UPDATE: Check out our new 2023 Best Cities to Live in the U.S. list.
#8. Nampa
Located in the heart of the Treasure Valley, Nampa, ID, offers plenty to those looking for an affordable place to live and work. The cost of living in Nampa is nearly 5 percent under the national average. Cheap housing and utility costs (both about 22 percent below what you’ll find in most other cities) draw many young professionals and families to Nampa. Yet, there’s no skimping when it comes to things to do in Nampa, the second-largest city in Idaho and the No. 8 city on our list of the Best Affordable Places to Live.
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Things to Do in Nampa
The range of entertainment options and jobs is as vast as the natural attractions that draw thousands of tourists to the area each year for camping, skiing, hiking, and river adventures. Frugal fun lovers will find many ways to stretch their dollars in Nampa. Vineyards and wineries near Nampa provide romantic excursions throughout the year. Most can be reached on less than a half tank of gas. It’s hard to beat the $3 movies at Northern Lights Cinema Grill for a cheap date. The city maintains 25 parks, two golf courses and a pair of disc golf courses. Downtown Nampa is loaded with independent restaurants, shops and galleries. The Ford Idaho Center hosts concerts, rodeos and sporting events throughout the year.
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