Idaho has earned a solid reputation across the country as a peaceful, non-confrontational state with oodles of outdoorsy offerings and a relaxing rural lifestyle that’s hard to beat. But if you’ve ever wondered where the safest places in Idaho are to settle down, kick back, or get your zen on, here are 10 towns in Idaho (population 2,000 or over) with the lowest crime rates and safest reputations according to this FBI crime report.

1. Kimberly
Idaho
City of Kimberly
Safest cities in Idaho
city of Kimberly
Safest cities in Idaho
Public Domain Archive
Kimberly was developed from the start to emphasize family and community in rural, small-town Idaho. After bringing irrigation to the area, the Magic Valley hub was established, and passenger trains brought much needed commerce to the area. Known for its proximity to Shoshone Falls, Pomerelle Ski Resort, and other visitor destinations, Kimberly avoids the tourist traffic while enjoying the lowest crime rate in Idaho. Learn more about what makes Kimberly such a charming small town in Idaho.
2. Rexburg
Safest cities in Idaho
City of Rexburg
Safest cities in Idaho
Rexburg, ID, USA
Wikimedia Commons
Rexburg, Idaho is the gateway to both the Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks, and sits comfortably surrounded by picturesque mountains on every side. Home to the BYU-Idaho campus, Rexburg is also a hub of fine art, as well the starting point for a number of nationally-recognized marathons. While you're in town, be sure to visit this charming Idaho country store.
3. Bellevue
Idaho
Bellevue, ID, USA
Thomas Hawk/Flickr
Thomas Hawk/Flickr
Thomas Hawk/Flickr
Historically known for its silver mining boom in the 1800's, Bellevue sits on a Northern Idaho plateau widely noted for its rich soil and resources. Silver Creek Preserve, which is located in Bellevue, is featured on our hidden gem road trip through Idaho.
4. St. Anthony
Safest cities in Idaho
Saint Anthony, St Anthony, ID 83445, USA
Jimmy Emerson, DVM/Flickr
Safest cities in Idaho
Bill Lile/Flickr
Ken Lund/Flickr
St. Anthony was settled in 1888 on the shores of Henry's Fork on the Snake River. The city is particularly known for its shifting, white quartz sand dunes that attract visitors from across the country. Learn more about these fascinating sand dunes you'll find in St. Anthony, Idaho.
5. Shelley
Safest cities in Idaho
Shelley, ID 83274, USA
Idaho Spud Day

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Safest cities in Idaho
Zechariah Judy/Flickr
Located on the eastern bank of the Snake River and home of Idaho's Annual Spud Day, this quiet town has much more to offer than meets the eye. Shelley was completely destroyed by a fire in 1902 and rebuilt from the ground up. While you're there, you'll also want to make time to visit this fascinating historic park.
6. Preston
Idaho
Preston, ID 83263, USA
J.Stephen Conn/Flickr
Safest cities in Idaho
Cory Forsyth/Flickr
A quietly charming Eastern Idaho destination for adventurers wanting to float the Oneida Narrows or enjoy Bear Lake, Preston is also a historical site on the Pioneer Scenic Byway. One of the safest places in Idaho, Preston is also one of the most charming!
7. Parma
Idaho
Parma, ID 83660, USA
Jake Gard
Rural Parma, Idaho is a small agricultural town and home of the unique Fort Boise replica -- a military haven that was originally on the east bank of the Snake River. While you're exploring the area, be sure to check out Parma Ridge Winery, one of the area's best-kept secrets.
8. Hailey
Idaho
Hailey, ID 83333, USA
Wikimedia Commons
Safest cities in Idaho
Whitney/Flickr
Safest cities in Idaho
DieselDemon/Flickr
The quaint town of Hailey, Idaho is surrounded by the Sawtooth Mountains and is home of the Trailing of the Sheep Festival.
9. American Falls
Idaho
American Falls, ID 83211, USA
City of American Falls
Safest cities in Idaho
City of American Falls
Safest cities in Idaho
City of American Falls/Hunter Morris
American Falls was not only the first American city to be entirely moved, the town was also intentionally laid out on a diagonal so that "the sun shines in every window."
10. Meridian
Safest cities in Idaho
Meridian, ID, USA
Laura Gilmore/Flickr
Safest cities in Idaho
Laura Gilmore/Flickr
Safest cities in Idaho
Nicholas D/Flickr
Last but not least on the list of safest places in Idaho, Meridian is the state's 3rd largest city, and is located just north of Boise. It is home to the Meridian Speedway, the Meridian Urban Market, and the Meridian Symphony Orchestra. Plus, if you happen to visit during the winter, you'll quickly discover that Meridian is one of Idaho's best Christmas towns.

Did any of these safe towns surprise you? Do you live in any of the safest places in Idaho? Tell us about it in the comments below — we’d love to hear from you!

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safest places in Idaho

Beth C. | October 29, 2021

What are some hidden gems in Idaho?

Idaho is a vast state, and there are countless gems to be discovered in every corner. From fascinating roadside attractions to little-known natural wonders, there is truly something for every kind of explorer to appreciate in the Gem State. In order to help you appreciate the top hidden gems in Idaho, we've put together a road trip that includes some of the state's most impressive destinations. One of the first stops on the itinerary is Upper Mesa Falls. Located near the town of Ashton, this stunning waterfall is every bit as striking as the more famous Shoshone Falls. Plus, it's as tall as a 10-story building! Other hidden gems worth finding in Idaho include Lava Hot Springs, Silver Creek Preserve, Black Magic Canyon, Box Canyon State Park, Three Island Crossing, Pine Flat Hot Spring, Hobo Cedar Grove Botanical Area, Q'emiln Park, and Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge. Curious to learn more? You can check out the full itinerary for exploring Idaho's hidden gems.

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