7 Towns Perfect for Retirement in Idaho
With its generous tax benefits, Idaho is one of the most pocket-friendly destinations for retirement. But retirees get more than just low-cost living in the Gem State; this scenic Pacific Northwest destination boasts enviable natural beauty, with rugged peaks, lush forests, and sprawling parklands dotting its vast territory. Between these beautiful landscapes lies laidback locations with the ideal environment for senior living.
Uncover seven scenic Idaho communities guaranteed to capture retirees' hearts with their wealth of outdoor opportunities. From picturesque mountain towns to relaxed riverside villages, they all offer a slow pace of life, welcoming communities, and a raft of recreational activities while promising unique cultural attractions. Whether looking for outdoor thrills or small-town comforts, the following towns are perfect for retirement in Idaho.
American Falls
This quaint agricultural town in southeastern Idaho serves as the regional economic hub of Power County. It is made up of a down-to-earth community of about 4,500, with farming being the focal point of the economy. Retirees will have an immersive experience going through the exhibits inside the Power County Historical Museum, which document various facets of the town's history, from farming and culture to medicine. American Falls offers plenty of opportunities in its sprawling wilderness to keep pensioners active in their lazy years. At Massacre Rocks State Park, they can access miles of hiking and biking trails.
Meanwhile, seniors who cannot keep up with strenuous hikes may opt for laidback golf sessions at the American Falls Golf Club, which boasts well-manicured lawns and serene natural surroundings. The town continues to care for its elderly population when old age gets the better of them with centers like Power County Senior Citizens. Lastly, retirees looking to invest in a home should be comfortable parting with around $394,000 for a decent place.
Bonners Ferry
Bonners Ferry's location in the heart of the lush Kootenai Valley endows it with spectacular natural appeal, punctuated with three mountain ranges. This guarantees plenty of outdoor adventures to keep retirees on their feet. They can immerse in various recreations inside the vast Kootenai National Wildlife Heritage, which harbors diverse habitats for a rich wildlife population. These include everything from wildlife watching and hiking to hunting and nature photography near the Kootenai River.
Residents here maintain a strong sense of community due to harmonious interactions at popular gathering spots like the Bonners Ferry Farmers Market. This is an excellent opportunity for new residents to get acquainted with other townsfolk and establish lasting friendships. Meanwhile, the Boundary County Museum is a worthy downtown stop for retirees curious about Bonners Ferry's cultural and historical heritage. While homes are slightly expensive, with a median housing value of $564,000, the amenities make up for the cost. For example, the Boundary Community Hospital readily provides reliable medical attention with state-of-the-art facilities.
Weiser
Small-town charm meets low-cost living in this charming village of Washington County. Weiser sits on the confluence of the Snake River and Weiser River and experiences a mild climate, offering a conducive combination for agricultural activities. The town is thus dotted with farmland, park areas, and lovely open spaces offering an inviting gateway to the great outdoors. Exciting recreation opportunities await at Steck Park, ranging from camping and hiking to fishing and picnicking. But retirees need not venture into the wilderness to stay fit. Instead, they can sign up for membership at the Small Town Fitness Performance Center.
The Snake River Heritage Center provides a delightful opportunity for newcomers to mingle with locals in a bid to develop friendly networks. It is a welcoming social venue where the community gathers to promote its history and culture through several events. Senior citizens in Weiser enjoy access to multiple retirement communities, such as Cottages Assisted Living and Memory Care, which help them retain peace of mind at a later age. It is also just over an hour away from Boise, in case pensioners need the capital's superior amenities. Finally, homes in the town have a median cost of $348,000, which is about $100,000 below the state average.
St. Anthony
Retirees keen on maintaining an active lifestyle after calling time on their career should find it easy to settle down in St. Anthony. This adorable Fremont County community is famous for its slew of outdoor recreations, ensuring locals and visitors alike are always entertained. St. Anthony Sand Dunes hosts diverse opportunities for wild adventures across its 10,000-acre cover, from ATV riding, sand dune motorsport, camping, and sand hiking. Elsewhere, Henry's Fork Greenway offers steadier ground for retirees to hike on, with a hint of greenery in the surroundings. The quiet atmosphere is perfect for meditation and presents enticing river views.
When not exploring the beautiful outdoors, pensioners can switch scenery with the indoor atmosphere of the Idaho Art Lab. The facility harbors a cute selection of visual art pieces while allowing visitors to hone their art technique by taking lessons. Retirees also enjoy invaluable social support from St. Anthony Senior Citizens, ranging from meals and transportation to health programs. Lastly, buying a home in St. Anthony costs around $350,000, so retirees won’t have to break the bank for their dream home.
Rexburg
Rexburg promises the best of both worlds during retirement in Idaho, as small-town charm seamlessly mixes with a vibrant city atmosphere and luxurious urban amenities. The town is rife with amusement parks, including the Idaho Centennial Carousel and Gravity Factory, guaranteeing days full of laughter and happy moments with family in their sunset years. It also hosts a couple of museums for the ideal indoor pursuits, such as the Legacy Flight Museum, which offers retirees a laid-back yet exciting journey back in time.
Outdoors and opportunities for recreation abound at the multiple park spaces in Rexburg. Options include Rexburg Nature Park, home to a tranquil environment with lovely biking and nature trails bordering the Teton River. Furthermore, the presence of Brigham Young University of Idaho ensures seniors can access lifelong learning opportunities locally. Despite its wealth of offerings, homes cost pretty reasonably in Rexburg, with a median value of $417,000, which is slightly below the state average.
Preston
Home to about 6,000 residents, Preston presents a variety of experiences to address all tastes and preferences. Retirees will especially appreciate the multiple family-friendly attractions, which prove handy when loved ones come to visit. These include Pop'n Pins Bowling, where residents can revel in the charm of classic bowling, and the Worm Creek Opera House, bringing the community together to watch family-friendly movies and theatrical productions.
Stepping outside, the Preston Golf & Country Club welcomes seniors for a low-key tee time with peers in a serenely green atmosphere featuring the picturesque backdrop of dense woods, rolling mountains, and clear skies. Meanwhile, the Franklin County Medical Center offers healthcare services for a comfortable retirement. Those willing to retire in town will have to shell out about $450,000 for a home in Preston.
Moscow
Home to the University of Idaho, Moscow is another destination that balances a small-town atmosphere with big-city amenities. From delightful green spaces and bustling art centers to top-rated festivals, it is a mixed bag of delights for retirees considering settling in Idaho. One can spend quality time outdoors amidst the wonderful atmosphere of the University of Idaho Arboretum and Botanical Garden. The 63-acre nature space houses an extensive collection of plant species and offers fantastic sightings of various small animals. The presence of the college has raised Moscow's profile as an artistic hub because of venues like the Kenworthy Performing Arts Center.
The local student population helps inject a youthful vibrancy into the community, which is evident whenever there is an event at the ASUI-Kibbie Activity Center. The atmosphere is always electric, offering retirees to enjoy athletics in an energy-filled arena. When medical attention is needed, pensioners can rely on Gritman Medical Center to restore their health. When it is time to buy a home, they can expect to part with around $549,900, the median listing value.
The Takeaway
With their scenic natural offerings, vibrant communities, and very low crime rates, these charming towns are ideal for retirement in Idaho. They ensure seniors seeking an active yet soothing lifestyle will thrive in the state's safe and scenic locales. From charming lake enclaves to historic mountain villages, each destination promises lifelong recreational opportunities amid supportive atmospheres away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Settling down in any of them offers leeway to a satisfying lifestyle in your sunset and the fresh start you have always envisioned.
