar growth patterns. The population of the Boise metropolitan area grew by nearly 25%, with the area adding over 150,000 new residents, bringing the total population to around 770,000 by 2024.
Eagle has become particularly attractive to out-of-state buyers flush with cash and can afford custom homes. The combination of luxury real estate options, excellent schools, and proximity to Boise makes it irresistible for many relocating families.
What’s Driving the Move?
The desire for affordable living, economic opportunity and beautiful scenery drives much of the state’s migration. People are discovering they can buy bigger, better, newer homes farther out, for the same price they could buy within their previous markets.
The remote work revolution played a huge part. Suddenly, tech workers from San Francisco could keep their California salaries while enjoying Idaho’s cost of living and outdoor lifestyle. The Treasure Valley, which includes Boise, Meridian, Eagle, Star, and Kuna, has become one of the most desirable regions for retirees looking for a peaceful lifestyle, a lower cost of living, and easy access to outdoor adventure.
The Reality Check
It’s not all sunshine and rainbows. That’s a 155% increase over 10 years, the highest growth rate among all U.S. states in terms of housing prices. Growth brings challenges: infrastructure strain, housing shortages, and yes, traffic that longtime residents never expected.
But here’s the thing: Home prices went up everywhere across the U.S. If you own property elsewhere, your home’s value likely rose, too. Idaho’s growth story is part of a larger national shift toward more affordable, high-quality-of-life locations.
What This Means for You
Whether you’re considering joining the migration or you’re already here and thinking about your next move within Idaho, timing matters. “We’re not in the middle of nowhere anymore,” as one University of Idaho researcher put it.
The Treasure Valley is transforming rapidly, and understanding these migration patterns can help you make smarter real estate decisions. Are you thinking about relocating here? Already here and considering a move within the valley? The key is working with someone who understands both the opportunities and challenges that come with this unprecedented growth.
At Abmont Realty Group, we’ve helped hundreds of families navigate this changing landscape, whether they’re moving from California, Washington, or just from Nampa to Eagle. We understand what drives people to Idaho and how to help them find their perfect fit in the Treasure Valley.
Call Abmont Realty Group at 208-789-4320 to explore your options or get a free consultation about relocating to or within Idaho.