Idaho remains one of the less densely populated states in the nation, yet it has been among the fastest-growing. Long famous for its potato production and other agriculture, the state also draws geological interest for its abundance of fossilized materials and gemstones. Shaped a bit like an upside-down panhandle, Idaho spreads its farmland and prairie across the south, bordered and broken up by numerous mountain ranges. Boise, the capital, anchors the state's largest urban area, joined by Meridian, Nampa, Coeur d'Alene, Idaho Falls, Twin Falls and Post Falls. In recent years Idaho has become a notable technology and manufacturing center, and a steady stream of new residents has fueled rapid growth in its cities and suburbs.

Idaho's population surpassed 2 million for the first time in 2024, according to U.S. Census Bureau estimates, making it one of the fastest-growing states in the country. By land area, it ranks 14th largest. Technology and advanced manufacturing, led by semiconductor maker Micron Technology, play an outsized role in the state's economy, which as of the mid-2020s exceeds $100 billion in annual output.

Top Cities in ID

As of 2025, the typical Idaho home value is roughly $475,000, according to Zillow — a dramatic increase over the past decade as the state's population has climbed. The most expensive homes tend to cluster in resort communities such as Ketchum and Sun Valley in Blaine County, along with Eagle in the Boise area, while more affordable options are generally found in cities like Pocatello, Blackfoot and Twin Falls. For current home values and mortgage rates in a specific market, check today's rates before you shop.

Boise

Population: approximately 237,000 (2024 estimate)

Boise is Idaho's state capital and largest city, and the Boise metropolitan area is home to more than 800,000 people — over a third of the state's population. Major employers include the State of Idaho, Micron Technology, St. Luke's Health System, Boise State University, and Fortune 500 grocery company Albertsons, which is headquartered in the city. J.R. Simplot and HP also maintain a significant presence in the region.

Meridian

Population: approximately 130,000 (2024 estimate)

Once a small town, Meridian has grown explosively and is now Idaho's second-largest city, just west of Boise. Major employers include Blue Cross of Idaho, St. Luke's, and Scentsy, the fragrance and home-goods company headquartered there. Its rapid expansion has made it one of the fastest-growing cities in the United States.

Nampa

Population: approximately 110,000 (2024 estimate)

Nampa, in Canyon County west of Boise, is the state's third-largest city and continues to grow quickly. Expanding retail, distribution and healthcare employers have given residents far greater shopping and job variety than a generation ago.

Idaho Falls

Population: approximately 68,000 (2024 estimate)

Idaho Falls frequently appears on "best places to live" lists, and it's easy to see why. Quality of life is high, the eastern Idaho economy is anchored by Idaho National Laboratory and a strong healthcare sector, and the city sits close to a number of beautiful outdoor destinations. It's worth a look for anyone seeking a great place to raise a family.

Pocatello

Population: approximately 58,000 (2024 estimate)

Home to Idaho State University, Pocatello is a regional hub for southeastern Idaho. The city's top employers include the university, Portneuf Medical Center, and ON Semiconductor.

Banks, Credit Unions, and More

Even as a relatively small state, Idaho gives consumers a healthy choice among locally based banks, credit unions, and national banks with branches across the country. Institutions merge and rebrand over time, so confirm that any lender still operates in your area before you apply.

Idaho-based banks:

  • D.L. Evans Bank
  • Citizens Community Bank
  • First Federal Savings Bank of Twin Falls
  • Ireland Bank
  • Mountain West Bank

Credit unions:

  • Idaho Central Credit Union
  • P1FCU (Potlatch No. 1 Financial)
  • Westmark Credit Union
  • CapEd Credit Union
  • Pioneer Federal Credit Union

National banks with an Idaho presence:

  • U.S. Bank
  • KeyBank
  • Wells Fargo
  • BMO (formerly Bank of the West)

Home Buying in Idaho

For those thinking about relocating, RateZip.com can help you compare a wide range of lending offers and rates available across Idaho. The most popular home loans in the state are fixed-rate mortgages, which borrowers can find in 10-, 15-, 20-, and 30-year varieties. In general, the shorter the term of your loan, the lower your interest rate, though your monthly payment will be higher.

First-time and repeat buyers should also look into the Idaho Housing and Finance Association (Idaho Housing), the state's housing finance agency. It offers competitively priced home loans, down payment and closing-cost assistance, mortgage tax credits, and homebuyer education through its Finally Home! program, along with specialized loan options for teachers, nurses and first responders.

If you don't plan to stay in your home for the long term, or if you're comfortable with a mortgage rate that can change over time, you may want to consider an adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM). With this type of loan, you receive a lower initial rate for the first few years, after which the rate adjusts periodically based on a benchmark index — commonly the Secured Overnight Financing Rate (SOFR). Popular structures such as the 5/1 and 7/1 ARM carry a fixed rate for the first five or seven years and then adjust annually. Because rates move constantly, it's worth reviewing current fixed and adjustable rates side by side before deciding which loan fits your plans.