The Bench (Boise Bench)

Boise, Idaho

Neighborhood Market Analysis

Q3 2025 Report
$410,000 (Jan 2025)
Median Home Price
Moderate (varies by micro-location; higher near Vista Ave, Kootenai, and Crescent Rim)
Walkability Score
Generally average to above average; some variation by catchment area.
School Rating

Location Overview

Neighborhood Boundaries

South of Downtown Boise, elevated approximately 60 feet above the valley floor; includes areas near Boise Depot, Crescent Rim Drive, Hillcrest, and Kootenai Street from Vista Avenue to Roosevelt Street.

Zip Codes

8370583706

Market Data Summary

Price Range$33,000 – $975,000 (last 90 days)
Price per Sq Ft$283
Inventory LevelsIncreasing but still below balanced (4–6 months supply); buyers have more choices but competition remains healthy[3].

Property Characteristics

Home Types & Architecture

Home Types

Single-family homesTownhomesCondos55+ gated communities

Architectural Styles

CraftsmanStorybookMid-century modern (especially near Hillcrest Golf Course)RanchContemporary infill

Property Details

Typical Lot SizesVaries; many homes on larger, mature lots, especially in established areas.
Home Age RangePrimarily 1940s–1960s, with some new construction and infill.
Construction QualityGenerally solid, with character homes and well-maintained properties; newer builds offer modern amenities.

Community Profile

Demographics & Lifestyle

Demographics

Diverse mix of young professionals, families, retirees, and long-term residents.

Community Vibe

Close-knit, established, and friendly; pride in neighborhood identity and history.

Typical Residents

  • Young professionals
  • Families
  • Retirees
  • Long-term homeowners

Family Friendly

Yes; mature trees, parks, and quiet streets appeal to families.

Amenities & Lifestyle

Parks & Recreation

  • Ann Morrison Park
  • Platt Gardens
  • Hillcrest Country Club
  • Multiple pocket parks

Dining Options

  • Local restaurants
  • Food trucks (especially during events)
  • Ethnic eateries

Shopping Centers

  • Vista Village
  • Neighborhood strip malls
  • Easy access to downtown shopping

Local Businesses

  • Niche markets
  • Coffee shops
  • Boutique retailers

Education & Schools

Generally average to above average; some variation by catchment area.
Overall School Rating

Elementary Schools

  • Monroe Elementary
  • Hawthorne Elementary

Middle Schools

  • South Junior High

High Schools

  • Borah High School
  • Boise High School (some zones)

Private Schools

  • Sacred Heart Catholic School
  • Foothills School of Arts & Sciences (nearby)

Transportation & Accessibility

Transit & Roads

Public Transit

  • Valley Regional Transit bus routes

Major Roads

  • Vista Avenue
  • Curtis Road
  • Interstate-184 (Connector)
  • Interstate-84

Commute & Walkability

Commute Times5–10 minutes to downtown Boise; 10–15 minutes to Boise Airport; easy freeway access.
WalkabilityModerate; some areas more walkable than others, especially near Vista and Kootenai.
ParkingAmple street and driveway parking; some congestion near major intersections.

Marketing Intelligence

Target Buyer Types

  • Young professionals
  • Families
  • Retirees
  • Investors

Key Selling Points

  • Established neighborhood with mature trees
  • Architectural diversity
  • Quick downtown access
  • Strong community vibe
  • Affordable options compared to North End or East Boise

Pricing Considerations

Strategic pricing is critical; homes priced competitively and staged well sell faster. Overpriced homes linger due to increased buyer options[3].

Common Objections & Response Strategies

Objection: Older homes may need updates or repairs.

Response Strategy:

Provide inspection reports up front, offer repair credits, and highlight recent upgrades.

Objection: Some areas lack modern amenities or walkability.

Response Strategy:

Emphasize proximity to parks, new businesses, and easy access to downtown.

Objection: Perceived higher property taxes or insurance for older homes.

Response Strategy:

Provide comparative cost breakdowns and highlight energy efficiency improvements where applicable.

Investment Insights

Investment Potential

Appreciation Potential

Moderate, steady appreciation expected (3–5% annually); character homes and rim-view properties have higher upside[3].

Rental Demand

Strong, especially for renovated homes and proximity to downtown/BSU.

Buyer Competition

Healthy but less frenzied than 2021–2022; buyers have more negotiating power in 2025[3].

Best For

  • Long-term homeowners
  • First-time buyers
  • Investors seeking stable returns
  • Downsizers

Potential Concerns

  • Older homes may require updates
  • Some areas have dated infrastructure
  • Competition from new construction in other Boise neighborhoods

Professional Recommendations

1

Price competitively and stage for maximum appeal.

2

Highlight unique features and neighborhood history in marketing.

3

Leverage community events (e.g., Ann Morrison Park festivities) for open houses.

4

Educate buyers on renovation options and local contractors.

5

Network with local businesses to cross-promote listings.

6

Stay informed on new developments and infrastructure plans impacting the Bench.

Competitive Analysis

Comparable Markets

  • North End
  • East Boise
  • West Boise

Market Positioning

Ideal for buyers seeking character, value, and convenience without North End pricing.

Competitive Advantages

  • More affordable than North End/East Boise
  • Greater architectural diversity
  • Closer to airport and freeway access

Price Comparison

Bench homes are 10–20% less expensive than comparable North End properties, with similar access to amenities.

Investment Metrics

4.5–5.5% for well-maintained rentals (2025 est.)
Cap Rates
5–6% gross yield typical for updated homes
Rental Yields
17–20 (varies by property type and finish)
Price-to-Rent
Positive cash flow possible with 20% down on updated properties; best returns on duplexes or homes with ADUs.
Cash Flow
3–5% annual appreciation expected through 2027[3].
Appreciation

Buyer Journey Insights

First-Time Buyers

Appealing due to affordability, central location, and character homes; advise on renovation costs and financing options.

Move-Up Buyers

Attracted by larger lots, unique architecture, and rim-view properties; highlight lifestyle upgrades and community.

Downsizers

Single-level homes and 55+ communities available; emphasize low-maintenance living and proximity to amenities.

Investors

Strong rental demand, especially for renovated units and ADUs; focus on cash flow and appreciation potential.

Relocators

Central location, quick airport access, and established community make for an easy transition; provide neighborhood tours and local insights.

This neighborhood analysis was generated using hyperlocal data and AI intelligence.

Neighborhood conditions change - consult with local real estate professionals for the most current information.

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