Renting on the Boise Bench offers a mix of affordability, convenience and character. Within the Bench you will find a blend of mid-century homes, older apartment complexes, and newer townhouses, giving the area a unique, lived-in feel. There’s been an influx of small businesses, coffee shops, and restaurants popping up in recent years, bringing new life to the neighborhood.

A couple of cars parked in front of a house

white and brown concrete building under blue sky during daytime

Rental Market Overview

Availability: Boise’s rental market has experienced steady growth, driven by an influx of residents from more expensive metropolitan areas and a strong local job market. The current vacancy rate for all residential rental properties in Boise is 3%, down from 7% one year ago, indicating a tightening market.
Pricing: Rental prices on the Bench tend to be lower than in trendier areas like Downtown Boise or the North End. For the Central Bench (as of November 2024) the average rent is approximately $1,983 per month. For the Depot Bench (as of December 2024) the average rent stood at about $1,965 per month.

Pros of Renting in Downtown Boise

Walkability: While some areas are more car-dependent, others, especially near parks and the main streets, are great for walking or biking. People often walk their dogs, jog, or enjoy the sidewalks in the evenings.
Public Transportation: Public transportation on the Boise Bench is primarily provided by Valley Regional Transit (VRT), the main public transit authority for the region. Several bus routes serve the Boise Bench area, facilitating convenient travel to various parts of the city, including downtown Boise.
Community Events: Additionally, the Boise Bench is known for its vibrant community life, with an array of local businesses, from quaint coffee shops and restaurants to boutique shops and service providers. The neighborhood fosters a strong sense of community, with various local events and markets that bring residents together throughout the year.

The Boise Bench is witnessing increased development, with new multifamily projects catering to young professionals and families, reflecting the area’s growing appeal.

Age Distribution

Median Age: The median age of residents in the Boise Bench neighborhood varies slightly depending on the specific area. For instance, the Central Bench area has a median age of approximately 33.6 years, which is younger than the overall median age for Boise residents.
Age Groups: The Boise Bench is witnessing increased development, with new multifamily projects catering to young professionals and families, reflecting the area’s growing appeal.

Household Composition

Total Households: According to data from the U.S. Census Bureau, the Boise Bench has approximately 96,400 households, with an average household size of 2.4.
Family vs Non-Family Households: Family Households are approximately 72% of the households and non-family households are the remaining 28%.

Employment and Occupation

Workforce Composition: Approximately 29% of Boise’s workforce resides in the West Bench. The West Bench is home to several significant employers, including Hewlett Packard, DirecTV, and the ITT Technical Institute. The Central Bench houses about 17% of Boise’s workforce.

Mobility and Migration

Recent Movers: While specific data detailing the origins of domestic migrants to Boise is limited, it’s widely recognized that many newcomers arrive from more densely populated and higher-cost areas, seeking Boise’s relatively affordable living, outdoor amenities, and quality of life.

Lifestyle

The lifestyle on the Boise Bench is more relaxed and laid-back, with a bit of an “old-school” charm mixed with modern conveniences. It’s a neighborhood that feels like a blend of suburban comfort and urban access, so you get a quieter pace of life while still being close to the action.

Here’s what you can expect from the daily rhythm and some highlighted attractions:

Morris Hill Park: A spacious park with sports fields, picnic areas, and green space perfect for families and anyone looking for a spot to relax outdoors. It’s a local favorite for walking, playing, or just unwinding in nature.
The Boise Depot: One of the most iconic landmarks in Boise with an unbeatable view of the city skyline and the foothills. It’s a historic Spanish-style train station that’s no longer in use for rail travel but is now a popular spot for events, photography, and sightseeing.
The Boise Bench Trail System: This network of walking and biking trails is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. It connects to the foothills, providing a scenic way to enjoy Boise’s natural beauty, whether on foot or by bike.
Ann Morrison Park: Just downhill from the Bench, along the Boise River. It’s one of Boise’s largest and most popular parks, offering a mix of green space, sports fields, and river access.
Morris Hill Dog Park: Located within Morris Hill Park, which also has open green space and walking trails. A fully fenced off-leash area with benches and shade. Separate small and large dog areas for safer play. Water fountains and waste stations available.

Dining

Wyld Child [Chelsea’s favorite]: Is a sister restaurant to The Wylder. It’s a vibrant and playful eatery with a focus on elevated fast-casual dining, offering local quality food in a lively, modern atmosphere.
Push & Pour [Nick’s favorite]: A modern, artsy coffee shop with great specialty lattes and a cool community vibe.
Red Bench Pizza [Brandi’s favorite]: A fantastic local Neapolitan-style pizzeria on the Boise Bench, known for its wood-fired pizzas, fresh ingredients, and laid-back vibe. It’s a hidden gem for those who love authentic, crispy-yet-chewy crust and high-quality toppings.
Luciano’s Italian Restaurant [Dusty’s favorite]: is one of Boise’s most beloved Italian spots, known for its hearty portions, homemade pasta, and warm, welcoming atmosphere. Also know for a strong reputation for authentic flavors and a cozy, family-friendly dining experience.