Oh, precious, beautiful Idaho - you'll forever have my heart. Often overlooked as a scenic and unique travel destination, repeatedly mistaken for Iowa, and even the victim of your own delicious, world-famous potato reputation, you're quite a special state. But with your extreme isolation and never-ending challenges at the hands of Mother Nature and your identity crisis as an up-and-coming state that doesn't want to up-and-come because that means people... it takes an equally special type of person to live within your panhandled borders. Of course, we, as Idahoans, wouldn’t live here if we didn’t have the grit and determination to handle everything that this incredible state has to offer. But as you'll see, it's not all that easy, and moving to Idaho is not for the faint of heart.

1. It's too darn hot here.

Have you ever tried walking on asphalt so hot that it melts and slides underneath your feet? Welcome to the southern half of the state. The Southwest may try to trademark their extreme summer heat, but living in Idaho is no joke, either.

2. It's also seriously too cold.

So, what's it like living in Idaho? Well, as the saying goes, Idaho has two seasons: winter and construction. You'll also find some seriously brutal wind-chill in some regions!

3. The long commutes are exhausting.

Sure, it's pretty. But it's definitely a challenge to get from rural Idaho to anywhere in a decent amount of time.

4. When people think of Idaho, they automatically think of Boise.

Nowhere else exists, apparently.

5. Literally.

There are even some rumors floating around that Idaho doesn't exist at all...and while we can safely say that Idaho is real, that doesn't mean there isn't a whole lot of nothing here. As in, nothing to see. So shoo.

6. Wild critters of every kind make their homes here. But they're not all cute and fluffy.

Rattlesnakes, bats, deadly spiders, Mormon crickets, droves of earwigs... we're basically the Australia of the U.S., and they always seem to be where you least expect them.

7. There are perils and challenges to being a one-stoplight town.

And if you have more than one stoplight, odds are it's at a railroad crossing.

8. The fish are so plentiful and massive here, you might just have to invest in a few more fishing necessities.

A few extra poles, a new boat...

9. A sense of humor is a must, or else you might find yourself low-key offended.

From the names of certain places, to the jokes that we tell, the ability to laugh it off is key to Idaho's culture. Smiling is our favorite!

10. Air travel is nearly impossible to come by, so be prepared to stick close to home.

You can drive to Boise to catch a regional flight... but international travel or direct cross-country flights? Forget about it.

11. Prepare to be forever associated with our famous potatoes, for better or worse.

And skiing. But mostly potatoes. But there are worse things to be associated with!

12. Steep grades, switchbacks, and sheer, guardrail-less mountain roads make winter driving to the best recreation spots a serious nail-biter.

Buckle up, and pray that nobody comes from the other direction.

13. If Instagram-worthy street fashion is your thing, you might be out of luck in Idaho.

Practical attire and LAYERS is how we roll around here.

14. Wanderlust is a very real condition here in Idaho.

So real that sometimes you just can't make it to work, for your health's sake. *cough cough*

15. Plus, Idaho's rich natural beauty will definitely make you want to quit your job and travel.

Paper pushing is so overrated, anyhow.

So, is Idaho a good place to live? Sure, if you're tough enough. But honestly, you'd better not take your chances. Moving to Idaho is the worst decision you could possibly make, so just leave the Gem State life to those who know it best.

For more Idaho humor goodness, check out these bizarre experiences every Idahoan has had. And if you're looking for an experience of a different kind, how about a hot air balloon ride?

https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/idaho/true-idaho-experiences-id/