Overall, people are leaving the East Coast, and flocking to the West.
What exactly does that mean for Idaho?
When it comes to moving around the country Idaho is one of the high inbound states, according to a new study from the moving company, United Van Lines. We have thousands leaving the state each year, but thousands more are moving in and the net result is that we gain neighbors each year.
In my neighborhood there were some for sale signs in 2016, but those houses were quickly snatched up and new neighbors moved in. I'm sure you've seen it too. Do you think some parts of Idaho are emptying out, while places like the Treasure Valley are getting more crowded? Maybe. Barbacoa can draw a crowd on a Friday night. If it's a cool place to be, folks will find out and go there, which probably means we'll keep gaining residents overall.
Yahoo Finance says the biggest reasons people move are to retire, to be closer to family, and to take a new job. In Idaho, it breaks down like this. Thirty-five percent of the people who move here come for a new job. Twenty-five percent of new neighbors are here to retire with some great scenery, and twenty-five percent move here to be closer to family. The rest come for the lifestyle and for good health. Because we're foodies and active and adventurous.
There's plenty of room for everyone, right? As long as they can appreciate tree-lined streets, historic homes, rivers, paddling and hiking, an awesome Greenbelt, and craft beer. Then come on! Bring your snow shovels too.