Idaho’s population is a dynamic and ever-changing statistic. According to the latest estimates from the U.S. Census Bureau, as of July 1, 2023, there are approximately 1,936,588 people residing in the state. This number represents a steady increase from the previous year, when the population was estimated at 1,914,556. The growth rate of Idaho’s population is driven by a combination of natural increase (the difference between births and deaths) and net migration (the difference between people moving into and out of the state).
Idaho’s Population: A Growing Gem in the Northwest
Idaho, the “Gem State,” is a land of vast landscapes, breathtaking mountains, and friendly folks. With a population of over 1.9 million, it ranks as the 39th most populous state in the US. Idaho has witnessed a steady growth over the past few decades, and the trend is projected to continue in the coming years.
The state’s population growth has been driven by several factors, including a strong job market, affordable housing, and a high quality of life. Idaho is home to a diverse population, with people from all walks of life finding a place to call home in this welcoming state. The majority of Idahoans reside in urban areas, with Boise, Meridian, and Idaho Falls being the largest cities.
Idaho’s population is projected to continue growing in the coming years, with estimates suggesting it could reach 2.5 million by 2030. This growth is expected to be driven by a combination of natural increase and migration from other states.
Counties of Idaho
Idaho, the “Gem State,” boasts a diverse landscape and a rich history. It’s divided into 44 counties, each with its unique character and charm.
Let’s take a tour of these counties, exploring their geographical locations and key industries:
Northern Idaho
- Boundary County: Cozies up to Canada and is a hiker’s paradise, with the famed Pacific Northwest Trail passing through.
- Bonner County: Home to Lake Pend Oreille, Idaho’s largest lake, and the silver mining town of Sandpoint.
- Kootenai County: Anchored by Coeur d’Alene, a lakefront city with a thriving arts scene and a massive lake teeming with rainbow trout.
Central Idaho
- Adams County: Bordered by Oregon, this rural county is a retreat for wildlife enthusiasts and offers excellent hunting and fishing opportunities.
- Valley County: Nestled among the mountains, Valley County is renowned for its whitewater rafting on the Middle Fork of the Salmon River.
- Lemhi County: Known as the “Birthplace of Idaho,” Lemhi County is a mining and ranching hub, with the Pioneer Mountains as its backdrop.
- Custer County: Home to the Sawtooth Wilderness, a hiker’s and backpacker’s playground, and the historic mining town of Challis.
Southwestern Idaho
- Ada County: Idaho’s most populous county, Ada County boasts Boise, the state capital, known for its vibrant arts and culture scene.
- Canyon County: A sprawling agricultural county, Canyon County is the gateway to the Snake River Valley and home to Nampa, a major industrial hub.
- Owyhee County: The largest county in Idaho by area, Owyhee County features vast deserts and the Bruneau Dunes State Park.
Southeastern Idaho
- Bear Lake County: Nestled on the Utah border, Bear Lake County is home to the stunning Bear Lake, a popular destination for boating and fishing.
- Caribou County: A farming and ranching county, Caribou County is known for its potato production and the Lava Hot Springs, a natural hot spring resort.
- Bannock County: Home to Pocatello, a city with a thriving university and a bustling arts community.
- Franklin County: Situated in the heart of the Snake River Valley, Franklin County is a major agricultural producer.
This is just a glimpse of the diverse counties that make up Idaho. Each county offers its unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty, making Idaho a true treasure to explore.
Idaho’s Vibrant Cities: A Journey to the Gem State’s Urban Heart
Folks, gather ’round and let’s take a trip to Idaho’s bustling cities, where the urban spirit thrives. From the state’s vibrant capital to its charming college towns, Idaho’s cities offer a captivating blend of culture, commerce, and natural beauty.
Boise: The City of Trees
Nestled along the Boise River, with majestic foothills as its backdrop, Boise is Idaho’s heartbeat. With a population of over 230,000, it’s a hub of government, finance, and technology. But don’t let the skyscrapers fool you—Boise is also a nature lover’s paradise. Stroll through the picturesque Boise River Greenbelt, an oasis of trails and parks spanning 25 miles, or escape to the nearby Boise National Forest for a breath of fresh air.
Meridian: Idaho’s Fastest-Growing City
Just west of Boise, Meridian is a dynamic city that’s bursting with energy. Home to over 110,000 residents, it’s the fastest-growing city in Idaho. Meridian is a tech hub with a thriving business community. Explore the Village at Meridian, an open-air shopping and entertainment destination, or indulge in Idaho’s craft beer scene at the Meridian Taproom.
Idaho Falls: The Gateway to Yellowstone
Located in eastern Idaho, Idaho Falls is a city of contrasts. With a population of around 60,000, it seamlessly blends urban amenities with stunning natural surroundings. Idaho Falls serves as the gateway to Yellowstone National Park, just a short drive away. Witness the awe-inspiring Snake River Falls, a majestic waterfall that runs through the heart of the city, or explore the Museum of Idaho for a glimpse into the state’s rich history.
Idaho Demographics: A Statistical Adventure
Idaho, the Gem State, is a land of wide-open spaces, stunning landscapes, and a diverse population. Let’s dive into the demographic tapestry that makes Idaho unique.
Age Distribution:
Idaho has a relatively young population, with a median age of 37.4 years. This is slightly younger than the national average of 38.5 years. The state has a growing number of seniors, but also a steady influx of young professionals and families.
Race and Ethnicity:
Idaho is predominantly white, with 86.1% of the population identifying as such. However, the state is becoming increasingly diverse. Hispanic or Latino residents make up 12.3% of the population, while Asians, Native Americans, and Black Americans each account for less than 2%.
Income Levels:
Idaho’s median household income is $62,579, which is slightly below the national average of $67,521. Despite this, poverty rates in Idaho are relatively low, with only 10.9% of the population living below the poverty line.
Trends and Characteristics:
One notable trend in Idaho’s demographics is the growth of the Hispanic population. Over the past decade, the number of Hispanic residents has increased by more than 50%. This growth is largely due to immigration from Mexico and other Latin American countries.
Another interesting characteristic of Idaho’s demographics is the high percentage of married couples. Nearly 60% of Idahoans are married, compared to 51% nationwide. This is likely due to the state’s conservative social values and family-oriented culture.
So, there you have it—a snapshot of the demographic landscape of Idaho. A diverse, relatively young, and family-focused state with a bright future ahead.
Welp, that’s it for our deep dive into the population of Idaho! Thanks for sticking with me through all the numbers and stats. If you found this article helpful, be sure to check out our other posts on all things Idaho. We’ve got plenty more where this came from, so stay tuned and come visit us again soon!