Quick answer
Caldwell is the Canyon County seat, with about 76,600 residents in 2025, and it added more residents than any other Idaho city that year. It suits buyers who want an affordable home, a revived downtown built around Indian Creek Plaza, and the Sunnyslope wine region nearby. Caldwell had the lowest Zillow typical home value of the seven towns we cover, about $399,600 in September 2026.
Caldwell at a glance
Caldwell added about 3,452 residents in 2025, the most of any Idaho city. (Idaho Department of Labor)
In Canyon County, Boise Regional REALTORS® reported a median sale price of $443,523 on 419 home sales in September 2026, with homes averaging 48 days on market (September 2026 market report).
Who Caldwell fits best
- You want the most affordable option in the valley
- You want a downtown with community events
- You like the idea of vineyards and farm stands nearby
What people love about Caldwell
- Indian Creek Plaza, a year-round downtown gathering space
- The College of Idaho
- Sunnyslope wine region south of town
- The lowest typical home value of the seven towns we cover
Things to consider before moving to Caldwell
- The longest commute to Boise of the seven towns
- Fast growth on the edges of town
- Fewer big-box options than Nampa or Meridian in some areas
Schools serving Caldwell
Caldwell is mainly served by Caldwell School District and Vallivue School District (parts of Caldwell). School boundaries don't always follow city limits, so confirm the assignment for any address with the district before you buy.
How Caldwell compares
See all seven towns side by side, with home values and population, in our Treasure Valley town comparison. Also see the best places to live in Idaho, the best suburbs of Boise, and the town guides:
- Moving to Boise, Idaho
- Moving to Meridian, Idaho
- Moving to Eagle, Idaho
- Moving to Star, Idaho
- Moving to Nampa, Idaho
- Moving to Kuna, Idaho
Caldwell FAQ
Is Caldwell, Idaho a good place to live?
Caldwell is a good fit if you want the most affordable option in the valley. In short: creekside downtown, wine country nearby. Whether it's right for you depends on your budget, commute and the kind of home you want, which is what our free town-match quiz helps sort out.
How much does a house cost in Caldwell, Idaho?
Zillow's typical home value in Caldwell was $399,646 in September 2026. That ranks #1 from most affordable of the seven Treasure Valley towns we cover. Countywide, the median sale price in Canyon County was $443,523 in September 2026, according to Boise Regional REALTORS®.
What is the population of Caldwell, Idaho?
Caldwell had an estimated 76,629 residents on July 1, 2025, according to the U.S. Census Bureau's Vintage 2025 estimates. Caldwell added about 3,452 residents in 2025, the most of any Idaho city.
What county is Caldwell, Idaho in?
Caldwell is in Canyon County, Idaho, part of the Boise metro area known as the Treasure Valley.
What school district serves Caldwell?
Caldwell is mainly served by Caldwell School District and Vallivue School District (parts of Caldwell). Boundaries don't always follow city lines, so always confirm the school assignment for a specific address with the district.
Do I pay state income tax if I move to Caldwell?
Yes. Idaho has a flat individual income tax rate of 5.3%, and a 6% state sales tax. Groceries are taxed, but residents can claim a grocery credit on their Idaho return.
Sources
- U.S. Census Bureau, Vintage 2025 city population estimates
- Boise Regional REALTORS®, Canyon County Market Report, September 2026
- Idaho State Tax Commission, individual income tax rate
- Idaho State Tax Commission, grocery credit
- Idaho Department of Labor, Idaho at Work: city population gains in 2025
- Zillow Home Value Index, Caldwell
- City of Caldwell