Boise

Boise is the capital and most populous city of Idaho, United States. It is located in the southwestern part of the state along the Boise River in the Treasure Valley, near the foothills of the Boise Range in the western Rocky Mountains. The city has a semi-arid climate with four seasons, featuring hot summers and cold winters, and receives modest annual precipitation.

As of the 2020 census, Boise’s city population was approximately 235,000, with the surrounding Boise metropolitan area home to about 730,000 residents. The area was originally inhabited by Shoshone and Bannock peoples. European-American settlement began in the 1860s as a mining and supply center, and the Boise River valley developed into a commercial and agricultural hub. Boise has served as the territorial government seat and continues as Idaho’s state capital.

Boise operates under a mayor-council form of government and is the county seat of Ada County. The economy blends government, healthcare, education, and a growing technology and service sector. Major institutions include Boise State University and various regional employers in health care, education, and public administration. The city is known for a dynamic cultural scene with venues such as the Boise Art Museum and the Boise Philharmonic, and for the Basque Block, reflecting the region’s Basque heritage.

Key features include the Boise River Greenbelt, a riverfront network of trails and parks, and proximity to the Boise Foothills, which provide outdoor recreation opportunities. Transportation infrastructure centers on Boise Airport and connections via I-84 and I-184, with regional transit serving residents and visitors.