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Boise, Idaho

This western gem of a city (population 128,000) sits nestled in a meandering river valley at the edge of the River of No Return Wilderness Area in southwest Idaho, just north of Interstate 84.  For retirees seeking a beautiful city with enormous recreational opportunities, Boise is an ideal location.  The Gleaming Boise River runs through the center of town and is bounded by a 25 mile greenbelt full of walking and  bicycling paths, wetlands and museums.  Boise's bustling and rejuvenated downtown is not far from the greenbelt and offers a host of shop, restaurants and a new convention center. This is an active city with an active senior population.

The metro population is 225,000 and has increased significantly in recent years.  Housing costs have risen, but an average home is still affordable and sells for about $100,000.

 

For many other other Boise retirees, the opportunities for fishing, camping and golfing are the primary attractions of the area.  Boise boast 10 golf courses, excellent fishing in the nearby mountain streams and miles of hiking trails in and around the city.  

For retirees who may not enjoy camping and hiking, there is the Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP), which organizes all kinds of volunteer activities for seniors, including tutoring students and working in museums.  Retirees may also want to join the Happy Hoofers, a seniors' walking group that takes advantage of Boise's extensive greenbelt walkways.  Overlooking the downtown is Boise State College, and many seniors regularly attend the school's football and basketball games throughout the year.

This western city does have some drawbacks, including limited public transportation, some smoggy days and cold winters, but many retirees enjoy the distinct change of seasons.   

Statistics

Climate: Four distinct seasons.  Average January high is 37 degrees, and the average January low is 23 degrees.  Average summer high is 90 degrees, and the low is 51.  Humidity is low, thanks to an elevation of 2,800 feet, and averages 42%.  About 22 inches of snow a year.

Cost-of-Living:  Equals the national average.

Health Care: Boise is home to two regional medical care facilities, the St. Alphonsus Regional Medical Center and the St. Luke's Medical Center, as well as a VA hospital and two psychiatric hospitals.  Medical care in Boise is comprehensive and top quality.

Housing:  The median housing cost for a home is $100,000.

Taxes:  The state income tax is graduated from 2% to 8%.  Social security is exempt.  The state sales tax is 5%, and property taxes are $20 per $1,000 value (assessed at 100% of market value).  There is a homestead exemption of 50% off the market value (limit of $50,000).

Safety:  Boise meets the national average when it come to safety.

Contact:  Boise Convention and Visitors' Bureau, P.O. Box 2106, ID  83701, 800-635-5240.