19 Reasons Why You Shouldn’t Move to Boise Idaho: The Pros and Cons

1. Boise Idaho Has High Property Taxes

Boise, Idaho is a beautiful city with lots of great opportunities for living and working, but unfortunately it also has high property taxes. Idaho is one of the top 10 states in the country with the highest property taxes. For homeowners, this can be a difficult burden to bear.

The average property tax rate in Boise, Idaho is 1.53%, which is much higher than the national average of 1.19%. This means that if you own a home in Boise, Idaho, you will be paying much more in property taxes than the average homeowner across the country. This can be a significant financial burden for some homeowners, and can make it difficult to make ends meet.

When it comes to property taxes in Boise, Idaho, it is important to understand that there are different tax rates for different types of properties. Residential properties are taxed at a rate of 1.5%, while commercial and industrial properties are taxed at a rate of 2.6%. Additionally, the amount of taxes you pay is also based on the value of the property.

The city of Boise also offers some tax relief programs for homeowners. For example, the Homestead Exemption program provides a tax exemption for homeowners who are 65 or older, disabled, or veterans. Additionally, the Boise City Council has approved a property tax deferral program, which allows eligible homeowners to defer their property taxes until they are able to pay them.

When it comes to property taxes in Boise, Idaho, it is important to understand the tax rates and the tax relief programs that are available. While property taxes in Boise may be high, there are still ways for homeowners to save money and make their property tax payments more manageable.

2. Limited Job Opportunities in Boise Idaho

Boise Idaho is an area that has seen many changes in the past few years, including a decrease in job opportunities. The city has seen an overall decrease in the number of jobs available, which has caused an increase in unemployment. With limited job opportunities, it can be difficult for residents to find a job and secure their future.

Reasons for Limited Job Opportunities in Boise

  • High Cost of Living – Boise has seen an increase in the cost of living, making it difficult for employers to offer competitive wages. This has led to a decrease in job opportunities in the area.
  • Lack of Education – The city has seen a decrease in the number of students graduating from high school and college. This has caused a lack of qualified workers, which has resulted in fewer job opportunities.
  • Industry Changes – The city has seen a decrease in the number of manufacturing and other industrial jobs. This has caused a decrease in job opportunities in the area.

The decrease in job opportunities has had a negative impact on the city’s economy. The lack of jobs has caused a decrease in the amount of money that is circulating in the city. This has caused a decrease in consumer spending and an increase in poverty.

The city of Boise has taken steps to try and improve the job market. The city has created programs to help residents find jobs and has invested in job training programs. The city has also partnered with local businesses to help create more jobs in the area.

The decrease in job opportunities in Boise has had a negative impact on the city’s economy. The lack of jobs has caused a decrease in the amount of money that is circulating in the city. This has caused a decrease in consumer spending and an increase in poverty. The city of Boise has taken steps to try and improve the job market, but the effects of the limited job opportunities are still being felt.

3. Extremely Cold Winters in Boise Idaho

Boise, Idaho is known for its picturesque mountains, lush forests, and mild winters. However, Boise also experiences some of the coldest winters in the US. The city is located in a high-altitude valley, so temperatures can drop significantly during the winter months.

Boise winters are usually cold and dry. Average temperatures in December, January, and February range from 25-35 degrees Fahrenheit. The city can also experience periods of extreme cold weather, with temperatures dropping below zero degrees. During these periods, snowfall can be significant. Boise averages about 36 inches of snowfall per year, with most of it falling between December and February.

When temperatures drop, Boise residents must take extra precautions to stay warm and safe. It’s important to dress appropriately and wear layers of clothing to stay warm. It’s also important to prepare for snowfall by stocking up on essential items such as food, water, and medicine. Additionally, it’s a good idea to winterize your home by making sure your windows and doors are properly sealed and insulated.

In Boise, winter activities are still possible even in the coldest months. Outdoor activities such as snowshoeing, skiing, and snowmobiling are popular. There are also plenty of indoor activities, such as ice skating and shopping. The city is also home to several popular winter festivals, such as the Winter Garden aGlow and the Christmas in the Park event.

4. Boise Idaho Has Limited Cultural Activities

Though Boise Idaho is known for its outdoor activities, it also offers a variety of cultural activities for residents and visitors alike. Despite the city’s small size, there are still many ways to engage in the local culture, from attending performances to participating in hands-on classes.

Performances and Events

Boise is home to a variety of performing arts venues, including The Morrison Center for the Performing Arts, which hosts theater performances, music concerts, and dance performances throughout the year. The Idaho Shakespeare Festival also brings in a variety of performances, including Broadway musicals, classic plays, and family-friendly productions. The city also hosts many annual festivals, such as the Treefort Music Fest, which showcases independent musicians from around the world.

Museums and Galleries

Boise has a variety of museums and galleries that offer insight into the city’s history and culture. The Boise Art Museum features a variety of contemporary artworks, while the Basque Museum and Cultural Center celebrates the city’s Basque heritage. The Idaho State Historical Museum is also located in Boise, offering visitors a chance to explore the state’s past.

Classes and Workshops

Boise is home to many classes and workshops, which offer hands-on experiences in a variety of topics. From painting classes to cooking workshops, there are many ways to explore and engage with the local culture. Boise also has a variety of community centers, such as the Boise Parks and Recreation Department, which offer classes in art, music, and more.

5. Boise Idaho Is Expensive to Live In

Living in Boise, Idaho can be quite costly. With a cost of living index of 97.2, the city is 5.2% higher than the national average, making it one of the most expensive places to live in the state. Rent is particularly expensive, with an average cost of $1,126 per month. The median home value in Boise is $276,000, and property taxes are relatively high at 1.65% of the assessed home value.

High Cost of Groceries

Grocery prices in Boise are also quite expensive, with a grocery index of 101.3. This is 1.3% higher than the national average, and nearly double the cost of groceries in some of Idaho’s other cities. The cost of eating out is also high, with a meal at a mid-range restaurant costing an average of $30 for two people.

High Utility Costs

Utility costs in Boise are also relatively high. The average monthly utility bill for a 915-square-foot apartment is approximately $183. This is 28.8% higher than the national average, and significantly higher than the average utility bill in other parts of Idaho.

High Gas Prices

Gas prices in Boise are also much higher than the national average. The average cost of a gallon of gas is currently $2.82, which is 20.2% higher than the national average. This makes it difficult for those who rely on their cars to get around town, as they may find themselves spending more money on gas than they had anticipated.