What to know when moving to Nampa, ID
Nampa at a Glance
- The Vibe:
- A community where 21.8% of residents hold a bachelor's degree and 26.2% are renters.
- The Major Draw:
- Median household income is $66,895, making it an affordable option compared to many urban areas.
- The Reality Check:
- Public transit usage is extremely low at just 0.1%, indicating a car-dependent lifestyle.
- Top Tip:
- Budget for $1,334 in monthly rent if you're looking to rent.
The 'Vibe' Check: Who Thrives Here?
Nampa is home to a population of 36,997, where a significant portion of the community is renting, with 26.2% of residents classified as renters. The median gross rent is $1,334, which reflects the area's affordability. With a poverty rate of 11.3% and 21.8% of the population holding a bachelor's degree, Nampa presents a mixed educational and economic landscape. Residents experience around 49 rainy days a year, leading to a relatively dry climate overall.
Probably not your spot if: You rely heavily on public transportation, as the transit share is just 0.1%.
Your Money: Housing & Cost Snapshot
- Median gross rent is $1,334, making it a reasonably priced option for housing.
- The median owner-occupied home value is $312,500, reflecting the local housing market.
- 21.8% of residents have a bachelor's degree, contributing to the community's character.
- The poverty rate stands at 11.3%, indicating some economic challenges.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 5-Year Data Profiles.
Crime & Safety: What the Numbers Say
In Idaho, property crime rates show a state annual rate of 615.3 per 100,000 residents, significantly lower than the national average of 1,546.9. Violent crime rates are also below the national average, with a state annual rate of 220.4 per 100,000 compared to 325.3 nationally, reflecting a generally safer environment.
- Violent crime: 220.4 per 100k vs. national 325.3, down 12.2% since 2022.
- Property crime: 615.3 per 100k vs. national 1,546.9, down 35.7% since 2022.
- Notable trend: Homicide rate dropped to 2 per 100k, down 29.6% since 2022.
Source: FBI Crime Data Explorer (state-level summarized data for Idaho).
Schools & Higher Ed
Nampa has access to 7 postsecondary institutions within the local area, providing educational options for residents. Key institutions include College of Western Idaho and Northwest Nazarene University, both located nearby.
- Postsecondary institutions: 7
- Regional institutions include College of Western Idaho and Northwest Nazarene University.
Source: ArcGIS Postsecondary School Locations, NCES College Scorecard.
Weather & Getting Outside
Nampa experiences about 8.1 inches of precipitation annually, with the wettest months in the winter, which sees approximately 4 inches of rain. There are around 49 rainy days per year, so be prepared for some wet weather.
- Parks & outdoor spots worth checking out:
- Settlers' Park - 4.7 stars, 2,962 reviews
- Eagle Island State Park - 4.6 stars, 2,773 reviews
- Warhawk Air Museum - 4.9 stars, 1,940 reviews
- Deer Flat National Wildlife Refuge - 4.5 stars, 1,645 reviews
Sources: NOAA Climate Data Online, Google Places.
Jobs & the Local Economy
Canyon County, where Nampa is located, has a labor force of 136,740, with an unemployment rate of 3.4% as of December 2025. This indicates a relatively healthy job market for residents.
- Unemployment rate: 3.4% as of December 2025
- Employment: 132,074 individuals
- Labor force: 136,740 individuals
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Local Area Unemployment Statistics.