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Dusty
Marketing & Client Care
·
5 mins read

Downtown Boise

Downtown Boise wasn't always the vibrant, walkable hub it is today. Not too long ago, living downtown wasn't even an option—there simply weren't condo developments to call home. Fast forward, and the scene has completely transformed. Now, it’s a lively blend of historic charm and modern living, where you can grab a gourmet coffee, catch a show at The Grove Plaza, and stroll through tree-lined streets all in the same afternoon. What sets Boise apart is how seamlessly it blends city life with nature.

The Boise River Greenbelt connects the entire city like a green ribbon, offering miles of trails perfect for biking, jogging, or a leisurely walk. Two of the largest parks, Kathryn Albertson Park and Julia Davis Park, add even more character to the area. Kathryn Albertson Park is nothing short of a natural sanctuary—gorgeous year-round and ideal for slowing down to soak in the beauty. Meanwhile, Julia Davis Park is the heartbeat of community events, hosting everything from cultural festivals to outdoor concerts.

Rental Market Overview

Renting in downtown Boise offers a vibrant urban lifestyle with a variety of housing options to suit different preferences and budgets. The area is known for its lively cultural scene, diverse dining establishments, and proximity to recreational activities, making it an attractive choice for many renters!

  • Availability: There is a wide selection of rental properties in downtown Boise, ranging from modern apartments to historic homes. Apartments.com lists approximately 479 apartments available for rent in the area.
  • Pricing: The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in downtown Boise is around $1,395 per month. However, prices can range from $900 for smaller units to over $4,500 for larger or more upscale accommodations.

Pros of Renting in Downtown Boise

  • Walkability: Downtown Boise boasts a high walkability score, allowing residents to easily access shops, restaurants, entertainment venues, and parks without the need for a car.
  • Public Transportation: The area is serviced by several public transportation options, including bus routes that connect downtown to other parts of the city, making commuting convenient for residents.
  • Community Events: The downtown area frequently hosts community events, farmers’ markets, and cultural festivals, fostering a strong sense of community and providing ample entertainment options for residents.

Age Distribution

  • Median Age: The median age in downtown Boise is 34.4 years, slightly younger than the city’s overall median age of 37.2 years.
  • Age Groups: The neighborhood has a significant proportion of residents in the 20-29, reflecting its appeal to young professionals and students.

Household Composition

  • Total Households: There are approximately 1,235 households in downtown Boise, with an average household size of 1.55 members.
  • Family vs. Non-Family Households: Family establishments represent 46%, while non-family units account for 54%.

Employment and Occupation

  • Workforce Composition: A significant majority of the working population, 87%, are employed in white-collar professions, whereas 13% are in blue-collar roles.
  • Employment Sectors: Within the workforce, 63% are employed by private companies, 18% work in governmental institutions, and 10% are self-employed entrepreneurs.

Mobility and Migration

  • Recent Movers: A portion of the population has relocated recently, with 14% moving from within the same county, 4% from the same state, 9% from different states, and 0.6% from abroad.

red and blue 808 Ihaho storefront
a city street at night with people walking on the sidewalk

Lifestyle

Downtown Boise is highly walkable, offering a pedestrian-friendly environment with easy access to restaurants, shops, parks, and entertainment venues. Wide sidewalks, well-marked crosswalks, and a compact layout make it convenient to explore on foot.

Some highlighted attractions include:

  • Boise River Greenbelt – A scenic pathway along the river, perfect for walking, biking, and enjoying nature.
  • 8th Street Marketplace – A bustling hub with restaurants, bars, and shops, ideal for dining and people-watching.
  • Freak Alley Gallery – An outdoor mural gallery featuring vibrant street art from local and national artists.
  • Capitol Boulevard & Idaho State Capitol – A historic and picturesque area with impressive architecture and open public spaces.
  • Julia Davis Park – A central park home to the Boise Art Museum, Zoo Boise, and scenic walking trails.
  • The Basque Block – A cultural district celebrating Boise’s Basque heritage with restaurants, museums, and historic sites. Fun Fact, Did you know that Boise is home to the largest Basque population outside of the Basque Country?
  • JUMP (Jack’s Urban Meeting Place) – A creative community space with interactive exhibits, gardens, and public events.

Dining

Dining in downtown Boise offers a diverse mix of local eateries, trendy bistros, and upscale restaurants, all within a walkable and vibrant setting. Whether you’re craving farm-to-table cuisine, international flavors, or classic comfort food, there’s something for every palate!

Here’s a few of the team’s favorites:

Chandlers [Chelsea’s favorite]: Chandlers is a renowned fine-dining steakhouse known for its prime steaks, jet fresh seafood, and award-winning martinis. With a sophisticated atmosphere and live jazz music, it’s a top choice for special occasions and an upscale dining experience.

Red Feather [Dusty’s favorite]: Red Feather Lounge is a stylish and contemporary restaurant known for its craft cocktails, farm-to-table dishes, and vibrant atmosphere. With its focus on sustainability, locally sourced ingredients, it’s a favorite spot for brunch, dinner, and late-night drinks.

The Avery Hotel & Brasserie [Nick’s favorite]: Located on the hotel’s ground floor, is a culinary highlight in downtown Boise. Inspired by classic French brasseries and led by Michelin-starred chef Cal Elliott, The Avery offers elevated classics inspired by French techniques. It’s an ideal spot for both upscale dinners and weekend brunches.

Pho Noveau [Shalisse’s favorite]: Pho Le in Boise is a cozy Vietnamese restaurant known for its flavorful pho, fresh ingredients, and authentic dishes. With a welcoming atmosphere and generous portions, it’s a go-to spot for comfort food lovers seeking a taste of traditional Vietnamese cuisine.