Moving From Simi Valley to Boise?

For its size, Idaho takes in more Californians than almost any other state, and Boise is where many of them land. If it's on your list, the move has two halves: selling your home here without surprises, and knowing what changes the day you become an Idaho resident.

Our free guide, Leaving California: The Seller's Game Plan, covers:

• The tax questions to answer first, and the list to bring your CPA
• A worksheet for your real walk-away number
• Three ways to time your sale with your Boise purchase
• How to sell from a distance if you've already moved
• A 90-day checklist for leaving the state

The California side: what to settle before you list

• Capital gains. If you owned and lived in the home for two of the last five years, the IRS generally lets you exclude up to $250,000 of gain ($500,000 for most married couples filing jointly). That's IRS Publication 523.
• California can still tax the gain after you move. A California home is California-source income, so the state can tax the gain even if you already live in Idaho. Your CPA will want to see the numbers before you list, not after.
• The withholding form nobody warns you about. At closing, escrow may withhold 3⅓% of the sale price for the California Franchise Tax Board unless an exemption applies (Form 593). Selling your main home often qualifies for one. Ask early so it doesn't catch you by surprise.
• Timing. Sell first, buy first, or close both at once. We plan both moves together so you're not stuck in between.

What changes when you move to Idaho

• A flat state income tax. Idaho has a single flat income tax rate (5.3% for 2025). California can still tax income earned in California, including the gain on your California home.
• Apply for the homeowner's exemption. Idaho's homeowner's exemption cuts the taxable value of your primary home (and up to one acre) by 50%, up to $125,000. You apply through the county assessor, and since 2025 you need an Idaho driver license or ID to apply, so get your license early.
• License and registration. Plan to switch your driver license and vehicle registration soon after you move. Check itd.idaho.gov for the current deadlines and what to bring.
• Real winters. Visit in January before you commit, and ask about snow removal, heating costs and the age of the furnace and roof when you compare homes.
• HOAs in newer neighborhoods. Many newer Boise-area subdivisions have HOAs. Read the dues and rules before you write an offer.

Questions people ask

Does Idaho have a state income tax?

Yes. Idaho has a flat income tax rate (5.3% for 2025). California can still tax income from California sources, such as the gain on a California home sale.

What is the Idaho homeowner's exemption?

It reduces the taxable value of your primary home and up to one acre by 50%, up to $125,000. Apply with your county assessor; an Idaho driver license or ID is required.

Can you sell my Simi Valley home if I've already moved to Boise?

Yes. We handle showings, vendors and updates here, and escrow can usually arrange for you to sign where you are.

Can you help me find an agent in Boise?

Yes. We'll help you connect with an experienced local agent there and coordinate both closings so the dates line up.

Is this tax advice?

No. We're Realtors, not CPAs. We explain the general rules and give you a real estimate of your sale price and selling costs to take to your tax professional.

Keep reading

• Leaving California? How to Sell Your Simi Valley Home and Time Your Move
• How Much Does It Cost to Sell a House in Simi Valley?
• Moving from Simi Valley to Las Vegas
• Moving from Simi Valley to Phoenix
• Moving from Simi Valley to Nashville
• Moving from Simi Valley to Dallas
• Moving from Simi Valley to Florida

Sources: Idaho State Tax Commission (homeowner's exemption, income tax); Idaho House Bill 316 (2025); Idaho Transportation Department; IRS Publication 523; California Franchise Tax Board, Form 593. Rules change, so confirm details with the agency or your tax professional. Information current as of October 2026.