KTVB: 'Boise homes at Boise budgets': City unveils new affordable housing complex on State Street

Chloe Johnston, KTVB\

BOISE, Idaho — Boise is attempting to combat Idaho's fast rising housing prices with new affordable housing units.  

The city of Boise on Tuesday celebrated the addition of Wilson Station Apartments to the downtown housing market. The new apartments will add 102 units of affordable housing to the area. Of those units, 23 are studios, 44 are one-bedroom apartments, 27 are two bedroom apartments, and eight are three bedroom apartments. 

These homes serve Boiseans who earn 30-80% of the area median income. Boise’s median income in 2025 is $108,800 for a family of four, according to data from the city.

The building also includes on-site childcare from Boise Language Schools and a community garden.

The ribbon-cutting event on Aug. 19 was led by Boise Mayor Lauren McLean. Senator Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) and U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Secretary Scott Turner were both in attendance. They were also joined by Boise City Councilmember Jimmy Hallyburton. 

“We are committed to leaving no stone unturned when it comes to increasing the number of affordable homes in Boise,” McLean said. “Wilson Station showcases what’s possible when we work in public-private partnership towards a common goal.” 

Boise’s Housing Land Trust Program requires 10% of the homes be set aside as transitional housing for families experiencing homelessness. As part of the city’s “A Home For Everyone” initiative, that program builds affordable housing on city-owned land. The Wilson Station apartments joins The Franklin, which is expected to be completed in the summer of 2025. 

“It takes an incredible amount of collaboration to bring a project like Wilson Station to life,” Hallyburton said. “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.” 

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