Meridian, Idaho: Your Ultimate Vacation Rental Guide for 2025

Swan-shaped pedal boats docked by a lake in a lush, tranquil park environment.

Meridian, Idaho, is rapidly emerging as a premier destination for travelers seeking a blend of outdoor adventure, family-friendly attractions, and a vibrant community atmosphere. As we look ahead to 2025, the vacation rental market in Meridian continues to show robust growth and offers diverse opportunities for both visitors and investors. This comprehensive guide delves into the trends, attractions, and essential information for anyone considering a vacation rental in Meridian, ID, in 2025.

The Meridian Vacation Rental Market in 2025

The short-term rental (STR) market in Meridian is experiencing significant activity, with a notable increase in listings and a strong demand from various traveler segments. Data for 2025 indicates that Meridian is a high-potential market for vacation rentals, with an estimated 314 active listings. The average annual revenue for an Airbnb listing in Meridian is projected to be around $33,458, with an average occupancy rate of 46% and an average daily rate (ADR) of $184.

Key Market Insights for 2025:

  • Guest Capacity: The majority of vacation rentals in Meridian are designed to accommodate larger groups, with 47.5% of listings catering to 8+ guests. This suggests that families and groups are the primary travelers.
  • Average Occupancy: While typical properties see an occupancy rate of around 57%, top-performing properties can achieve over 87% occupancy.
  • Revenue Potential: The average monthly revenue for vacation rentals in Meridian is approximately $4,074, with an average annual revenue of $33,458.
  • Booking Trends: The average booking lead time is 34 days, with guests booking furthest in advance for summer travel (average 52 days in July).
  • Investment Opportunity: Meridian boasts a strong STR Genie Score of 73, indicating high potential for short-term rental investments, supported by good rentability and a positive rent growth rate.
  • Regulation: Meridian is noted for its low regulation environment, offering flexibility for short-term rental operators.

The year-over-year growth in active Airbnb listings has been substantial, with an increase of 58% as of January 2025. This growth, coupled with a business-friendly climate and a growing population, positions Meridian as an attractive market for both vacationers and property investors.

Why Choose Meridian for Your 2025 Vacation?

Meridian, Idaho, offers a compelling mix of attractions and activities that cater to a wide range of interests. Its strategic location within the Treasure Valley, coupled with its own unique offerings, makes it an increasingly popular destination.

Family Fun and Entertainment

Meridian is a haven for families, boasting attractions that provide endless entertainment:

  • Roaring Springs Waterpark: Idaho’s largest waterpark, offering thrilling slides, a wave pool, and a lazy river for a perfect summer escape.
  • Wahooz Family Fun Zone: Adjacent to Roaring Springs, this venue features rides, mini-golf, go-karting, and an arcade.
  • The Village at Meridian: An open-air marketplace with European-style architecture, this hub offers shopping, dining, and entertainment, including a cinema.
  • Meridian Speedway: Hosts NASCAR races and other motorsports events, providing fast-paced fun for enthusiasts.
  • Settlers Park: A popular spot for families, featuring a playground, splash pad, fishing pond, and picnic areas. It also hosts free outdoor movie screenings during the summer.
  • Kleiner Park: Offers a large playground, open green spaces, and a veterans memorial, making it ideal for outdoor relaxation and family activities.

Arts, Culture, and Events

Meridian’s cultural scene is growing, with various events and artistic venues:

  • Meridian Fine Arts Festival: Held at Kleiner Park, this festival showcases over 75 artists from the Pacific Northwest, featuring live entertainment and food vendors.
  • Concerts on Broadway: A series of free Saturday night concerts held in Meridian City Hall’s outdoor plaza during the summer months.
  • Downtown Meridian: Offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and is home to the Idaho State Historical Museum.
  • Initial Point Gallery: Located in Meridian City Hall, this gallery displays works by local artists, reflecting the city’s commitment to art.
  • Meridian Symphony Orchestra: Hosts family-friendly concerts throughout the year.
  • Meridian Monday Night Market: A community event held at Storey Park.
  • Downtown Meridian Car Show: A featured event in early September.
  • Witches Night Out: An annual Halloween tradition at The Village.
  • Christmas at The Village: The Village transforms into a winter wonderland with festive activities.

Outdoor Recreation and Natural Beauty

The natural surroundings of Meridian provide ample opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts:

  • Boise River Greenbelt: A scenic pathway perfect for walking, cycling, and enjoying views of the Boise River.
  • Eagle Island State Park: Offers swimming, fishing, picnicking, a waterslide, and disc golf.
  • Cheesecake State Park and Oldbridge: Provides well-maintained trails for hiking.
  • Meridian Pathways: A network of trails for exploring the city on foot or by bike.

Top Neighborhoods for Vacation Rentals in Meridian

When selecting a vacation rental, location is key. Meridian offers several neighborhoods that are particularly well-suited for visitors, providing convenient access to attractions and a pleasant atmosphere.

  • Downtown Meridian: The heart of the city, offering proximity to shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions like the Idaho State Historical Museum.
  • Northwest Meridian: A quiet, family-friendly area with easy access to city services and parks.
  • Southwest Meridian: A newer neighborhood with modern amenities and close proximity to the Meridian Airport.
  • East Meridian: A diverse area with access to the Meridian Main Library and Meridian College.
  • Settlers Bridge: Known for its charm, well-maintained homes, and proximity to Settlers Park, offering a high quality of life and convenient access to shopping and dining.
  • Paramount: Ideal for families prioritizing education, this neighborhood is close to top-rated schools and features community pools and playgrounds, offering a resort-like living experience.
  • Bridgetower: Characterized by spacious properties and a family-friendly atmosphere, with landscaped streets, parks, and community pools.
  • Tuscany: Offers scenic views of the Boise Foothills, parks, trails, and ponds, with easy freeway access for commuting.

Economic Outlook and Growth in Meridian

Meridian’s economy is robust and continues to expand, making it an attractive place to visit and invest. In 2024, the city saw the creation of over 1,800 new jobs, with an average wage increase to over $58,000. The city consistently leads in the percentage of total jobs filled by residents, reflecting its strong local economy and business-friendly environment. The median home value in Meridian is $242,000, with an average annual home value appreciation of 0.18% over the past decade, outpacing national averages. The median gross rent is $1,045, indicating a healthy rental market.

The tourism sector in Idaho, including Meridian, is also experiencing steady growth. In FY2024, lodging tax collections generated over $21.7 million, a 2.4% increase from the previous year, with projections for continued growth into FY2025. This growth is supported by expanded air service and new hotel developments in the region.

Planning Your 2025 Meridian Vacation Rental Stay

To make the most of your vacation rental experience in Meridian in 2025, consider these planning tips:

  • Book in Advance: Especially for peak travel seasons (summer), booking your accommodation well in advance is recommended due to the average booking lead time of 34 days.
  • Consider Location: Choose a neighborhood that best suits your interests, whether it’s proximity to attractions, a quiet family atmosphere, or access to outdoor activities.
  • Utilize Local Resources: The Meridian Chamber of Commerce and the City of Meridian’s Parks and Recreation department offer valuable information on local events and activities.
  • Explore Diverse Accommodations: From spacious homes perfect for large groups to charming studios, Meridian offers a variety of vacation rental options to suit different needs and budgets.
  • Stay Informed on Events: Meridian hosts numerous events throughout the year, including art festivals, concerts, and seasonal celebrations, which can enhance your visit.

Meridian, Idaho, is poised for a dynamic 2025, offering a welcoming environment for vacationers and a promising market for vacation rental investments. With its growing attractions, strong economic foundation, and commitment to community, Meridian is a destination that should be on every traveler’s radar.