Boise Homes at Boise Budgets: New Affordable Housing Hits Downtown
- Sarah Breck
- Oct 5
- 3 min read
A Fresh Chapter in Boise Affordable Housing
Boise just scored a housing win—and no, it’s not another luxury condo with rooftop views. The city officially opened Wilson Station Apartments, a brand-new affordable housing complex on State Street that adds 102 new homes for Boise residents earning between 30% and 80% of the area’s median income.
For a city where housing prices have been climbing faster than a paddleboarder at Quinn’s Pond on a summer Saturday, this is a big step toward balance.
Who These Homes Serve
Boise’s median income in 2025 is $108,800 for a family of four, according to city data. Wilson Station bridges the gap for working families who don’t qualify for traditional assistance but still can’t compete with rising rent and home prices.
The complex includes:
23 studio apartments
44 one-bedroom units
27 two-bedroom units
8 three-bedroom homes
These units are designed for Boiseans who keep the city thriving—teachers, healthcare workers, service staff, and small-business employees who deserve stable housing at realistic prices.
What Makes Wilson Station Stand Out
Beyond affordability, Wilson Station comes with a few “Boise-style” perks:
On-site childcare provided by Boise Language Schools
A community garden (because of course there’s a garden—this is Boise)
Easy access to downtown transit and bike routes
This thoughtful design makes Wilson Station more than housing—it’s a small ecosystem built around community, education, and sustainability.
A Collaboration Across the Board
At the ribbon-cutting event, Mayor Lauren McLean, Senator Mike Crapo, HUD Secretary Scott Turner, and City Councilmember Jimmy Hallyburton all shared the stage—proof that when it comes to housing, teamwork beats politics.
Mayor McLean summed it up perfectly:
“We are committed to leaving no stone unturned when it comes to increasing the number of affordable homes in Boise.”
The project is a product of public-private collaboration, something the city hopes to repeat across more Boise neighborhoods.
Housing for Families Exiting Homelessness
In alignment with Boise’s “A Home for Everyone” initiative, the Boise Housing Land Trust Program required that 10% of the homes be set aside for families exiting homelessness.
This kind of intentional planning builds more than walls—it builds stability. For families transitioning out of crisis, a safe, permanent home opens the door to better work, education, and health outcomes.
The Bigger Picture: What’s Next for Boise
Wilson Station joins another upcoming project, The Franklin, expected to be completed in summer 2025. Both developments signal a growing commitment to create “homes at Boise budgets.”
And while affordable housing might sound like a niche concern, it’s deeply tied to Boise’s new construction and relocation market:
For relocating buyers, it shows a city that’s thinking long-term about balance and livability.
For new construction enthusiasts, it reflects Boise’s smart approach to using city-owned land and strategic partnerships to create homes that work for everyone—not just high-end buyers.
These efforts support a more sustainable, inclusive housing market, which benefits both newcomers and lifelong locals.
Why This Matters if You’re Moving to Boise
As a relocation and new construction specialist, I see firsthand how projects like Wilson Station shape Boise’s future. They reflect a city planning not just for population growth, but for community growth.
If you’re relocating to Boise—or just exploring your next housing option—this kind of project shows that the city is investing in people first.
Final Thoughts
Councilmember Jimmy Hallyburton may have said it best:
“Because of the partnership and hard work of so many, Boise families now have more homes at Boise budgets, and we are so honored to welcome them to the neighborhood.”
And honestly, that’s the kind of Boise I’m proud to call home.
If you’re curious about Boise’s next phase of growth, from affordable projects to luxury new builds, I’d love to show you how our city is evolving—and how to find your perfect fit in it.
🏡 Thinking About Moving to Boise?
You’ll learn where new homes are being built, what neighborhoods fit your lifestyle, and how to navigate Boise’s fast-changing market with confidence.
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