Check out this roundup of places where the term ‘retire’ might mean retreating from good sense and scenic views 😖.
Between 2012 and 2022, Idaho experienced a 15% increase in violent crime, rising from 210 to 241 incidents per 100,000 residents (source: Justice Reinvestment Initiative).
From the lack of amenities to the excitement of watching paint dry, these towns have it all… or rather, have none of it.
These Idaho towns that could make retirement feel like a very long layover.
1. Blackfoot, Idaho
Blackfoot, known as the “Potato Capital of the World,” might seem charming due to its annual potato festival. However, the town has limited healthcare facilities, which is a major concern for retirees. The climate can also be harsh, with long, cold winters that may not be ideal for older residents.
Despite its small-town charm, Blackfoot has a higher-than-average crime rate. This could be unsettling for retirees seeking peace and tranquility. The town also lacks cultural attractions that might keep one engaged and active.
Recreational activities are sparse, which might not appeal to those looking to stay active post-retirement. The nearest large city with extensive amenities is over an hour drive away, making it inconvenient for daily travel.
[Reason for Ranking]: Due to its limited healthcare options and higher crime rate, Blackfoot is less suitable for retirees seeking comfort and security in their golden years.
2. Nampa, Idaho
Nampa, while being one of the larger cities in Idaho, suffers from some drawbacks that affect its desirability for retirees. The city’s air quality has been rated poorly, which could be a concern for those with respiratory issues.
Furthermore, Nampa’s cost of living, particularly in terms of healthcare and housing, is rising. This trend could strain the fixed budgets many retirees live on. The city does offer some amenities like parks and cultural centers, but these are often crowded and not well-maintained.
Transportation options in Nampa are limited. This makes it difficult for those who do not drive to navigate the city easily. Public services for the elderly are not as developed as they could be, adding another layer of challenge.
[Reason for Ranking]: Nampa’s poor air quality and rising cost of living make it a less attractive option for retirees looking for a healthy and affordable living environment.
3. Caldwell, Idaho
Caldwell boasts a historic downtown and beautiful vineyards nearby, but these features may not fully compensate for its other aspects. The town has a significantly high unemployment rate, which impacts community services and overall prosperity.
Additionally, Caldwell experiences extreme weather conditions with hot summers and cold winters, which can be difficult for the elderly to cope with. The healthcare facilities in the area are also lacking, which is a critical factor for retirees when choosing a place to settle.
Public transportation is nearly non-existent, making it hard for those who do not drive to get around. The town also has fewer social activities geared towards seniors, which could lead to a sense of isolation.
[Reason for Ranking]: The lack of adequate healthcare facilities and public transport options places Caldwell on the list of less desirable locations for retirees.
4. Payette, Idaho
Payette is nestled along the Oregon border and offers scenic views of the Payette River. However, the town’s small population leads to limited retail and entertainment options, which might not appeal to everyone.
The healthcare services in Payette are sparse, with the nearest hospital more than 20 miles away. For retirees, access to immediate and comprehensive healthcare is a necessity, making this a significant downside.
The town has a relatively high crime rate compared to other Idaho towns. This factor alone might deter retirees from considering Payette as a safe retirement destination.
[Reason for Ranking]: Payette’s lack of local healthcare services and higher crime rate make it a challenging place for retirees seeking safety and convenience.
5. Emmett, Idaho
Emmett offers a rural lifestyle with its abundance of outdoor activities. However, this small town is quite isolated, which might be a deal-breaker for some retirees. The nearest major hospital is over an hour’s drive away, posing a risk in emergency situations.
The town also has limited cultural and social activities suitable for retirees, which could lead to a lack of social interaction and engagement. This isolation extends to transportation options, which are minimal at best.
While Emmett has a low cost of living, the amenities and services that are crucial for a comfortable retirement are not adequately met. This includes access to good healthcare, entertainment, and social opportunities.
[Reason for Ranking]: The isolation and lack of essential services in Emmett place it among the less desirable towns for retirees in Idaho.
6. Jerome, Idaho
Jerome is centrally located near the crossroads of major highways, but it faces issues that make it less appealing for retirees. The town has limited access to quality healthcare, a critical factor for older adults looking for security in health services.
The cost of living in Jerome is relatively low, but so is the quality of life in terms of available amenities and social engagements. The entertainment options are few, and the town lacks the cultural vibrancy found in larger cities.
Moreover, Jerome’s infrastructure is not well-adapted to the needs of the elderly, with few sidewalks and public spaces that are accessible and safe for older individuals.
[Reason for Ranking]: Jerome’s limited healthcare and poor infrastructure for seniors contribute to its placement on this list.
7. Burley, Idaho
Burley offers picturesque views along the Snake River, but it struggles with economic development, which impacts the quality of services and amenities available to residents, particularly retirees. The local economy is heavily dependent on agriculture, which does not translate into substantial services for the elderly.
The healthcare options in Burley are minimal, and retirees may find themselves traveling to larger cities for more specialized care, an inconvenient and sometimes impractical solution.
Additionally, Burley has one of the highest property crime rates in the region, which can be a significant concern for those looking for a peaceful retirement.
[Reason for Ranking]: The lack of economic diversity and high crime rates make Burley a less ideal choice for retirees.
8. Rupert, Idaho
Rupert is known for its historic square and community-focused events, but the town has a low population density, which means fewer healthcare facilities and less frequent public transport, making it less convenient for retirees without personal vehicles.
The town’s economy is small-scale, which affects the availability of local amenities and services that are often necessary for a comfortable retirement. The shopping and dining options are limited, which might not satisfy those used to more urban environments.
Rupert also suffers from a lack of investment in public infrastructure, which includes parks and recreational facilities that are senior-friendly.
[Reason for Ranking]: Rupert’s limited amenities and inadequate public infrastructure are major drawbacks for retirees.
9. American Falls, Idaho
While American Falls offers a quiet lifestyle next to one of Idaho’s larger reservoirs, the town is not without its faults. It has a very small population, which often means that medical facilities and specialist healthcare are not readily available.
Transportation options are also scarce, making it difficult for those who do not drive to navigate the town or travel to nearby cities for better amenities. The local economy is not particularly robust, which can affect the quality of life.
Moreover, American Falls is somewhat isolated from larger metropolitan areas, which means less access to cultural and entertainment options that can enhance a retiree’s lifestyle.
[Reason for Ranking]: The isolation and lack of healthcare and transportation facilities make American Falls a challenging place for retirees.
10. Mountain Home, Idaho
Mountain Home is a military town that offers some amenities, but the constant turnover of the population can lead to a lack of community cohesion, which might be off-putting for retirees looking for a stable environment.
The town is situated in a remote area of Idaho, making it inconvenient for accessing major healthcare centers and specialty services, which are crucial for aging adults. The local services that are available often do not meet the needs of the elderly.
Additionally, while housing is affordable, the quality of life in terms of recreational and social opportunities is limited, which could lead to a sense of isolation among retirees.
[Reason for Ranking]: The remote location and limited senior-specific services place Mountain Home on this list of less desirable towns for retirees in Idaho.
11. Buhl, Idaho
Buhl calls itself the “Trout Capital of the World,” offering natural beauty and outdoor activities. However, it falls short in terms of healthcare services and modern amenities that are crucial for retirees. The town lacks sufficient medical facilities, often requiring residents to travel for routine healthcare.
While Buhl is affordable, the public transport system is nearly non-existent, complicating mobility for those who cannot or prefer not to drive. This limitation can significantly affect the quality of life for older adults.
The town also has limited social interaction opportunities and cultural events, which could lead to a feeling of isolation for retirees looking for a vibrant community life.
[Reason for Ranking]: Buhl’s lack of healthcare facilities and limited transportation options make it less ideal for retirees.
12. Shelley, Idaho
Shelley, famous for its annual Idaho Spud Day, might charm visitors with its small-town feel, but it offers limited amenities for retirees. The town has a very small population, which affects the availability of local services and community activities.
The healthcare options in Shelley are limited, with no major hospitals within a close distance. This poses a significant challenge for retirees who need regular medical care.
Additionally, the town does not have many entertainment or social venues, which are important for maintaining an active and fulfilling retirement life.
[Reason for Ranking]: Despite having a local medical center, Shelley lacks major hospitals within its boundaries. The nearest advanced medical facilities are in Idaho Falls, about 9 miles away, which could be inconvenient for seniors requiring frequent or emergency care.
13. Rigby, Idaho
Rigby is known as the birthplace of television, an interesting historical note, but it lacks in amenities that contribute to a retiree-friendly environment. The town has minimal healthcare facilities and services, which are critical for retirees.
While housing is affordable, the public services tailored specifically for the elderly, such as senior centers and social clubs, are scarce. This can make it difficult for retirees to integrate and find social engagement within the community.
Rigby also has limited public transportation, making it challenging for those who rely on these services to get around easily.
[Reason for Ranking]: Rigby’s inadequate healthcare and senior services contribute to its ranking as a less suitable retirement destination.
14. Preston, Idaho
Preston, the setting for the film “Napoleon Dynamite,” might boast some cinematic fame, but it faces real-world challenges that can detract from its appeal to retirees. The town has limited healthcare options, which can be a major drawback for those in need of regular medical care.
The community is small and close-knit, but this can translate into fewer activities and resources available for retirees. Additionally, Preston experiences significant snowfall, which can be difficult for older residents to manage.
The town also lacks sufficient public transportation, which can limit mobility for those who do not drive, further isolating them within the community.
[Reason for Ranking]: Preston’s limited healthcare and transportation options make it less appealing for retirees.
15. Heyburn, Idaho
Heyburn is located near the Snake River, offering beautiful views and outdoor activities, but it struggles with amenities that are essential for retirees. The town has limited medical facilities, and the nearest hospital with full services is several miles away.
Additionally, Heyburn has a small population which impacts the availability of local services and retail options, making daily life less convenient for residents used to more urban environments.
Public transportation is almost non-existent, which can greatly affect the ability of retirees to remain independent and active.
[Reason for Ranking]: Heyburn’s scarcity of healthcare and public transport services places it among the less desirable towns for retirees.
16. Fruitland, Idaho
Fruitland offers proximity to Oregon and its attractions, but it falls short in providing a supportive environment for retirees. The town has limited healthcare facilities, essential for aging populations, and lacks specialists and advanced medical services.
The local infrastructure is not well-developed, with few sidewalks and public areas that are safe and accessible for seniors. This can lead to a lower quality of life for retirees who wish to stay active and socialize.
Fruitland also lacks cultural and recreational activities that cater to the interests and needs of retirees, making it a less favorable option for those seeking an engaging retirement.
[Reason for Ranking]: The inadequate healthcare and poor infrastructure in Fruitland make it a challenging place for retirees.
17. Soda Springs, Idaho
Soda Springs is famed for its captive geyser, but its remote location and lack of amenities make it less appealing for retirees. The town’s isolation means that medical facilities are few and often not equipped to handle more complex health needs.
The cost of living is low, but so is the availability of services and activities that can enrich a retiree’s life. This includes limited shopping, dining, and entertainment options, which are important for a fulfilling retirement.
Soda Springs experiences severe winter weather, which can be challenging for seniors, especially those with health issues or mobility limitations.
[Reason for Ranking]: Soda Springs’ isolation and limited healthcare resources are significant drawbacks for retirees.
18. Weiser, Idaho
Weiser, known for its annual fiddle festival, might attract visitors but doesn’t offer much for retirees. The town has a small healthcare facility that lacks the resources to provide comprehensive care, a critical factor for retirees.
While Weiser is quaint and has a low cost of living, it lacks the infrastructure and services needed to support a healthy, active retirement. Public transportation is sparse, and social activities tailored to older adults are few.
The town is also somewhat isolated, with the nearest large city hours away, limiting access to more extensive amenities and specialist healthcare.
[Reason for Ranking]: Weiser’s limited healthcare and social amenities contribute to its placement on this list.
19. St. Anthony, Idaho
St. Anthony, near the beautiful dunes and outdoor recreation areas, provides scenic beauty but lacks in retiree-friendly amenities. The town has minimal healthcare options, and the closest hospitals equipped to deal with serious medical conditions are far away.
The town’s economy is primarily agricultural, which doesn’t offer much in terms of leisure or cultural activities for retirees. The local infrastructure, particularly for public transportation, is underdeveloped, making it difficult for those without personal transport to get around.
Additionally, St. Anthony’s remote location contributes to its limited appeal for those seeking a vibrant retirement community.
[Reason for Ranking]: The lack of healthcare and adequate infrastructure make St. Anthony less suitable for retirees.
20. Kamiah, Idaho
Kamiah is nestled along the Clearwater River and offers rich Native American history and natural beauty. However, the town’s very small size and remote location pose significant challenges for retirees. Healthcare services are minimal and often require traveling long distances for more specialized care.
The town lacks significant recreational and cultural activities that are often sought by retirees to maintain an active and social lifestyle. The community is tight-knit but may not provide the diversity of social interactions that retirees might seek.
Additionally, the local infrastructure does not adequately support the mobility and accessibility needs of the elderly, further limiting its appeal as a retirement destination.
[Reason for Ranking]: Kamiah’s remoteness and lack of essential services place it among the less desirable towns for retirees in Idaho.
Kamiah – 3 hospitals within 20-30 miles.
Yeah—Idaho is a terrible place to live or retire. So please don’t bother coming.
Why wasn’t “Minidoka” the railroad town
not mentioned?
Reality speaking here Idaho in general lacks INFRASTRUCTURE EVERYWHERE in the state!!!
The whole state of idaho is a terrible place to live! No one should move to any of the cities in Idaho. Maybe Iowa would be a good place to live!
Payette, Idaho is 10/15 minutes from Ontario Oregon which is a large city with tons of facilities .
We lived in Idaho (Meridian) and worked in Boise for 6 years. We loved it. I think the people who are saying it’s terrible, don’t come here are just trying to keep it all for themselves. They aren’t being truthful and they are being selfish. Go check it out for yourselves. Don’t listen to the naysayers.