Nampa, ID is among the Top 100 Best Places To Live in the U.S.

MattGush

Nampa, IDBest Places to Live in the U.S. in 2024

Affordable housing, friendly neighborhoods and a strong sense of safety all contribute to Nampa's reputation as a great place to live, work and play. A booming economy and small-town charm add to the appeal of this Idaho gem.

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Nampa, ID

Why You’ll Love Living in Nampa, Idaho

Everything you want and need in a city can be found in Nampa, Idaho — minus the big city feel. Nampa’s nickname is “The Heart of Treasure Valley,” and its natural beauty is evident in all directions. This affordable city is also the gateway to Idaho wine country. Every year, visitors flock to the area to explore local vineyards and discover that the city is also brimming with museums, music venues and a historic, postcard-perfect Main Street. A pro-business way of thinking has attracted many companies to Nampa, and the city has developed a diverse economy. 

Thinking of moving to Nampa, ID? Keep scrolling to find all the details about living in Nampa, including quick facts such as the population, median home value and property taxes. Plus, learn more about the cost of living and quality of life in Nampa, from the economy and job opportunities to weather, outdoor activities and things to do, including local restaurants and points of interest.

What Makes Nampa, ID, a Best Place to Live in 2024

Young professionals are flocking to Nampa, ID, one of the best places to live in the U.S., where you’ll find safe neighborhoods, a celebration of Western roots that includes a long-standing summer rodeo and spots like the Ford Idaho Horse Park, plus a vibrant downtown filled with local shops and restaurants.

The median age in Nampa is 31.9, and the Boise-Nampa metro is the third-biggest in the Northwest and ranks as the eighth fastest-growing metro in the country. The city has built-in support for those who are looking to grow their careers, like the nine-month Leadership Nampa program.

Nampa residents also have access to standout community amenities, including a great library and a mobile library that operates out of a 24-foot-long Sprinter van. They also have access to a couple dozen parks, including Lakeview Park, which has BMX tracks, a 1,000-seat amphitheater, a playground, and outdoor fitness equipment.

Easy commutes, excellent schools, and homes and rents that are lower than they are in neighboring Boise and other Pacific-Northwest cities all add to Nampa’s quality of life.

Nampa, ID Quality of Life LivScore

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Nampa, ID Top Categories

  • Environment

  • Housing & Cost of Living

  • Transportation

Nampa ranks highest for environment, housing and transportation.

Weather and Outdoor Activities in Nampa, ID

What is the weather like in Nampa? 

Nampa residents mostly enjoy a mild climate. The average highs and lows are 88°F and 54°F (summer) and 41°F and 23°F (winter).

Does Nampa get a lot of snow?

The average annual snowfall in Nampa is around 9 inches, making Nampa one of the least snowy places in Idaho.

Does Nampa get a lot of rain? 

The average annual rainfall in Nampa is around 11 inches. 

How many sunny days does Nampa get?

Nampa averages 209 sunny days a year.

What are some things to do outside in Nampa?

Go fishing or bird watching at Wilson Spring Ponds. Sports enthusiasts also have plenty to choose from, including Lions Park, a 15-acre spot with plenty of green space. 

Nampa, ID is among the Top 100 best cities to live in America
Joshua Roper
A mural in downtown Nampa, ID. The Boise-Nampa metro is the third biggest in the Northwest and ranks as the eighth fastest-growing metro in the country.

Things To Do in Nampa, ID

What is something free thing to do in Nampa?

Spend some summer days at the city’s great pools, like Lakeview Waterpark, which has a two-story slide and fun spray features, or the Midway Splash Park, which has a windmill that sprays water.

What are some fun things to do with kids in Nampa?

One of Nampa’s newest green spaces is Orah Brandt Park. Built in phases since 2018, the park features an ADA-inclusive playground with swings, slides and climbing areas. It also has walking paths, a splash pad and a rose garden, and plans are to add a 9-hole disc golf course, amphitheater and swimming pool.

What is the best open secret about Nampa?

Nampa is all about cultivating community. The city helps residents find their place and plant roots in various ways. Leadership Nampa is a nine-month development program allowing future leaders to dive deeply into the people and places important to the community, exploring the area’s assets and needs while honing their leadership skills. 

Where do locals shop in Nampa?

The Nampa Festival of the Arts brings 200 artisans to the city each year and it is a great time to find a new piece of art for your home or a piece of jewelry.

What is a fun place to eat in Nampa?

Holy Cow Idaho is known for its wings, burgers and creative appetizers (think beer-battered French fries or mac n’ cheese egg rolls).

Where is the best place for live music or performing arts in Nampa?

Catch plays, musicals and even the occasional dog talent show at the Nampa Civic Center.

Where is the best happy hour in Nampa? 

Craft Lounge serves classic, seasonal and nonalcoholic cocktails and also teaches cocktail classes. The bar’s happy hours are quite generous, with all-day deals on Monday and happy hour deals from 3 to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday.

The Local and State Economy in Nampa, ID

What are the three largest industries in Nampa?

Nampa is home to several well-established and thriving business sectors, such as administrative and support and waste management, manufacturing and remediation services and technology and information. Some of the largest employers in the area are the Nampa School District, St. Alphonsus Health System and Plexus Corp. 

What is the sales tax rate in Nampa?

In 2024, the sales tax rate in Nampa is 6%. 

Does Idaho have a state income tax?

Yes, Idaho has a state income tax. 

Who are the major health care providers in Nampa?

Nampa’s close proximity to Boise gives residents access to an extensive network of providers; however, there are plenty of great options right at home. St. Alphonsus Medical Center-Nampa and St. Luke’s Nampa Hospital both rank highly in several specialties. 

What colleges and universities are in Nampa?

There are a handful of smaller colleges and universities in Nampa, like the College of Western Idaho; however, many more options are within driving distance, like Boise State University. 

Weather in Nampa, ID

Average Temperatures

65 High / 38 Low

Average Annual Rainfall

11 Inches

Average Annual Snowfall

9 Inches

Quick Facts about Nampa, Idaho

Median Home Value
$357,027
Median Property Tax
$2,293
Total Population
110,130
Average Commute
22 min
Median Household Income
$65,142
Median Rent per Month
$957

Map of Nampa, ID

Experiences & Adventures in Nampa, ID

The Rolling H Cycles group exploring the beautiful outdoors near Nampa, Idaho.

Explore the Great Outdoors in Nampa, ID

This beautiful gem near Boise is a great place to have fun while staying fit and healthy.

Sawtooth Winery in Idaho.

Where Is the Gateway to Idaho Wine Country?

In Nampa, people may come for the outstanding vineyards, but they stay for the charm and the bountiful activities.

Nampa, ID: Where to Live Now

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Ford Idaho Center in Nampa, Idaho

9 Reasons to Move to Nampa, Idaho

In this Idaho gem just west of Boise, you'll find a family friendly community full of job opportunities, outdoor attractions, outstanding wineries and so much more.

Education, Careers and Opportunity in Nampa, ID

Autovol in Nampa, Idaho

Innovation Powers These Nampa Startups

Thanks to excellent support and a business friendly community, these businesses can focus on providing solutions for affordable housing.

Adler Industrial’s Midland Industrial Park in Nampa, Idaho

Why Are Businesses Relocating to Nampa, ID?

Excellent location, deep talent pool, low costs and diverse economy are among the many reasons companies choose to move to Nampa.

Idaho Center for Advanced Technology

Nampa Schools Keep Talent Pipeline Flowing

Career programs in Nampa prepare students to work in the region’s growing industries.

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