Idaho is the 43rd state of the United States of America; it is also the 14th largest in terms of area and 39th in terms of population. It is located in the pacific northwest of the country and shares borders with Montana, Wyoming, Utah, Nevada, Oregon and Washington. To the northern border is Canada. The state capital of Idaho is Boise, which is also the state’s largest city. Other major cities in the state include Nampa, Idaho Falls and Pocatello.

Idaho has the nickname “the Gem State” due to the fact almost every known gemstone has been found there. The climate in Idaho is varied, for instance, the northern part of the state has dry summers and very wet winters, whereas the southern areas of the state have wetter summers and drier winters. Temperatures can reach up to 38 degrees, although they very rarely go over that point. Winters also do not have extended periods of cold and temperatures less than zero are rare.

Idaho – Employment

Some of the major industries in Idaho include agriculture, food processing, the timber industry, manufacturing and tourism. All of these industries have regular vacancies but foreign born nationals should be aware that many jobs are seasonal or short-term and there is a lot of competition for low level positions. Many companies do need skilled and qualified professionals and if the skills cannot be found locally an expat will be considered for the position.

By far the largest source of employment in the state is the science and technology sector. It provides nearly 25% of the state’s revenue. Boise in particular is home to many of these companies and these include manufacturers of computer chips and other computer components. Companies such as Hewlett-Packard and Micron Technology Inc have bases in the city and will recruit IT professionals from all over the world.

Idaho – Property

There are several cities in Idaho which have a great deal to attract expats to the region. Idaho Falls has a number of areas which are ideal for both families and individuals. The Downtown area of the city is undergoing regeneration and many buildings are being converted into apartments. This is attracting new businesses to the area and many new bars and shops are opening. The prices are reasonable, but are expected to rise as the redevelopment continues.

The Numbered Streets area is the oldest part of Idaho Falls. This area is close to the downtown area and has recently become popular again due to the redevelopments that are taking place. The properties in the area range from apartments to family homes and these are very reasonably priced. There are also a good number of properties in the area which are available to rent. The West Side of the city is a much more tranquil area and does not experience the same levels of traffic and development as other areas. Some sections of the district have been redeveloped already and there are many new businesses in the area. Homes are mainly family homes and prices are on a par with the regional average.

Boise is the state capital and as such is one of the largest metropolitan areas in the state. The Downtown area of Boise is very developed with many high rise buildings. The property in the area is mainly apartments and residents choose the area for the proximity to work and the excellent night life. The development of the area has forced the prices up, but there are also many properties to rent. In contrast, the North End of the city has many older properties and is a much quieter district and has been voted one of the best areas to live in. Property prices are high, but the amenities in the area are worth it. North End has good schools and shops and is a much sought after area.

The Southwest area of Boise had a rural feel to it until the 1980s, when many new developments began. This means that many of the properties available there are less than 30 years old. It is an ideal area for families as there are good schools and shops as well as parks. Prices are very reasonable when compared with some other areas. The Northwest area of Boise has both old and new sections but house prices here tend to be lower than in other areas. The area has a real mix of amenities, from schools and libraries, to shops, bars and restaurants.