If you’re considering building a custom home in the scenic region of Treasure Valley, Idaho, you’re about to embark on an exciting journey. The Treasure Valley, located in the southwestern part of the state, offers a mix of natural beauty, a thriving community, and economic opportunities.
This guide will explore what makes the Treasure Valley an excellent location for your dream home, from its economic landscape and climate conditions to its educational institutions and entertainment options. We’ll also discuss the fast-growing cities and subdivisions within the region, examine the cost of living and housing market trends, and find your dream home for sale.
What Southwest Idaho Has to Offer
The Treasure Valley in southwest Idaho has a vibrant economy supported by vital sectors, including manufacturing, healthcare, agriculture, and technology. The area provides a welcoming atmosphere for outdoor enthusiasts and people wishing to develop custom-built homes.
Economy and Industry
The Treasure Valley, situated in the southwestern part of Idaho, boasts a diverse and thriving economy. The region has experienced significant growth in recent years, making it an attractive destination for businesses and job seekers alike. Key industries in the Treasure Valley include agriculture, technology, manufacturing, and healthcare.
Agriculture: The fertile soil in the Treasure Valley is perfect for farming, and the region is known for its production of potatoes, sugar beets, hops, and various other crops. Agriculture is vital to the local economy, contributing to job opportunities and fresh, locally-grown produce.
Technology: Boise, the capital city of Idaho and a central hub in the Treasure Valley, has seen a surge in the technology sector. Companies like Micron Technology and HP Inc. have a significant presence in the area, offering employment opportunities in the tech industry.
Manufacturing: Manufacturing is another cornerstone of the regional economy. Businesses involved in food processing, electronics manufacturing, and aerospace components production contribute to the area’s economic growth.
Healthcare: The Treasure Valley region has several world-class healthcare facilities, including St. Luke’s Health System and Saint Alphonsus Health System. Access to quality healthcare services is a vital aspect to consider.
Climate Conditions
The Treasure Valley experiences a semi-arid climate characterized by hot, dry summers and cold winters. With approximately 200 sunny days per year, the region offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities and enjoying the area’s natural beauty. The diverse landscape of the Treasure Valley includes mountains, rivers, and picturesque vistas, providing a stunning backdrop for your custom-built home.
The climate in the Treasure Valley is generally favorable for outdoor enthusiasts, with numerous opportunities for hiking, biking, fishing, and other recreational activities. However, it’s essential to be prepared for temperature fluctuations between the four seasons:
Spring season in Idaho normally lasts from late February to mid-June and has average high and low temperatures of 63 and 36 degrees, respectively. You may expect milder afternoons along with chilly early mornings and evenings throughout this season.
Summer, a beloved season in Idaho, basks in sunny glory from mid-June to mid-September. The thermometer often climbs to an average high of 85°F, occasionally reaching into the mid-90s. Nighttime temperatures dip into the comfortable low 60s, making it the ideal time to relish outdoor activities.
Autumn graces the Treasure Valley with its vibrant beauty from mid-September to mid-November. Daytime highs typically hover in the mid-60s, providing the perfect climate for mountain bikers and hikers to revel in the refreshing temperatures of the local foothills.
Winter, though milder in Idaho, maintains an average high of 47°F and an average low of 27°F. It’s not uncommon to witness a light dusting of snow in the valley during this season. Just a short 21 miles away in the mountains, the Bogus Basin ski resort beckons ski and snowboard enthusiasts, making winter a cherished time of year for those who adore these cold-weather activities.
Infrastructure
When planning to build your custom home, access to infrastructure and amenities is a crucial consideration. The Treasure Valley excels with well-maintained roads, access to essential services, and public transport.
Transportation: The region benefits from a well-developed transportation network. The Boise Airport provides easy access to national and international destinations. Interstate 84 runs through the valley, connecting communities and facilitating convenient commuting.
Utilities: Access to utilities such as electricity and natural gas is readily available, making it easier to develop your custom home without major infrastructure challenges. However, if you’re looking to build on newly developed acreage, a well and septic system are required.
Education
For families with children, education is a top priority. The Treasure Valley offers a range of educational institutions, including private and public primary schools, as well as options for higher education.
Public Schools
The region is served by various public school districts, with schools known for their commitment to academic excellence and extracurricular activities. Aside from researching the specific school district in your desired location is essential to know the size of the school to find the best fit for your family.
Idaho school classifications are based on enrollment and are as follows:
- 1A DII: 84 & below
- 1A DI: 85 – 159
- 2A: 160 – 319
- 3A: 320 – 639
- 4A: 640 – 1279
- 5A: 1280 & over
If you need assistance finding your district, please click here. Additionally, if you’d like to look at your community’s enrollment classification, click here.
Higher Education
For those pursuing higher education, the Treasure Valley offers institutions such as:
- Boise State University
- Located in Downtown Boise on the banks of the Boise River
- 4 Year Public University
- 83% Acceptance Rate
- 13,720 Full-Time Enrolled Undergraduates
- $15,828/year
- Student to Faculty Ratio: 16 to 1
- Most Popular Majors include Business, Nursing, Liberal Arts & Humanities, and more
- Graduation Rate: 54%
- Athletics: Boise State Broncos are in the NCAA Division I-FBS and Mountain West Conference
- The College of Idaho
- Located off of Cleveland Blvd in Downtown Caldwell
- 4 Year Private Liberal Arts College
- 56% Acceptance Rate
- 1,104 Full-Time Enrolled Undergraduates
- Student to Faculty Ratio: 12 to 1
- $23,329/year
- Most Popular Majors include Business, Psychology, Political Science & Government, and more
- Graduation Rate: 56%
- Northwest Nazarene University
- Located off of University Blvd in Nampa
- 4 Year Private Christian College
- 88% Acceptance Rate
- 1,008 Full-Time Enrolled Undergraduates
- Student to Faculty Ratio: 8 to 1
- $23,045/year
- Most Popular Majors include Nursing, Business, Liberal Arts & Humanities, and more
- Graduation Rate: 63%
- Carrington College
- Located off of University Blvd in Nampa
- 2 Year Private Trade School
- 100% Acceptance Rate
- 489 Full-Time Enrolled Undergraduates
- Student to Faculty Ratio: 18 to 1
- $32,0095/year
- Most Popular Majors include Nursing, Medical Assistant, Dental Assisting, and more
- Graduation Rate: 68%
- College of Western Idaho
- Located across Boise
- 2 Year Public Trade School
- 100% Acceptance Rate
- 2,590 Full-Time Enrolled Undergraduates
- Student to Faculty Ratio: 19 to 1
- $8,817/year
- Most Popular Majors include Liberal Arts and Humanities, Automotive Mechanics, Business, and more
- Graduation Rate: 28%
Entertainment & Tourism
The Treasure Valley provides an array of entertainment options, ensuring that residents have access to culture & arts, dining, and recreational activities.
Outdoor Recreation: The region’s natural beauty offers endless opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you enjoy hiking in the Boise Foothills, fishing in the Snake River, or skiing in the nearby mountains, the Treasure Valley has something for everyone.
- Boise River Greenbelt’s 25-mile pathway is open from sunrise to sunset daily and is a beloved riverside park in Boise.
- Black Canyon Reservoir, formerly known as Black Canyon Diversion Dam, offers a 12-mile shoreline for boating and fishing.
- Bernie Fisher Park is perfect for family gatherings, picnics, and more. Reservations are first come, first serve.
- Kuna Caves are accessible by climbing down a 50-foot encaged steel ladder. The caves are about a quarter mile long and are about 56 degrees year-round.
- Initial Point rises about 350 feet above the Snake River Plain and is the remnant of volcanic activity.
- Settlers Park hosts Idaho’s first universally accessible playground on its lot. Other amenities include rentable picnic shelters, a fishing pond, horseshoe courts, and more.
- Payette River WMA consists of 1,066 acres on the Payette and Snake Rivers for seasonal waterfowl hunting and year-round fishing.
- Star Riverwalk Park is a 4.76-acre park for leisure along the Boise River. Rest on a bench, picnic, and fish with access to a portable restroom.
- Weiser River Trail is a private, unpaved trail for local wildlife preservation by Friends of the Weiser River Trail.
Arts & Culture: The lively culture of Boise is unmatched. There are numerous reasons to fall in love with the city, including its amazing museums, rich Basque heritage, vibrant nightlife, and regular performing arts programs.
Galleries and Museums:
- Boise Art Museum is open Tuesday through Sunday with special admission on the 1st Thursday of each month. Located in Julia Davis Park, it houses a growing permanent collection of contemporary and modern art. BAM also features major traveling exhibitions throughout the year.
- Basque Museum & Cultural Center was established in 1985 as a small museum dedicated to the Basque communities in the American West.
- Children’s Museum of Idaho is a dedicated interactive museum for hands-on enrichment and unstructured discovery for Idaho families looking for a family-friendly outing.
- Discovery Center of Idaho offers a variety of interactive exhibits for a range of ages.
- Freak Alley Gallery is the largest growing, multi-artist mural in the Northwest. There are new additions on an annual basis, so there’s always something new to explore within its walls.
- Gem County Historical Museum is a five-building complex that’s open year-round for the public to learn about the history of Gem County.
- Idaho Black History Museum is a pillar of education, community outreach, and exhibition in Boise’s historic St. Paul Baptist Church.
- Idaho State Museum provides interactive exhibits to discover Idaho’s history whether virtually or in person.
- Old Idaho Penitentiary offers guided tours of the grounds that have over 101 years of history.
- Warhawk Air Museum’s 40,000 sq ft. building houses various airplanes and equipment from World War 1, World War 2, and the Cold War Era.
Performing Arts:
- Velma V. Morrison Center opened its doors in 1984 and has been a pillar to the Boise Arts community ever since. At the Center, you’ll find touring entertainment, arts education, and community events.
- Ballet Idaho provides a full season of performances starting in November and ending in May. All performances incorporate immersive dance to engage and educate the communities of Idaho.
- Opera Idaho has become one of the broadest-reaching arts organizations in Idaho, with nearly 50 years of producing opera in the Treasure Valley.
- LED Boise’s accolades in the world of Dance make it a noteworthy organization to watch and visit for classes and workshops.
- Boise Contemporary Theatre is the only professional non-profit theatre in the region dedicated to producing bold new works presented by diverse voices.
- Boise Philharmonic develops energetic and heartfelt musical experiences that reflect the spirit of Idaho.
Other Attractions:
- Idaho Botanical Garden not only grows plants but also community through connecting people, plants, and nature.
- Stoney’s Roadhouse N Dance Hall includes a 2,300 square foot dance floor activated by live country tunes.
- Firebird Raceway provides affordable family entertainment at its quarter-mile drag racing facility.
- Deer Flat National Wildlife Refuge is an urban educational and recreational oasis for the local community and wildlife alike.
- Terrace Drive-In Theatre offers limited showtimes for a unique drive-in and watch experience at a reasonable price.
Dining and Festivals: The Treasure Valley hosts various events and festivals throughout the year. From the famous Treefort Music Festival to the Western Idaho Fair, there’s always something happening in the area.
- Sawtooth Winery’s 400-acre vineyard is the leader in the emerging wine region of Snake River Valley. Quality grapes make acclaimed wines, which are available for tasting.
- Split Rail Winery offers a small production of exploratory, Idaho-centric wines. The Tasting Room is regularly open to discover the whimsy of these alternative techniques.
- Basque Wine Fest occurs annually at the end of the summer, where ticketed participants receive a commemorative wine glass, access to 100+ wines, and more.
- OId Boise Oktoberfest offers authentic German beers, wonderful cuisine, and live music annually.
- Art in the Park hosted by the Boise Art Museum annually every September in Julia Davis Park.
- Western Idaho Fair has been celebrating agriculture, ranching, and life in Idaho annually since 1897.
- Indian Creek Festival 2023 marked the 21st anniversary of this City of Caldwell event. Mark your calendar for next year to celebrate this annual tradition of the first unveiling of Indian Creek.
- Boise Comic Arts Festival is returning for its 12th year in 2024 to showcase creators, vendors, and exhibitors in Zoo Boise and Julia Davis Park.
- Idaho Shakespeare Festival showcases various productions throughout the year as their staff aims to produce great theater, entertain, and educate.
- Famous Idaho Potato Bowl is set for December 23, 2023, at Albertsons Stadium, Boise State University. Tickets range from $20 – $160, but if you can’t make it in person, you can watch it on ESPN.
Click for more festivals and dining.
Fast-Growing Cities and Subdivisions
When searching for the ideal site for your custom home in the Treasure Valley, it’s essential to consider the specific cities, subdivisions, and even the state at large. Overall, Idaho rates as one of the top 10 safest states with low imprisonment and low poverty.
Below, you’ll find a list of each community’s unique character and amenities. Here are some of the fastest-growing cities and districts in the region:
Boise
As Idaho’s capital and largest city, Boise is a dynamic urban center with a thriving cultural scene, excellent job opportunities, and a strong sense of community. The city offers a mix of historic and modern neighborhoods, providing many housing options.
- Population: 236,634 as of 2022
- Median Household Income: $64,717 as of 2020
- Median Property Value: $268,500 as of 2020
- Median Property Taxes: $191,658
- Industries of Employment: There are many ways to make a living in Boise, but the industries with the highest rate of employment are Office and Administrative Support, Management, and Sales.
- Average Commute Time: 22.6 minutes
For more information, visit DATA USA: Boise City, ID
Caldwell
Caldwell is a welcoming community known for its agricultural heritage and family-friendly atmosphere. It offers a variety of housing choices and is conveniently located near Boise, making it an excellent option for those looking for a peaceful lifestyle with access to all the amenities.
- Population: 65,920 as of 2022
- Median Household Income: $55,069 as of 2020
- Median Property Value: $188,300 as of 2020
- Median Property Taxes: $11,726
- Industries of Employment: There are many ways to make a living in Boise, but the industries with the highest rate of employment are Administrative Support, Construction & Extraction, and Production.
- Average Commute Time: 25.8 minutes
For more information, visit DATA USA: Caldwell, ID
Emmett
Emmett is a charming rural town situated in a picturesque valley. If you desire a more tranquil setting for your custom home, Emmett may be the perfect choice. It’s renowned for its agricultural roots and offers a slower-paced, idyllic lifestyle.
- District 14: Sen. C. Scott Grow, Rep. Edward H. Ted Hill, Rep. Josh Tanner
- Population: 8,184 as of 2022
- Median Household Income: $39,719 as of 2020
- Median Property Value: $153,700 as of 2020
- Median Property Taxes: $1,704
- Industries of Employment: There are many ways to make a living in Boise, but the industries with the highest rate of employment are Sales, Food Preparation & Serving, and Installation, Maintenance, & Repair.
- Average Commute Time: 26.8 minutes
For more information, visit DATA USA: Emmett, ID
Kuna
Kuna is a rapidly growing suburb of Boise, making it an attractive option for those who want to be close to the city while enjoying a quieter residential atmosphere. The community has seen significant development in recent years, with various housing options.
- Population: 27,229 as of 2022
- Median Household Income: $69,940 as of 2020
- Median Property Value: $226,2000 as of 2020
- Median Property Taxes: $5,405
- Industries of Employment: There are many ways to make a living in Boise, but the industries with the highest rate of employment are Sales, Management, and Food Preparation & Serving.
- Average Commute Time: 27.1 minutes
For more information, visit DATA USA: Kuna, ID
Meridian
Meridian is another thriving suburb of Boise known for its excellent schools, family-friendly neighborhoods, and recreational amenities. It’s a popular choice for families looking for a welcoming community.
- Population: 129,736 as of 2022
- Median Household Income: $76,403 as of 2020
- Median Property Value: $304,5000 as of 2020
- Median Property Taxes: $29,211
- Industries of Employment: There are many ways to make a living in Boise, but the industries with the highest rate of employment are Office & Administrative Support, Sales, and Management.
- Average Commute Time: 22.5 minutes.
For more information, visit DATA USA: Meridian, ID
Nampa
Nampa is one of the largest cities in the Treasure Valley and offers a mix of suburban and urban living. The city has a diverse housing market and provides many amenities.
- Population: 110,951 as of 2022
- Median Household Income: $53,205 as of 2020
- Median Property Value: $191,8000 as of 2020
- Median Property Taxes: $22,638
- Industries of Employment: There are many ways to make a living in Boise, but the industries with the highest rate of employment are Office & Administrative Support, Sales, and Construction & Extraction.
- Average Commute Time: 23.4 minutes
For more information, visit DATA USA: Nampa, ID
New Plymouth
New Plymouth is a smaller, close-knit community known for its friendly community. It’s ideal for those seeking a rural lifestyle with easy access to neighboring cities.
- District 9: Sen Abby Lee, Rep. Jacyn Gallagher, Rep. Judy Boyle
- Population: 1,633 as of 2021
- Median Household Income: $52,639 as of 2020
- Median Property Value: $146,800 as of 2020
- Median Property Taxes: $500
- Industries of Employment: There are many ways to make a living in Boise, but the industries with the highest rate of employment are Management, Sales, and Office & Administrative Support.
- Average Commute Time: 27.1 minutes
For more information, visit DATA USA: New Plymouth, ID
Star
Star is a rapidly growing city that maintains its small-town charm. It offers a range of housing options, including spacious lots, and is known for its outdoor recreational opportunities, including golf courses and parks.
- District 10: Sen. Tammy Nichols, Rep. Mike Moyle, Rep. Bruce D. Skaug
- Population: 14,646 as of 2022
- Median Household Income: $71,759 as of 2020
- Median Property Value: $306,000 as of 2020
- Median Property Taxes: $2,755
- Industries of Employment: There are many ways to make a living in Boise, but the industries with the highest rate of employment are Sales, Office & Administrative Support, and Construction & Extraction.
- Average Commute Time: 24 minutes
For more information, visit DATA USA: Star, ID
Weiser
Weiser is a historic town located along the Snake River. It offers a peaceful setting and a strong sense of community. If you want a quieter lifestyle away from the commotion of a big city, Weiser may be an appealing option.
- District 9: Sen Abby Lee, Rep. Jacyn Gallagher, Rep. Judy Boyle
- Population: 5,912 as of 2022
- Median Household Income: $37,552 as of 2020
- Median Property Value: $122,100 as of 2020
- Median Property Taxes: $1,469
- Industries of Employment: There are many ways to make a living in Boise, but the industries with the highest rate of employment are Sales, Healthcare Support, and Production.
- Average Commute Time: 16.3 minutes
For more information, visit DATA USA: Weiser, ID
Cost of Living
The cost of living in the Treasure Valley, on the whole, is slightly below the national average. This is due to lower expenses in areas such as healthcare and groceries, as well as transportation and utilities. However, it’s essential to note that housing prices in the Treasure Valley, especially in desirable areas like Eagle, are higher than the national average. As a result, housing costs can skew the overall cost of living higher in these sought-after locations.
When considering the cost of living in the Treasure Valley, it’s crucial to evaluate your budget carefully and factor in housing expenses. While the region offers various housing options at different price points, working with a real estate professional is advisable to find the right balance between your desired location and your budget.
Housing Market Trends
The housing market in the Treasure Valley has experienced significant growth in recent years. The region’s appeal, driven by its strong economy, natural beauty, and quality of life, has increased housing demand. Here are some key trends to consider when planning to build a custom home:
Increasing Home Prices: As demand for homes in the Treasure Valley continues to rise, home prices have increased. While this can present challenges for buyers, it also indicates a strong real estate market that may provide future value for homeowners.
Custom Home Building: Many residents opt for custom home construction to tailor their living space to their preferences and needs. This approach allows you to design a home that suits your lifestyle and tastes perfectly.
Subdivision Development: The region has seen the development of new subdivisions, providing a range of housing options.
However, it is important to note that most subdivisions have Homeowner’s Associations (HOAs). Below, you’ll find a list of pros and cons comparing buying a home in a subdivision with an HOA and building on your own lot.
Competitive Market: Given the competitive nature of the housing market, it’s advisable to work with a knowledgeable real estate agent who can find a suitable land and guide you through the custom home-building process.
Make The Treasure Valley Your Home
Are you considering moving to the beautiful Treasure Valley, Idaho, or looking for homes for sale? Look no further than Idaho Impact Homes to make your custom dream home a reality.
In this ever-evolving Idaho housing market, we specialize in crafting homes with the utmost quality, transparency, and an unwavering commitment to exceptional customer service.
What sets us apart is that your home purchase isn’t just about you; it’s about giving back, too. You can choose a select charity close to your heart in the Treasure Valley, and we’ll donate a portion of the proceeds from your completed home to support their cause.
So don’t wait; contact us today to begin living the Idaho lifestyle you’ve always dreamed of!
