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In America, there is never a shortage of picture-perfect portraits to get lost in. Through pristine lakes and sandy beaches, across mountains, winding rivers, and snaking valleys, retirees are lucky to have a wide array of retirement locations, especially if they live near the Western region.
While big cities like Idaho Falls, Boise, and Meridian may first come to mind (and rightfully so), let’s talk about the real gem—our pick as the best retirement destination in Idaho!
Why retire in Idaho?
Firstly, Idaho is purely a nature painting come alive. Seniors do not need a valid reason to look for retirement in Idaho. They must pack their bags and move to Idaho because this state is a literal gem! But if you require the reasons, let’s go cherry-picking on why The Gem State is such a catch!
1. Idaho is just every landscape painting comes alive
Idaho personifies every scenic painting you have encountered in your life. Cities like Twin Falls, Coeur d’Alene, Lewiston, Sandpoint, and Jerome are some of America’s most beautiful landscapes. Retirees who love the great outdoors (and hiking) will instantly fall in love with Idaho!
2. Never-ending attractions & activities
Living in Idaho is like being on a vacation. If the scenic beauty was not enough, here are the major attractions in Idaho that seniors will come to fall in love with (those who decide to move here, that is).
- Shoshone Falls (Niagara of the West)
- Craters of the Moon National Monument
- Sawtooth National Recreation Area
- Sun Valley
- Idaho State Capitol
- Snake River Canyon
- Coeur d’Alene (city)
3. A remnant of the old west
The bridge between the past and present connects us and offers a pathway to the future. Corny as it sounds, the past of Idaho is nestled amidst a rich history (old wild west) that is enough to stimulate seniors, especially history buffs.
4. The grass is greener during golden hours
Seniors looking to retire in the heart of Idaho will find the grass to be much greener when it comes to their golden years. Like Florida, Idaho offers something unique regarding charming and idyllic retirement homes.
5. Golfing paradise for seniors
But of course, this gem of Idaho should be mentioned separately because its appeal is on another level. Idaho is home to some of the best golf courses in the US, and seniors can flex their muscles while teeing up their game on the grass!
And speaking of golfing (something to spark the interests of seniors), let’s take a look at why we chose the following location as the best place for seniors to retire in Idaho!
Coeur d’Alene
If you want your golden years to read anything like a Jane Austen novel, then this is the city to live in. With a population of around 59,000 inhabitants, Coeur d’Alene is an emerald that is a reflection of the Gem State! From some of the most breathtaking natural beauty to the best retirement homes in the town, retirees looking to settle down in Coeur d’Alene will find the peaceful serenity they have been searching for.
Despite the cost of retirement living, which is relatively high (for example, assisted living communities will cost over $7,000 and nursing homes will set you back at least $10,000 a month), should not be a factor to put you off from considering this natural gem. For those who prefer a smaller city with a town-like reflection, with peace and quiet, this gem of a location can offer more than the expensive stats it shows on paper.
Think of it this way: a Mercedes may cost more than a Toyota, but it offers an entirely different riding experience.
Activities and attractions in Coeur d’Alene for retirees:
- Relax by the Lake: Enjoy stunning views, boating, fishing, or just soaking up the sun.
- Explore nature: Hike Tubbs Hill, bike the Centennial Trail or simply wander through parks.
- Golf paradise: Tee off on world-class courses, including Floating Green.
- Cultural delights: Visit museums and art galleries and enjoy the charming downtown area.
- Wellness and spa: Pamper yourself with massages, facials, and other relaxing treatments.
- Outdoor adventures: Try kayaking, paddle boarding, or even parasailing for a thrill.
- Winter wonderland: Experience snowy landscapes, cozy cafes, and winter sports.
- Wine tasting: Explore local wineries and savor delicious Idaho wines.
We were featured on Redfin’s bucket list article for new residents of Coeur d’Alene, ID. Check out the blog article here!
More best places to retire in Idaho
More best places to retire in IdahoYes, while Coeur D’Alene is our pick as the top retirement destination in Idaho for retirees, there are other locations of similar beauty to consider. Here are 3 of the best cities in Idaho to retire to!
1. Idaho falls
Population: 69,450
With natural beauty, a well-structured city, and an abundance of attractions, seniors will love the modern and historic charm of Idaho Falls. This is no doubt one of the best places to retire in Idaho.
2. Boise
Population: 240,713
The state capital is no doubt one of the best places to live in Idaho for retirees. For one, seniors can expect to reap the benefits of capital city amenities. Two, too many great retirement communities here!
3. Meridian
Population: 139,422
Meridian offers a delightful blend of urban amenities and a close-knit community, making it an appealing choice for retirees seeking an active and fulfilling lifestyle.
What are the pros and cons of retiring in Idaho?
As with every city and state, living there has advantages and disadvantages, especially for retirement. No place is perfect, but the ideal location is the one that is right for you! So before you decide on retiring in the picturesque Gem State, here is what you should know!
Pros
- Idaho’s majestic mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and picturesque landscapes offer endless opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Idaho boasts a relatively low cost compared to many other retirement destinations, allowing retirees to make the most of their savings.
- Idaho provides a vibrant and engaging lifestyle for retired individuals with abundant hiking trails, fishing spots, golf courses, and skiing resorts.
- From local art galleries to music festivals and theater performances, Idaho fosters a thriving cultural scene.
- Idaho is a friendly state, and Idahoans are known for their warm hospitality. This will make retirees feel welcome and help them be involved in a strong sense of community.
Cons
- Idaho experiences cold winters and heavy snowfall in certain regions, which may not be ideal for retirees who prefer milder climates.
- Some remote areas of Idaho may need more healthcare facilities, requiring longer travel distances for specialized medical care.
- Popular tourist destinations in Idaho can become crowded during peak seasons, affecting the tranquility and serenity retirees may seek.
- Idaho’s higher altitude can pose challenges for individuals with certain health conditions or those who are not accustomed to high elevation.
- Idaho has a relatively homogenous population, which may result in little diversity in terms of cultural experiences and perspectives.
Top 15 retirement communities in Idaho
Our list for you today is based on the reviews and facilities provided by the best retirement communities. Here are the best retirement communities you can call your next home if you retire in The Gem State!
Best 7 retirement communities
With 12 cottages for active older adults, 87 well-structured suites for independent living, and 66 for assisted living for those needing extra help with daily activities, the Morningstar of Idaho Falls can be the best doors to walk through for retirement!
At Veranda retirement community, seniors can live life on their terms. This community cannot offer anything from spacious living accommodations, convenient transportation, engaging activities, a fully equipped gym, on-site salon services, and chef-prepared meals.
Beauty and grace, wrapped in an embrace, should be the motto of The Renaissance at Coeur Dalene! This retirement community boasts an impressive architectural design that projects elegance and sophistication. If you are looking for a luxurious retirement against a serene backdrop, visit The Renaissance At Coeur Dalene.
Situated in the vibrant city of Boise is Brookdale Boise Parkcenter, an exceptionally well-known name in senior living communities. Like all their facilities across America, Brookdale Boise Parkcenter architecture blends seamlessly with the surrounding landscape. Residents, on top of engaging activities and other relevant support, can experience actual retirement living here for the better.
Family Resource Home Care in Meridian is a home care agency offering personalized care and support in the comfort of seniors’ homes. With dedicated and compassionate caregivers who ensure seniors’ safety, well-being, and overall quality of life, this is one place worth looking into.
North Star retirement community’s architecture combines contemporary design and rustic charm, creating a visually appealing and cozy atmosphere for residents. With its well-appointed residences and scenic surroundings, North Star Retirement Community offers seniors a peaceful and enjoyable atmosphere to savor their retirement years.
If you are looking at assisted living, independent living, and memory care services, then look no further than Touchmark at Meadowlake Village. Residents will have the advantage of experiencing a maintenance-free living to make the most of their day in a resort-like environment!
Honorable mentions
It was to leave out some excellent retirement homes across major cities in Idaho but trust us when we say the following three undeniably fall among the top 10.
Cost of retiring in Idaho
Now that you know about the top facilities across the best locations in Idaho, let us take a walk at the best question that comes before anything else; the cost of retiring! For those who do not know, Idaho is ideally affordable for retirement. See for yourself!
Assisted living – $4,072
Nursing home (private room) – $9,681
Nursing home (semi-private room) – $9,036
In-home care (homemaker services) – $5,765
Any tax benefits for seniors in Idaho?
Retirement is a journey best lived when one sets foot on this path. And like any pathway, it will not be smooth or straight. One of the lingering nuances that seniors face and must deal with are the pebbles, otherwise known as taxes! Tax is a troubling pebble that often stands in the way of a great retirement!
Retiring in Idaho taxes can have a significant impact on your financial planning. But the good news for older adults looking to cut a gem of retirement living from Idaho is that the state is tax-friendly towards retired individuals! Idaho does not tax Social Security benefits, allowing seniors to retain more of their income during retirement. Isn’t it great?
But if you want to dig deep and unearth a jewel of financial knowledge to help make your retirement gleam even more, then read the articles below!
Final thoughts
The best of gems are found in the hardest of roughs and Coeur D’Alene, Idaho represents a literal example of that. In a region, brimming with natural beauty, retirees looking to move to Coeur D’Alene is not compromising on their golden hour. Rather they are trading up on their retirement dreams.
But even if Coeur d’Alene is not to your liking, there are equally picture perfect locations to retire to in the Gem State! While you ponder over the content of this article at the back of your mind, why not try the following reads?
- Meditation for seniors
- Yoga for the elderly
- Core strength exercise for seniors
- Martial arts for seniors
FAQs
Is Idaho a good state to retire in?
Yes, Idaho is a wonderful state to retire in. Keeping aside its natural beauty, outdoor recreation opportunities, and welcoming retirement communities, Idaho offers a fulfilling journey for seniors looking to retire within affordable means.
Is it expensive to retire in Idaho?
While costs vary depending on location and other factors like amenities provided by retirement communities, Idaho offers a lower living cost than many other states. For example, nursing home services are affordable compared to other states. Housing, healthcare, and everyday expenses are more affordable.
Is Boise, Idaho, a good place to retire to?
The capital of Idaho, Boise, offers an exceptional environment for retired individuals. The city has a vibrant cultural scene, with some excellent healthcare facilities and many retirement communities. The climate in Boise, Idaho, is also well-suited for seniors. The monthly cost of home care is around $6,068, while assisted living is below $3,900.
Why are so many people moving to Idaho?
People are drawn to Idaho for its natural beauty and affordable living atmosphere. The tax is friendly towards retirees, and there is a strong sense of community. Idaho’s thriving economy, job opportunities, and lower population density also contribute to its demand as a place to live and retire.
Why is Idaho a good state to live in?
Idaho offers a high quality of life without breaking the bank. The Gem State, literary and figurately named, is painted with stunning landscapes, recreational opportunities, and a strong sense of community. There are ample job opportunities for professionals. As a state, Idaho thrives as a healthy community that is becoming ideal for people of all ages.
