Idaho housing is predominantly single-family (about 77% of units) and mostly wood-frame, with relatively new construction: a median build year of 1993 and nearly 40% built since 2000, especially in the Boise area. Basements are less common than in colder states, log and timber homes appear in mountain and lakefront areas, and wildfire smoke is a recurring concern.

median year homes were built: 1993; median year homes were built
built in 2000 or later: 39.3%; built in 2000 or later
built before 1960: 15.8%; built before 1960
single-family homes: 77.4%; single-family homes
in buildings with 5+ units: 9.6%; in buildings with 5+ units
mobile homes: 6.5%; mobile homes

Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 2024 1-year (tables B25035, B25034, B25024)

Common wall types

Wood-frame stud walls with drywall

Where: Most single-family homes and townhomes, especially in the Treasure Valley (Boise, Meridian, Nampa) and Coeur d'Alene.

Mounting: Studs are typically 16 inches on center; lag the mount into at least two studs. Newer homes often have 2x6 exterior walls and insulation; use studs, not drywall anchors.

Poured concrete basement walls

Where: Homes that have basements, which are less common in Idaho because of the relatively shallow frost line and local groundwater and soil conditions.

Mounting: Finished basements are usually framed walls against concrete; concrete screws or sleeve anchors are needed if mounting directly to the foundation wall.

Log and timber walls

Where: Mountain and lakefront homes, for example around Sun Valley, McCall, Sandpoint and Coeur d'Alene.

Mounting: Solid logs are not drywall; mount with lag screws into the log or onto a mounting board fixed to it, allowing for log settling and checking, and plan wire runs through chases or conduit.

Brick, stone and masonry

Where: Older homes in Boise's historic districts, fireplace surrounds and stone accent walls.

Mounting: Use masonry anchors in solid stone or brick; avoid mortar joints and veneer stone that is not structural.

Metal-stud and concrete construction

Where: Apartments and condos in Boise, plus commercial-style multifamily buildings.

Mounting: Use toggle anchors or blocking on metal studs; association approval and a COI are common.

Tips before you mount

Stud walls: studs are usually 16" on center. Lag the mount into at least two studs with 5/16" lag bolts, typically about 2.5" to 3" long; a full-motion arm puts much more leverage on the wall than a flat mount, so it should never hang on drywall anchors alone.
Brick, block or concrete: anchor into solid material with 1/4" concrete screws or 3/8" sleeve or wedge anchors using a hammer drill and masonry bit. Drill into solid brick or the face shell of block rather than mortar joints where possible, and do not rely on plaster or furring alone.
Log homes: use lag screws sized to the TV and mount rating into the log, or build a mounting board; logs move as they dry, so avoid rigid attachments that can bind and have the installer allow for settling.
Basement media rooms: if mounting on concrete walls, use concrete screws into the poured wall; if the wall is framed, find the studs. Check for moisture before finishing walls.
Metal studs (common in apartments and condos): use snap toggles or similar toggle-style anchors rated for the TV and mount weight, or have the installer add wood blocking behind the drywall.
Hiding wires: the National Electrical Code (NEC 400.12) does not allow a regular TV power cord to run inside the wall. Use an in-wall rated recessed power kit, and choose low-voltage cables rated CL2 or CL3 for in-wall HDMI and speaker runs.
Over a fireplace: check the TV maker's heat limits and keep the screen out of rising heat; a mantel does not make the wall behind it cooler. Stone or brick surrounds need masonry anchors, not drywall anchors. Wood stoves and fireplaces are common in Idaho, so keep clearances for heat and soot.
Garages, shops and covered patios: Idaho has cold winters and hot dry summers, so use outdoor-rated TVs rated for the temperature range, and plan for wildfire smoke by keeping equipment sealed from dust; stainless steel or coated hardware helps with freeze-thaw.
Condos, co-ops and rentals: ask the association or landlord whether drilling into walls or concrete needs approval, and get the installer's certificate of insurance (COI) naming the association before work day. Before work starts, tell the installer the wall type (studs, plaster, brick, block or concrete), the TV size and weight, and the mount type. These change the anchors, labor time and price.

Sources: Census Reporter, ACS 2024 1-year: Idaho (B25035, B25034, B25024) · Build Idaho: Homes with basements in Idaho · Idaho Department of Lands: Personal Wildland Fire Action Guide. General guidance only — your installer will confirm the right method for your wall.