10 Things You’ve Grown To Undeniably Hate If You’re From Idaho

Whether you're a fourth-generation Idahoan or whether you moved here years ago, it's easy to fall in love with our beautiful, laid-back state. Having lived here for so long, it's typically easy to come up with a list of reasons to love the Gem State. But when you spend so much time here and become more familiar with Idaho, there are also little things that you start to notice...things that can start to grind your gears or turn a conversation heated. Here’s a short list of just some of the annoyances that many Idahoans share, and things we just plain despise.

1. Construction season.

Because the thing about seasons is THEY'RE SUPPOSED TO ACTUALLY END AT SOME POINT.

2. Sweltering August heat.

While there are years where the last rays of the summer sun are blessedly mild, August is typically the most unbearable month of the year. As the temperature climbs into the triple digits, driving to and from work, stepping outside to grab the mail, and even sleeping at night all feel like someone is aiming a blowtorch at your face.

3. Litter and the people who do it.

Stop trashing our beautiful state, for the love of Pete.

4. Transplants and outsiders.

Tourism is both a blessing and curse to Idaho, but the average Idahoan is constantly worried about protecting our unique identity as a state sans the influence of city-dwellers and urbanites. They just don't get it. And usually get the brunt of the blame for the previously mentioned litter.

5. The lack of 24-hour... anything.

We've heard rumors that there are places out there where you can grab a taco at 3 a.m.... but they're about as easy to find as unicorns, here.

6. The politics.

No matter where on the political spectrum you fall, I think we can all agree that it's a hot mess.

7. Big chains.

Perhaps this one is up for debate, but there's definitely something precious lost when a major chain moves into a small town and hurts mom-and-pop businesses.

8. The minimum wage.

It's never fun coming in dead last in the nation for anything, let alone when it comes to our economy and our residents' living wage.

9. The stereotypes about Idahoans.

Rule of thumb: don't generalize the values or actions of others. (Which is an ironic moral, given the title of this list!)

10. The thought of leaving... because you know you'd hate to leave these views behind.

I'm fortunate that I've never had to leave this state, and have had the unique opportunity to explore and write about it on a daily basis. But if your comments are any indication, those who leave often regret it almost as soon as they step foot into their new location. Just know that Idaho will always be here waiting for you!

Have at it, Idaho! Here’s your chance - what other things annoy you about Idaho, Idahoans, or the goings-on in our state?