IDIdaho
Gem State · Capital: Boise · West (Mountain)
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Quick stats
Capital
Boise
Largest city
Boise
Population
1–5 million
Area rank
#14 of 50
Admitted
1890
Time zone
Mountain Time
Region
West
Letters
5
Bordering states: Washington, Oregon, Nevada, Utah, Wyoming, Montana.
4 fun facts about Idaho
- Idaho produces about 30% of all US potatoes — most fast-food fries come from here.
- The state has more whitewater rapids miles than any other US state.
- Hells Canyon, on the Idaho-Oregon border, is deeper than the Grand Canyon (7,993 ft vs 6,093 ft).
- The name "Idaho" was made up by lobbyist George M. Willing, who claimed it meant "gem of the mountains" in Shoshone. It doesn't mean anything in any Native language.
Frequently asked questions about Idaho
Is Idaho a US state?
Yes, Idaho is one of the 50 US states. It was admitted to the Union in 1890, making it the 43rd state. Its capital is Boise and its largest city is Boise.
What is the capital of Idaho?
The capital of Idaho is Boise.
When did Idaho become a state?
Idaho became a US state in 1890. It is the 43rd state admitted to the Union.
What is the abbreviation for Idaho?
The 2-letter USPS abbreviation for Idaho is ID.
How big is Idaho?
Idaho ranks #14 of 50 US states by area — a mid-sized US state.
What is the population of Idaho?
Idaho has a population of 1 to 5 million.
What region is Idaho in?
Idaho is in the West region of the United States, per the US Census Bureau.
What time zone is Idaho in?
Idaho observes Mountain Time (the state spans multiple time zones).
Learn more
→ How to learn the 50 states (full guide)