Idaho's 7 Best Retirement Towns Ranked
Retirement marks the start of a new chapter, one where retirees have the freedom to enjoy life on their terms. But finding the right place to settle down is just as important as how time is spent. In Idaho, with 17.4% of the population being 65 or older, seniors benefit from a mix of affordability, healthcare access, and outdoor recreation. Wellness programs help residents stay active, while Medicaid assists with long-term care. With tax-friendly policies and welcoming small towns, Idaho offers an ideal setting for this next stage of life.
Salmon
Salmon delivers a relaxed pace of life with senior-focused amenities. One of the best ways to take in the area’s breathtaking scenery is the Half Day Scenic Float on the Salmon River, as gentle currents guide visitors past the stunning Beaverhead Mountain Range and striking white sandstone bluffs. This peaceful float is perfect for seniors looking to spend quality time on the water, whether with friends or visiting family. Likewise, Goldbug Hot Springs provides another natural retreat that create a quiet escape in the heart of Idaho’s wilderness.
For those drawn to history, the Lemhi County Historical Museum paints a vivid picture of the past, showcasing exhibits on the region’s Indigenous heritage, mining traditions, ranching culture, and the vital role of the local river systems. Meanwhile, golf enthusiasts can enjoy an afternoon at Salmon Valley Golf Course, a picturesque nine-hole course that captures the rugged charm of the Salmon River country.
Beyond outdoor recreation and history, social engagement plays an important role in the community. At the Salmon Valley Senior Center, seniors gather every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday for lunches, bingo, card games, and live entertainment, creating a warm and inviting space to stay active and connected. When it comes to healthcare, residents have dependable medical care at Steele Memorial Medical Center, while Discovery Rehab & Living ensures quality short-term rehabilitation and long-term care within town limits. With an average home price of $334,513 as of February 2025 (Zillow), Salmon makes a wonderful place to retire.
Blackfoot
Known as the "Potato Capital of the World," Blackfoot has deep agricultural roots and is home to the Idaho Potato Museum, where visitors can explore the history of Idaho’s most famous crop. From the world’s largest baked potato to exhibits detailing the evolution of the potato industry, the museum creates a fun and informative outing for all ages. Meanwhile, Jensen Grove Park serves as a scenic retreat right in town, featuring a 55-acre pond surrounded by walking paths, picnic areas, and space for swimming and boating. Whether it’s a peaceful lakeside stroll or an afternoon watching grandkids play, the park adds to Blackfoot’s appeal.
For the retirees who enjoy history, the Bingham County Historical Museum offers a look into the past with exhibits on local heritage, and its events help residents stay connected. Likewise, individuals looking for entertainment can visit Sage Hill Casino, a popular spot where retirees can cherish a lively atmosphere and an evening of friendly competition.
On the other hand, the Blackfoot Senior Citizens Center brings people together through meals, exercise classes, and social gatherings, ensuring that older adults have plenty of opportunities to connect and stay active. Healthcare needs are well covered at Bingham Memorial Hospital, a modern nonprofit facility providing essential medical care. Assisted living options, such as The Gables of Blackfoot, focus on keeping residents engaged with activities like bingo, walking clubs, and group puzzles. With an average home price of $342,004 as of February 2025, Blackfoot adds affordability along with the benefits of a close-knit, welcoming environment.
Jerome
Jerome provides a comfortable and convenient setting for retirees, with an average home price of $358,663 as of February 2025, leaving extra financial flexibility for hobbies and entertainment. With essential services close at hand and plenty of ways to stay active, the town creates an environment in which seniors can enjoy each day without unnecessary stress.
The Jerome Senior Citizen Center keeps the social calendar full, with Sunday dances featuring live music from the Melody Masters, weekly line dancing on Tuesday evenings, and square dancing every Wednesday. Whether it’s a lively evening of movement or simply watching others take the floor, the center fosters a warm atmosphere that encourages natural connections. For healthcare, St. Luke’s Jerome Medical Center ensures retirees have reliable access to medical care, allowing them to focus on the activities they enjoy most. Assisted living at Ashley Manor Idaho delivers personalized care in a home-like setting, offering peace of mind for those who may need extra support.
Exploring the town’s past is easy with a visit to the Minidoka National Historic Site Visitor Center, which highlights the history of the World War II relocation camp that once stood in the region. Meanwhile, the Jerome County Historical Museum, located in the downtown district, adds another opportunity to learn about the area’s heritage. Afterward, a walk across the historic district’s specialty shops and restaurants makes for an enjoyable afternoon.
Burley
Retirees looking to balance an active lifestyle with small-town comfort will find Burley an excellent place to settle. With a median home price of $311,836 as of February 2025, homeownership remains within reach. Complementing this, the town’s lively event calendar ensures there’s always something to look forward to, from the annual Spudman Triathlon, which brings together thousands of participants while raising funds for the local Lions Club, to the Idaho Regatta, a thrilling boat racing event that has drawn competitors and spectators since 1975.
For those who appreciate arts and culture, the King Fine Arts Center at Burley High School serves as a local hub for live performances, hosting plays, concerts, and community gatherings in its 1,200-seat auditorium. Meanwhile, the Burley Theater, originally built in 1914 as a vaudeville venue, continues to bring entertainment to the heart of town, with recent renovations ensuring a comfortable moviegoing experience.
Outdoor enthusiasts can take in the natural beauty of Freedom Park, a 28.3-acre green space with walking and hiking trails that provide a peaceful escape from the day-to-day routine. For retirees spending time with grandchildren, Storybook Park creates a welcoming space where families can enjoy time together in a safe, well-maintained setting.
Healthcare is always within reach, thanks to Cassia Regional Hospital, which has comprehensive medical services. Assisted living at Highland Estates ensures seniors have the support they need while maintaining an active and engaged lifestyle. At the Burley Senior Center, older adults gather for meals, social activities, and wellness programs, with a Home Delivered Meals program available for individuals who need it.
Mountain Home
Mountain Home allows seniors to stay engaged through a variety of outdoor and social activities. The median home price sits at $340,893, keeping economical. In addition, seniors who enjoy fresh air and scenic surroundings will find plenty of opportunities to stay active in the town’s well-kept parks. Carl Miller Park, a shaded 4.8-acre green space, stands as a symbol of the town’s appreciation for its military heritage. An F-111 jet on display pays tribute to the United States Air Force, and every September, the park becomes the heart of Air Force Appreciation Day, bringing residents closer for a parade and a free community barbecue. Another local landmark, Railroad Park, is the city’s oldest park. A recent revitalization project added a walkway, picnic tables, and a large clock, transforming it into a gathering place for events such as the Crazy Daze Carnival and the weekend farmers market.
Those who appreciate a slower-paced yet engaging pastime can spend their days at Desert Canyon Golf Course, where each round brings friendly competition. This 18-hole course offers sweeping views of the surrounding landscape and welcomes golfers year-round, with tee times available up to a week in advance.
Healthcare needs are met by St. Luke's Elmore Medical Center, while The Cottages of Mountain Home provides assisted living and memory care in a comfortable, home-like setting. Social connections remain strong with activities at the Mountain Home Senior Center, which hosts “Meet Your Candidate Night” twice a year, monthly Wacky Bingo, and seasonal celebrations such as the Annual Christmas Bazaar. Fitness programs like Fit and Fall, held on Mondays and Fridays, help seniors maintain an active lifestyle.
Lewiston
Lewiston blends together two things retirees truly enjoy: gathering with friends over a glass of wine and spending time on the golf course. This inviting town in Idaho’s Lewis-Clark Valley creates the perfect setting for both. Clearwater Canyon Cellars, named the 2020 Pacific Northwest Winery of the Year, has earned 41 Platinum Awards, making it a favorite for wine enthusiasts. Nearby, Lewiston Golf and Country Club features breathtaking views of the Snake River and surrounding mountains, with well-maintained greens and local wildlife like deer and turkeys adding to the charm. Thanks to the region’s “banana belt” climate, outdoor activities remain enjoyable throughout much of the year.
Seasonal celebrations keep life engaging. The Dogwood Festival fills the air with pink blossoms, "Hot August Nights" brings live concerts and classic cars to Main Street, and Locomotive Park glows with holiday lights each winter.
Furthermore, the Nez Perce County Historical Society offers an indoor retreat for history lovers, while St. Joseph Regional Medical Center provides excellent healthcare. In addition, Royal Plaza of Olympus Retirement Living supports aging with independence. Moreover, the Lewiston Senior Nutrition Program ensures that older residents have access to nutritious meals, serving lunch three days a week at the Community Center and delivering meals Monday to Friday. With 20.2% [ U.S. Census Bureau] of residents 65 and older and an average home price of $363,129 as of Feb 2025, Lewiston makes settling in both easy and fulfilling.
Rexburg
Retirees seeking a well-rounded lifestyle in eastern Idaho will find Rexburg to be an appealing place to call home. This small town in Madison County brings together a satisfying environment for seniors. To begin with, at the Legacy Flight Museum, retirees can admire restored aircraft flown by U.S. military veterans, with dedicated volunteers keeping aviation history alive through detailed exhibits and live demonstrations. Besides that, for those who enjoy peaceful walks and scenic spaces, Porter Park delivers a relaxing escape. Home to the Idaho Centennial Carousel, the Rexburg Splash Pad, and the Beehive Pavilion, the park is a favorite for leisurely strolls or an afternoon with grandchildren. Seniors looking to stay active can also enjoy a round of golf at Rexburg Municipal Golf Course, a well-maintained course surrounded by beautiful views.
The Rexburg Idaho Temple adds to the town’s character, standing as both a place of worship and a striking landmark. Meanwhile, quality healthcare is readily available at Madison Memorial Hospital Madisonhealth, ensuring residents have access to medical care without having to travel far. With a median home price of $396,969 as of February 2025, Rexburg remains an attractive choice for individuals ready to settle down. Moreover, Homestead Assisted Living creates a comfortable setting for seniors seeking supportive care, while local senior programs encourage social connections and engagement.
Whether retirees plan to spend their days surrounded by the rugged beauty of Salmon or enjoy the close-knit connections in Mountain Home, Idaho’s seven best retirement towns make it easy to embrace the next chapter of life. These towns ensure a comfortable and welcoming place to settle after years in busier cities, creating a slower-paced yet fulfilling lifestyle. With strong community ties, reasonable living costs, and reliable healthcare facilities, retirees can look forward to a smooth transition into their golden years in the Gem State.
