Emmett is the Gem County seat — about 8,900 residents (Census July 2025 estimate) in the "Valley of Plenty," a fertile cherry, apple, and peach valley between the Payette River's north and south forks. Named for the Emmett brothers, 1901 town builders who brought telephone, power, and the railroad, Emmett is the Boise metro's cherry capital: the Emmett Cherry Festival draws valley-wide crowds each June, and orchards, wineries, and farm stands dot the surrounding slopes. Recreation centers on the Payette River and Black Canyon Reservoir (boating, fishing), the Emmett Island Sports Complex, and nearby hot springs. It's close enough to commute, far enough to feel like its own valley town.
Photography of EmmettPhoto: Multiple credited photographers · See source links
Home prices in Emmett
The median listing price in Emmett is $747,995.
Top places in Emmett
Emmett Cherry Festival — the valley's signature June event.
Black Canyon Reservoir — boating, fishing, kayaking on the Payette River.
Emmett Island Sports Complex — riverfront sports fields.
Payette River — rafting and fishing through the valley.
Gem County Historical Museum.
Nearby hot springs and mountain trails off SH-16.
Commuting from Emmett
No rail transit in the Boise metro — commutes are by car; no Valley Regional Transit service.
Emmett is about 30 miles northwest of Boise on SH-16; the drive to downtown Boise is approximately 30–35 minutes.
SH-16 heads north through the Sweet-Ola and Banks corridor into the mountains.
Emmett FAQs
What is the housing market like in Emmett, ID? The median listing price in Emmett is $747,995. Median listing price (September 2026 research snapshot)
How is the commute from Emmett, ID? No rail transit in the Boise metro — commutes are by car; no Valley Regional Transit service.
