6 Safest Small Communities To Settle In Idaho
Idaho is the perfect place to call home for families seeking a slower pace of life surrounded by natural beauty. With all four seasons, outdoor recreation, and welcoming communities, Idaho offers an exceptional quality of life. Most importantly, Idaho ranks among the safest states in the country, making it an ideal choice for families. These six small communities stand out as some of the best places to settle in Idaho, each offering a strong sense of community with violent crime rates ranked below both state and national averages.
Fruitland
Fruitland is arguably one of the safest towns in the state. With a very low crime rate for aggravated assault and homicide, according to FBI rankings, this community of just over 7,000 residents offers an exceptional peace of mind. Located in downtown Fruitland, Orchard Hall, a recently renovated 3,000-square-foot venue, serves as a beautiful gathering place for the community, hosting ticketed events, weddings, and more. Visitors can also stop by Border and Blooms Flower Farm, where locally grown blooms are available for self-serve and private picking, perfect for couples and families. For a hometown meal, Black Cow Eats & Drinks is a family-run cafe offering sandwiches, soups, salads, and their popular mac 'n' cheese. With its friendly atmosphere, safe environment, and family-oriented activities, Fruitland is a wonderful place to settle down.
Rathdrum
Rathdrum is another Idaho city with no reported homicides and a decreasing rate of aggravated assaults, according to FBI data, with both reported below state and national averages. Home to just over 12,000 residents, the town has grown steadily from around 9,000 since 2020. Nestled beside the scenic Twin Lakes, known for boating, fishing, and other outdoor recreation, Rathdrum offers the perfect setting with so much natural beauty. The Rathdrum Mountain and Storm King Trails provide excellent opportunities for hiking, walking, and even a 9-hole disc golf course. Families can also enjoy Majestic Park, which features sports fields and a splash pad. With its safe environment, beautiful landscapes, and active outdoor lifestyle, Rathdrum is an ideal place for families to call home.
Rexburg
Rexburg has maintained low violent crime rates well below state and national averages, according to FBI data. Home to around 40,000 residents, the town is known for its strong sense of community values and family-friendly atmosphere. The LDS Church, Rexburg Idaho Temple, plays a significant role in shaping Rexburg’s culture and development. For some afternoon family fun, Yellowstone Bear World features drive-thru wildlife tours, a petting zoo with public feeding, and rides. For an even more adventurous outing, both Grand Teton National Park and Yellowstone National Park are less than a two-hour drive away from Rexburg. With its tight-knit community, abundance of outdoor recreation, and reputation for safety, Rexburg offers an inviting place for people of all ages to call home.
Sandpoint
Another city with violent crime rates far below state and national averages is Sandpoint. Located in northern Idaho, Sandpoint sits along the shores of Lake Pend Oreille, the largest lake in the state, and Schweitzer Mountain Resort, best known for having the largest ski slopes and terrain parks. Scenic bike trails and paths follow around the lake and through the nearby Selkirk and Cabinet Mountains, which add to Sandpoint's year-round adventures and breathtaking views. The town also hosts annual music festivals and weekly farmers markets at Farmin Park, featuring fresh produce, local foods, and handmade crafts. The Cedar Street Bridge Public Market provides a unique shopping experience in the Pacific Northwest for all who visit. With its natural beauty, welcoming community, and low crime rates, Sandpoint is an incredible place to settle down.
Weiser
Weiser is another peaceful town to settle in Idaho, home to about 6,000 residents. The town sits where the Weiser River meets the Snake River, stretching 103 miles. The Weiser River forms part of the natural border between Idaho and Oregon. Known as the “Fiddling Capital of the World,” Weiser hosts the annual National Oldtime Fiddlers’ Contest, where parades, music competitions, and campgrounds meet once a year. Rich in history and outdoor recreation, the town also features the Weiser River Trail, a former railroad bed that offers scenic hiking, biking, and horseback riding opportunities. This welcoming community provides a comfortable and secure environment for any family looking to settle down.
Preston
Located near the Utah border, this friendly community of about 5,000 people shows the rural side of Idaho life. Known for its small-town warmth and scenic valley setting, Preston is another city with violent crime below state and national averages. Outdoor lovers can explore Oneida Narrows Reservoir for fishing, kayaking, and swimming, while winter months bring nearby sledding. Gather friends and family and check out The Famous Preston Night Rodeo for a famous rode known as the first night rodeo in the world. Preston is also known as the filming location of the classic movie, Napoleon Dynamite, which attracts many fans to the movie's landmarks in the city. With its low crime rates, strong community spirit, and easy access to year-round recreation, Preston captures the quietness and safety of small-town Idaho living.
Safest Small Communities To Settle In Idaho
Idaho is consistently ranked as one of the safest states in the country, offering an ideal environment with peaceful communities perfect for settling down. With low crime rates and friendly neighbors, Idaho provides the perfect place for raising a family, enjoying retirement, or simply escaping the stress of city living. Whether you’re drawn to the scenic mountain towns or rural communities, Idaho creates a safe sense of belonging that’s hard to find elsewhere.
