9 Charming Small Towns in Idaho You’ll Want to Call Home
2 weeks ago
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If you’re thinking about moving to Idaho, bustling cities like Boise or Idaho Falls might come to mind. However, this state has much more to offer. From quaint downtowns to festivals that bring the community together, Idaho’s small towns are perfect for anyone looking to experience what life is like in its quieter corners. In this Redfin article, we’ll discuss 9 charming small towns in Idaho, each with their own unique character and plenty of reasons to call home.
Blackfoot is known as the “Potato Capital of the World.” The town proudly celebrates this title with the Idaho Potato Museum, a must-visit spot for a fun look into the state’s famous crop. Located in southeastern Idaho, Blackfoot combines agricultural heritage with small-town charm. The Eastern Idaho State Fair, held every September, is a major event in the area with rides, exhibits, and, of course, plenty of delicious food. Living in Blackfoot means being part of a community that values tradition and enjoys a relaxed pace of life, all while being surrounded by beautiful rural landscapes.
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Sandpoint is located on the shores of Lake Pend Oreille. It’s a hidden gem in northern Idaho that offers stunning natural beauty and a dynamic arts scene. The town is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with opportunities for skiing at Schweitzer Mountain Resort in the winter and boating, fishing, and hiking during the warmer months. Sandpoint’s downtown is full of character, with local shops, cafes, and galleries that showcase the town’s creative spirit. The annual Sandpoint Winter Carnival is a highlight, featuring everything from parades to live music, making Sandpoint a lively place to live and visit year-round.
Driggs, located in Teton Valley, is a small town with big mountain views and a welcoming community. Just a short drive from Grand Targhee Resort, Driggs is a paradise for skiers, hikers, and nature lovers. The town’s downtown area is charming, with a mix of local restaurants, boutiques, and art galleries that reflect the creative energy of the area. Additionally, Driggs hosts the Teton Valley Balloon Rally, where colorful hot air balloons fill the sky every summer, drawing visitors from all over.
Rupert is a town steeped in history, known for its beautifully preserved town square, which is a rare find in the West. The square is the heart of the community, surrounded by historic buildings that house local businesses and cafes. Every July, Rupert comes alive with the Rupert Fourth of July Celebration, a week-long event filled with parades, fireworks, and fun. The town’s friendly atmosphere and heritage make it a wonderful place to experience the charm of small-town Idaho.
Known for its friendly community and rich agricultural heritage, Payette is surrounded by orchards and farmlands that give the town a peaceful, rural vibe. Each year, the town comes alive during the Payette County Fair, where locals gather to celebrate with livestock shows, rodeos, and homemade treats. The nearby Payette River provides plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures like fishing, boating, and hiking.
Weiser is famous for its fiddle music, hosting the National Oldtime Fiddlers’ Contest and Festival every June. In fact, Weiser, often called the “Fiddle Capital of the World.” But there’s more to this town than just fiddling—it has a cute downtown area with historic buildings, local shops, and friendly cafes where everyone knows your name. Additionally, the Weiser River Trail offers a scenic route for hiking and biking, making it easy to enjoy the natural beauty that surrounds the town.
Preston might be best known as the filming location for the cult classic “Napoleon Dynamite.” Fans still visit the town to see the real-life spots from the film to this day. Besides that, Preston also hosts the annual That Famous Preston Night Rodeo. This is a big event in the area, bringing in visitors from across the region for a weekend of rodeo excitement and small-town fun. With its picturesque surroundings and friendly vibe, Preston is a place where you can truly experience the life of small-town Idaho.
American Falls is a town with a unique history, having been relocated in the 1920s to make way for the American Falls Reservoir. Today, it’s a close-knit community that has stunning views of the Snake River and plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation. The town is home to Massacre Rocks State Park, a spot known for its dramatic rock formations, scenic hiking trails, and history dating back to the Oregon Trail. American Falls also hosts the annual Power County Fair, where residents come together to celebrate with exhibits, rides, and local food.
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Ketchum is a picturesque town in the Wood River Valley. The town is known for its stunning mountain scenery and close proximity to the world-famous Sun Valley Resort. At the resort, you can hit the slopes in the winter or enjoy hiking and mountain biking in the summer. Ketchum’s lively downtown is filled with art galleries, boutique shops, and gourmet restaurants, making it a hub of creativity. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or an art lover, Ketchum offers a perfect mix of adventure and culture.
Methodology: The median home sale price and average monthly rental data is from the Redfin Data Center.
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