Treasure Valley: Boise and beyond
The Treasure Valley extends through the lowland areas of SW Idaho, including parts of Oregon, and contains a total of seven river systems. For this reason, it is also known as the Lower Snake River Valley. It is locally centered around Boise, Idaho’s capital city. It extends outward to include Meridian, Idaho’s fastest growing city, and one of the fastest growing cities in the U.S. (Idaho Statesman, May 2019). Smaller communities like Eagle, Star and Garden City, and unincorporated lands of Ada County also fall within the region, as do larger cities like Nampa and Caldwell, in adjacent Canyon County.
The Treasure Valley is characterized by four true seasons, although the snowy winters are notably mild. Boise and adjacent communities are described as being within a “banana belt”. The micro-climate ensures that snow seldom sticks to the roads, so you get to enjoy the beauty of snowy hills and mountains around you, but without the harsh winter climate.
Treasure Valley: Places to Call Home
Idaho was recently recognized by Forbes magazine as the fastest growing state in the U.S. (February, 2018). Those who live here know exactly why: The state boasts very low crime rates (by national standards) and an emphasis on civility, economic opportunity and a solid job market (including robust medical, grocery and IT business sectors), a beautiful setting, and an affordable lifestyle (particularly for people moving here from more expensive areas like California or Oregon). Natural beauty and and an active lifestyle have drawn many professionals to the Treasure Valley for quality of life they couldn’t find at any price in the more congested, costly West Coast markets.
Year-round outdoor activities in the Boise area range from winter skiing at Bogus Basin to spring, summer and fall hiking in the foothills, to the summer “float” – when locals head out to Barber Park, rent an inflatable raft or use inner tubes to float down the river. Hunting, target shooting, camping (both summer and winter), snow-mobiling, wildlife photography, bicycling and dirt-biking (motorcycling) are all popular local pastimes. Add to this the vibrant cultural life, restaurant scene, coffee shop life and intellectual offerings offered by the multiple local colleges and universities, and Boise and its surrounding cities will win your heart. The Treasure Valley is a welcoming and wonderful place to call home, and a fantastic investment for the buyer looking for long-term investment growth.