Most affordable places to live in Idaho offers housing costs 16.4% below the national averages. The median home prices start at $311,525 in cities like Burley. As a result, families can save $2,800 a year on housing costs.
Whether you dream of fishing the Snake River or exploring Shoshone falls, Idaho makes that accessible. This guide reveals the top 7 most affordable places to live in Idaho.
Key Takeaways
- Burley is the most affordable town. The median home prices are $311,525 whereas the rent is $1,595.
- Pocatello is an university town. The median home price is $323,781, and the rent is low at $1,025.
- Transportation costs 25.7% below national rates across most affordable places in Idaho.
- Agricultural communities provide stable employment. Major employers are D.L. Evans Bank, Idaho State University, and food processing facilities.
- Recreation access includes Snake River, Shoshone Falls, and 40+ state parks.
Comparing Most Affordable Places to Live in Idaho
| 7City | Median Home Price | Median Rent | Cost of Living vs US | Best For |
| Burley | $311,525 | $1,595 | 16.4% lower | Retirees, agricultural families |
| Pocatello | $323,781 | $1,025 | 10.8% lower | University students, railroad workers |
| Blackfoot | $341,051 | $1,050 | 11.5% lower | Agricultural families, fair enthusiasts |
| Payette | $441,252 | $1,622 | 12.1% lower | Outdoor enthusiasts, Boise commuters |
| Twin Falls | $347,340 | $1,650 | 8.2% lower | College students, adventure seekers |
| Lewiston | $364,985 | $1,350 | 5.7% lower | College students, manufacturing workers |
| Jerome | $360,645 | $1,835 | 10.7% lower | Dairy industry workers, history buffs |
7 Most Affordable Places to Live in Idaho in 2025
1. Burley
- Median Home Price: $311,525
- Median Rent: $1,595
- Cost of Living: 16.4% below US average
- Best For: Retirees, agricultural families, outdoor enthusiasts
The Snake River winds through Burley’s heart, creating a picturesque setting. The community embraces farming traditions, while also welcoming visitors to explore Lake Walcott.
The Cassia County school district has institutions such as Burley High School and Mountain View Elementary. D.L. Evans Bank headquarters provides stable employment along side farming. Though limited nightlife and shopping challenge the younger crowd.
The winter weather impacts outdoor activities. But, groceries cost 9.3% below national averages making Burley a budget friendly choice. The Cassia County Fair celebrates local potato and sugar beet legacy every year.
👉Burley offers budget-friendly living with small-town charm. So begin browsing Burley homes for sale listings now!
2. Pocatello
- Median Home Price: $323,781
- Median Rent: $1,025
- Cost of Living: 10.8% below US average
- Best For: University students, healthcare professionals, railroad workers
Idaho State University infuses this railroad town with academic energy. As a result, there is a blend of college atmosphere and blue-collar work ethic.
The Pebble Creek Resort provides world class skiing minutes from downtown. In addition, the Portneuf River’s greenway system offers year-round walking trails. Pocatello-Chubbuck school district offers Century High School and Alameda Elementary.
Transportation costs run 25.7% below national averages further benefitting commuters and students. Though crime rates exceed in some neighborhoods. Union Pacific’s major rail yards provide stable employment, but job diversity remain limited.
👉Pocatello combines affordability with a strong community. So find your next Pocatello homes for sale now!
3. Blackfoot
- Median Home Price: $341,051
- Median Rent: $1,050
- Cost of Living: 11.5% below US average
- Best For: Agricultural families, fair enthusiasts, potato industry workers
The “Potato Capital of the World” title represents genuine community pride for this agricultural hub. The Eastern Idaho State Fair attracts acts like Dylan Scott and Jeff Dunham. In addition, the quirky Idaho Potato Museum celebrates local farming heritage.
The Blackfoot High School and I.T. Stoddard Elementary serve education opportunities. However, seasonal employment fluctuations affect some agricultural workers.
Interstate 15 provide easy access to Idaho Falls and Salt Lake City for weekend fun. Along with it, Jensen Grove Park offers camping and fishing opportunities. Yet, winter weather impacts outdoor activities in this city.
👉Blackfoot offers affordable living with plenty of opportunity. So begin Blackfoot homes for sale your search now!
4. Payette
- Median Home Price: $441,252
- Median Rent: $1,622
- Cost of Living: 12.1% below US average
- Best For: Outdoor enthusiasts, small business owners, Boise area commuters
Payette River creates natural gathering spaces throughout this community. The city has a fruit-growing heritage alongside modern downtown revitalization. The annual Apple Blossom Festival celebrates the city’s agricultural traditions.
Payette joint school district serves students through Payette High School and elementary schools. Nevertheless, local employment opportunities remain limited outside agriculture. Oregon border proximity provides shopping and entertainment options.
Groceries costs 9.8% lower than national norms, helping offset higher housing costs. However, flood risks near the river need consideration while choosing your neighborhood.
👉Payette offers affordability and small-town comfort. So start browsing Payette homes for sale today!
5. Twin Falls
- Median Home Price: $347,340
- Median Rent: $1,650
- Cost of Living: 8.2% below US average
- Best For: College students, outdoor adventure seekers, BASE jumping enthusiasts
The Shoshone Falls cascades down basalt cliffs, earning the “Niagara of the West” name. The Snake River Canyon attracts BASE jumpers and hikers to the Perrine Memorial Bridge.
The College of Southern Idaho along with Twin falls High School offer educational opportunities. The Twin Falls Center for Arts showcases regional talent.
Evel Knievel’s famous 1974 Snake River Canyon jump launched this location. As a result, created tourism interest alongside agricultural commerce. However, during peak seasons traffic congestion may challenge some residents.
👉Twin Falls combines affordability with scenic beauty. So explore your Twin Falls homes for sale options now!
6. Lewiston
- Median Home Price: $364,985
- Median Rent: $1,350
- Cost of Living: 5.7% below US average
- Best For: College students, manufacturing workers, river recreation enthusiasts
Clearwater and Snake Rivers converge in inland seaport city, creating maritime culture. The Hell’s Gate State Park offers camping and water sports along the canyon walls.
Lewiston High School and McGhee Elementary serve families through the school district. In addition, Lewis-Clark State College brings academic energy to the historic downtown.
CCI/Speer ammunition manufacturing offer stable jobs, though the operations affect the air quality. However, higher crime rates need awareness while choosing your neighborhood.
👉Lewiston offers affordability with riverfront charm. So start your Lewiston homes for sale search today!
7. Jerome
- Median Home Price: $360,645
- Median Rent: $1,835
- Cost of Living: 10.7% below US average
- Best For: Agricultural workers, dairy industry employees, history enthusiasts
- Highlights: Major dairy production center, Minidoka National Historic Site, food processing facilities
Magic Valley’s daily farming capital sustains Idaho’s largest dairy operations. Jerome is where modern agricultural technology meets traditional farming values. The annual Dairy Days festival celebrates the industry contributions.
Minidoka National Historic Site preserves Japanese American internment history through programs and exhibits. Jerome High School and Horizon Elementary provide education through the school district.
Food and utilities cost 34% below the national norm. However, industrial processing affect the air quality. Amalgamated Sugar Company provide employment beyond the dairy farming. Although, seasonal agricultural employment affect some workers.
👉Jerome offers budget-friendly living with small-town appeal. So begin your Jerome homes for sale search now!
How We Ranked Idaho’s Most Affordable Cities in 2025
Our comprehensive analysis used weighted criteria,
- Housing Costs (35%)
- Overall Cost of Living (25%)
- Income-to-Housing Ratio (15%)
- Essential Services (10%)
- Employment Opportunities (10%)
Data sources include SmartAsset housing affordability analysis, Zillow Home Value Index, RentCafe cost comparisons. As well as, U.S. Census Bureau demographic data, Idaho Department of Labor employment statistics, and local economic development reports.
What Drives Affordability in Idaho?
Idaho’s housing costs average 10% below national levels. Whereas, the utilities run 20% lower than typical American cities. As a result, residents can have plenty savings.
Property taxes are reasonable at 0.67% effective rates, ranking Idaho 38th nationally. Furthermore, agricultural employment provides steady income streams.
Lower crime rates in most area benefits your insurance costs. However, transportation, healthcare, and social life run 12%, 1%, and 41% higher than national norms respectively. Overall cost advantages certainly makes Idaho more attractive.
Smart Tips for Idaho Living
- Choose Burley or Blackfoot for maximum affordability.
- Consider Pocatello for university town benefits.
- Explore Jerome for stable dairy industry employment.
- Research winter weather impacts in northern cities.
- Budget for transportation. Transportation costs averaging 12% above national rates.
- Take advantage of no state sales tax on groceries.
Should You Move to Idaho?
Most affordable places to live in Idaho deliver genuine value throw lower housing costs. They are 5% to 16% below national levels, along with access to outdoor recreation.
Agricultural employment and university communities offer diverse lifestyles. From Burley to Jerome, these towns show that affordable living doesn’t mean lifestyle compromise.
So, if you are looking for retirement peace or college town energy, most affordable places to live in Idaho will offer that.
👉Looking for affordable homes across Idaho? Then start your Idaho homes for sale search today with Houzeo and save on your move!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most affordable place to live in Idaho?
Idaho's most affordable city is Burley with median home prices of $311,525, median rent of $1,595, and cost of living 16.4% below national averages. This Snake River community offers D.L. Evans Bank employment, Lake Walcott State Park recreation, and genuine agricultural heritage.
What are the top 7 most affordable cities in Idaho?
The top 7 most affordable Idaho cities include Burley ($311,525 median home price), Pocatello ($323,781), Blackfoot ($341,051), Payette ($441,252), Twin Falls ($347,340), Lewiston ($364,985), Jerome ($360,645).
Which Idaho cities are best for families on a budget?
For families on a budget, Blackfoot offers excellent family value with quality school districts, youth sports programs, and housing under $370,000.
Are there affordable beach towns in Idaho?
Idaho lacks traditional beach towns but offers excellent lakefront living at Lake Walcott near Burley, Payette River access in Payette, and Snake River recreation throughout most affordable communities.
What makes Idaho one of the most affordable states?
Idaho's affordability stems from housing costs 10% below national averages, utilities 20% lower than typical rates, reasonable property taxes at 0.67% effective rates, and agricultural employment providing steady income streams. Lower crime rates and rural lifestyle reduce insurance and living expenses significantly.
