How Many People Live in Idaho Falls: A Complete Population Overview
Idaho Falls is one of the most vibrant and rapidly growing cities in the western United States. Nestled in the eastern part of the Gem State, this city has become a hub for commerce, healthcare, education, and outdoor recreation. Whether you are considering relocating, conducting research, or simply curious, understanding how many people live in Idaho Falls offers valuable insight into the city's trajectory and its role within the broader region And that's really what it comes down to..
Current Population of Idaho Falls
According to the most recent 2020 United States Census, the city of Idaho Falls had a population of approximately 64,818 residents. S. This represented a significant increase compared to the 2010 Census, which recorded around 56,813 people. By 2023, estimates from the U.Census Bureau and other demographic sources suggest the population has grown further, with some projections placing the number closer to 67,000 to 70,000 people Still holds up..
The Idaho Falls metropolitan area, which encompasses all of Bonneville County and Jefferson County, has a combined population exceeding 145,000 residents. This makes it one of the most important population centers in eastern Idaho and a key economic anchor for the region Nothing fancy..
The official docs gloss over this. That's a mistake Easy to understand, harder to ignore..
Historical Population Growth
Understanding how many people live in Idaho Falls today requires looking at the city's growth over the decades. Idaho Falls has experienced consistent and impressive population increases throughout its modern history.
Here is a snapshot of the city's population growth over the past several decades:
- 1960: Approximately 33,161 residents
- 1970: Approximately 34,628 residents
- 1980: Approximately 40,577 residents
- 1990: Approximately 43,929 residents
- 2000: Approximately 50,730 residents
- 2010: Approximately 56,813 residents
- 2020: Approximately 64,818 residents
This steady upward trend reflects Idaho Falls' ability to attract new residents through job opportunities, affordable housing, and a high quality of life. The growth rate has accelerated particularly in the last decade, making Idaho Falls one of the fastest-growing cities in the state Easy to understand, harder to ignore..
Demographics of Idaho Falls
Beyond the raw numbers, the demographics of Idaho Falls paint a rich picture of the people who call this city home.
Age Distribution
Idaho Falls has a relatively young population compared to the national average. Plus, a significant portion of residents fall within the 25 to 44 age range, which corresponds to the working-age population that drives the local economy. The median age in the city is approximately 32 to 33 years old, which is younger than the national median age of around 38 Worth keeping that in mind..
Racial and Ethnic Composition
The racial and ethnic makeup of Idaho Falls includes:
- White (non-Hispanic): The majority, making up roughly 80–85% of the population
- Hispanic or Latino: A growing community, accounting for approximately 13–15% of residents
- Other groups: Including small but present populations of Native American, Asian, African American, and multiracial individuals
Household and Family Structure
Idaho Falls is known for its family-friendly environment. A large percentage of households include children under the age of 18, and the city consistently ranks well for affordability and safety when it comes to raising a family. Now, the average household size hovers around 2. 7 to 2.9 people, slightly above the national average Simple as that..
What Drives Population Growth in Idaho Falls?
Several key factors contribute to the steady increase in how many people live in Idaho Falls.
1. Strong Job Market
Idaho Falls serves as the economic hub of eastern Idaho. Still, major employers include Idaho National Laboratory (INL), a leading nuclear research facility, along with healthcare systems such as Mountain View Hospital and Eastern Idaho Regional Medical Center. The city also has a thriving small business sector and a growing technology industry.
2. Affordable Cost of Living
Compared to other cities in the western United States, Idaho Falls offers remarkably affordable housing and living costs. The median home price remains well below the national average, making it an attractive destination for first-time homebuyers and families looking to stretch their budgets Small thing, real impact..
It's where a lot of people lose the thread.
3. Quality of Life
Idaho Falls is often praised for its outdoor recreation opportunities. The Snake River Greenbelt, Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks within driving distance, and abundant fishing, hiking, and skiing options make it a magnet for outdoor enthusiasts. The city also features a revitalized downtown area with restaurants, shops, and cultural attractions Less friction, more output..
4. Education
The city is home to Idaho State University's Idaho Falls campus, as well as the College of Eastern Idaho, providing accessible higher education and vocational training. Strong public and private school systems also attract families to the area.
5. Infrastructure and Development
Ongoing infrastructure projects, including road improvements, new residential developments, and commercial expansions, continue to make Idaho Falls more accessible and livable. The city has invested in modernizing its amenities while preserving its small-town charm.
Idaho Falls Compared to Other Idaho Cities
To put the population of Idaho Falls in perspective, here is how it compares to other major cities in Idaho:
| City | Approximate Population (2020 Census) |
|---|---|
| Boise | ~235,684 |
| Meridian | ~117,635 |
| Nampa | ~100,200 |
| Idaho Falls | ~64,818 |
| Caldwell | ~59,996 |
| Pocatello | ~56,320 |
Idaho Falls ranks as the fourth-largest city in Idaho, and it is by far the largest city in the eastern portion of the state. While Boise and its surrounding suburbs dominate the western corridor, Idaho Falls stands as the undisputed center of eastern Idaho's population and economy.
Population Projections for the Future
Demographers and city planners project that Idaho Falls will continue to grow at a strong pace. Some estimates suggest the city could reach 75,000 to 80,000 residents by 2030, depending on economic conditions, housing development, and migration trends. The expansion of Idaho National Laboratory and the continued growth of the healthcare and education sectors are expected to be primary drivers of this growth.
City leaders have been proactive in planning for this expansion, with initiatives focused on sustainable development, transportation improvements, and community services to accommodate the increasing population.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current population of Idaho Falls? As of the 2020 Census, Idaho Falls had a population of approximately 64,818. Current estimates in 2023 and beyond
place the current population estimate between 70,000 and 72,000 residents, reflecting steady growth since the last census Simple, but easy to overlook..
How does Idaho Falls compare in size to Boise? Boise is significantly larger, with a population nearly four times that of Idaho Falls. On the flip side, Idaho Falls serves as the primary urban center for eastern Idaho, covering a much larger regional catchment area than its population numbers alone would suggest.
What industries drive Idaho Falls' economy? The primary economic drivers include healthcare (with several major hospital systems), energy and technology (centered around the Idaho National Laboratory), agriculture, manufacturing, and education. The healthcare sector alone employs thousands of residents and continues to expand.
Is Idaho Falls a good place to raise a family? Many families find Idaho Falls attractive due to its combination of affordable living, quality schools, safe neighborhoods, and abundant outdoor recreation opportunities. The city offers a balanced lifestyle with access to both urban amenities and natural beauty.
Conclusion
Idaho Falls represents one of Idaho's most dynamic growth stories. Worth adding: from its humble beginnings as a railroad stop to becoming the fourth-largest city in the state, it has successfully balanced modernization with its historical character. The city's strategic location, strong economic foundation, and exceptional quality of life position it well for continued growth in the coming decades.
As Idaho experiences overall population increases, Idaho Falls stands out as a regional hub that offers residents the best of both worlds: the amenities and opportunities of a growing city with the accessibility and community feel of a smaller town. Whether you're drawn by career opportunities, outdoor recreation, or simply a high quality of life, Idaho Falls continues to establish itself as one of Idaho's premier places to call home.
