The city of Meridian is located in the Southwestern part of Idaho. Starting out as a farming community, it has rapidly become the second largest city in the state, with a 2018 population estimate of 106,000. The number of residents increased quickly with lots of newcomers arriving in the last generation. The population tripled in the 1990s and then doubled in just seven years from 2000 to 2007.
Located approximately 10 miles from the city of Boise, Meridian offers to its inhabitants a convenient location as well as an abundance of options for outdoor activities. Among its most popular outdoor activities are fishing, hiking, hunting, and boating. And skiing is a popular winter activity in the area. In addition to these diverse recreational opportunities, locals of Meridian enjoy a low crime rate and affordable housing.
Meridian sets on a flat plain in the northern part of Treasure Valley. It enjoys four seasons, with distinct variation throughout the year. The climate is dry and hot in the summer, making it a fire risk during its driest months. The most dry month in Meridian is August, which has an average rainfall of only .24 inches. Temperatures average over 90 degrees Fahrenheit during the months of July and August.
The Meridian Fire Department, which has been around since 1908, has five different stations and employs over 70 employees. It has an operating budget $8.5 million and responds to 5,000 calls a year.
Transportation from Meridian is quite easy to access. Interstate 84 connects to Boise, Portland, Salt Lake City. State Highway 55 moves east along Nampa, Meridian, and Eagle. Because of its central location, locals refer to Meridian as the "Center of the Treasure Valley."