Small town charm, affordable housing, and urban convenience.
Middleton, Idaho, checks all the boxes. And with limitless outdoor recreation, this easygoing town is quickly becoming a hot spot for those looking for a rural escape. We’ll break down five reasons Middleton, Idaho, might be the right place to call home and why this small city continues to stand out in the Treasure Valley.
Reason 1: Small Town Charm
With a population of under 15,000, Middleton retains that small-town charm compared to the neighboring cities of Star, Eagle, and the much larger Boise, Idaho, to the East. Here, you’re sure to find a welcoming environment that still values the importance of gathering as a community, whether it’s to cheer on the local high school football team on a crisp fall night or to celebrate December with the annual Christmas tree lighting. Middleton is known for its close-knit, welcoming vibe where neighbors connect at local events like the annual Fourth of July parade and farmers’ markets.
This small town is also known for its school district, with just over 4,000 students across 6 schools. And with a high school graduation rate of over 93%, Middleton is firmly in the top 1% in the state. If you’re looking for a family-friendly, welcoming community, Middleton, Idaho, could be the perfect place for you.
Reason 2: Affordable Housing
Though the housing market in this small town has grown significantly, with new neighborhoods like The Mill at Middleton and River Walk Ranch offering new housing opportunities, Middleton remains a relatively affordable option for those looking to relocate. Compared to the median home price of around $530,000 in Boise, $600,000 in neighboring Star, and well over $700,000 in Eagle, Middleton sits at a competitive median price of around $500,000. And although roughly 85% of the city’s housing options are single-family, there are still plenty of multi-family options with average rental rates around $1,500 per month.
Quality of life is an important factor when choosing where to live, and thanks to its affordability, this Treasure Valley community allows for a healthy balance between work and play. That leads us to reason number 3!
Reason 3: Outdoor Recreation
Located on the north side of the Boise River, Middleton offers a diverse range of outdoor activities to take advantage of the Treasure Valley’s beautiful scenery. Visit family-friendly parks like Hawthorne Park, Roadside Park, Middleton Place Park, or enjoy a quiet day of fishing along the Boise River. And if you’re looking for more, its central location in the Treasure Valley puts you an hour from Bogus Basin for a day of skiing, as well as tons of hiking trails in the Boise National Forest.
Looking for something closer? The 25-mile Boise River greenbelt right in your backyard connects multiple parks and neighborhoods. You’ll also find the brand new River Walk Ranch community, featuring walking paths, river access, ponds, pickleball courts, and an incredible location in Middleton’s up-and-coming River Walk District, a 160-acre project with riverfront amenities and a commercial district. As Middletons’ next step in growth, the new River Walk Ranch aims to connect this close-knit town in exciting new ways. Stay tuned for more updates on the area, or explore some of our available homes at River Walk Ranch!
Reason 4: Relaxed lifestyle
Despite some of these big changes, Middleton still embraces a more laid-back, easy-going lifestyle. The city’s name refers to its location between Old Fort Boise and Keeny’s Ferry, a resting point along the Oregon Trail. As such, the city has retained its relaxed nature.
The location along the Boise River offers a natural setting, and the proximity to Boise allows for a retreat from the hustle and bustle while giving you the convenience of both worlds. Local businesses like Purple Sage Farms offer organic ingredients from herbs and greens to fresh lamb and edible flowers. And the local farmers market connects you to all of these with farm fresh ingredient and a sense of community that will quickly become your lifestyle.
Reason 5: Growing Economic Opportunities
With all of these benefits, it’s easy to see why the economy in Middleton has also seen steady growth since 2022. With its proximity to Boise, a short commute means more employment opportunities. This commuter hub is the perfect place for growing professionals and families to make a living while enjoying a relaxing lifestyle.
According to the US Census, the average household income rose by 13.7% from 2022 to 2023, a significant increase as the area has continued to flourish. The lower-than-average unemployment rate in Middleton also sits at around 2%, reflecting a strong local economy. Combined with the affordability of the area and new housing communities quickly popping up, the time has never been better to make the move to Middleton.
Ready to Move? We’ll Help You Get There
More and more people are searching for the simplicity of small town life, the freedom of affordable living, and the prospect of professional growth. Middleton, Idaho, offers these opportunities and more, without losing the character that makes the town special. A lifestyle that’s hard to beat in the Treasure Valley.
If you’re ready to make the move, Generation Homes Northwest is ready to help you get there with two brand new communities bringing people together in the Treasure Valley. Click below to learn more about these new communities, or contact our team to find your new home in Boise!
