Idaho, known for its potatoes, rural landscapes, trout, and stones, was once one of the fastest-growing states in America. The Idaho Capital Sun reported that in 2022, the state’s population grew by 1.8%, the second-highest rate in the United States, only behind Florida. However, since the peak of the pandemic, the state’s population growth has significantly slowed down. This is surprising considering that from 2010 to 2020, the population grew at an impressive rate of 17.32%.
People have been flocking to Idaho in the past decade for various reasons. One major factor is the thriving job market, boasting a low unemployment rate of 3.9% as of 2021. In fact, Idaho secured the top spot for economic growth and ranked fourth for fiscal stability, according to US News. Additionally, the cost of living in Idaho towns is considerably more affordable compared to many other locations nationwide. Moreover, people are drawn to the state due to its reputation for safety, boasting low crime rates. Furthermore, Idaho’s breathtaking outdoor environment and shorter commute times add to its appeal as a desirable place to live.
Despite the many positive aspects, there are certain Idaho towns that people are choosing to leave behind and relocate elsewhere. In the following sections, we will delve into the reasons why individuals are opting to move away from these specific towns in Idaho.
Idaho Towns Experiencing Population Decline: A Closer Look
| Town | Population Change | Key Reasons for Leaving | Additional Notes |
| Boise | -0.6% | Limited housing options, high property taxes, growing pains of a thriving city | Vibrant city with rich cultural scene and attractive to outdoor enthusiasts |
| Mackay | -15% | Closure of copper mines, limited economic opportunities, isolation | Previously named after the owner of local copper mines |
| Dubois | -6.14% | Economic uncertainty, limited career options, remoteness | Increased median household income despite population decline |
| Moore | Data not available | Likely similar factors to other towns (listed above) | Located in a beautiful but potentially challenging geographic area |
Aberdeen
Aberdeen, a small city in the state, experienced a significant decline in population during the 2010s through the 2020s. While the overall population of the state grew, Aberdeen’s population decreased by more than 11%. Currently, the city is home to 1,797 residents, with a racial composition of 60% white and 40% people of color. Aberdeen is known for being a family-oriented town, with almost 49% of households having a child aged eighteen years or younger. Additionally, 60% of households in Aberdeen consist of married couples. Situated at an elevation of over four thousand feet, the city’s 11% population decline was a notable decrease considering its relatively small size.
Boise
Nestled in the heart of Idaho, the beautiful and captivating town of Boise awaits eager explorers. With its picturesque landscapes and vibrant atmosphere, this hidden gem is a must-visit destination for those seeking a unique and memorable experience.
One of the standout features of Boise is its stunning capital building. Majestic and grand, it stands tall as a symbol of the town’s rich history and significance. The architecture is a sight to behold, with intricate details and a sense of timeless elegance. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply appreciate beautiful landmarks, the capital building is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Boise itself is a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Surrounded by breathtaking mountains and lush greenery, the town offers countless opportunities for hiking, biking, and exploring the great outdoors. Whether you’re conquering the trails or simply taking a leisurely stroll along the Boise River Greenbelt, you’ll be captivated by the town’s natural beauty.
In addition to its natural wonders, Boise also boasts a thriving arts and culture scene. The downtown area is home to numerous art galleries, theaters, and museums, showcasing the town’s creativity and talent. From contemporary masterpieces to local exhibitions, there’s something for every art aficionado to enjoy.g
Mackay
Mount McCaleb, located near Mackay, Idaho, is in the picturesque Custer County Salmon-Challis National Forest.
Mackay, located in the Custer County region, is a city that experienced a significant population decline. From 2019 to 2020, the small town saw a fifteen per cent drop, with its population decreasing from 517 to 439. The town is named after John William Mackay, the owner of the copper mines in the area. In honour of his contributions, Mackay Peak in the White Knob Mountains bears his name.
Dubois
Dubois, a city located in Clark County, played a significant role in the population decline that occurred between 2019 and 2020. During this period, Clark County experienced a notable decrease in population, with a decline of 19.6%. Within Dubois itself, the population decreased by 6.14%. However, despite the population decline, there was an increase in the median household income, which grew from approximately $34,000 to $41,000.
On average, households in Dubois own three cars, and residents typically commute about thirty minutes to work. Additionally, Dubois serves as the county seat for Clark County. The city derives its name from a prominent politician who played a significant role in its history during the late 1800s to the 1900s. Notably, the U.S. Sheep Experimentation Station, located six miles from the town, researches sheep to support farmers across the United States.
Moore
Idaho, with its barren landscapes and chilly temperatures, offers a picturesque setting for those seeking solace and tranquility. This color image captures the essence of a peaceful day in this captivating state. Whether you’re looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life or simply crave a change of scenery, Idaho has it all. Its unspoiled natural beauty and serene atmosphere make it an ideal destination for those in search of a peaceful retreat. So why not embark on an adventure to this remarkable state and let the beauty of Idaho wash over you?
Why Are People Leaving Idaho?
Idaho has gained popularity as a sought-after state to relocate to in recent years. With its low taxes, affordable cost of living, stunning natural surroundings, and abundance of parks, it has truly earned the nickname “The Gem State.” From 2014 to 2021, Idaho consistently ranked among the top ten cities to move to, eventually claiming the top spot in 2019 and 2020, according to United Van Lines. In 2022, 107.9 Lite FM Radio station conducted a survey to determine why people chose to move away from Idaho, uncovering six distinct reasons.
Family and Health Reasons
Many individuals cited family as a significant factor in their decision to relocate. According to those interviewed by the radio station, they moved away from Idaho to be in closer proximity to their loved ones. This trend was not limited to Idaho alone; it was observed nationwide as people sought to be near their families amidst the pandemic. In fact, in 2021, a majority of individuals (57%) stated that family was their primary motivation for leaving Idaho, while 37% specifically mentioned family as their main reason for departure.
The well-being of individuals and their families significantly influenced the decision to leave Idaho. As the pandemic swept across the globe, Idaho experienced its impact as well. In 2020, seven percent of people chose to depart from Idaho due to personal and family health concerns. Similarly, in 2021, five percent of individuals left the state for the same reasons.
Employment and Cost of Living
Idaho’s attractiveness as a relocation destination is further bolstered by employment opportunities. While the state boasts a low unemployment rate, individuals may still desire to change careers or seek new job prospects beyond what Idaho has to offer. The rise of remote-based professions has made this transition easier, as people can now work from anywhere. Surprisingly, the cost of living has also played a role in attracting individuals to Idaho, as native residents have grown weary of exorbitant rental prices.
Retirement
A significant factor driving people to leave Idaho is retirement. In fact, in 2022, over forty-two percent of those who relocated from Idaho were aged 65 or older. It’s worth noting that some of the most popular states for retirement include Florida, Delaware, West Virginia, Missouri, and Mississippi. This data is intriguing considering that Idaho is ranked as the fourth most affordable state for retirement, according to the Business Review. The only states surpassing Idaho in affordability were Wyoming, Montana, and Utah.
A Change of Environment
According to a radio station survey, a significant number of individuals (nine percent) who relocated from Idaho did so simply because they desired a change of scenery. Some individuals seem weary of Idaho’s relaxed lifestyle and seek out larger cities with diverse climates, cultures, and potentially better job prospects. Interestingly, this figure was even higher in 2021, with twenty percent of those leaving Idaho expressing the need for a change of scenery.
Conclusion
Additional Resources:
- Idaho State Journal: https://www.idahostatejournal.com/
- Idaho Statesman: https://www.idahostatesman.com/latest-news/
- University of Idaho: https://www.uidaho.edu/
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