What Are the Safest Cities to Live in Idaho?
Have you ever wondered, "What is Boise, Idaho's crime rate? Is Meridian, Idaho safer to live? Is there crime in Star, Idaho?"
Are you considering a move to Idaho or have you ever just wondered where is the safest places to live in Southern Idaho? Whether you’re relocating for work, family, or just looking for a better quality of life, knowing which cities in the Treasure Valley have the lowest crime rates can help you make the best decision.
Southern Idaho, including the Treasure Valley, is known for being one of the safest regions in the United States. Idaho’s violent crime rate is around 2.3 incidents per 1,000 people, well below the national average of 4.0. Property crime here is also lower than in most states. But like any region, some cities are safer than others.
Before we dive into the details, it’s important to understand how crime rates are measured. Crime rates are typically calculated as incidents per 1,000 residents per year. This means that for every 1,000 people living in a city, that number of crimes is reported annually, helping you compare crime levels across cities of different sizes.
Cities in the Treasure Valley Compared by Crime Rates
In this blog, we’ll compare crime statistics from some of the most popular cities in the Treasure Valley:
-
Boise
-
Meridian
-
Nampa
-
Eagle
-
Middleton
-
Star
Each of these cities offers its own unique lifestyle and safety profile, so let’s explore them one by one. (It's important to note crime rates are measured as incidents per 1,000 residents per year, allowing easy comparison between cities of different sizes.)
Is Boise, Idaho a Safe City?
Population: Approximately 235,000
Violent Crime Rate: 2.7 per 1,000 residents per year
Property Crime Rate: 12.5 per 1,000 residents per year
Boise is the largest city in the Treasure Valley and overall, it is a safe place to live compared to other cities nationwide. Most of the crime in Boise is property-related, such as car break-ins or theft. If you’re looking for safer neighborhoods, areas like Southeast Boise, Harris Ranch, and the North End are known for their lower crime rates and strong community feel.
How Safe Is Meridian, Idaho?
Population: Approximately 117,600
Violent Crime Rate: 1.6 per 1,000 residents per year
Property Crime Rate: 9.8 per 1,000 residents per year
Meridian is one of Idaho’s fastest-growing cities and is consistently ranked as one of the safest. Violent crime is rare, and the city offers a family-friendly atmosphere with great schools and parks. If you want a mix of modern amenities and safety, Meridian is an excellent choice.
Is Nampa, Idaho Safe to Live In?
Population: Approximately 100,200
Violent Crime Rate: 2.5 per 1,000 residents per year
Property Crime Rate: 20 per 1,000 residents per year
Nampa has higher property crime rates than some other Treasure Valley cities, but like any city, it depends on the neighborhood. The newer developments in South Nampa are considered safer and more desirable for families. While Nampa offers more affordable housing, it’s important to research specific areas if safety is a top concern.
How Safe Is Eagle, Idaho?
Population: Approximately 31,270
Violent Crime Rate: 0.8 per 1,000 residents per year
Property Crime Rate: 10 per 1,000 residents per year
Eagle is one of the safest and most desirable places to live in the Treasure Valley. Known for its upscale homes and quiet neighborhoods, Eagle has very low crime rates. While home prices are higher here, many residents find the peace of mind and high quality of life well worth it.
Is Middleton, Idaho a Good Place to Live?
Population: Approximately 11,000
Violent Crime Rate: 2.1 per 1,000 residents per year
Property Crime Rate: 6.3 per 1,000 residents per year
Middleton is a small, rural town with some of the lowest property crime rates in the region. It offers a slower-paced lifestyle, making it a great option for those who prefer quiet surroundings. While it doesn’t have as many amenities as larger cities, Middleton’s safety and affordability make it appealing to many.
How Safe Is Star, Idaho?
Population: Approximately 13,200
Violent Crime Rate: 1.0 per 1,000 residents per year
Property Crime Rate: 2.0 per 1,000 residents per year
Star is one of the safest cities in the Treasure Valley, with extremely low violent and property crime rates. It’s a small, close-knit community that continues to grow, offering newer homes and easy access to both Boise and Meridian. Star is ideal for anyone looking for a peaceful, safe environment with a small-town feel.
Which City in the Treasure Valley Is the Safest?
If safety is your top priority, Eagle, Middleton, and Star are the clear leaders. These cities have the lowest crime rates in the Treasure Valley and offer strong community connections. Meridian is also very safe, especially for families looking for a balance of low crime and modern amenities.
Tips for Staying Safe in the Treasure Valley
-
Research neighborhoods – Crime can vary even within a city. Look up specific neighborhoods using tools like NeighborhoodScout or the Ada County Crime Mapper.
-
Get involved locally – Communities with active neighborhood watch groups and events tend to have lower crime rates.
-
Stay informed – Follow local news and police updates to stay aware of trends in your area.
Final Thoughts on Safety in the Treasure Valley
At the end of the day, the Treasure Valley is a great place to live, and there’s a safe spot for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a quiet rural town or a thriving city with more amenities, you’ve got options here.
If you’re thinking about moving to the area and want help deciding which city or neighborhood is right for you, reach out anytime. I’d love to help you find the perfect place that fits your needs. Contact me today for personalized recommendations, or leave a comment with your questions.
-Kristy Gilger
Contact me at: Kristy@Boisehomesforsalerealty.com
Follow me on Instagram: www.instagram.com/idahokristygilger/
Follow me on Facebook: www.facebook.com/kristygilger
Sources for Crime Data
-
FBI Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR)
-
NeighborhoodScout
-
City-Data
-
Idaho State Police Crime Statistics
-
Ada County Sheriff’s Office Reports