Let the numbers do the talking.
Boise, ID vs Caldwell, ID
Boise, ID vs Caldwell, ID: What the data shows
Boise, ID is in Boise, ID while Caldwell, ID is in Caldwell, ID — both in the same state. On home prices, Caldwell, ID is the more affordable option at $256,200 median — $65,500 less than Boise, ID's $321,700. WYLT rates Boise, ID as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Caldwell, ID as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration.
Caldwell, ID has the stronger safety profile of the two. Boise, ID has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Caldwell, ID has Low violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Boise, ID has Low flood risk and Caldwell, ID has Low flood risk.
Boise, ID is the more walkable neighborhood. Boise, ID scores 20/100 (car-dependent) versus Caldwell, ID's 13/100 (car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Boise, ID has the higher school rating — Boise, ID rates 7.5/10 and Caldwell, ID rates 6.5/10.
| Category | Boise, ID | Caldwell, ID |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Good for now |
| Median Price | $322K | $256K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $1K | $935 ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $59K | $59K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Low ✓ More stable |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 20/100 ✓ More walkable | 13/100 |
| Transit Score | 32/100 ✓ Better transit | 1/100 |
| Bike Score | 25/100 ✓ More bikeable | 1/100 |
| Commute | N/A | 20 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | B ✓ Safer |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Low ✓ Lower risk |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 7.5/10 ✓ Better schools | 6.5/10 |
| Best for | FamiliesRemote workersOutdoor enthusiasts | First‑time home buyersFamilies with school‑age childrenRetirees seeking a quiet community |
Bottom line
For someone prioritizing decent schools and a relatively calm environment, Caldwell offers a more affordable option with a similar feel to Boise. If you're willing to sacrifice school performance for a more vibrant downtown and walkable areas, Boise might be a better fit. Ultimately, both Caldwell and Boise are good choices for families and remote workers, but Caldwell's lower cost of living and quieter community make it a more budget-friendly option.
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