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Nearly 1.5 million people live in Idaho, making it the 39th most populous state in the nation. Boise is the state capital and largest city, quickly growing with a population of over 200,000; its greater metropolitan area boasts a population of over 500,000. Boise is consistently ranked as one of the top cities in the nation for doing business. Other major cities include Nampa and Coeur d’Alene.

Idaho’s economy relies upon both manufacturing and agriculture for its top industries. Tourism is also important to the Gem State, with its rugged beauty and ample recreational opportunities. Other important industries include healthcare, information services, food processing, lumber, silver, and other mining.

Idaho is the top national producer of its famed potatoes. The state is also known for its trout, and is a top producer of Austrian winter peas and lentils. Additional agricultural products in the Gem State include hay, cattle, wheat, sugar beets, dairy products, and barley.

In 2005, Idaho ranked 42nd in the United States in per capita personal income (PCPI) at $28,398. Idaho ranks 37th in the nation in median household income, at $41,433. The average annual growth rate of PCPI between 1995 and 2005 was 3.9 percent, compared to the average annual growth rate for the nation at 4.1 percent. The Gem State boasts a home ownership rate of over 74 percent. Its unemployment rate is 3.8 percent. Idaho’s top bracket of personal income tax is 7.8 percent; the state levies a sales tax of 5 percent. Idaho’s cost of living is lower than most western states and slightly higher than the national average within Boise.

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