Southern Idaho: A Truly Magical Place to Live
The great outdoors, a reasonable cost of living, and plenty of opportunities await those looking for a new home.
Southern Idaho locals never run out of ways to have fun close to home.
Options include exploring local businesses in downtown Twin Falls and surrounding communities, plus a bevy of choose-your-own adventures like kayaking along the Snake River, hiking near Box Canyon, biking along the mighty scenic Canyon Rim Trail or slinking into Miracle Hot Springs for a therapeutic soak.
“Newcomers are often surprised by how many stars they can see at night, too,” says Ismenia Gallegos, a part-owner of Antojos Eatery and Café in Twin Falls and a resident of Buhl.
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Why Southern Idaho Is a Great Place to Live
Ask any Southern Idahoan what they love most about their community, and they will usually point out the area’s geological wonders and the fact that this region is one of the best places for outdoor enthusiasts in the country.
But dig a little deeper, and they’ll also mention the diversity of the region, which comprises people of all cultures and walks of life. Add to that the fact that Southern Idaho is simply practical for raising a family or starting a business, and it’s no wonder it’s called the Magic Valley.
“The thing we enjoy most about doing business in Twin Falls is the people,” Gallegos says. “Our customers are so kind and fun.”
Here are some more reasons why Southern Idaho is a great place to live and why it appeals to those who are looking to put down roots or start a business.
For starters, because there are so many great communities to live and work in throughout the Magic Valley, Southern Idaho is booming. That’s good news for newcomers looking to move to an up-and-coming region that’s still affordable.
It’s a Boom Town
In a word, the Magic Valley is enchanting – and more people are catching on. In 2022, the U.S. Census reported that Idaho was the second fastest-growing state in the country.
Those who move here have their pick of housing, from historic homes in downtown Twin Falls to new builds in nearby neighborhoods and rural communities where residents can find country living not too far from urban amenities.
The median home price of Twin Falls, for instance, is lower than a bigger – yet similar – city like Boise.
The Cost of Living is Reasonable
When compared to other parts of the country known for their scenic beauty – like the West Coast – the region offers more for the money. Counties like Gooding, Lincoln and Minidoka all have median home prices around $300,000 (Zillow, September 2023).
Plus, factor in all the world-class recreation that comes free of charge, and the overall cost of living feels reasonable. That especially rings true for families, who will never run out of activities for the kids to enjoy.
The Natural Amenities Are Beautiful
Residents can tap into unique outdoor and recreation opportunities in all seasons in the Twin Falls region.
Shoshone Falls is considered the “Niagara of the West,” and the 212-foot wall of water is a sight to see. Residents can also enjoy whitewater rafting, scenic hikes, BASE jumping and birdwatching. To enjoy the outdoors even more, support all the local outdoor stores that are based here, offering gear and expert advice.
It’s the Land of Opportunity
Major employers in the region are associated with industries like agribusiness, food science, transportation, logistics and green energy. The Twin Falls region also is supportive of small businesses, offers Shane Wallace, who says he fell in love with Idaho after living in other states in the West.
“When you treat people well in a small town, everything comes back tenfold,” says Wallace, the co-owner of the Shoshone Ice Caves, a 1,000-foot-long lava tube where temps can plunge to 23 degrees.
He’s noticing an influx of remote workers whose dollars stretch further in Southern Idaho, and who can achieve a work-life balance with all the outdoor adventures nearby.
Diversity Is Prized
Southern Idaho has a large community of Latino-owned businesses, which find small business support at the South Central Idaho Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.
A member of the chamber, Antojos Eatery and Café serves burritos, tacos, gorditas and conchas (a sweet bread) as well as Mexican-inspired drinks.
“Our menu is deeply rooted in our Mexican heritage but obviously fused with our American culture in fun ways – like the Idaho Nachos or the Idaho Burrito,” Gallegos says.
Downtown is a Fun Place to Be
Downtown Twin Falls is growing, and residents have access to museums, theaters and family-friendly attractions across the region.
The historic downtown brings neighbors together. Kids can cool down in a splash pad, plus the vibrant downtown has locally owned shops, restaurants and breweries, which all make for a fun night out.
On top of that, a number of events bring the community together like Western Days, a 40-year-old summer tradition, as well as Oktoberfest and the Twin Falls Festival of Lights Parade during the holiday season.
Get to Know Southern Idaho
Want to learn more about living and working in Twin Falls and Southern Idaho? Check out the latest edition of Livability Southern Idaho.
