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Despite the common perception of endless fields of potatoes, Idaho is a Rocky Mountain state with scenic canyons, waterfalls, wild rapids, and snow capped mountains.

Potatoes are still important, but so is mining of gemstones and precious metals in the Gem State and, quite recently, hi-tech industries are also becoming a major employer, especially in and around metro Boise.

Tourism, however, continues to outrank all other industries in Idaho attracting millions of visitors a year to world class Idaho ski resorts, summer outdoor adventure in Hells Canyon, and recreational opportunities in more than two dozen state parks and recreation areas.

Idaho quality-of-life statistics

Cost of Living: On the basis of housing costs, utilities, and other expenses, Idaho's cost of living is 20 to 50 percent less than in other areas nationally, and is one of the most affordable of the western states.

Property Taxes : Idaho's Tax Climate - Idaho is one of the 13 states that collect no state-level property taxes, meaning its per capita property tax collections equaled $777 for all levels of government in FY 2004, ranking it 36th nationally.

Personal Income Taxes: Idaho collects personal income tax in eight tax brackets, ranging from 1.6 percent to 7.8 percent, depending on filing status and income. Idaho income tax brackets are adjusted for inflation each year. Idahoans are required to file income taxes using Idaho Individual Income Tax Return Form 40 by April 15.

Housing & Real Estate Overview
Home ownership rate : 72.4%
Average home price: $180,200
Average travel time to work : 20 minutes

Schools : see Education Idaho.gov

Weather : For most of the state, summers in Idaho can be hot, although evenings tend to be cooler and more comfortable even during prolonged heat spells. Winters can also be quite cold, although not as frigid as many assume of a northern state, thanks to the moderating effects of Pacific Ocean winds.

Crime see Crime in Idaho

also see -> Idaho Taxes | Idaho Eviction Laws | Idaho Fall Foliage

Idaho Tourist Attractions | Idaho Wine Tours | Christmas in Idaho

Idaho Kids Party Locations

More about moving to Idaho around the Web:

Moving to Idaho - Facts-at-a-glance on population, cost of living, typical house prices and energy costs, taxes, employment statistics, with links to major newspapers throughout Idaho.

Idaho City-Data Forums - Active message boards with questions and answers regarding cost of living, property taxes, healthcare and hospitals, quality of life, recreation, and weather facts for Boise, Idaho Falls, Sun Valley and other Idaho towns & cities.

Idaho - Sperling's Best Places - Good, general overview with facts on real estate & housing, schools & education, cost of living, demographic data, and related information.

Where to Live and Play: Boise or Bust! - National Geographic Magazine feature with information on Boise area opportunities for outdoor recreation, along with stats on median home prices, population, weather and relocation tips.

Idaho Real Estate, Apartments & Job Classifieds:

Boise : Idaho Statesman
Idaho Falls : Post Register
Couer d'Alene : Press