Who Will Be Moving to Boise in 2026? A Data-Backed Look at the Future

Boise has been one of America’s fastest-growing metros for more than a decade, and all signs suggest the growth isn’t slowing anytime soon. But the real question is: who exactly will make up the next wave of people calling Boise home in 2026?

By looking at migration data, housing affordability, and demographic trends, we can paint a clear picture of the families, professionals, and retirees heading our way.

Idaho Leads the Nation in Inbound Migration

Idaho continues to top the charts for people moving in from out of state. In 2023 alone, the state saw a net gain of more than 16,000 residents with over 80,000 moving in (Mike Brown Group). That trend continued in 2024, with Idaho adding another 30,000 new residents and growing at a rate of 1.5%, making it the 7th fastest-growing state in the country (Idaho Capital Sun).

Even more telling: about 90% of Idaho’s growth comes from migration, not births (NCHStats). People are actively choosing Idaho, and by extension, the Boise metro, as their new home.

Ada County: A Magnet for Out-of-State Newcomers

Nowhere is this more visible than Ada County, home to Boise, Meridian, and Eagle. In 2020, 67% of new residents in Ada County moved in from other states (Ada County Gov).

The county’s population has surged from about 495,000 in 2020 to more than 536,000 in 2024 (Wikipedia). This reflects just how attractive the Treasure Valley has become for newcomers.

Why Families Will Keep Coming

For many families, the math is simple: Boise is more affordable. The median home price here sits around $298,000, compared to more than $714,000 in Portland, a nearly 38% savings (Allied Van Lines, Apartments.com).

Add in good schools, safe neighborhoods, and easy access to parks and recreation, and it’s no surprise young families from Washington, Oregon, and California are eyeing the Treasure Valley.

Remote Workers and Professionals

Since 2020, Boise has been on the radar for remote workers looking for lifestyle without the high costs of coastal metros. With strong internet infrastructure, a thriving local culture, and access to nature, Boise will continue to attract professionals in tech, healthcare, and marketing.

These are often millennials in their 30s and 40s, a demographic that values both home design and community amenities.

Retirees on the Rise

Idaho’s senior population is growing rapidly. By 2031, residents aged 65 and older are projected to increase by more than 30% statewide (NCHStats). Rural Idaho already shows this shift, but urban counties like Ada are also seeing steady growth among retirees.

Many are relocating from pricier states, cashing out of high-value homes, and seeking single-level, age-friendly designs close to healthcare and recreation.

Regional Migration

Not all new Boiseans are coming from the coasts. Many are arriving from Utah, Montana, and Colorado, areas experiencing their own affordability crunch. For families, Boise offers the right balance: big enough to have opportunities, small enough to feel livable.

What It Means for Housing in 2026

All of these signals point to continued demand for:

  • Family-friendly single-family homes in walkable, planned communities.
  • Age-in-place designs to meet retiree needs.
  • Luxury production homes that blend beauty, functionality, and personalization.

For builders and homebuyers alike, 2026 will be about choice and quality. Boise is not just growing, it is evolving.

Closing

Whether it is families, professionals, or retirees, the Treasure Valley is on track to welcome thousands of new neighbors in 2026. At Osprey Homes, we are preparing for this future with homes designed for how people actually live, crafted with care, community, and lasting value.

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