WHAT MAKES BOISE SO UNIQUE?

As my hometown, I felt a strange combination of shock and pride when I got a flurry of text messages about how Boise had made yet another "Top 5 Place to Live In America" list. Back in 2017 & 2018, the thought of people outside of my little community knowing about my hidden gem of a city what unexpected and exciting. With each day that passes, it becomes less and less surprising

Boise, Idaho, is a city that defies expectations. For many years, it was known primarily as a sleepy state capital with a modest population and a small-town vibe. But over the past few decades, Boise has undergone a remarkable transformation. Today, it's a vibrant and dynamic city that offers a mix of outdoor adventure, urban sophistication, and small-town charm that is hard to find anywhere else.

So what makes Boise so unique? There are a number of factors that have contributed to its rise to fame. For one, the city has a thriving tech scene that has attracted a number of companies and startups in recent years. Boise's lower cost of living and high quality of life have also made it an attractive destination for people looking to escape the high costs and crowds of larger cities like San Francisco or Seattle.

But it's not just the tech industry that has put Boise on the map. The city's outdoor scene is one of its biggest draws, with miles of hiking and biking trails, world-class skiing and snowboarding, and a river that runs right through the heart of downtown. Boise's food scene has also exploded in recent years, with a number of top-notch restaurants and craft breweries popping up all over town.

Perhaps most importantly, though, is the sense of community that pervades Boise. Despite its growing popularity and influx of newcomers, Boise has managed to maintain its small-town charm and friendly vibe. People here are welcoming and down-to-earth, and there's a strong sense of community pride that you don't find in many other cities.

All of these factors have contributed to Boise's unique rise to fame, but they also make it clear why the city is such a special place. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast, a tech entrepreneur, or just looking for a friendly and welcoming community to call home, Boise has something to offer. And with its unique blend of urban sophistication, outdoor adventure, and small-town charm, it's no wonder that Boise is one of the most talked-about cities in the country.

IS IDAHO FULL? WHAT ABOUT PRICES?

You may have heard people say Idaho is full or that the growth and boom have made home and living prices unattainable. Yes, Boise has grown and it is not the same small town it was 5-10 years ago. We know accepting change can be extremely hard, but no Idaho is not full. 

While it does have a growing population, there is still plenty of room for growth and development. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Idaho's population in 2020 was approximately 1.8 million (for the entire state!), which is relatively small compared to other states. The state has a total land area of 83,569 square miles, with much of it consisting of rural and wilderness areas. For some perspective, compare that to Seattle, which has 733,000 people in the city alone with just under 145 square miles total. So as you can see, there is plenty of room for all. 

As for prices, the projected median price for homes in America, for the first quarter of 2023 is $390,000. Idaho has plenty of inventory at that price point and below. A quick serch for this active and pending homes in just the Treasure Valley (Boise, Meridian, Eagle, Star, etc.) brings over 3,500 results. 

Combine this with the quality of life, 4 seasons every year to enjoy, an extremely healthy job market, and a family friendly atmosphere, you can see why Idaho is so popular. 

Reflecting on the growth and change that has happened in my hometown over the last 5 years, I'm only left with one question: what took everyone so long?

Boise is gearing up for a fantastic lineup of concerts in 2023 and we are already getting our tickets. From country to pop and everything in between, there's something for every music fan. Here's a closer look at some of the upcoming concerts that we can't wait for.

Reba McEntire - March 24th, 2023 at the Ford Idaho Center - Country music legend Reba McEntire is coming to Boise in March of 2023, and fans are eagerly anticipating this highly-anticipated concert. McEntire has been a fixture in country music for decades, and her powerful vocals and captivating stage presence continue to draw crowds. The show at the ExtraMile Arena promises to be a night of unforgettable music and memories.

The Kid Laroi - April 26th, 2023 at the ExtraMile Arena - Australian rapper The Kid Laroi is bringing his distinctive sound to Boise in April of 2023, and fans are already buzzing with excitement. With hits like "Stay" and "Without You," The Kid Laroi has quickly become one of the hottest names in the music industry. The show at the ExtraMile Arena is sure to be a high-energy, unforgettable experience.

Matchbox Twenty - June 4th, 2023 at the Ford Idaho Center Amphitheater - Fans of 90s alternative rock won't want to miss Matchbox Twenty's long-awaited concert in Boise. Originally scheduled for 2020, the show has been rescheduled multiple times due to the pandemic. But now, on June 4th, 2023, the band will finally take the stage at the Ford Idaho Center Amphitheater, and fans can ecspect to hear hits like "Push," "3 AM," and "Unwell."

The Avett Brothers - July 18th, 2023 at the Idaho Botanical Garden's Outlaw Field Folk-rock band The Avett Brothers are known for their soulful, heartfelt performances, and their show at the Idaho Botanical Garden's Outlaw Field promises to be no exception. The venue's picturesque outdoor setting will provide the perfect backdrop for the band's emotional, thought-provoking lyrics and energetic live performances.

Luke Bryan - August 5th, 2023 at the Ford Idaho Center Amphitheater Country superstar Luke Bryan is bringing his high-energy, feel-good sound to Boise in August of 2023. With hits like "Country Girl (Shake It for Me)" and "Play It Again," Bryan has become one of the most popular names in country music, and his concerts are known for their party-like atmosphere and enthusiastic crowds.

Boise music fans have a lot to look forward to in 2023, with a wide variety of concerts and events taking place throughout the year. From country to pop to rock, there's something for everyone, and these upcoming concerts are sure to be highlights of the year. So grab your tickets and get ready for a year of unforgettable live music in Boise.