Payette started life as a construction camp in 1882, and it was called Boomerang in those days. Don't you kind of wish it was still called Boomerang? Nah.
Looking for that classic Midwestern small-town feel? Payette, Idaho, has the charm, character and rugged beauty you expect
Payette started life as a construction camp in 1882, and it was called Boomerang in those days. Don't you kind of wish it was still called Boomerang? Nah.
Looking for that classic Midwestern small-town feel? Payette, Idaho, has the charm, character and rugged beauty you expect. It's nestled between the Payette River and the Snake River on the north and western sides, adding stunning waterfront to its natural beauty. Payette has its own way of life, far away from big city living. Outdoor recreation paired with inexpensive housing prices make this 7,433-person town a desirable area to call home.
Moving to Payette
Moving to a small town has its advantages and disadvantages. The main advantage is that the housing market is priced low, resulting in rentals that get you a lot more for your money than in many other locations. The downside is that you're more limited on the number of rentals available, as this area doesn't see an influx of new population growth, given its location. Since this town has been around for over a century, you see many old construction homes with plenty of character that set themselves apart from the typical rental home. Entire floors of houses, unique converted apartments and other options are available.
Allocate extra time to finding one-bedroom apartments for rent when you search in Payette. You have a few apartment complexes to choose from, such as Brent Arms Apartments, but overall you are dealing directly with real estate agents who also rent out some of the properties, and private owners who may not be as on top of the rental business. This is good if you want to deal directly with private landlords who may be more understanding of credit issues that apartment complexes may not overlook. Due to the small population of this town, it does take some time for two-bedroom apartments for rent in Payette to open up. You may be better off looking for a month-to-month rental temporarily, or staying at a nearby hotel, while you wait for the perfect location to become available. When you do find that perfect rental, be sure to have all the right documents with you: photo ID, proof of income, rental history, references and a credit report.
Neighborhoods in Payette
Payette is a relatively small area, but it is divided into two distinct neighborhoods.
Washoe/Fort Wilson: This area is closest to the Payette river but it's farther away from grocery stores and other amenities. The housing prices on this part of town are lower than the City Center, so if you're looking to save money start your rental apt search here. You'll find Kiwanis Park and Central Park in this area.
City Center: City Center is the majority of Payette and has the highest house prices in town. Of course, the housing prices are so low overall in this area that you aren't going to see a particularly massive difference in prices. This area boasts a walk score of 80, and as all of the businesses are strewn throughout the residential areas in the downtown part of Payette. You better like walking, since the town does not have any public transit options.
Living in Payette
Outdoor enthusiasts have plenty of recreational opportunities between the rivers and rural areas. Other than Kiwanis and Central Park, there's also Rosedale Memorial Park and Centennial Park. Ontario State Park is just a short drive away, so whenever you want bigger outdoors it's there for you.
After you've tired yourself at the park, you can choose from a plethora of restaurants to fill your stomach. The fried wonton at Mandarin Restaurant are nice and crispy, while the young tze shrimp will have you coming back for more. A local favorite is Jimbo Restaurant, especially for the all-you-can-eat option. For a burger, you can stop by Arctic Circle.
