20 Worst Places to Live in Idaho: Ranking the Gem State’s Least Desirable Locations
Idaho offers breathtaking natural beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities, but not all areas of the Gem State are equally desirable places to live.
Various factors like crime rates, economic conditions, and quality of life can make certain locations less appealing than others.
This article examines 20 cities and towns in Idaho that face significant challenges and may be considered among the worst places to reside in the state.
By analyzing data on unemployment, poverty, education, safety, and other key metrics, we provide an objective look at areas that struggle with issues impacting residents’ daily lives and long-term prospects.
1. Mountain Home
Mountain Home, located in Elmore County, Idaho, faces several challenges that impact its livability. The city’s remote location, approximately 40 miles southeast of Boise, limits access to urban amenities and job opportunities.
The local economy heavily depends on Mountain Home Air Force Base, which can create instability during periods of military budget cuts or base realignments. This reliance on a single employer leaves residents vulnerable to economic fluctuations.
Mountain Home experiences harsh winters with cold temperatures and occasional heavy snowfall. Summers can be extremely hot and dry, making outdoor activities uncomfortable during certain months.
The city’s small population of around 14,000 residents means limited options for entertainment, shopping, and dining. This lack of variety can be frustrating for those accustomed to more diverse urban environments.
Public education in Mountain Home faces challenges, with some schools underperforming compared to state averages. This may concern families with school-age children seeking quality educational opportunities.
2. Orofino
Orofino, located in Clearwater County, Idaho, faces several challenges that impact its livability. The town’s economy heavily relies on the forestry industry, which has experienced fluctuations in recent years.
Unemployment rates in Orofino tend to be higher than the state average. This economic instability can make it difficult for residents to find stable, well-paying jobs.
The town’s remote location limits access to certain amenities and services. Residents often need to travel significant distances for specialized healthcare or shopping options.
Orofino’s small population of around 3,000 people means limited social and cultural opportunities. This can be particularly challenging for young adults and families seeking diverse experiences.
The town’s infrastructure, including roads and public facilities, may require updates and improvements. This can affect the overall quality of life for residents.
3. Blackfoot
Blackfoot, located in southeastern Idaho, faces several challenges that impact residents’ quality of life. The city struggles with a higher-than-average crime rate, particularly in property crimes.
Economic opportunities in Blackfoot are limited, with a median household income below the state average. This contributes to financial strain for many residents and can lead to difficulties in affording housing and other necessities.
The city’s educational system has room for improvement, with test scores falling below state averages. This may affect students’ future prospects and the overall educational attainment of the community.
Blackfoot experiences harsh winters, with heavy snowfall and frigid temperatures. These conditions can make daily life challenging and increase heating costs for residents.
The city’s infrastructure requires updates, with some roads and public facilities showing signs of wear. This can lead to inconveniences for residents and potential safety concerns.
4. Weiser
Weiser, a small city in Washington County, Idaho, faces several challenges that impact its livability. The town’s population has been declining steadily over the years, leading to a shrinking tax base and reduced funding for public services.
Weiser’s economy relies heavily on agriculture, leaving it vulnerable to market fluctuations and weather-related issues. Job opportunities in other sectors are limited, forcing many residents to commute long distances for work.
The city’s infrastructure is aging and in need of significant upgrades. Roads, water systems, and public buildings require maintenance and improvements, but funding constraints hinder progress.
Weiser’s educational system struggles with budget cuts and limited resources. This affects the quality of education available to local students and may deter families from settling in the area.
The town’s remote location means limited access to healthcare facilities and specialized medical services. Residents often need to travel to larger cities for comprehensive medical care.
5. Gooding
Gooding, a small city in south-central Idaho, faces several challenges that impact residents’ quality of life. The town’s economy struggles with limited job opportunities and a high unemployment rate.
Gooding’s aging infrastructure poses problems for the community. Many roads and public facilities require repairs or upgrades, straining the city’s limited budget.
The local education system faces difficulties, with schools struggling to maintain adequate funding and resources. This can affect the quality of education available to students in Gooding.
Crime rates in Gooding are higher than the state average, raising concerns about safety and security for residents. The city’s law enforcement faces challenges in addressing these issues effectively.
Gooding’s remote location limits access to certain amenities and services. Residents often need to travel to larger cities for specialized healthcare, shopping, and entertainment options.
6. Shoshone
Shoshone, a small city in Lincoln County, Idaho, faces several challenges that impact its livability. The town’s population has been steadily declining over the years, leading to reduced economic opportunities and services.
Shoshone’s remote location limits access to major urban centers and their amenities. The nearest large city, Boise, is over 100 miles away, making it difficult for residents to access specialized healthcare, diverse job markets, and cultural attractions.
The local economy heavily relies on agriculture and ranching, which can be unstable due to weather conditions and market fluctuations. This economic uncertainty contributes to lower average incomes and higher unemployment rates compared to other parts of Idaho.
Shoshone’s infrastructure is aging, with limited funds for necessary upgrades and maintenance. This affects the quality of roads, public buildings, and utilities, potentially impacting residents’ daily lives.
7. American Falls
American Falls, located in Power County, Idaho, faces several challenges that impact its livability. The town’s economy heavily relies on agriculture, particularly potato farming, leaving it vulnerable to market fluctuations and environmental factors.
The community struggles with limited job opportunities outside of agriculture. This lack of economic diversity can lead to financial instability for residents and hinder economic growth.
American Falls experiences harsh winters, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. Heavy snowfall and icy conditions can make transportation difficult and increase living costs for residents.
The town’s small population of around 4,000 people means limited access to amenities and services. Residents may need to travel to larger cities for specialized healthcare, shopping, or entertainment options.
Educational opportunities in American Falls are also limited. The town has only a few schools, and students seeking higher education must relocate to other areas.
8. Buhl
Buhl, a small town in Twin Falls County, Idaho, faces several challenges that impact its livability. The community struggles with limited economic opportunities, leading to a higher unemployment rate compared to the state average.
Buhl’s educational system has room for improvement, with test scores falling below the Idaho average. This can be a concern for families seeking quality education for their children.
The town’s crime rate exceeds the national average, particularly in property crimes. This raises safety concerns for residents and potential newcomers.
Buhl’s remote location limits access to diverse cultural amenities and entertainment options. Residents often need to travel to larger cities for shopping, healthcare, and recreational activities.
The town’s infrastructure requires updates, with some roads and public facilities showing signs of wear. This can affect the overall quality of life for Buhl’s inhabitants.
9. Bonners Ferry
Bonners Ferry, located in northern Idaho, faces several challenges that impact its livability. The town’s remote location limits access to amenities and services commonly found in larger cities.
Economic opportunities in Bonners Ferry are scarce, with a limited job market and lower average incomes compared to other parts of Idaho. This can make it difficult for residents to find well-paying employment or advance their careers.
The area experiences harsh winters, with heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures that can last for months. This climate can lead to increased home heating costs and challenging road conditions.
Bonners Ferry has limited healthcare options, with residents often needing to travel significant distances for specialized medical care. The town’s small population also means fewer educational choices for students.
10. Jerome
Jerome, Idaho faces several challenges that impact its livability. The town’s economy heavily relies on agriculture and food processing, limiting job diversity and opportunities for career growth.
Crime rates in Jerome are higher than the national average, raising safety concerns for residents. Property crime, in particular, is a notable issue in the community.
The city’s infrastructure shows signs of aging, with some roads and public facilities in need of repair or upgrades. This can affect daily life and the overall appearance of the town.
Jerome’s educational system struggles with lower test scores and graduation rates compared to state averages. This may be a concern for families with school-age children.
The town has limited recreational and cultural amenities, which can make it less appealing for those seeking diverse entertainment options or cultural experiences.
11. Grangeville
Grangeville, located in north-central Idaho, faces several challenges that contribute to its inclusion on this list. The town’s remote location limits access to major urban amenities and job opportunities.
Grangeville’s economy relies heavily on agriculture and forestry, which can be volatile industries. This dependence leaves residents vulnerable to economic downturns and seasonal fluctuations in employment.
The town’s small population of around 3,000 residents means limited options for entertainment, shopping, and dining. Those seeking diverse cultural experiences may find Grangeville lacking.
Harsh winters in the region can pose difficulties for residents, with heavy snowfall and cold temperatures often causing transportation issues and increased living costs.
Educational opportunities in Grangeville are limited, with only a few schools serving the area. Students seeking higher education must travel significant distances to attend colleges or universities.
12. St. Maries
St. Maries, located in Benewah County, Idaho, faces several challenges that impact its residents’ quality of life. The town’s economy heavily relies on the struggling timber industry, leading to limited job opportunities and economic instability.
The remote location of St. Maries contributes to its isolation, with limited access to major urban centers and services. This isolation can make it difficult for residents to access specialized healthcare, educational opportunities, and diverse entertainment options.
St. Maries experiences harsh winters, which can strain local infrastructure and increase living costs for residents. The town’s small population of around 2,400 people may result in a lack of amenities and services typically found in larger communities.
Crime rates in St. Maries are higher than the national average, particularly for property crimes. This can create safety concerns for residents and potentially impact property values in the area.
13. Kellogg
Kellogg, Idaho faces significant challenges that impact residents’ quality of life. The town’s economy has struggled since the decline of its mining industry, leading to limited job opportunities and economic growth.
Environmental concerns loom large in Kellogg. Decades of mining activities have left behind contaminated soil and water, posing potential health risks to inhabitants.
The town’s small population of around 2,000 residents means limited amenities and services. Residents often need to travel to larger cities for shopping, healthcare, and entertainment options.
Kellogg’s remote location in the Idaho Panhandle can lead to feelings of isolation, especially during harsh winter months when travel becomes difficult. The area receives substantial snowfall, which can complicate daily life and transportation.
Crime rates in Kellogg are higher than the national average, particularly for property crimes. This contributes to a sense of unease among some residents and may deter potential newcomers.
14. Salmon
Salmon, Idaho faces significant challenges that impact residents’ quality of life. The remote location of this small city presents difficulties in accessing essential services and amenities.
Limited job opportunities contribute to economic struggles for many in the community. The local economy heavily relies on seasonal industries, leading to income instability for some workers.
Harsh winters in Salmon can be particularly challenging. Heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures often isolate the city, making travel and daily activities difficult for extended periods.
The town’s aging infrastructure requires attention, with some roads and public facilities in need of repairs or upgrades. This can affect residents’ daily lives and the overall appeal of the community.
Limited healthcare options in Salmon pose concerns for residents, especially those with chronic conditions or those requiring specialized medical care.
15. Rupert
Rupert, a small city in Minidoka County, Idaho, faces several challenges that impact its livability. The town’s economy heavily relies on agriculture, particularly potato farming, which can lead to limited job diversity and opportunities.
Rupert’s population has seen minimal growth over the years, contributing to a stagnant local economy. This lack of expansion has resulted in fewer amenities and services compared to larger cities in Idaho.
The city’s crime rate is slightly higher than the state average, raising concerns about safety for residents. Property crime, in particular, has been a persistent issue in the area.
Rupert’s educational system struggles with lower-than-average test scores and graduation rates compared to other Idaho cities. This can affect the future prospects of young residents and deter families from settling in the area.
The town’s remote location, approximately 50 miles from larger cities like Twin Falls, can make access to specialized healthcare and diverse cultural experiences challenging for residents.
16. Sandpoint
Sandpoint, located in northern Idaho, faces several challenges that impact residents’ quality of life. The town experiences long, harsh winters with heavy snowfall, making transportation and daily activities difficult for several months each year.
The cost of living in Sandpoint is higher than the state average, particularly in housing. This can strain budgets for many residents, especially those with lower incomes.
Job opportunities in Sandpoint are limited, with a focus primarily on tourism and service industries. This lack of diverse employment options can make it challenging for residents to find stable, well-paying jobs.
The town’s remote location can be isolating, with limited access to larger cities and their amenities. This isolation can also affect healthcare options, as specialized medical services may require significant travel.
17. Preston
Preston, a small city in Franklin County, Idaho, faces several challenges that impact its livability. The town’s economy heavily relies on agriculture, limiting job opportunities in other sectors.
Preston experiences harsh winters with heavy snowfall, which can make transportation difficult. The city’s remote location, about 100 miles north of Salt Lake City, contributes to a sense of isolation for some residents.
Limited amenities and entertainment options are common complaints among Preston’s inhabitants. The city lacks diverse shopping and dining choices, forcing residents to travel to larger towns for more options.
Preston’s population growth has been stagnant, potentially affecting local businesses and community development. The city’s education system, while functional, may not offer the same range of programs and resources as larger urban areas.
18. Emmett
Emmett, located in Gem County, Idaho, faces several challenges that impact its livability. The small city of around 7,000 residents struggles with limited economic opportunities and a lack of diverse employment options.
Emmett’s median household income falls below the state average, reflecting the financial difficulties many residents experience. The city’s poverty rate exceeds the national average, contributing to various social issues.
Educational attainment in Emmett lags behind state and national levels. The local school system faces budget constraints, potentially affecting the quality of education provided to students.
Crime rates in Emmett are higher than the state average, particularly for property crimes. This raises concerns about community safety and security for residents.
The city’s infrastructure requires significant improvements, with aging roads and limited public transportation options. These issues can make daily life more challenging for Emmett’s inhabitants.
19. McCall
McCall, Idaho presents challenges for residents despite its scenic mountain setting. The town’s remote location limits access to essential services and employment opportunities.
High housing costs pose a significant barrier. McCall’s popularity as a resort destination drives up real estate prices, making it difficult for many locals to afford homes.
The harsh winter climate creates additional hardships. Heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures last for months, complicating daily life and increasing living expenses.
Limited economic diversity is another concern. Many jobs in McCall are seasonal and tied to tourism, leading to income instability for some residents.
Traffic congestion during peak tourist seasons strains local infrastructure. This influx of visitors can overwhelm the small town’s resources and disrupt daily routines for year-round inhabitants.
20. Lewiston
Lewiston, Idaho’s only seaport, faces several challenges that impact its livability. The city’s economy heavily relies on the paper mill industry, which has experienced declines in recent years.
Air quality issues plague Lewiston due to its location in a valley, trapping pollutants from industrial activities and wildfires. This can lead to respiratory problems for residents, especially during summer months.
The city’s crime rate exceeds the national average, with property crimes being a particular concern. This impacts residents’ sense of security and overall quality of life.
Lewiston’s educational system struggles with lower-than-average test scores and graduation rates compared to other parts of Idaho. This can limit opportunities for young people in the area.
Limited job diversity and growth potential in Lewiston may contribute to a stagnant local economy. Many residents find themselves commuting to nearby cities for better employment prospects.
Economic Factors
Idaho’s economy faces challenges in certain areas. Job markets and unemployment rates vary significantly across different regions of the state.
Unemployment Rates
Idaho’s unemployment rates fluctuate by location. Some cities struggle with higher joblessness than the state average. Twin Falls reported a 3.8% unemployment rate in August 2024, above Idaho’s 3.2% overall rate.
Pocatello faces even higher unemployment at 4.5%. This impacts local economies and quality of life. Residents in these areas may find it harder to secure stable employment.
Rural counties often see the highest jobless rates. Clearwater County topped the list at 6.7% unemployment in recent months. Limited job opportunities drive some residents to consider relocating.
Job Market Stability
Idaho’s job market stability varies by industry and region. The state’s reliance on natural resource sectors creates vulnerabilities. Mining and logging jobs declined 2.5% year-over-year in 2024.
Tech hubs like Boise offer more stability. The city added 3,200 tech jobs in the past year. However, smaller cities struggle to attract diverse employers.
Lewiston lost 500 manufacturing jobs when a paper mill closed in 2023. This highlights the risks of single-industry dependence. Economic downturns hit these areas harder.
Seasonal work in agriculture and tourism leads to income instability for many. Winter layoffs are common in resort towns like Sun Valley.
Quality of Life
Idaho’s worst places to live face significant challenges in key quality of life metrics. These areas struggle with elevated crime rates, limited healthcare access, and subpar educational opportunities.
Crime Rates
Crime remains a pressing concern in Idaho’s most troubled areas. Some cities experience violent crime rates up to 150% higher than the state average. Property crimes like burglary and theft also occur frequently.
Certain neighborhoods see clusters of drug-related offenses. Gang activity contributes to safety issues in a few urban pockets.
Law enforcement in these areas often lacks adequate resources to effectively combat crime. Community policing initiatives have shown promise but face funding hurdles.
Healthcare Access
Healthcare access is severely limited in Idaho’s least desirable locales. Rural areas may have only one small clinic serving a large geographic region.
Wait times for appointments can stretch for weeks or even months. Emergency services often require long travel times, putting patients at risk.
Mental health resources are particularly scarce. Many residents must drive hours to see specialists. Telemedicine has improved access somewhat but faces technology and infrastructure barriers.
Educational Opportunities
Schools in Idaho’s worst places to live typically underperform state averages. Test scores lag behind, and graduation rates dip as low as 65% in some districts.
Teacher shortages plague these areas. Many schools struggle to offer advanced courses or extracurricular activities. Outdated facilities and limited technology hinder learning.
Post-secondary options are few. Community colleges may be hours away. Vocational training programs are often underfunded or non-existent. This lack of opportunity contributes to brain drain as young people leave for better prospects elsewhere.
Environmental Aspects
Idaho faces environmental challenges that impact quality of life in certain areas. Pollution concerns and natural disaster risks vary across the state’s diverse landscapes.
Pollution Levels
Air quality issues plague some Idaho cities. Boise experiences occasional winter inversions, trapping pollutants near the ground. Wood smoke from fireplaces contributes to particulate matter in the air during colder months.
Water pollution affects several Idaho waterways. Agricultural runoff introduces excess nutrients and sediment into rivers and lakes. Mining activities have contaminated some streams with heavy metals.
Soil contamination exists in former industrial sites and areas with a history of pesticide use. Cleanup efforts are ongoing in several locations across the state.
Natural Disaster Risks
Wildfires pose a significant threat in Idaho, particularly during dry summer months. The risk is highest in forested areas and the wildland-urban interface.
Flooding occurs along major rivers, especially during spring snowmelt. Cities like Boise and Lewiston have experienced damaging floods in the past.
Earthquakes are a potential hazard, with fault lines running through parts of the state. While major quakes are rare, minor tremors occur periodically.
Landslides can happen in mountainous regions, especially after heavy rains or rapid snowmelt. Some roads and properties in steep terrain are at risk.
