Boise’s Rise to Retirement Fame
Last year, Boise ranked an impressive 5th among the best cities in the United States to retire. Its high placement was attributed to several key factors, including its vibrant community and a wide array of year-round recreational opportunities such as:
- Floating the Boise River during summer months
- Skiing and snowboarding in Bogus Basin throughout winter
- Hiking Table Rock in the spring
- Visiting pumpkin patches in the fall
These activities catered to a diverse age group, making Boise uniquely appealing to retirees seeking an active lifestyle. The city’s reputation was further bolstered by strong acknowledgment from locals and visitors alike who celebrated its many charms.
“Boise offers so much to do all year round for people of every age,” said local resident Shannon Buccola, whose photography has captured the city’s beauty and spirit.
Current Retirement Rankings in 2025
Despite Boise’s ongoing appeal, the city did not maintain its previous standing in the latest retirement rankings. The 2025 Best Cities to Retire in the US list places Boise at 19th, with other cities taking the spotlight:
- 1. Orlando, Florida
- 2. Scottsdale, Arizona
- 3. Minneapolis, Minnesota
- 4. Miami, Florida
- 5. Tampa, Florida
- 6. Atlanta, Georgia
- 7. Fort Lauderdale, Florida
- 8. Cincinnati, Ohio
- 9. Madison, Wisconsin
- 10. Casper, Wyoming
- 19. Boise, Idaho
Boise’s Strong Standing in Other Rankings
While Boise slipped in retirement rankings, it continues to receive praise elsewhere. According to HGTV’s list of 10 Best Places to Move in the US, Boise impressively ranks 2nd. This indicates that despite the retirement-specific ranking change, Boise remains a highly attractive destination for relocation due to its lifestyle, community, and amenities.
- 2nd – Boise, Idaho
- 1st – Naples, Florida
- Other notable cities include Boulder, Colorado (#10), Austin, Texas (#9), and Virginia Beach, Virginia (#8).
What This Means for Idaho’s Future
Boise’s drop from the top 10 retirement cities might be disappointing to some, but it remains a vibrant and appealing place to live. The city continues to thrive with new businesses, cultural activities, and outdoor recreational options that contribute to an excellent quality of life. Experts believe that such dynamics will keep Boise competitive in various rankings and maintain its allure for a broad demographic.
“The ongoing growth and variety of experiences in Boise contribute to its strong desirability as a place to move and retire,” noted a regional economic analyst, underscoring that rankings are just one way to measure a city’s value.
For more detailed information on Boise’s current ranking and comparison with other cities, visit the original source at NewsBreak.
Key Takeaways:
- Boise was ranked 5th in 2024 for best places to retire but dropped to 19th in 2025.
- The city boasts diverse outdoor activities and a vibrant community supporting an active lifestyle.
- Despite the drop in retirement rankings, Boise ranks 2nd in HGTV’s list of best places to move in the US.
- Florida cities dominate the current retirement rankings, with Orlando leading the list.
- Boise’s continuous growth and new businesses keep it an attractive and dynamic location for many residents.