Moving to Idaho Falls
Idaho Falls, located in eastern Idaho along the Snake River, is a thriving mid-sized city known for its affordability, strong sense of community, and access to some of the most stunning natural landscapes in the United States. With a population of around 70,000 in the city proper and over 150,000 in the metro area, Idaho Falls serves as the cultural, commercial, and healthcare hub for much of eastern Idaho and western Wyoming.
Moving to Idaho Falls means combining small-city convenience with outdoor adventure. The city offers affordable housing, strong schools, and a diverse economy. At the same time, it’s just a short drive from Yellowstone National Park, Grand Teton National Park, and some of the best fishing, skiing, and hiking in the country.
Of course, challenges exist: winters are long and cold, job opportunities can be industry-specific, and public transportation is limited. Still, for families, retirees, and professionals, Idaho Falls is an increasingly attractive relocation destination.
Why More People Are Moving from Other States to Idaho Falls
Idaho Falls has seen significant growth in recent years as people move in from California, Utah, and other high-cost states. The main reasons include:
Affordability: Housing and utilities are cheaper than in most western states.
Proximity to nature: Residents are just hours from Yellowstone, Grand Teton, and Sun Valley.
Quality of life: Safe neighborhoods, good schools, and a family-friendly environment.
Job stability: Anchored by healthcare, energy, and agriculture, the economy is relatively steady.
Community spirit: With strong local values and family focus, Idaho Falls offers a slower, more intentional way of life.
For many, relocating to Idaho Falls is about achieving balance: affordable living, strong community ties, and access to world-class outdoor recreation.
Pros of Living in Idaho Falls
The top advantage is affordability. Compared to Boise, Salt Lake City, or Denver, housing and daily costs in Idaho Falls are much lower.
Another pro is location. Idaho Falls is a gateway to Yellowstone, Jackson Hole, and Grand Teton, making it paradise for outdoor lovers.
The sense of community is strong. Idaho Falls has a reputation for being family-oriented, safe, and supportive.
The economy is stable, anchored by healthcare, agriculture, and energy. The Idaho National Laboratory, a major research facility, also provides high-paying jobs.
Finally, Idaho Falls has amenities rare for a city of its size, including a regional airport, hospitals, shopping centers, and cultural institutions like the Museum of Idaho.
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Cons of Living in Idaho Falls
The biggest drawback is weather. Winters are long, cold, and snowy, with average lows in the teens and frequent snowstorms.
Job diversity is limited. While healthcare and energy provide stability, opportunities in tech, finance, or the arts are fewer compared to larger cities.
Public transportation is minimal, making a car essential.
Cultural and entertainment options are modest. While there are theaters, restaurants, and events, larger-scale concerts, nightlife, and shopping often require trips to Salt Lake City.
Finally, Idaho Falls’ growth has led to rising home prices, though they remain below national averages.
What Life is Like in Idaho Falls
Life in Idaho Falls is community-driven, safe, and family-focused. Residents enjoy suburban-style neighborhoods, parks, and a walkable greenbelt along the Snake River.
Neighborhoods include historic downtown with older homes, newer developments on the city’s edges, and suburban areas with larger family homes.
Food culture is growing, with local diners, craft breweries, and restaurants serving everything from farm-to-table meals to international cuisine. Farmers markets highlight the agricultural richness of eastern Idaho.
Community events like the Snake River Roaring Youth Jam, Idaho Falls Riverfest, and downtown art walks bring residents together.
For families, Idaho Falls offers safety and affordability. For retirees, it provides peace and community. For professionals, it offers access to jobs in stable industries and outdoor adventure just beyond the city.
Living Costs in Idaho Falls
Idaho Falls is affordable compared to most U.S. cities, especially in housing.
| Category | Idaho Falls | National Average |
|---|---|---|
| Housing (Rent per Month) | $1,050 | $1,570 |
| Utilities | $150 | $180 |
| Groceries | $300 | $330 |
| Transportation | $125 | $140 |
| Healthcare | $420 | $440 |
Housing remains affordable, though prices have risen with population growth. Utilities and groceries are below national averages, making Idaho Falls cost-effective for families and retirees.
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Schools and Education in Idaho Falls
Idaho Falls is served by two public school districts: Idaho Falls School District 91 and Bonneville Joint School District 93. These districts operate numerous elementary, middle, and high schools, including Idaho Falls High, Skyline High, Hillcrest High, and Bonneville High.
Charter schools such as Compass Academy provide innovative programs. Private schools, including Holy Rosary Catholic School, offer additional options.
Higher education is represented by College of Eastern Idaho, which offers associate degrees, workforce training, and transfer programs. The proximity to Idaho State University in Pocatello expands academic opportunities.
Families appreciate Idaho Falls’ emphasis on education, strong extracurricular programs, and access to higher learning.
Transportation and Getting Around
Idaho Falls is car-dependent, with most residents owning vehicles. Commutes are short, averaging 15–20 minutes.
Public transportation is limited to bus services like TRPTA, which cover basic routes but are not widely used.
Idaho Falls Regional Airport offers flights to Salt Lake City, Denver, and other hubs, making travel convenient.
Cycling and walking are practical in some neighborhoods and along the scenic Snake River Greenbelt.
Culture, Sports, and Entertainment
Culture in Idaho Falls is tied to community and the outdoors. The Museum of Idaho showcases state history and science exhibits, while the Civic Auditorium hosts concerts and performances.
Sports are popular at the high school and college levels. Outdoor recreation dominates, with skiing in Kelly Canyon, fishing in the Snake River, and hiking in nearby national parks.
Entertainment options include local theaters, art walks, breweries, and family events. Larger cultural attractions are found in Salt Lake City, about 3 hours away.
United Local Movers: Our Services
Relocating to Idaho Falls is easier with movers who understand regional and long-distance logistics. United Local Movers provides professional packing, secure storage, and long-distance relocation services.
Whether moving into a historic downtown home, a suburban neighborhood, or a rural property outside the city, our crews handle every detail.
With transparent pricing and reliable service, United Local Movers ensures stress-free relocations to Idaho Falls.
Average Cost to Move to Idaho Falls
Moving costs depend on distance and services required.
| Move Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Local Move (1-2 Bedrooms) | $900–$1,800 |
| Cross-Country Move | $3,000–$5,800 |
| Full Packing Services | + $350–$800 |
| Storage Options | $120–$250 per month |
United Local Movers provides upfront estimates with no hidden costs, making relocation transparent and dependable.
How to Choose the Right Moving Company
When moving to Idaho Falls, select movers with regional and long-distance expertise. Always verify licensing, insurance, and written estimates.
Check customer reviews for reliability. Movers familiar with Idaho relocations understand local conditions like snow, rural roads, and long distances between cities.
United Local Movers combines national reach with Idaho-specific expertise, making it the trusted choice for Idaho Falls relocations.
Final Thoughts
Idaho Falls is one of the most livable mid-sized cities in the West. Its affordability, strong community values, and access to world-class natural wonders make it highly appealing. While winters are long and job diversity is limited, the benefits — safety, outdoor recreation, and affordability — outweigh the drawbacks.
For families, retirees, and professionals, Idaho Falls offers balance, opportunity, and beauty. And with United Local Movers, your relocation to Idaho Falls can be smooth, professional, and stress-free.
