Have you considered living in Meridian Idaho? In 2019, Meridian Idaho was ranked among the top 10 places to live in the U.S., and for good reason. This vibrant and growing city offers a high quality of life, great schools, and plenty of recreational opportunities.
Aside from Boise Idaho, which is the state’s capital, Meridian is the fastest-growing city in Idaho. It has a population of over 114,000 and is located just west of Boise. This prime location allows residents to enjoy all the benefits of a big city while still having a strong sense of community in a smaller suburb community.
For you to see why living in Meridian Idaho is so great, here are some key factors that make it stand out.
Living In Meridian Idaho FAQ
The distance between Meridian Idaho to Boise Idaho is 12 miles, located just west of Boise.
Meridian Idaho is considered as one of the safest cities in Idaho. According to Niche.com, it has a crime rate lower than the national average and is known for its low crime rates overall. It’s a safe community for families and individuals alike.
As someone who lives in Meridian Idaho, I can confidently say that it is a great place to live. It offers a strong sense of community, excellent education options, and plenty of outdoor activities. Plus, its prime location allows for easy access to neighboring cities and attractions. Overall, Meridian is a desirable and welcoming place to call home.
Living in Meridian ID
A Safe and Family-Friendly Community
One of the main reasons why people are drawn to living in Meridian Idaho is its reputation for being safe and family-friendly. In fact, it was ranked as one of the safest cities in America by multiple sources. The low crime rate and strong sense of community make it an ideal place to raise a family.
The city also has a strong focus on community events and activities, such as the annual Meridian Dairy Days celebration and the Meridian Main Street Market. These events bring residents together and foster a strong sense of belonging in the community.
Quality of Life
Meridian Idaho boasts a high quality of life, with a low crime rate and affordable cost of living. The city also has a strong sense of community, with numerous events and festivals throughout the year that bring people together. From farmers markets to outdoor concerts, there’s always something happening in Meridian.
History and Growth
The city of Meridian Idaho started as a small settlement area of very few people living along the Five Mile Creek. In 1885, settlers opened their first school and soon a post office, before it was named Meridian, the town was called the Hunter. In 1893, the town was officially named Meridian and by 1903, the village consisted of 200 people with a thriving business center.
Since then, Meridian has experienced consistent growth and development, becoming a vibrant city with a population of over 120,000 residents. The city continues to attract new businesses and families due to its strong economy and welcoming community.
Meridian Idaho Real Estate
Unlike Boise, Meridian has a more suburban feel with newer housing developments and planned communities. The average homes for sale in Meridian Idaho is slightly higher than the national average, but still relatively affordable compared to other major cities.
As top realtors in Meridian Idaho, we’re here to help you when it comes time to find the best home for your family.
The city offers a variety of housing options, from single-family homes to townhouses up to luxury homes for sale in Meridian. Many neighborhoods have well-maintained walking trails and parks in Meridian Idaho, making it a great place for families and individuals who love spending time outdoors.
If you plan on moving to Meridian, check out Thrive in Boise Buyer’s Page where we can help you find the perfect home for your needs and budget.
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Best Neighborhoods in Meridian
Meridian’s neighborhoods offer a mix of suburban and rural living, with proximity to all the amenities of the city. Some popular neighborhoods include:
Tuscany
Known for its beautiful homes and community events like movie nights and concerts. Tuscany is a great neighborhood for families looking for a close-knit community.
Saguaro Canyon
A newer neighborhood with modern homes and amenities such as a community pool and clubhouse. Saguaro Canyon is popular among young professionals and families.
Spurwing
Located in North Meridian, Spurwing offers stunning views and spacious homes on a golf course, a clubhouse, and perfect for those seeking a more luxurious lifestyle. Spurwing is ideal for those looking for resort-style living.
Related post: Best Public Golf Courses in Boise
Paramount
A master-planned community with a variety of amenities, a community pool, and a great place for families. This sought after neighborhood has mature trees and ponds as well..
The Meridian Lifestyle
In the Treasure Valley , Meridian’s strong sense of community and wide range of activities make it an attractive place to live. The city hosts several annual events, such as the Meridian Dairy Days Festival and Winter Lights Parade, bringing residents together to celebrate their city.
Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy over 20 parks and recreational areas in Meridian, including Julius M. Kleiner Memorial Park which has a playground, splash pad, pickleball courts and amphitheater. The city also has a large network of of walking and biking trails, perfect for exploring the beautiful surroundings.
For those who love shopping and dining, Meridian has The Village at Meridian, a popular outdoor mall with shops, restaurants, and a cinema.
Education in Meridian
The West Ada School District serves Meridian’s students with highly-rated schools, including award-winning high schools like Rocky Mountain High School. The district also offers advanced programs for gifted students and an online school for those who prefer non-traditional learning.
If you’re considering moving to Meridian Idaho with a family, you’ll be pleased to know that the city also has several private school options, as well as public charter schools. Meridian is close to Boise and Nampa, the cities with higher education institutions such as Boise State University and the College of Western Idaho.
Below are top-rated schools in Meridian from public k-12 schools to colleges and universities:
Public Schools K-12
There are 49 schools in the West Ada School District. Here are some of the highest-rated public schools in Meridian:
- Paramount Elementary School
- Victory Middle School
- Heritage Middle School
- Discovery Elementary School
- Renaissance High School
- Hunter Elementary School
- Sawtooth Middle School
- Rocky Mountain High School
Private Schools K-12
Right now, there are 6 private schools in Meridian, these are the top-rated private schools in the area:
- Ambrose School
- Heroes Academy: An Acton Academy
- Challenger School
- Cole Valley Christian Schools
- Child’s Choice Montessori School
- King’s Kids Preschool & Kindergarten
Colleges and Universities
When it comes to higher education, Boise State University still tops the list, with just 10 miles from Meridian. It offers over 200 degree options and is known for its strong programs in business, engineering, and nursing.
Other colleges and university options near Meridian include:
- Boise Bible College
- The College of Idaho
- Northwest Nazarene University
- Franklin University
- Stevens-Henager College
- University of Phoenix
- Brown Mackie College
Want the cliff-notes version of what you need to know about moving to Boise and the Treasure Valley, all in one place? Then download your FREE digital Boise Relocation Guide here!
Conclusion
From its prime location and abundance of outdoor activities to its excellent education options, Meridian, Idaho is a top-choice for individuals or families looking to relocate. It’s a welcoming and thriving community with something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a new place to call home or simply visiting, Meridian has much to offer in terms of education and overall quality of life.
