Here’s a list of ten of the best small towns in Idaho for retirement, taking into account public safety, quality of life, access to healthcare, and amenities:

1. Sandpoint

  • Overview: Nestled on the shores of Lake Pend Oreille, Sandpoint offers scenic beauty, a strong sense of community, and an active lifestyle. It’s known for its arts scene and outdoor recreation opportunities.
  • Amenities: Restaurants, cafes, art galleries, and a vibrant downtown.
  • Healthcare: Bonner General Health, a full-service hospital, and various clinics.
  • Parks: City Beach Park, Sandpoint City Park, and access to nearby Schweitzer Mountain for skiing and hiking.
  • Features: Lakefront living, arts festivals, and proximity to nature.

2. Ketchum

  • Overview: Ketchum, part of the Sun Valley area, is renowned for its outdoor lifestyle, with skiing, hiking, and a laid-back atmosphere. The town combines small-town charm with upscale amenities.
  • Amenities: High-end restaurants, boutique shops, art galleries, and a lively social scene.
  • Healthcare: St. Luke's Wood River Medical Center, a well-regarded regional hospital.
  • Parks: Atkinson Park and nearby Sawtooth National Recreation Area.
  • Features: Access to world-class ski resorts, an active arts community, and year-round recreation.

3. McCall

  • Overview: McCall is a mountain town on the shores of Payette Lake, known for its outdoor activities and community-focused living. It’s ideal for retirees who enjoy a slower pace and close-knit community.
  • Amenities: Local eateries, a charming downtown, and the famous McCall Winter Carnival.
  • Healthcare: St. Luke's McCall Medical Center.
  • Parks: Ponderosa State Park and Rotary Park.
  • Features: Lakefront living, golfing, skiing, and a strong sense of community.

4. Driggs

  • Overview: Driggs is a gateway to the Tetons and offers a peaceful, nature-centered retirement. The town is known for its friendly residents and excellent outdoor opportunities.
  • Amenities: Local shops, restaurants, and access to Jackson Hole amenities.
  • Healthcare: Teton Valley Health, with a hospital and various clinics.
  • Parks: Teton Canyon and access to Grand Teton National Park.
  • Features: Proximity to world-class skiing, fishing, and hiking.

5. Hailey

  • Overview: Located in the Wood River Valley, Hailey is a community-focused town with strong ties to the surrounding nature and a relaxed lifestyle. It’s ideal for retirees who enjoy outdoor activities but want a quieter setting than nearby Ketchum.
  • Amenities: A variety of local restaurants, shops, and community events.
  • Healthcare: St. Luke's Wood River Medical Center.
  • Parks: Draper Preserve, Hailey Skate Park, and nearby national forests.
  • Features: Small-town charm with easy access to world-class recreation in Sun Valley.

6. Eagle

  • Overview: A suburb of Boise, Eagle offers small-town living with the amenities of a larger city nearby. It’s known for its family-friendly atmosphere, safety, and access to outdoor activities.
  • Amenities: Shopping centers, local dining, and community events.
  • Healthcare: Saint Alphonsus Eagle Health Plaza, and proximity to Boise's hospitals.
  • Parks: Eagle Island State Park and Arboretum Park.
  • Features: Close proximity to Boise, riverfront recreation, and golf courses.

7. Victor

  • Overview: Victor offers a quiet, scenic retirement option with a focus on outdoor recreation. It’s a friendly town with access to the beauty of the Teton Valley.
  • Amenities: Local shops, restaurants, and proximity to Jackson, Wyoming.
  • Healthcare: Teton Valley Health.
  • Parks: Pioneer Park, and access to nearby national forests.
  • Features: A strong sense of community and easy access to skiing and hiking in the Tetons.

8. Montpelier

  • Overview: Montpelier is a quiet town with rich history and a slower pace of life. It's ideal for retirees seeking tranquility, beautiful surroundings, and community-oriented living.
  • Amenities: Local cafes, historical sites, and a small downtown.
  • Healthcare: Bear Lake Memorial Hospital.
  • Parks: Bear Lake State Park and Montpelier City Park.
  • Features: Access to Bear Lake, historical landmarks, and fishing.

9. Rathdrum

  • Overview: Rathdrum is a small, growing town located close to Coeur d’Alene, offering a peaceful environment with proximity to larger city amenities. It’s known for its safety and tight-knit community.
  • Amenities: Local restaurants, shops, and proximity to Coeur d'Alene's amenities.
  • Healthcare: Kootenai Health in nearby Coeur d’Alene.
  • Parks: Majestic Park and Rathdrum Mountain.
  • Features: Small-town living with access to lakes and mountains.

10. Cascade

  • Overview: Located along the Payette River, Cascade offers a relaxed mountain lifestyle with access to outdoor recreation and a welcoming community. It’s perfect for retirees seeking a quiet retreat.
  • Amenities: Local restaurants, a golf course, and shops.
  • Healthcare: Cascade Medical Center.
  • Parks: Kelly’s Whitewater Park and nearby Payette National Forest.
  • Features: Riverfront activities, fishing, boating, and hiking.

These towns represent some of the best retirement options in Idaho, with a focus on safety, quality of life, and access to essential amenities for seniors.