Like stepping back in time.
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3/1/2017
I grew up in the West, so I thought I knew everything I needed to know about Idaho. Wrongo! We've been here almost 2 years.
The pros:
Small town feel. people are polite, low cost housing with plenty of surrounding communities to choose from, enough stores for shopping, growing restaurant culture, easy commutes, clean, safe community, several cultural events at the University, Boise is a good walking town. Plenty of outdoor activities with amazing natural scenery.
The cons:
Provincial/redneck, difficult to find a job if you are not originally from Idaho and/or over 40, Mormon culture permeates everything...nice people, but not inclusive of other philosophies or religions....also, the men are sexist and condescending toward women (I've never been asked so many times, in a professional setting, if I have children). Medical care is a nightmare. Had to go to 5 dentists to get my crown fixed...they looked puzzled, as if they had never created a crown before. Transplanted Californians are pouring into the area bringing their lifestyle with them. The closest big city is SLC which is 5 hours away. Kind of dull. Locals don't accept "new people" so it is challenging to make friends if you are not young with lots of children.
The climate is arid with 4 seasons. It can get cold (sub zero) and hot in the summer (100s), but, in general, is not extreme. We had a terrible winter this year and discovered that they do not plow residential streets. The water is icky...need to double filter it. It is very difficult to find people for services. Took 8 tries to find a landscaping company who actually showed up for their appointment, then followed through with the work they promised...and that seems to be the norm here. Professionalism is non-existent.
Planning on moving mostly because of the lackluster medical care and lack of access to other services.
I'd say that if you belong to the predominant faith, and have young children, then this is the place for you. If you are a single professional, mid-career, a retiree, or a city person....look elsewhere.
Eber | Eagle, ID