5 Best Places in Idaho to RetireThough Florida and Arizona are popular states that draw retirees, the Gem State outranks the rest as one of the best places to retire in the US. More and more native Idahoans are choosing to stay after retiring and, in an interview with the Post Register, an Idaho Department of Labor spokesman revealed that the last few years have seen a large migration of retirees coming into the state, as well. No taxes on Social Security and Idaho's low cost of home ownership and low cost of living compared to other states is what attracts seniors from all corners of the U.S. Plus, Idaho's retirement environment is enhanced by the fact that every city in the state offers access to the Gem State's natural beauty and adventurous outdoor lifestyle that includes camping, fishing, hiking, biking, skiing, snowshoeing, and more.

We're a big state, too--there are over 83,000 square miles and more than 200 cities to choose from when considering where to spend your golden years when you retire here. If you need some help deciding, here is a list if the best cities to retire in Idaho.

5. Coeur d'Alene--Lake City

Coeur d'Alene, IdahoNestled amid dozens of glacial lakes, Coeur d'Alene is a beautiful place that adds boating and water sports to the typical Idaho pastimes. The cost of living is 5 percent lower than the national average, and the housing market is stable, both of which contribute to its high livability score of 76. Amenities abound, too, with a golf course, city blocks full of shopping, and the Jewett House and Lake City Center offering tons of senior activities.

4. Twin Falls--Hub of the Magic Valley

The central location of Twin Falls is what makes it one of the best cities to retire in Idaho. Retirees can soak in the local wonders of Dierkes Lake, Shoshone Falls, and Twin Falls Canyon, but other Idaho pleasures are just an hour or two away in any direction. The livability score is a nice high 78, with a secure housing market exemplifying Idaho's low cost of home ownership, and the cost of living is 10 percent below the national average. Twin Falls gets an A+ for extracurriculars, too, with access to national forests, historical landmarks, and an abundance of places to shop, dine, and enjoy retirement.

3. Moscow--Heart of the Arts

Moscow, IdahoAs a picturesque college community that manages to maintain a small-town vibe, Moscow is a delightful place to retire. Boasting a cost of living 4 percent lower than the national average, it ranks number 4 in the state with a livability score of 81. Moscow's small-town friendliness belies its actual size, however. The artistic community is active, offering plenty to keep retirees entertained including an annual Jazz Festival, summer theater, and live music.

2. Pocatello--Smile City

Pocatello is another college town that makes the list of the best places to retire in the US. The livability score is high at 78, and it's very affordable with a cost of living 15 percent below the national average. Idaho State University offers unlimited special classes for seniors for one low fee each semester, and retirees can otherwise spend time at the zoo, the Idaho Museum of Natural History, or taking advantage of Outdoor Adventures, another ISU program.

1. Meridian--Of Course!

Meridian, IdahoNaturally, Meridian Idaho is the best city to retire in Idaho, and it's not a biased choice, either. Meridian has landed on many different "best" lists over the years. It ranks number one in the state and, like our other retirement picks, the cost of living is lower than the national average, neighborhood listings are plentiful, earning it a score of 84 for livability. In addition to the beautiful setting and access to the enviable Idaho outdoors, Meridian offers the best of everything for retirees. It's a small town with a friendly community and amenities of its own such as shopping, restaurants, historical museums, art galleries, and a dairy festival held every July. Meridian Idaho house listings are showing strong growth with many retirement communities available. When you're in the mood for some big-city entertainment, though, Meridian is just minutes away from Boise and all of the sports, theater, and other metropolitan offerings the state capital provides.

The team at Stewart Realty knows homes and they know Southwest Idaho real estate. To find out more about real estate in the Boise Region give Jeff Stewart at Stewart Realty a call to set up your personal real estate search, a personal tour of the area and find some great homes that fit your needs and budget.

Compose Your Personal MLS Search With Us:
http://StewartRealtyllc.com or http://HomesInMeridian.com

Jeff Stewart, Broker/Owner 208-602-1993 or jeff@stewartrealtyllc.com