Where to Live in Southern Idaho
Looking for a new place to call home? Meet the seven counties that make up stunning Southern Idaho.
Southern Idaho is overflowing with activities and attractions, making it an ideal place to live your most vibrant life. Whether you’re raising a family or flying solo, you’ll never be at a loss for things to do or outdoors to explore. If you’re looking for a place to live in Southern Idaho, here’s a quick overview of the region’s seven counties and what they have to offer.
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Camas County
Though one of the smallest counties in Idaho, Camas County – with Fairfield as the county seat – is a beautiful place to visit or live. Technically a village, Fairfield is home to about half of Camas County’s 1,100-person population. Set right next to the Sawtooth National Forest and within viewing distance of Soldier Mountain, it’s a popular destination for both skiers and mountain bikers alike.
Natural beauty abounds in Camas, from the gorgeous Mormon Reservoir to the colorful wildflower fields of Centennial Marsh, which attract birdwatchers in the spring.
Cassia County
A few hours south of Camas County is Cassia County, which lays claim to the communities of Oakley, Declo, Albion, Burley and Malta. With a cumulative population of about 25,000, the county is well suited for those who love to live in smaller towns but near the outdoors.
Burley is all about outdoor fun, thanks to the 26 miles of the Snake River that run through it. Each year in June, the city hosts the Idaho Regatta, the state’s fastest speedboat race, on the river.
While Burley lives large, Albion is quainter, but full of charm. Get your history fix at the historic Albion Bed and Breakfast, an old college dorm circa 1907, or visit the Albion courthouse and learn about the Old West.
Gooding County
Gooding County boasts a population of 16,000 and consists of four main cities and towns: Gooding, Wendell, Hagerman and Bliss.
There’s no shortage of exciting things to experience in Gooding County, from outdoor recreation to mouthwatering restaurants to family-friendly activities. Adventurers have their pick of thrilling activities, whether it be whitewater rafting at Hagerman Reach, spelunking in one of Gooding’s many caves or hiking along canyon trails at Box Canyon Springs Preserve.
After working up an appetite, must-visit restaurants include Pickles Bar & Grill, Hummingbird Coffee Co. and Zeppes, a family-owned pizza joint.
Jerome County
The cities of Jerome, Eden and Hazelton make up Jerome County, with a total population of 25,000. Jerome celebrates natural beauty in its various forms, from the stunning views at Snake River Canyons Park and Mermaid Cove to nature’s bounty at the farmers market at Mountain View Barn to the most beautiful plants and flowers for sale at Moss Greenhouses.
The Jerome County Historical Society is also paying homage to the importance of the region’s agricultural history with its Idaho Farm and Ranch Museum (IFARM) Project, which features historical farm equipment, buildings and even a barn.
Lincoln County
This moderately sized county is home to about 5,000 residents, spanning the cities of Shoshone, Richfield and Dietrich. The county seat of Shoshone offers a charming historical backdrop, thanks to its array of well-preserved buildings, many of which function as retail shops or bed and breakfasts.
In fact, unique shopping establishments are another signature characteristic of Shoshone: Check out Bear Claw Trading Post, which features crafts and gifts from various cultures, and 2nd Time Around Antique Mall, a Magic Valley staple.
After you’ve shopped till you dropped, get your fill at M&M Snack Bar, an old-fashioned mom-and-pop hamburger stand, or Shoshone Snack Bar, known for its amazing ice cream.
Minidoka County
This county has a lot to offer its 22,000 residents. Cities and towns in this county include Minidoka, Acequia, Rupert, Heyburn and Paul.
Minidoka Memorial Hospital, which operates as both a medical center and a nursing home, serves as the county’s largest employer, with a strong staff of more than 250 team members.
Rupert is an absolute blast and trip to the past, featuring a classic town square from the 1900s and the incredible Historic Wilson Theatre, which was built in 1920 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Patriotism reigns supreme in this region, with Rupert hosting a weeklong Fourth of July celebration each year.
Twin Falls County
Easily the largest county in Southern Idaho, Twin Falls claims 92,000 residents. A multitude of cities comprise this region, though Twin Falls is the biggest.
With a vibrant downtown and a number of seriously breathtaking natural wonders, Twin Falls has everything you could possibly want in a city. Explore the great outdoors at Balanced Rock, Shoshone Falls, Canyon Rim and Rock Creek Park.
Downtown, hang out at Downtown Commons, which features a splash pad during the summer and an ice-skating rink during the winter. Food-wise, there are too many incredible options to count, but to start, try 2nd South Market, Redhawk Gastropub and Rock Creek Restaurant.
Get to Know Southern Idaho
Want to learn more about living and working in Twin Falls and Southern Idaho? Check out the latest edition of Livability Southern Idaho.
