Moving to Idaho?
Situated in the Rocky Mountain area, the landlocked state of Idaho is the only place in the
world where six-pointed star garnets are found. Etymologically, the word Idaho is derived from the Shoshone language
and it means the “sun comes from the mountains.” It is nicknamed the “Gem State” because of the abundance of natural
resources.
The state is famous for its spectacular scenic beauty. From emerald green hillsides and snow-covered
mountains to pristine lakes, fertile farms and deep canyon gorges, the rugged landscape of this state ranges from alpine
to desert and is a haven of geological diversity.
The geography of the state has influenced the culture of
the state by imparting recreational aspects to it. Skiing and ice skating are some of the cherished hobbies in the state.
The rivers and numerous lakes have promoted the fishing culture, which generates revenue for the state of Idaho.
If you’re moving to Idaho, there are a lot of things you’re going to need to know. Luckily, you’ve come to the right
place.
Things to Know When Moving to Idaho
Idaho Climate
Idaho has a semiarid continental climate with the maritime influence of the Pacific Ocean. Temperatures decrease
with altitude. The highest annual average temperature is found in lower elevations. The maritime influence plays
a role in moderating the temperatures. The eastern part of the state, where the maritime influence is the least,
exhibits reverse precipitation patterns with wetter summers and dry winters. Snowfall depends on the availability
of moisture and elevation. Geographically, the state is divided into 3 regions – the Rocky Mountains, the Columbia
Plateau, and the Basin and the Ridge region. The state's Shoshone Falls on the Snake River is higher than the
Niagara Falls.
Registering your Car
You have 90 days to title and register your car after establishing residency
in the state. Registration is done at County Assessor Motor Vehicle Offices. You need to submit your out-of-state
title and registration, bill of sale, odometer disclosure, vehicle identification number, and inspection along
with the requisite fees.
Obtaining a Idaho Driver's License
Upon establishing residency in the state, you have 90 days to
apply for an Idaho driver's license at Sheriff's Driver Licensing Offices. If you have a commercial driver's
license, you need to apply within 30 days of becoming a resident. Students and military personnel with
a valid driver's license from out-of-state or from another country need not apply for an Idaho driver's license.
A vision test is mandatory for everyone and if your out-of-state license has been expired for more than an year
you may be required to take the written and road tests as well.
Crime Rankings
As of 2011, Idaho was ranked 9th out of 50 states in violent crime, with a total of less than 10 violent
crimes for every 100,000 people in the state.
Industries
Idaho is basically an agricultural state with products like potatoes, various wheat varieties, and other
livestock products. Idaho has the biggest production facility for barrel cheese, raw material for processed cheese. Industries
such as food processing, wood, chemicals, paper, and silver mining generate revenue significantly. Presently, the science
and technology sectors, especially semiconductor manufacturing, contributes to a quarter of the total revenue of the
state. Tourism and outdoor recreation also contributes to the state revenue. Proceeds from the state’s lottery are donated
to public schools and higher education institutions.
Employment Statistics
As of early 2012, the state of Idaho had an unemployment rate of 7.9 percent, which is slightly lower than the national
average of 8.2 percent.
Average Income
The median household income in the state of Idaho is $46,423, while the average per capita income for
the state is $22,518.
Moving and Storage
If you are looking for a moving company or storage facility to help you with anything,
you should check to make sure the company is registered with the United States Department of Transportation or
with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.
Real Estate
The average listing price for homes in Idaho is $332,727, while the median sales price is just over $85,000. The Idaho Association of Realtors is the official real estate resource for the state of Idaho.
Major landmarks and attractions
Tautphaus Park Zoo; Sun Valley; Shoeshone Falls; Idaaho Falls; Bronco Stadium;
Bruneau Dunes State Park; Bogus Basin Ski Area; Lake Lowell; Lava Hot Springs; Idaho Museum of Natural History;
Oakley Historical Area.
Largest Cities: Nampa, Meridien, Idaho Falls, Pocatello, Boise, Caldwell
Schools
The Idaho State Department of Education manages and administers the public school system through five divisions.
Each division is headed by a Deputy Superintendent who collaborates with other divisions and the State Department
of Education in realizing the goals of the state. The state promotes the 21st Century Classroom that contains
strict content standards, next generation assessments, and various choices within the system of public education
that are aimed to accommodate the learning needs of all students. The state has adapted the Common Core State
Standards. As part of higher education, there are public universities, community colleges, and colleges with
religious affiliations. Some notable institutions include: University of Idaho, North Idaho College, Boise State
University, and Boise Bible College.
National Parks
City of Rocks National Reserve
Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve
Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument
Yellowstone National Park
State park System
The Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation manages and administers the 30 state parks.
It is responsible not just for preserving the resources but also providing recreational facilities for the general
public. Idaho, with its lush green landscape, forested mountains, white water rivers, and sand dunes, offers
a myriad of outdoor activities for everyone in the family. Whether it is rock climbing at the City of Rocks or
paddling at Lake Pend Oreille, Idaho state parks will have you coming back for more.
Major Airports
Boise Airport
Friedman Memorial Airport
Idaho Falls Regional Airport
Pocatello Regional Airport