What is the capital of Idaho?

The capital of Idaho is Boise, a rapidly growing tech hub nestled along the Boise River with immediate access to world-class outdoor recreation.

How many people live in Idaho?

Idaho has a population of approximately 1.9 million people and is one of the fastest-growing states in the U.S.

When was Idaho admitted to the Union?

Idaho was admitted to the Union on July 3, 1890, becoming the 43rd state.

What is Idaho known for?

Idaho is known as the Gem State for its diverse minerals, and is famous for its potatoes, Hells Canyon, Craters of the Moon National Monument, Sun Valley ski resort, and rapidly growing tech sector.

Idaho

The Gem State

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Quick Stats

1.9MPopulation

#38Rank

1890Joined

83.6kArea (mi²)

Map

Seal & Motto

"Esto Perpetua"

Additional Information

AbbreviationID

Motto Origin

Latin for "It is perpetual" or "Let it be perpetual."

Adopted 1891/1890.

Official WebsiteIdaho.gov

Population Growth

Overview

Idaho, the 'Gem State,' is a magnificent Western frontier defined by its rugged mountain wilderness, crystalline rivers, and soaring canyons. Famed for its vast public lands and world-class outdoor recreation, it is a leading center for specialized agriculture, timber production, and a rapidly booming technology sector.

Historical Significance

Idaho officially joined the Union on July 3, 1890, as the 43rd state. Its history is a narrative of explorers, Native American heritage and the Lewis and Clark expedition to the transformative 1860s gold and silver rushes that established it as a pivotal region for mining and expansion in the American West.

Top Cities & Hubs

Boise

Population: ~235,000

The state capital and a booming tech hub on the Boise River, offering a vibrant arts scene, world-class mountain biking trails, and a quickly expanding innovation economy.

Meridian

Population: ~130,000

One of the fastest-growing cities in the nation, this thriving suburb anchors the Treasure Valley with its strong retail sector and family-friendly neighborhoods.

Nampa

Population: ~110,000

The second-largest city in the Treasure Valley, serving as a key agricultural and industrial anchor with a growing population and affordable housing market.

Idaho Falls

Population: ~66,000

A gateway city to Yellowstone National Park and home to the Idaho National Laboratory, a premier center for nuclear energy research and clean technology development.

Caldwell

Population: ~65,000

An agricultural and emerging wine country hub anchoring the western end of the Treasure Valley, with vineyards thriving in the region's rich volcanic soil.

Neighbors

Region: West

Capital: Boise

Key Landmarks & Economy

Hells Canyon: The deepest river gorge in North America at over 7,900 feet, carved by the Snake River and offering world-class whitewater rafting and dramatic scenic views.

Shoshone Falls: Dubbed the "Niagara of the West," these falls on the Snake River are taller than Niagara Falls and one of the most spectacular natural sights in the country.

Semiconductor Hub: Micron Technology, founded in Boise, has made Idaho a critical player in global memory chip manufacturing and semiconductor innovation.

Did You Know?

Idaho produces nearly one-third of all potatoes grown in the United States, making it by far the nation's top potato-producing state.
The state has over 100 different mountain ranges, including the Sawtooth and Bitterroot ranges, offering some of the most dramatic alpine landscapes in the West.
The rare Star Garnet, a gemstone displaying a natural six-pointed star, is found in significant quantities in only two places on Earth: Idaho and India.