Idaho Senior Living Options & Resources

Senior Living in Idaho: What You Need to Know

Idaho is home to 314,391 seniors aged 65 and older, representing 16.6% of the state's 1.9 million residents. With a median age of 37.1 and a growing retirement population attracted by the state's natural beauty and lower cost of living, Idaho offers an increasingly robust selection of senior living options. The state's 23 senior living communities are distributed across 6 cities, with the highest concentration in the Treasure Valley region, particularly in Boise and Meridian, as well as scenic northern Idaho communities like Coeur d'Alene.

Idaho's senior care costs remain significantly more affordable than national benchmarks. Assisted living averages $5,310 per month compared to the national average of $5,900, while semi-private nursing home rooms cost $8,349 versus $9,277 nationally. This 10% savings, combined with Idaho's median household income of $74,636, makes the state an attractive option for retirees seeking quality care without the premium prices found in neighboring states like Washington and Oregon.

The state's healthcare infrastructure supports seniors through major systems including St. Luke's Health System, Saint Alphonsus Health System, and Eastern Idaho Regional Medical Center. Idaho's diverse geography—from the Boise metropolitan area to the mountain communities of eastern Idaho and the lakes region of the north—offers varied lifestyle options for seniors. The state's four-season climate, outdoor recreation opportunities, and strong community values appeal to active retirees, though harsh winters in some regions may be a consideration for those with mobility challenges.

Idaho participates in several Medicaid waiver programs that help eligible seniors access home and community-based services as alternatives to institutional care. The state's Aged and Disabled (A&D) waiver program provides services including assisted living facilities, allowing qualifying seniors to receive care in residential settings. With strategic investments in senior services and a commitment to aging-in-place initiatives, Idaho continues to expand options for its growing senior population while maintaining its reputation for affordability and quality of life.