Boise, Idaho is the capital and the biggest city in the state. Known as the City of Trees, Boise is situated in the southwest corner of the state at an altitude of 2,704 feet above sea level. Combined with Nampa and Meridian, the Boise metropolitan area has everything a city-dweller might want, including a lively downtown area with a plethora of cultural and social activities.
Boise is a relatively flat area, with mountains close by. The nearby foothills are a great place to get away from the hustle and bustle and find a quiet place to unwind. Boise occupies 64 square miles and comprises several main areas, including The Bench, The North End, West Boise, Southeast Boise, Harris Ranch, and Downtown. Each of these neighborhoods in Boise offers unique spaces in terms of city and suburban life.
One of the most important factors to any family looking to relocate is quality schools. With a thriving school district, Boise is very family-friendly. Those who want to do so can continue their education at Boise State University and technical schools. Boise is becoming a popular place in the United States to live.
There are many contributing factors to what makes Boise, Idaho such a great place to live. From the low crime rates to the great schools, Boise offers nothing but the best to potential homeowners. The city attracts all, from young professionals to growing families seeking their next home. On top of all that, there are so many great neighborhoods in Boise to choose from! The following is a list of some of the best neighborhoods found in Boise, Idaho, along with a few examples of the incredible amenities and features they offer.
Boise Bench
Located in the northern section of the city, Boise Bench is an established neighborhood that is popular among Idahoans. The borders of this area are Cole Road to the west, Garden City to the north, and Federal Way to the east. It was named because it appears like a step or bench at 60 feet higher in altitude than downtown.
Boise Bench is conveniently located near Interstate 184 for easy commutes, yet has a close-knit feel surrounded by mature trees.
Boise Bench Real Estate
The Bench offers a variety of home choices, ranging from older homes to newer styles. A great deal of homes were built in the 1940s and 1950s which give the area its charm. There are a wide variety of real estate to choose from including apartments and detached, single-family homes. There are smaller starter homes and spacious larger dwellings, perfect for families of all sizes. Boise Bench comprises many subdivisions, each offering a unique style.
The median home price for existing homes in this area is $369,900, with custom built, new construction homes average a higher price of $415,000. Best neighborhoods are Boise Depot Bench with great views and Hillcrest, which features a renowned golf course.
Boise Bench Schools
Boise Bench is served by the Boise School District. They pride themselves on providing quality STEM education and a college preparatory-focused curriculum.
There are 33 elementary schools, 8 junior high schools, and 5 senior high schools in the metropolitan area that serve more than 26,000 students.
Top schools in Boise Bench include Hawthorne Elementary, Monroe Elementary, South Junior High School, and Borah Senior High School. Notable private schools are Sacred Heart School for pre-kindergarten through 8th grade and Sheridan Academy for 8th through 12th grades.
Boise Bench Amenities
Boise Bench has everything you need in a neighborhood. There are eateries of all kinds, specialty shops, and more. The Capital City Public Market is open from April to December and features local artists as well as fresh produce. If you are a comic book fan, Captain Comics is the best there is with free subscription services.
The close proximity to Boise State University and downtown Boise makes this area popular among college students as well as those who work in the city. The theatre company and variety of museums ensure that you are never without cultural options.
In addition, there is the Boise Train Depot, Platt Gardens, and plenty of parks for recreation. Ann Morrison Park hosts a huge Fourth of July celebration and Chalk Art Festival with fun for the entire family.
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Boise North End
The North End neighborhood is ranked high in the area for young professionals and is one of the best neighborhoods to raise a family. It is defined as north of State Street and includes the area from the Boise River through downtown to Hyde Park and Camel's Back Park out to the Old Idaho State Penitentiary.
North End was the city's first suburban development. There are many tree-lined drives such as Harrison Boulevard. It is close to the downtown area and outdoor life with many restaurants and a variety of other businesses. It is one of the best Boise neighborhoods.
North End Real Estate
Homes for sale in the North End have a dense suburban feel. The median home value is $392,443. There are historical houses built between the late 1800s and 1940s and new construction, but the neighborhoods blend together well. The area is quiet, safe, and diverse.
There are more elaborate homes found on Harrison Boulevard, where more mansions and tree-lined streets make for a beautiful site. This area is also a major Halloween trick-or-treat destination for local families. Whether you're looking for a charming historical home or a brand new custom-built design, the North End has you covered!
North End Schools
North End falls within the Boise School District. The top public schools serving this neighborhood include Longfellow Elementary School, Highland Elementary School, Roosevelt Elementary School, North Junior High School, and Boise Senior High School.
Private schools in the area include St. Joseph's Catholic School and the Children’s School of Boise.
North End Amenities
North End is a place you can get around easily without a car as it is walking and bike-friendly with greenbelts and parks throughout the neighborhood. You are also very close to the foothills for a longer nature hike. A must visit is Camels Back Park with open play areas, an outdoor gym, playground, tennis, and volleyball courts. There are dozens of other smaller parks in the area. Hyde Park is the place to go for dining, shops, and services, with the Hyde Park Street Fair taking place each fall.
The area has been designated a Boise Historic Preservation District, and the North End Neighborhood Association (NENA) works to preserve the character of the area. Be sure to check out the Old Idaho Penitentiary where some of the West’s notorious criminals were kept around the turn of the century.
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Harris Ranch
Harris Ranch is located on the east side of Boise. It is a 1,300 acre master-planned community that is designed to balance development, environmental protection, wildlife habitat, and historic significance. Tucked between the Boise Foothills and the Boise River, there are endless trails that make this a pedestrian dream.
This picturesque neighborhood features affordable homes, grand luxury developments, and a tranquil atmosphere that you won't find deeper within the city. With all of these excellent features, Harris Ranch is the perfect place to look for you next home!
Harris Ranch Real Estate
The average home price in Harris Ranch is $699,900, with homes ranging from $250,000 to over $1 million. Most of the homes are newer construction and feature top-of-the-line appliances and materials. There are smaller homes and quite large ones as well, perfect to meet the needs of all lifestyles and budgets. Most homes have 3-4 bedrooms and 1-3 bathrooms, which is the perfect size for a growing family! The diversity found within Harris Ranch is just one of the many reasons why it's considered one of the best Boise neighborhoods.
Harris Ranch Schools
Harris Ranch is served by the Boise School District. The schools closest to this area are Roosevelt Elementary School, Riverside Elementary School, North Junior High School, East Junior High School, Timberline High School, and Boise Senior High School. Riverstone International School is a pre-kindergarten through 12th grade private school.
Harris Ranch Amenities
Harris Ranch is easy to walk around as well as drive. There are plenty of small parks and walking/biking paths. Green spaces connect neighborhoods and create a sense of community. There is easy access to the Boise Greenbelt and the Boise River for a day of rafting or fly-fishing. Plenty of restaurants and shops are scattered throughout the area for locals to explore. The Warm Springs Golf Course is a short drive as well as Bown Crossing (a shopping/business center). Your local cultural needs are met with an annual Shakespeare Festival.
If you’d like to get away for the weekend, hop on Highway 21 and head into the central Idaho mountains, the Boise River and the Boise Foothills. Harris Ranch is centrally located and the easy access to major Idaho roadways provides ample opportunity for exploring all that this great state has to offer.
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Related Post: The Ultimate Guide To Living In And Moving To Boise, Idaho
Southeast Boise
This upscale area extends from Boise State University to Micron Technology between Federal Way and the Boise River. Residents have access to many outdoor activities, as well as one of the newer subdivisions at Bown Crossing that features beautiful, new construction homes. Located close to Boise Downtown Boise, State University, the Greenbelt, and Interstate 84, this area is a great location to make your home base.
Southeast Boise Real Estate
One of the most desirable places to live in the Boise area, the median home price in Southeast Boise is $475,000. Homes range from over $200,000 to a high of $2.9 million. Many of the homes are newer construction and feature high-quality appliances and the top market trends. Potential homeowners can also choose from a selection of starter homes and luxury homes situated on scenic riverfront or golf course properties. The most popular neighborhoods are Bown Crossing and Columbia Village. Superior Ridge has more modern homes, while Surprise Valley has valley views and stately homes. There's a little something for all tastes and design preferences in this gorgeous Boise neighborhood.
Southeast Boise Schools
Two subdivisions in southeast Boise, Columbia Village and Oregon Trail Heights, were designed to allow children to walk to the elementary and middle school from all homes. Add to the fact that they are also very close to major highways for easy commutes, and this place is perfect for the entire family.
Top public schools in the area include Sage International Charter School, Riverside Elementary School, Trail Wind Elementary School, East Junior High School, and Timberline High School. A notable private school for pre-kindergarten through 3rd grade is New Horizons Acad-E Boise.
Southeast Boise Amenities
Southeast Boise is home to Bown Crossing which has ponds, retail, and restaurant options. Southeast Boise provides easy access to the Oregon Trail, a 2,170-mile wagon route that goes from Missouri into Oregon. This trail is a great place to study pioneer history while fulfilling your hiking needs, checking both educational and physical boxes for young and old!
A new park in Southeast Boise broke ground in the spring of 2021. A 24.62 acre space features a dog park, skateboard plaza, bocce ball court, playground, and plenty of green space. This newly completed park is the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Visitors can enjoy the play areas, pack a picnic to eat with friends and family, or just sit and take in all the natural beauty of Mother Nature.
Other notable area spots are Boise State University, Barber Park and Simplot Sports Complex, which offers 161 acres of green space for walking, sports, and other recreation. Lucky Peak Lake is 10 minutes away and offers a sandy beach for hot summer days.
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Downtown Boise is a quick drive for exciting cultural and nightlife choices. There's plenty to see, do, and taste in the Downtown core, so no matter what you're looking for, you'll be sure to indulge in one thing or another!
Downtown Boise
For those who want to live in the heart of the city, Downtown Boise has a great selection of condos and lofts as well as some trendy high-rise buildings. Great restaurants, nightlife, culture, and the arts are just steps away from your door. Living in the middle of all the action is the perfect lifestyle for any urbanite hoping to soak in all that the city has to offer, from the top-trending restaurants to the cutest local boutiques.
Downtown Boise Real Estate
Downtown Boise is made up of mostly condos and high-rise lofts in the center of town. The median price is $585,000 but listing prices can go as high as $2 million for a large loft with 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, and over 4,000 square feet in a premier building. These modern buildings are ideal for those who thrive on busy city life and have a flair for big-city living.
Downtown Boise Schools
Downtown Boise is served by the Boise School District. Top-rated schools close to downtown include Roosevelt and Longfellow Elementary Schools, North Junior High School, and Boise Senior High School. Notable private school options are Foothills School of Arts & Sciences, The Keystone School, and K12 International Academy.
Downtown Boise Amenities
Downtown Boise is home to the Idaho State House, the Boise Art Museum (BAM), and the Egyptian Theatre. There are also many art galleries and performance venues to satisfy your cultural cravings. Cafes, restaurants, and coffee shops are all within a few minutes walk.
Downtown Boise has many hidden gems, including Eighth Street Alley that has many breweries and restaurants. It can be a great place to people watch. The Basque Museum and Cultural Center is a unique look at the Basque people and heritage. With over 16,000 Basque people living in Boise, the Basque block is an opportunity to immerse yourself in another culture. The Idaho Anne Frank Human Rights Memorial will keep life in perspective.
Boise Little Theater is another great asset with many performances throughout the year. The theater, Idaho's longest running, volunteer-oriented community theater, has run for over 70 years and produces plays of all genres; from contemporary and classical to comedies to dramas to music.
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Find Your Perfect Spot in Boise
These are just a sample of what awaits potential homeowners of Boise, Idaho, just a taste of some of the best neighborhoods to be explored. Whether you are young or old, have a family or are single, work from home or commute, or are looking for culture or outdoors, Boise has a neighborhood to suit all your specific needs and wants. Boise is a diverse area with a place for everyone. From single-family homes to condos, your perfect dream home is waiting for you. Keep these beautiful Boise neighborhoods in mind when searching for your new home. I’m sure you will find your perfect spot!
The Templeton Real Estate Group, located in Boise Idaho is a highly skilled and knowledgeable team of TOP BOISE REAL ESTATE professionals. As a FULL SERVICE real estate brokerage, our mission is to provide you, our clients with the pinnacle of service, staging and redesign expertise, as well as top notch real estate marketing when buying or selling your Boise Home.
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