Idaho local data guide

Boise vs. Meridian and Star: Population Growth Trends (2026)

While Boise maintains its status as Idaho's largest city, the highest percentage of population growth is occurring in smaller, surrounding suburban communities. As of April 2026, smaller "bedroom communities" like Star and Kuna are experiencing significantly higher percentage-based growth rates than larger cities like Meridian and Nampa, as many residents prioritize space and specific housing options over central urban proximity.

Updated with grounded research as of 2026-09-18.

The short answer

Boise’s population growth is currently modest compared to the rapid expansion seen in surrounding suburban communities. Data from the Community Planning Association of Southwest Idaho (COMPASS) indicates that while larger cities like Meridian are growing at a steady pace, smaller cities such as Star and Kuna are seeing explosive percentage-based growth, reflecting a broader regional trend where residents are increasingly drawn to smaller, growing municipalities.

Key facts

2026 Annual Growth Rate (Star)
Approximately 14%
2026 Annual Growth Rate (Kuna)
Approximately 14%
2026 Annual Growth Rate (Meridian)
Approximately 3%
Star's Cumulative Growth (2020–2026)
131% increase

Diverging Growth Patterns: Small Towns vs. Established Cities

The Treasure Valley is currently experiencing a split in growth dynamics. While established hubs like Boise and Meridian continue to attract residents, their percentage-based growth rates have stabilized compared to the rapid acceleration seen in smaller jurisdictions. Smaller municipalities often benefit from available land for new residential developments, attracting families and individuals seeking different lifestyle options.

  • Rapid Growth: Smaller communities like Star and Kuna recorded approximately 14% annual growth as of April 2026.
  • Steady Expansion: Larger hubs like Meridian show a more measured annual growth rate of approximately 3%.
  • Transformation: Star’s population grew significantly from 11,107 in 2020 to 24,950 in 2026.

Understanding Percentage vs. Absolute Growth

When analyzing population trends, it is essential to distinguish between percentage growth and absolute numeric growth. A smaller city adding 1,000 residents will show a much higher percentage increase than a large city adding the same amount. For planning and relocation purposes, high percentage growth in smaller towns indicates rapidly increasing demand for local infrastructure, schools, and services, whereas stable percentage growth in larger cities often represents a mature, diversified economy.

Implications for Relocation and Housing

For those planning a move, these figures highlight a clear trade-off between urban density and suburban expansion. Relocating to a high-growth area like Star often means living in a community where infrastructure is actively catching up to the population, whereas moving to a more established city like Meridian or Boise may provide access to more mature amenities but with higher demand for existing housing stock.

Common questions

Why are Star and Kuna growing faster than Boise and Meridian?

Smaller, "bedroom communities" like Star and Kuna often have more available land for new housing developments, which appeals to buyers looking for larger lots or specific types of new construction that are harder to find in established urban cores.

Is Boise no longer growing?

Boise continues to grow, but its growth rate is lower in percentage terms compared to the smaller, rapidly developing cities in the region. It remains the largest population center in Idaho.

Related Idaho questions

  • What factors are driving population growth in Star and Kuna compared to Boise?
  • How does the housing market in Star compare to Meridian?
  • What are the long-term population projections for the Treasure Valley?

Sources and verification