Idaho Military Retirement: Best Cities, Housing Costs & Affordable Living Reality 2025
Where to retire in Idaho as a veteran: Boise vs smaller cities, housing costs by location, VA healthcare access, Mountain Home AFB proximity, and honest assessment of who can afford each area.
Idaho Military Retirement: Best Cities, Housing Costs & Affordable Living Reality 2025
Idaho offers veterans complete military retirement income tax exemption, up to $1,500 property tax reduction for 100% disabled veterans, and a cost of living just 2-5.5% above the national average. But Idaho is no longer the undiscovered affordable gem it was five years ago. Boise's median home price has exploded from $300K (2019) to $500K-$547K (2025) - a 67-80% increase driven by California, Washington, and Oregon transplants fleeing high-cost coastal states.
Choosing where to live in Idaho matters enormously. Boise offers VA medical center, federal jobs at Mountain Home AFB, and urban amenities but expensive housing. Smaller cities like Pocatello, Idaho Falls, and Twin Falls deliver affordability ($320K-$370K median homes) with quality of life, but limited VA services and employment. North Idaho (Coeur d'Alene) is beautiful but even more expensive than Boise.
This guide ranks Idaho's best areas for veterans with brutal honesty about housing costs, employment reality, and who can actually afford each location in 2025.
Bottom Line Up Front
Best overall for veterans: Boise metro area (jobs, VA medical center, services, but expensive housing) Best for federal employment: Boise/Meridian/Nampa (proximity to Mountain Home AFB, INL, federal agencies) Most affordable: Pocatello (median home $318K-$335K, most affordable major city) Best for retirees on fixed income: Idaho Falls or Twin Falls (affordable, VA clinics, decent services) Best for outdoor lifestyle: Coeur d'Alene or Boise (if you can afford it) Hidden gem: Twin Falls (affordable, good services, underrated)
Median home price range: $318K (Pocatello) to $575K (Coeur d'Alene) Cost of living: Boise 5-10% above national average, smaller cities at or below national average Reality check: Unless you have $80K+ household income (Boise) or $60K+ (smaller cities), combined with 100% VA disability or dual income, you'll need to be strategic about location to afford Idaho comfortably.
The Fundamental Decision: Boise Metro vs. Smaller Cities
Before diving into specific cities, understand the fundamental trade-off:
Boise Metro Area (Ada County + Canyon County)
Population: 750,000+ (Boise-Nampa-Meridian metro area) Veteran population: ~60,000 (50%+ of Idaho's veterans)
Pros:
- VA medical center (only full-service facility in Idaho)
- Most federal jobs (Mountain Home AFB, federal agencies)
- Best private sector job market
- Three colleges/universities (Boise State, College of Western Idaho)
- Urban services and amenities
- International airport (direct flights to major cities)
- Largest veteran community
- Four-season outdoor recreation (skiing 1 hour, desert 30 minutes)
Cons:
- Most expensive housing in Idaho ($500K-$547K median in Boise)
- Traffic congestion (I-84 and Eagle Road are nightmares at rush hour)
- Rapid growth (infrastructure struggling, schools overcrowded)
- Losing small-city feel
- Property taxes rising with home values
Smaller Cities (Idaho Falls, Pocatello, Twin Falls, Lewiston)
Combined population: ~200,000 Veteran population: ~30,000
Pros:
- Much more affordable housing ($320K-$370K median)
- Lower cost of living overall (at or below national average)
- Less traffic
- Slower pace of life
- Outdoor recreation access
- Smaller, tight-knit communities
- Better value for retired veterans on fixed income
Cons:
- Limited VA services (CBOCs only - primary care and mental health)
- Must travel to Boise for specialty VA care (2-4.5 hours)
- Very limited employment outside government and healthcare
- Smaller veteran communities
- Limited urban amenities
- Regional airports only (connecting flights required)
- Harsh winters (colder and longer than Boise)
The fundamental question: Do you need federal employment or regular VA specialty care? If yes to either, choose Boise. If you're retired with 100% disability, work remotely, or prioritize affordability, smaller cities become viable and attractive.
Top Cities/Areas for Veterans in Idaho
1. Boise/Meridian - "The Treasure Valley Capital"
Overall Grade: A-
Why it ranks #1: Boise offers the best combination of veteran services, employment, VA healthcare, and quality of life - but at California-style housing costs.
Veteran Population
- Boise metro veterans: 60,000+ (largest concentration in Idaho)
- Percentage: ~8% of adult population
- Military connection: Mountain Home AFB (40 miles southeast), Guard/Reserve units in Boise, strong veteran organizations
This is Idaho's largest veteran community by enormous margin, with robust support infrastructure.
Housing Market (2025)
Boise:
- Median single-family home: $500,000 - $547,000 (August 2025)
- Median condo: $350,000 - $400,000
- Property tax rate: 0.59% ($5.90 per $1,000)
- Property tax (without veteran reduction): ~$2,213/year on $500K home
- Property tax (100% disabled veteran): $713/year (save $1,500)
Meridian (Boise suburb, popular with families):
- Median home: $475,000 - $525,000
- Newer construction: Common (built 2000s-2020s)
- Property tax: Similar to Boise
Nampa (Boise suburb, more affordable):
- Median home: $406,000 - $490,000
- Working-class suburb: More affordable option
- Property tax rate: 0.85% (higher than Boise, Canyon County)
Rental market:
- Studio: $900 - $1,300/month
- 1BR: $1,200 - $1,600/month
- 2BR: $1,400 - $1,900/month
- 3BR house: $1,800 - $2,600/month
Historical context: Boise's median home was ~$300,000 in 2019. It's increased 67-80% in 5-6 years due to explosive in-migration (California, Washington, Oregon, Utah transplants).
Reality: Boise is no longer "cheap." A $500K home requires ~$100K+ household income to afford comfortably (using 30% housing cost rule). Military retirement alone won't cut it unless you're O-5+ or have 100% VA disability plus working spouse.
Cost of Living
- Overall index: 105-110 (5-10% above national average)
- Housing: 120-130 (20-30% above average, driving overall cost)
- Groceries: 100-105 (at or slightly above average, but tax-free)
- Utilities: 85-90 (below average - cheap electricity from hydro)
- Transportation: 105 (slightly above average)
Real costs:
- Gallon of milk: $3.50 - $4.50
- Dozen eggs: $3.00 - $4.50
- Gallon of gas: $3.20 - $3.80
- Monthly electricity (house): $100 - $150
- Monthly groceries (family of 4): $800 - $1,200
Employment Opportunities
Mountain Home Air Force Base (40 miles southeast):
- 1,600+ civilian positions
- Federal GS scale + locality
- Primary federal employer for Boise-area veterans
- 45-minute commute from Boise
Federal agencies in Boise:
- U.S. Forest Service (Region 4 HQ)
- Bureau of Land Management (Idaho State Office)
- Department of Veterans Affairs (Boise VA Medical Center)
- Social Security Administration
- Federal courts
- Total federal employment in Boise metro: 8,000+
State government: Idaho state capitol in Boise
- 18,000+ state employees statewide, majority in Boise
- Veteran hiring preference applies
- Average salary: $45K-$70K
Private sector:
- Micron Technology: 6,000+ employees (semiconductor manufacturing)
- St. Luke's Health System: 15,000+ employees statewide (HQ in Boise)
- Albertsons: Corporate headquarters
- Hewlett Packard: Regional office
- Tech startups: Growing scene (Cradlepoint, ClearWater, Kount)
Average salaries (Boise):
- Federal GS-9: $55,000 - $70,000
- Federal GS-12: $80,000 - $100,000
- State government: $45,000 - $70,000
- Private sector (skilled): $50,000 - $90,000
Unemployment rate: 2.8% (January 2025) - very low, indicating tight labor market
VA Healthcare Access
- Boise VA Medical Center: 500 W. Fort Street, Boise, ID 83702
- Phone: (208) 422-1000
- This is Idaho's only full-service VA medical center
- Services: Primary care, specialty care, surgery, mental health, diagnostic imaging, inpatient care
Best VA healthcare access in Idaho - if you need regular specialty care, Boise is essentially your only practical option unless you want to drive 2-4 hours each visit.
Wait times: 10-21 days primary care, 20-45 days specialty care (average to above-average for VA system)
Quality of Life
Climate: Four seasons, semi-arid
- Winter: 25-35°F (mild by Idaho standards), occasional snow
- Summer: 85-95°F (hot but low humidity, cools at night)
- Sunny 210+ days/year
- Low rainfall (~12 inches annually)
Outdoor recreation: Exceptional
- Skiing: Bogus Basin (45 minutes), Sun Valley (2.5 hours)
- Hiking: Boise Foothills (accessible from anywhere in city), Sawtooth Mountains (2 hours)
- Fishing: Boise River, Payette River, countless mountain lakes
- Whitewater rafting: Payette River (world-class)
- Mountain biking: Ridge to Rivers trail system (190+ miles)
- Hunting: Elk, deer, upland birds within 1 hour
Cultural amenities:
- Boise State football (college atmosphere)
- Downtown Boise (vibrant, walkable)
- Basque culture (largest Basque population outside Spain)
- Breweries and restaurants (100+ local breweries)
- Museums and performing arts
- Farmers markets
Urban infrastructure:
- International airport (Boise BOI) - direct flights to 30+ destinations
- Decent public transit (ValleyRide buses, though most residents drive)
- Shopping (Costco, Target, full retail)
- Healthcare (St. Luke's, St. Alphonsus - excellent hospitals)
Downsides:
- Traffic (growing problem - I-84, Eagle Road, Chinden congested)
- Rapid growth (schools overcrowded, infrastructure strained)
- Losing small-city charm
- Smoke in summer (wildfire season July-September)
- Allergy season (spring pollen, high desert)
Veteran community: Strong
- VFW posts
- American Legion
- Idaho Division of Veterans Services (main office)
- Student Veterans of America chapter at Boise State
- Informal veteran networks
Pros:
- Best job market in Idaho (federal, state, private)
- VA medical center (only one in Idaho)
- Largest veteran community
- Excellent outdoor recreation
- Urban amenities with mountain access
- International airport
- Four-season climate
- Strong economy
- Boise State University (GI Bill)
Cons:
- Expensive housing ($500K median home)
- Rising property taxes (even with $1,500 veteran reduction)
- Traffic congestion (getting worse)
- Rapid growth (infrastructure lagging)
- Smoke in summer (wildfire season)
- Competitive housing market (low inventory)
- Need $80K-$100K+ household income for comfortable living
Bottom line: Boise is the practical choice for Idaho veterans who need VA specialty care, federal employment, or urban services. Housing costs are high but offset by job opportunities and complete military retirement tax exemption. Choose Boise if you're working (especially at Mountain Home AFB or federal agencies) or need regular VA care. Requires dual income or substantial retirement/disability income to afford comfortably.
Who can afford Boise?
- Federal employees (GS-12+) + 100% disabled veteran
- Dual income households ($80K+ combined)
- O-4+ retirees with working spouse
- Remote tech workers with mainland salaries
- 100% disabled veterans with paid-off home
2. Idaho Falls - "The Nuclear City"
Overall Grade: B+
Why it ranks #2: Affordable housing, VA clinic, university, proximity to Idaho National Laboratory (federal jobs), and gateway to Yellowstone/Grand Teton - best combination of affordability and opportunity.
Veteran Population
- Idaho Falls area veterans: ~15,000
- Bonneville County: High military percentage due to INL (Idaho National Laboratory) and VA clinic
- Military connection: Idaho National Laboratory (nuclear research, security clearances), Guard/Reserve presence
Housing Market
- Median home: $350,000 (August 2025)
- Property tax rate: 0.82% ($8.20 per $1,000)
- Property tax (without veteran reduction): ~$2,238/year on $350K home
- Property tax (100% disabled veteran): $738/year (save $1,500)
Rental market:
- 1BR: $900 - $1,300/month
- 2BR: $1,000 - $1,400/month
- 3BR house: $1,400 - $1,900/month
30% more affordable than Boise - this is significant for military retirees.
Cost of Living
- Overall index: 93-95 (5-7% BELOW national average)
- Housing: More affordable than Boise by ~$150K
- Groceries: Similar to Boise
- Utilities: Similar (cheap hydro electricity)
Monthly expenses (family of 4): $4,000-$5,000 (vs. $5,000-$6,000 in Boise)
Employment
Idaho National Laboratory (50 miles west in desert):
- 5,700+ employees
- Nuclear research, national security
- Actively recruits veterans (especially with security clearances)
- Pay: $65K-$180K+ depending on role
- Requires commute to desert site (carpools common)
Federal jobs: INL dominates federal employment
Private sector:
- Melaleuca (health/wellness products): 2,000+ employees, major employer
- Healthcare: Eastern Idaho Regional Medical Center
- Retail and services: Regional shopping hub
Average salaries: $40K-$70K (lower than Boise but cost of living also lower)
VA Healthcare
- Idaho Falls VA Clinic: 2055 E. 5th Street, Idaho Falls, ID 83404
- Phone: (208) 529-0720
- Services: Primary care, mental health, lab, telehealth
- Limitation: No specialty care - must travel to Boise (280 miles, 4.5 hours) or Salt Lake City VA (200 miles, 3 hours)
Travel reimbursement available for VA care trips
Quality of Life
Climate: Four seasons, colder than Boise
- Winter: 10-25°F (cold, snowy - average 40 inches snow)
- Summer: 80-90°F (pleasant)
- Sunny ~200 days/year
Outdoor recreation: Outstanding
- Yellowstone National Park: 90 minutes
- Grand Teton National Park: 90 minutes
- Fishing: Snake River, Henry's Fork (world-famous fly fishing)
- Skiing: Grand Targhee (1.5 hours), Jackson Hole (2 hours)
- Hunting: Excellent access
- ATV/snowmobile: Public lands everywhere
Gateway to Yellowstone - unmatched recreational access
Cultural amenities:
- Idaho Falls downtown (small, walkable)
- Idaho State University (Pocatello, 1 hour south) - some programs in Idaho Falls
- Museums (Museum of Idaho)
- Minor league baseball (Idaho Falls Chukars)
- Regional shopping center
Airport: Idaho Falls Regional Airport (IDA) - limited flights (Salt Lake City, Denver connections required)
Pros:
- Affordable housing ($350K median, $150K less than Boise)
- VA clinic locally (primary care and mental health)
- Idaho National Laboratory (federal jobs with security clearances)
- Gateway to Yellowstone/Grand Teton
- Excellent fishing and outdoor recreation
- Lower cost of living (5-7% below national average)
- Family-friendly community
- Idaho State University satellite programs
- Growing city (adding services)
Cons:
- Cold winters (harsher than Boise)
- Limited VA services (must travel to Boise or Salt Lake for specialty care)
- Small private sector job market outside INL
- Limited cultural amenities
- Regional airport only (connecting flights)
- 280 miles from Boise (4.5 hours)
- Somewhat isolated
Bottom line: Idaho Falls is the best value for Idaho veterans who can work remotely, work at INL, or are retired on fixed income. Affordable housing ($150K less than Boise), VA clinic for routine care, and gateway to America's best national parks. Choose Idaho Falls if you want affordability, outdoor recreation, and small-city living. Be prepared for cold winters and occasional travel to Boise for specialty VA care.
Who can afford Idaho Falls?
- Any veteran with $60K+ household income
- INL employees (well-paid federal contractor work)
- Retirees with 100% VA disability
- Remote workers
- Dual income families
3. Pocatello - "Gate City" (Most Affordable)
Overall Grade: B
Why it ranks #3: Most affordable major city in Idaho, university town (Idaho State), VA clinic, but limited employment outside university and healthcare.
Veteran Population
- Pocatello area veterans: ~5,000-7,000
- Bannock County: University town, military-friendly
- Military connection: Idaho State University veteran programs, Guard presence
Housing Market
- Median home: $318,000 - $335,000 (cheapest major city in Idaho)
- Property tax rate: 0.69% ($6.90 per $1,000)
- Property tax (without veteran reduction): ~$1,749/year on $325K home
- Property tax (100% disabled veteran): $249/year (save $1,500)
Rental market:
- 1BR: $700 - $1,100/month
- 2BR: $900 - $1,300/month
- 3BR house: $1,200 - $1,700/month
$180K-$220K cheaper than Boise - game-changer for veterans on fixed income
Cost of Living
- Overall index: 90-93 (7-10% BELOW national average)
- Housing: Most affordable in Idaho
- Groceries: Similar to state average
- Utilities: Similar
Monthly expenses (family of 4): $3,500-$4,500 (significantly less than Boise)
Employment
Idaho State University: 2,500+ employees (faculty, staff, administration)
- Largest employer in Pocatello
- Veteran-friendly (veteran services center)
- GI Bill approved
Healthcare: Portneuf Medical Center (regional hospital)
Private sector: Limited - retail, services, small manufacturing
Average salaries: $35K-$60K (lower than Boise, but housing also much cheaper)
Unemployment: Higher than Boise (3.5-4%)
Reality: Limited jobs outside university, healthcare, and government. Best for retirees, remote workers, or those willing to commute to Idaho Falls (50 miles north).
VA Healthcare
- Pocatello VA Clinic: Limited services
- Phone: (208) 232-6214
- Most Pocatello veterans use Idaho Falls VA Clinic (50 miles north)
- For specialty care: Travel to Boise (230 miles, 3.5 hours)
Quality of Life
Climate: Four seasons, cold winters
- Winter: 15-30°F (cold, snowy - 40+ inches snow)
- Summer: 80-90°F
- High desert mountain valley
Outdoor recreation: Good
- Skiing: Pebble Creek Ski Area (30 minutes)
- Fishing: Blackfoot River, Portneuf River
- Hiking: Bannock Range
- Pocatello trails system
- Close to Idaho Falls/Yellowstone access
Cultural amenities:
- Idaho State University (athletic events, cultural events)
- Historic downtown Pocatello
- Museums (Idaho Museum of Natural History)
- Small-city amenities
Airport: Pocatello Regional Airport (PIH) - very limited service (connecting flights required)
Pros:
- Most affordable major city in Idaho ($318K-$335K median home)
- Lowest cost of living (7-10% below national average)
- University town (Idaho State)
- VA clinic nearby (Idaho Falls)
- Outdoor recreation access
- Quiet, small-city living
- Family-friendly
Cons:
- Very limited employment outside university
- Cold winters
- Limited VA services locally
- Small airport (limited flights)
- 3.5 hours from Boise
- Small private sector
- Limited cultural amenities
Bottom line: Pocatello is the choice for Idaho veterans prioritizing affordability over employment and services. Most affordable major city with university presence and acceptable quality of life. Choose Pocatello if you're retired on fixed income, work remotely, or can find employment at Idaho State University. Housing is $180K-$220K cheaper than Boise - massive advantage for veterans with limited income.
Who can afford Pocatello?
- Nearly any veteran with $50K+ household income
- Retired E-7 or above with 100% VA disability
- Remote workers
- Idaho State University employees
- Veterans prioritizing affordability
4. Twin Falls - "Magic Valley Hub"
Overall Grade: B
Why it ranks #4: Underrated gem - affordable, VA clinic, regional services, agricultural economy, but limited employment and isolated location.
Veteran Population
- Twin Falls area veterans: ~7,000-9,000
- Twin Falls County: Agricultural region, military-friendly
Housing Market
- Median home: $365,000 - $450,000
- Property tax rate: 0.69% ($6.90 per $1,000)
- Property tax (without veteran reduction): ~$1,963/year on $365K home
- Property tax (100% disabled veteran): $463/year (save $1,500)
More expensive than Pocatello, but still affordable compared to Boise
Rental market:
- 1BR: $800 - $1,200/month
- 2BR: $1,000 - $1,400/month
- 3BR house: $1,300 - $1,800/month
Cost of Living
- Overall index: 92-96 (4-8% below national average)
- Housing: Affordable
- Groceries: At average (agricultural region, local produce)
Employment
Agriculture-driven economy:
- Food processing (Chobani yogurt plant - major employer)
- Dairy farming
- Potato farming and processing
Healthcare: St. Luke's Magic Valley Medical Center
College of Southern Idaho: 2-year college, 8,000 students
Private sector: Limited outside agriculture
Average salaries: $35K-$65K
Reality: Agriculture and food processing dominate. Limited white-collar jobs.
VA Healthcare
- Twin Falls VA Clinic: 260 2nd Ave E, Twin Falls, ID 83301
- Phone: (208) 732-0959
- Services: Primary care, mental health, lab
- For specialty care: Boise (130 miles, 2 hours)
Best rural VA clinic access - Twin Falls is only 2 hours from Boise (vs. 3.5-4.5 hours for Pocatello/Idaho Falls)
Quality of Life
Climate: High desert, four seasons
- Winter: 20-35°F (mild for Idaho)
- Summer: 85-95°F (hot, dry)
- Sunny 220+ days/year
Outdoor recreation:
- Shoshone Falls (higher than Niagara Falls)
- Snake River Canyon (BASE jumping mecca)
- Fishing: Snake River
- Hiking: Snake River Canyon rim trails
- Skiing: Sun Valley (1.5 hours)
Cultural amenities:
- College of Southern Idaho (athletic events)
- Downtown Twin Falls
- Regional shopping hub
Airport: Twin Falls Airport (TWF) - limited service (Salt Lake City connections)
Pros:
- Affordable housing ($135K-$180K less than Boise)
- VA clinic locally
- Only 2 hours from Boise (best rural VA access)
- Lower cost of living
- Sunny climate (220+ days/year)
- Shoshone Falls and Snake River Canyon
- Regional services hub
- College of Southern Idaho
- Underrated - less discovered than Boise
Cons:
- Limited employment outside agriculture
- Hot summers
- Isolated (2+ hours from major cities)
- Small airport
- Agricultural economy (limited diversity)
- Limited cultural amenities
Bottom line: Twin Falls is the underrated choice for Idaho veterans seeking affordability with acceptable services. VA clinic is only 2 hours from Boise (better than Pocatello/Idaho Falls), housing is affordable, and climate is sunnier than northern Idaho. Choose Twin Falls if you're retired, work in agriculture, or work remotely. Hidden gem with best combination of affordability and Boise proximity.
Who can afford Twin Falls?
- Veterans with $55K+ household income
- Retirees with modest income
- Agriculture/food processing workers
- Remote workers
5. Coeur d'Alene - "North Idaho Gem" (Most Expensive)
Overall Grade: C+
Why it ranks #5: Stunningly beautiful but more expensive than Boise with no VA medical center, limited employment, and touristy.
Veteran Population
- Kootenai County veterans: ~15,000-18,000
- High veteran concentration: Military-friendly, conservative culture, popular with retirees
Housing Market
- Median home: $575,000 (most expensive major city in Idaho)
- Property tax rate: 0.52% ($5.20 per $1,000)
- Property tax (without veteran reduction): ~$2,340/year on $575K home
- Property tax (100% disabled veteran): $840/year (save $1,500)
More expensive than Boise - driven by California/Washington retirees and resort town status
Rental market:
- 1BR: $1,200 - $1,700/month
- 2BR: $1,400 - $2,000/month
- 3BR house: $2,000 - $2,800/month
Cost of Living
- Overall index: 110-115 (10-15% above national average, similar to Boise or higher)
- Housing: Most expensive in Idaho
- Resort town prices: Restaurants, services expensive
Employment
Tourism-driven economy:
- Resorts (Coeur d'Alene Resort)
- Restaurants
- Recreation/outdoor businesses
- Real estate
Healthcare: Kootenai Health (regional medical center)
Private sector: Limited outside tourism
Average salaries: $35K-$70K (lower than Boise despite higher costs)
Reality: Tourism jobs are low-paying. Limited professional employment. Most veterans retiring here have pensions, remote work, or substantial savings.
VA Healthcare
- No VA clinic in Coeur d'Alene
- Nearest: Spokane, Washington (30 miles west) - Mann-Grandstaff VA Medical Center
- Or travel to Boise (420 miles, 6.5 hours - not practical)
Most Coeur d'Alene veterans use Spokane VA (Washington system, not Idaho)
Quality of Life
Climate: Four seasons, lake climate
- Winter: 20-35°F (cold, snowy - 50+ inches snow)
- Summer: 75-85°F (perfect)
- Lake Coeur d'Alene moderates temperatures
Outdoor recreation: World-class
- Lake Coeur d'Alene (50-mile-long lake, boating, fishing)
- Skiing: Schweitzer Mountain (45 minutes), Silver Mountain (1 hour)
- Hiking: Countless trails
- Mountain biking: World-class
- Fishing: Trophy trout, bass
- Hunting: Excellent
One of most beautiful areas in America
Cultural amenities:
- Coeur d'Alene Resort and downtown
- Art galleries
- Restaurants (touristy, expensive)
- Summer tourism season (crowded June-August)
Airport: Spokane International Airport (GEG) - 30 miles west (major airport, good connections)
Pros:
- Stunningly beautiful (Lake Coeur d'Alene)
- Excellent outdoor recreation (skiing, boating, fishing)
- Four-season mountain resort lifestyle
- Conservative, military-friendly culture
- Spokane VA Medical Center nearby (30 miles)
- Spokane airport access
- Strong veteran community
Cons:
- Most expensive housing in Idaho ($575K median)
- Higher cost of living than Boise
- Very limited professional employment
- Tourism-driven economy (low wages)
- No VA clinic in Idaho (must use Spokane, WA)
- Crowded in summer (tourists)
- 6.5 hours from Boise (far from Idaho resources)
- Cold, snowy winters
Bottom line: Coeur d'Alene is for wealthy retirees or veterans with substantial income (remote work, pensions, investments). Most expensive housing in Idaho, limited employment, touristy. Choose Coeur d'Alene only if you can afford $575K+ homes and prioritize lake lifestyle and outdoor recreation over affordability. Not recommended for typical military retirees on fixed income.
Who can afford Coeur d'Alene?
- O-5+ retirees with substantial savings
- 100% disabled veterans with paid-off home
- Remote tech workers with mainland salaries
- Dual high-income households ($100K+ combined)
- Retirees with substantial pensions/investments
6. Nampa/Caldwell - "Affordable Boise Suburbs"
Overall Grade: B-
Why it ranks #6: More affordable than Boise, proximity to Mountain Home AFB, but higher property taxes (Canyon County) and less desirable than Boise/Meridian.
Housing Market
- Median home: $406,000 - $490,000 (more affordable than Boise)
- Property tax rate: 0.85% ($8.50 per $1,000) - highest in major Idaho counties
- Property tax (without veteran reduction): ~$2,635/year on $420K home
- Property tax (100% disabled veteran): $1,135/year (save $1,500)
Trade-off: Cheaper homes but higher property tax rate
Cost of Living
- Similar to Boise (5-8% above national average)
- Housing ~$80K-$100K cheaper than Boise
Employment
- Same as Boise (Mountain Home AFB, Boise jobs - 20-30 minute commute)
- Local: Retail, agriculture, food processing
Pros
- More affordable than Boise ($80K-$100K less)
- Proximity to Mountain Home AFB
- Access to Boise jobs and services
- Growing rapidly
Cons
- Higher property tax rate (0.85% vs. 0.59% in Boise)
- Less desirable than Boise/Meridian
- Traffic to Boise
- Fewer local services
Bottom line: Nampa/Caldwell is the compromise - cheaper than Boise, access to Boise jobs, but higher property taxes and less developed. Choose if you need Boise proximity but can't afford $500K Boise homes.
Housing Cost Comparison Summary
| Location | Median Home | Property Tax Rate | Property Tax (no exemption) | Property Tax (100% disabled) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Boise | $520K | 0.59% | $2,213/yr | $713/yr | Jobs, VA care |
| Meridian | $500K | 0.59% | $2,125/yr | $625/yr | Families, newer homes |
| Nampa | $450K | 0.85% | $2,635/yr | $1,135/yr | Affordability + Boise access |
| Idaho Falls | $350K | 0.82% | $2,238/yr | $738/yr | Balance of cost and services |
| Pocatello | $325K | 0.69% | $1,749/yr | $249/yr | Maximum affordability |
| Twin Falls | $365K | 0.69% | $1,963/yr | $463/yr | Underrated value |
| Coeur d'Alene | $575K | 0.52% | $2,340/yr | $840/yr | Wealthy retirees, resort lifestyle |
100% disabled veterans save $1,500 annually regardless of location (or entire tax bill if less than $1,500)
Decision Matrix: Where Should You Live?
Choose Boise/Meridian if:
- You work at Mountain Home AFB or federal agencies in Boise
- You need regular VA specialty care
- You want maximum job opportunities
- You prioritize urban services and amenities
- You can afford $500K+ homes or $1,800+/month rent
- You have $80K+ household income
- You want largest veteran community
Choose Idaho Falls if:
- You work at Idaho National Laboratory (or can find INL job)
- You want affordability with decent services
- You want gateway to Yellowstone/Grand Teton
- You're retired and need occasional VA care (willing to travel)
- You can afford $350K homes
- You have $60K+ household income
- You prioritize outdoor recreation
Choose Pocatello if:
- You prioritize maximum affordability
- You work remotely or at Idaho State University
- You're retired on fixed income
- You don't need frequent VA specialty care
- You can afford $325K homes
- You have $50K+ household income
- You want lowest cost of living in Idaho
Choose Twin Falls if:
- You want balance of affordability and Boise access
- You work in agriculture or remotely
- You're retired and want sunny climate
- You need occasional VA care (2 hours to Boise)
- You can afford $365K homes
- You have $55K+ household income
- You want underrated hidden gem
Choose Coeur d'Alene if:
- You're wealthy (really wealthy)
- You prioritize lake lifestyle and outdoor recreation
- You can afford $575K+ homes
- You have $100K+ household income or substantial savings
- You can use Spokane VA Medical Center (Washington)
- You want resort-town living
Choose Nampa/Caldwell if:
- You need Boise job access but can't afford Boise
- You work at Mountain Home AFB
- You can afford $450K homes
- You can handle higher property taxes (0.85%)
- You want compromise between cost and access
Who Can Actually Afford Idaho?
Income Requirements by Location
Boise metro:
- Single veteran, renting: $70,000 - $90,000
- Single veteran, mortgage: $90,000 - $110,000
- Family of 4, renting: $80,000 - $100,000
- Family of 4, mortgage: $100,000 - $120,000
Idaho Falls/Twin Falls:
- Single veteran, renting: $50,000 - $65,000
- Single veteran, mortgage: $65,000 - $80,000
- Family of 4, renting: $60,000 - $80,000
- Family of 4, mortgage: $75,000 - $95,000
Pocatello (most affordable):
- Single veteran, renting: $45,000 - $60,000
- Single veteran, mortgage: $60,000 - $75,000
- Family of 4, renting: $55,000 - $70,000
- Family of 4, mortgage: $70,000 - $85,000
Coeur d'Alene:
- Single veteran, mortgage: $100,000 - $120,000
- Family of 4, mortgage: $120,000 - $150,000
Veteran Financial Profiles That Work
Profile 1: GS-12 Federal Employee + 70% Disabled (Boise)
- GS-12 salary (with locality): $85,000
- 70% VA disability: $17,708
- Total: $102,708
- Can afford: Boise comfortably
Profile 2: E-7 Retiree + 100% Disabled + Working Spouse (Idaho Falls)
- Military retirement: $30,000 (tax-exempt)
- 100% VA disability: $44,844
- Spouse job: $45,000
- Total: $119,844
- Can afford: Idaho Falls very comfortably, Boise feasible
Profile 3: Remote Worker + Retired + Disability (Pocatello)
- Military retirement: $35,000 (tax-exempt)
- Remote job: $70,000
- 50% VA disability: $10,856
- Total: $115,856
- Can afford: Any Idaho location comfortably
Profile 4: E-6 Retiree + 100% Disabled, Single (Twin Falls)
- Military retirement: $25,000 (tax-exempt)
- 100% VA disability: $44,844
- Total: $69,844
- Can afford: Twin Falls or Pocatello comfortably, Idaho Falls feasible
Veteran Financial Profiles That DON'T Work
Profile X: E-6 Retiree, 50% Disabled, Single (Boise)
- Military retirement: $25,000
- 50% VA disability: $10,856
- Total: $35,856
- Cannot afford Boise - would need additional employment
- Can afford: Pocatello or smaller cities
Profile X: E-7 Retiree, 30% Disabled, Family of 4 (Coeur d'Alene)
- Military retirement: $30,000
- 30% VA disability: $6,462
- Total: $36,462
- Cannot afford Coeur d'Alene - needs dual income
Key Takeaways
-
Boise is practical, not cheap - VA medical center and federal jobs justify higher costs, but requires $80K+ income
-
Smaller cities are genuinely affordable - Pocatello ($325K), Idaho Falls ($350K), Twin Falls ($365K) offer real value for retired veterans
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100% disability exemption saves $1,500 annually - meaningful but doesn't solve affordability alone
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Location determines employment options - Boise metro has jobs, smaller cities don't (except INL at Idaho Falls)
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VA healthcare access varies dramatically - Boise has full medical center, smaller cities have clinics (primary care only)
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Coeur d'Alene is beautiful but expensive - $575K median home, more than Boise, limited jobs
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Idaho Falls offers best balance - $350K homes, INL jobs, VA clinic, Yellowstone access
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Pocatello is most affordable - $325K median home, lowest cost of living, but limited employment
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Military retirement income is tax-free - Idaho's complete exemption is major financial benefit
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Most military retirees CAN afford Idaho - if strategic about location (smaller cities vs. Boise)
Idaho is affordable for military retirees willing to live strategically. Boise requires substantial income ($80K+) or dual income. Smaller cities (Idaho Falls, Pocatello, Twin Falls) are genuinely affordable on typical military retirement + disability income ($60K-$75K total). Idaho's complete military retirement tax exemption and property tax reduction for disabled veterans provide real savings that matter more in affordable smaller cities than expensive Boise.
Final Recommendation
Visit Idaho for 2-4 weeks before relocating. Spend time in both Boise and smaller cities (Idaho Falls, Pocatello, Twin Falls) to experience the lifestyle differences. Boise feels like a small city with mountain access. Idaho Falls/Pocatello/Twin Falls feel like large towns with outdoor access. The difference is significant.
Rent for 1 year before buying. Idaho's housing market has been volatile (67-80% increase in Boise 2019-2025). Ensure you can handle the climate (real winters in Idaho Falls/Pocatello), distance from VA care, and local employment reality before committing to purchase.
Run your personal budget ruthlessly. Calculate your total household income (retirement + disability + employment), subtract housing costs (30% max), and see if remaining income covers Idaho living. If the math works, Idaho is excellent for veterans. If it doesn't work, don't assume you'll "figure it out."
Consider seasonal visit. Visit Idaho in January or February (winter) and July or August (summer) to experience weather extremes. Winter in Idaho Falls is real winter (10-25°F, 40+ inches snow). If you hate cold, you'll hate Idaho Falls. Boise is milder (25-35°F) but still winter.
Idaho is an excellent choice for military retirees seeking low taxes, affordable living (in smaller cities), outdoor recreation, and conservative military-friendly culture. Be strategic about location - Boise requires substantial income, smaller cities are accessible to typical retirees.
Additional Resources
- Idaho Division of Veterans Services: (208) 780-1300 | veterans.idaho.gov
- Housing market data: Zillow.com, Redfin.com
- Cost of living calculators: BestPlaces.net
- Federal jobs (USAJOBS): usajobs.gov (search "Mountain Home AFB" or "Boise")
- VA facility locator: VA.gov/find-locations
- Visit Idaho: VisitIdaho.org (explore before moving)
Information current as of January 2025. Housing prices fluctuate frequently - verify current market conditions before making decisions. Cost of living estimates based on multiple sources and may vary by specific lifestyle.