Every Idaho city has something special about it, whether it’s the city’s events, proximity to recreation opportunities, or its people.
For Hailey, located in the Wood River Valley, it’s all of these things combined that let the city shine.
“It definitely has a ton of small-town charm,” 208 Market Real Estate Owner April Florczyk said. “It is what I would say is the hub of the community. It's where all the community gathers.”
That community extends beyond Hailey’s borders to neighboring Ketchum and Sun Valley.
“Ketchum is known for so many people coming from out of state and all over the world to visit and spend time and catch the who's who,” Florczyk said. “But Hailey is more of, I would say, who runs the entire thing.”
While not considered a resort town itself, Hailey can’t be counted out when it comes to outdoor opulence like the Sawtooth Mountains and key features.
“It's where the airport is based out of,” Florczyk said, referring to the Friedman Memorial Airport which services the area. “And the high school is located in the city of Hailey. So even if you live in Ketchum, you're in Hailey for high school.”
The city is also home to a new development, MID RVR.
“It's right in the heart of downtown Hailey, so it's walkable to all the restaurants, to the Big Wood River, to hiking trails,” Florczyk said. “It’s really in the heart of the community. It's a great version of urban living for a small town.”
MID RVR is made up of 10 townhomes, and Florczyk said dirt will soon be moving as construction gets underway. As for the buyers?
“What we're seeing is a lot of locals who live in the area who maybe own little stores or restaurants,” Florczyk said. “And then we're also seeing people from out of state who want to be in that Ketchum market, but maybe can't afford it. The new construction is kind of a lock-and-leave lifestyle where there's nothing really to maintain.”
Florczyk said the developer, CK Property Group, did a previous project in Hailey called 410 RVR which sold out. The split there between part-time users and full-time homeowners was 50/50.
And if housing isn’t in the cards, Florczyk still encourages people to visit.
“I think there's lots of reasons that Hailey is so special,” she said. “It's got so much natural beauty itself and so many outdoor activities. There's over 20 miles of paved bike path throughout Hailey, Ketchum, and Sun Valley. So it's kind of similar to the Greenbelt that we have in Boise, which is super cool.”
Mountain Rides offers free bus services (equipped with bike and ski racks) throughout Hailey, Bellevue, Ketchum and Sun Valley, serving tourists and locals alike. Fly fishing is another popular pastime, along with hiking, golf, and horseback riding. And of course, arts and culture also have their place across town.
“There’s always something going on in that community that someone visiting or a local can plug into,” Florczyk said. “Lots of cultural events and festivals and activities going on.”
If you’re planning a trip or want to explore a new place to live, consider adding Hailey to your list.
“The people are kind and friendly,” Florczyk said. “I've never been a part of a community that is so invested in taking care of their area. Not only their area, but the people who live in the area. Hailey has an incredible spirit of generosity.” 208market.com
“There’s always something going on in that community that someone visiting or a local can plug into.” -- 208 Market Real Estate Owner April Florczyk