Country-living along the Oregon border
On the southwestern reaches of Idaho, along the Oregon border, is Parma, a community with farming roots that has become attractive for those looking to escape the big city hustle and bustle. “Idaho has attracted a lot of people from out of state the last few years,” April Wilke, with White Barn Realty, says. “People love the rural location and small, country town with lots of space between neighbors.” The open space and family-oriented environment embodies the past and looks forward to the future. Parma is out in the country of western Idaho, but larger cities are within driving distance. “It is close to Boise and minutes away from Ontario, Oregon,” Wilke says. “Ontario has grown, so people can work in either place and still enjoy the country lifestyle.”
Fishing enthusiasts enjoy the Boise River
Parma offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. The flat farmland provides an ideal terrain for walkers and runners alike. “They love cross-country running,” Wilke says. The Snake River is popular for anglers, while the Boise River provides fishing and boating opportunities. The Roswell March nature preserve is scenic for bird-watching and enjoying the outdoors. The Old Fort Boise Park is a replica of an 1800s trading post, with hiking trails, a museum and camping spots. The fort offers tours in the summer, and each June, the community celebrates Old Fort Boise Days, which includes a carnival, beauty pageant, car display, and more. Parma is also popular for sport shooting, with sharp shooting contests happening in the summer. Wilke says locals will even shoot in their backyards.
Bungalows and ranch-style homes
Houses in Parma range from around $320,000 for a two-story bungalow with a garage to more than a million for a custom-built home with modern features and multiple acres of land. The neighborhood also has Ranch-style and craftsman homes. Wilke says the influx of people moving to Parma has diversified the types of homes in the area. Houses sell, on average, after 51 days on the market, compared to the national average of 42. Townhouses and condos aren’t common but will range from $190,000 to $270,000.
Strong athletic participation at Parma High
Students can start their academic adventures at Maxine Johnson Elementary, an A-minus Pre-kindergarten through fourth-grade school. Niche also ranks Maxine Johnson as the number one standout elementary school in the Boise area. Their next stop could be Parma Middle School, a fifth through eighth-grade school that receives a B-plus. Students can participate in sports like football, basketball, baseball and softball. “Kids are very active in their sports,” Wilke says. “All the kids tend to flock to them and are committed to the school sports.” Teenagers may attend Parma High School, a B-plus institution that receives an A for clubs and an A-minus for sports. Clubs that students can participate in include book, anime and history clubs.
Cross the Oregon border for no sales tax
Parma has limited shopping and dining opportunities, so locals usually have to leave the area to find restaurants and stores. Nearby options include Tacos Papirringo, a food truck serving Mexican food favorites. The Burger Joint is true to its name, serving hamburgers, fries, and other American food staples. Locals looking to grocery shop close to home will turn to local vendors for fresh produce or M&W Markets. Residents will otherwise need to jump in their cars and head to a nearby area to shop, and Wilke notes that could even be cost-effective. “Parma is just minutes away from Ontario and the Oregon border, so people can shop there and pay no sales taxes,” Wilke says.
Need a car for errands
A car is a must for Parma residents; there are no public transportation options. The open area is conducive for leisure walking and biking, but a vehicle is needed for running errands. Downtown Boise and the Boise Airport are about 43 miles southeast, with Ontario, Oregon, around 19 minutes north across the state border.
Photography Contributed By
Chad Jackson
