Boise vs Coeur d'Alene Living Comparison

Mar 16, 2025

Comparison of Living in Boise vs Coeur d'Alene, Idaho

Introduction

  • Presenter: Trent
  • Channel Focus: Living in North Idaho, real estate, lifestyle
  • Objective: To explore reasons why people choose Boise over Coeur d'Alene, particularly from Trent's observations during his visit to Boise.

Key Reasons People Choose Boise

Convenience and Amenities

  • Boise Offers More Urban Amenities:
    • Multiple Costco's, Targets, Sephoras, Apple Stores.
    • Better shopping access compared to North Idaho (limited to one Home Depot, Costco, and Target).
    • Real city infrastructure including an airport.

Livability and Accessibility

  • More Livable and Accessible:
    • Flat terrain, moderate weather, and better public transportation.
    • Easier to navigate and live without needing a car.
    • Risks of being stuck in extreme weather conditions in North Idaho.

Outdoor Activities

  • Nature and Wilderness:
    • Proximity to outdoor activities like camping, hiking, fishing within 1-2 hours similar to California’s accessibility to natural landscapes.
    • North Idaho offers closer proximity to the wilderness.

Employment Opportunities

  • Job Market:
    • More job opportunities in Boise with various businesses and restaurants.
    • Higher potential for career growth compared to North Idaho.

Political and Social Environment

  • Moderate Political Climate:
    • Boise is more politically moderate, appealing to those moving from liberal areas without a strong conservative presence.
    • North Idaho has stereotypes of being conspiracy theorists, anti-government, and racist, though mostly unfounded.

Cultural and Recreational Activities

  • Cultural Offerings:
    • More entertainment options such as sports, comedy clubs, and restaurants.
    • Presence of Boise State University for collegiate sports.

Demographics and Diversity

  • Diversity:
    • More racial diversity in Boise (80% Caucasian) compared to Coeur d'Alene (94.4% Caucasian).
    • Boise can offer a more inclusive environment for non-Caucasian families.

Challenges of Living in Boise

Traffic and Construction

  • Urban Challenges:
    • Higher traffic congestion, particularly during peak times or returning from outdoor excursions.
    • Constant road construction adds to commuting time.

Geographic and Environmental

  • Desert Terrain:
    • Boise is surrounded by desert, requiring travel to reach scenic areas.
    • Less immediate access to natural beauty compared to Coeur d'Alene.

Cost of Living vs. Income

  • Economic Concerns:
    • Discrepancy between wages and cost of living with average salaries of $70-80k and home prices around $560k.

Climate Comparison

  • Weather Patterns:
    • Boise receives about 12 inches of rain annually, indicating a drier climate.
    • Coeur d'Alene experiences about double this precipitation, suggesting more frequent grey skies and stronger winters.

Conclusion

  • Final Thoughts:
    • Boise is comparable to Denver 10-15 years ago, offering a mix of urban and outdoors.
    • Consider all factors such as climate, job opportunities, political climate, and lifestyle needs when deciding between Boise and Coeur d'Alene.
  • Call to Action:
    • Contact Trent for assistance with moving within Idaho, including connections to trusted real estate agents.

Recommendation:

  • Evaluate personal priorities such as lifestyle, job prospects, accessibility to nature, and social environment before making a decision between Boise and Coeur d'Alene.