On the western edge of Boise is the family friendly suburb of Meridian, population 105,000. Meridian is home to many young families and professional workers. Though Boise is only 230,000 people and by no means a crowded big city, Meridian offers a quiet, friendly retreat just outside Boise, yet close enough to enjoy all the shopping, dining, entertainment and amenities of the city. The major attraction of the area is the magnificent country, with majestic mountains, forests and rivers for hiking, exploring, fishing and kayaking. Rated as one of the best places to live in Idaho, crime in Meridian is well below average, schools are well above average and the median price of a home is $280,000.