Idaho local data guide

Boise, Idaho Population 2026

As of April 2026, the City of Boise has an estimated population of 256,450, while the greater metropolitan region—comprising Ada, Canyon, Boise, Gem, and Owyhee counties—surpasses 876,000 residents.

Updated with grounded research as of 2026-07-21.

The short answer

As of April 2026, the City of Boise is estimated to have a population of 256,450 residents. The broader Boise metropolitan area, which includes Ada, Canyon, Boise, Gem, and Owyhee counties, continues to experience significant expansion, with a total population now exceeding 876,000 people. This growth underscores the region's ongoing development and its status as a major hub in the Intermountain West.

Key facts

Boise City Population (April 2026)
256,450
Boise Metropolitan Area Population (2026 Estimate)
Over 876,000

Boise City Population Trends

The City of Boise remains the primary population center within the Treasure Valley. As of April 2026, official estimates place the city's population at 256,450. These figures are vital for residents and local businesses as they inform infrastructure needs, housing demand, and public service availability across the municipality.

Regional Metropolitan Growth

The Boise metropolitan area, defined for planning purposes to include Ada, Canyon, Boise, Gem, and Owyhee counties, has reached a population exceeding 876,000. This regional growth trajectory consistently ranks the area among the fastest-growing in the United States, influencing real estate trends, commute times, and local economic development across the Treasure Valley.

How Population Estimates are Calculated

Population figures provided by the Community Planning Association of Southwest Idaho (COMPASS) are updated annually. The methodology includes:

Integration of the most recent decennial U.S. Census data as a foundational baseline.

Analysis of current local building permits to track new housing inventory.

Assessment of household sizes, vacancy rates, and recent municipal annexations to ensure accurate jurisdictional accounting.

Common questions

Why do population numbers vary between sources?

Population estimates can differ based on the agency's methodology and focus. For instance, the U.S. Census Bureau uses national survey standards, while agencies like COMPASS use localized data such as building permits and regional planning boundaries to provide more specific insights for infrastructure and land-use planning.

What is the geographical scope of the Boise metropolitan population?

In the context of regional planning, the Boise metropolitan area includes Ada, Canyon, Boise, Gem, and Owyhee counties. This definition is used by local planning agencies to coordinate regional transportation and utility infrastructure.

Related Idaho questions

  • What is the population growth rate of the Treasure Valley in 2026?
  • How does Boise's population growth compare to neighboring cities like Meridian and Star?
  • What are the long-range population projections for the Boise metropolitan area?

Sources and verification