Population trends show continued growth in Idaho

It’s no secret that North Idaho has become a hot spot for tourists to lay down their roots and embrace the rural lifestyle that the Gem State has to offer. It’s apparent that the upper Idaho region has grown, with life-long residents often making the statement “it’s not what it used to be.”  

While no one wants the secret to get out about the treasures that this area has to offer — extensive outdoor opportunities for winter and summer activities in addition to the quiet, rural lifestyle — the cat’s out of the bag.  

Although some small towns in northern Idaho are seeing a rise in population numbers, other populations have remained essentially the same, according to data compiled by the United States Census Bureau. The data below highlights the estimated population in each applicable town in 2020 to 2024. 

Where are these new residents coming from? Stacker, a data-based media company, did in-depth research of the states that send the most people to Idaho. While the data doesn’t clarify where in Idaho new residents are moving to, it puts into perspective the number of individuals who move from across the country to live in the Potato State.  

Many Idahoans know that California residents make up a majority of new residents in Idaho, with 30.57% of new residents coming from California in 2022. The slower-paced environment is appealing to residents coming from the Golden State.  

The second-highest contributor to new residents in Idaho is Washington. The neighboring states share a lot of nature commonalities with major boarding towns like Spokane, Coeur d’Alene, Pullman and Moscow. It’s no wonder Washingtonians feel at home in Idaho.  

Oregon, another bordering state, sends the third-most citizens to Idaho, making up 9.56% of new residents.  

Other top ten states where residents are moving from include Utah, Arizona, Texas, Nevada, Colorado, Georgia and Kansas.  

Idaho’s climate is perfect for those looking to get away from a fast-paced, highly dense area. Idaho has the fourth most public land at about 53.4 million acres, making it an ideal place for individuals who love year-round outdoor activities.  

Idaho’s relatively low cost of living is one of the reasons why its population continues to grow, in addition to its career opportunities.  The Gem State’s unemployment rate is merely 3.1%, compared to the national average of 5.67%, indicating a healthy economy with a variety of job opportunities available to old-time residents and transplants alike.  

Because of these factors, Idaho remains in the top five states for growth. The high population increase is debated upon Idahoans, as they battle to keep their rural environment in an ever-growing society.  

However, this truth remains the same for life-long residents and newcomers — Idaho is a place to call home, where families can grow in a small-town environment, and individuals can explore the nature that surrounds us.