Idaho Falls, ID

• Livability Partner

Family-friendly living. Abundant outdoor activities. Bountiful career opportunities. Small-town charm. If you’re looking for an affordable and exciting place to live, it may be time to consider this small, but growing city nestled along the banks of the Snake River in Eastern Idaho.

Idaho Falls has a thriving downtown scene and offers big-city amenities, including Mountain America Center, a 6,000-seat venue that attracts A-list national performers and events and is home to the Idaho Falls Spud Kings, a junior hockey team. Also, the Idaho Falls Chukars baseball team plays its Pioneer League games at Melaleuca Field from May through September. Meanwhile, the Melaleuca Freedom Celebration is a popular annual event that boasts the largest Independence Day fireworks show west of the Mississippi River.

Shopping opportunities in the city are endless. On Saturdays, from May through October, the Idaho Falls Farmers Market sets up on the eastern shore of the Snake River. Over 80 vendors gather there to sell local produce, meat, baked goods, snacks, flowers and art.

Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the Idaho Falls River Walk (also known as the Greenbelt), a 5-mile paved path that comprises two loops along both shores of the Snake River and accommodates walkers, runners and bikers. From the trail, folks can access the Japanese Friendship Garden, a river island landscaped to honor Idaho Falls’ sister city, Tokai-mura, Japan. Be sure to see the eponymous waterfall and enjoy views of wildlife and beautifully landscaped riverbanks.

Residents here will also enjoy great schools, a safe environment, a diverse and growing economy, four seasons of fun activities, and an amazing quality of life.

If you are thinking about living and working in Idaho Falls and Eastern Idaho, be sure to check out the new edition of Livability Eastern Idaho.