Category: Developments
Regional news
North Central Idaho
- Effective Jan. 1, 2025, St. Mary’s Health (Cottonwood) and Clearwater Valley Health (Orofino) hospitals will terminate their contracts with Regence BlueShield. Regence BlueShield enrollees will be able to receive “in-network” care at both hospitals during the 12-month grace period throughout all of 2025 but will be considered out of network Jan. 1, 2026. Source: Clearwater Valley Health, St. Mary’s Health
- The Nez Perce Tribe finalized adoption of a Tribal Uniform Commercial Code Secured Transaction Act to increase economic opportunities and improve access to capital for tribal businesses. Source: Nez Perce Tribe
Nez Perce County
- All of Lewiston’s CCI/Speer employees have been transferred to new owner Czechoslovak Group, effective with the sale by Vista Outdoor that closed Nov. 27. CCI/Speer is one of the top three employers by employee count in both Nez Perce County and within the north central region. Along with Lewiston, the transaction includes Vista Outdoor’s sporting products manufacturing operations (renamed The Kinetic Group) in Minnesota (Anoka), Arkansas (Lonoke) and Oregon (Sweet Home). No new local job opportunities have been posted since the change of company ownership occurred. Source: Vista Outdoor, Idaho Department of Labor
Comparison of U.S. operations of Czechoslovak Group and The Kinetic Group:
Figure 1.| U.S. operations only | The Kinetic Group | Czechoslovak Group |
|---|---|---|
| Annual sales | $1.5 billion | $250 million (group global sales total is $3.3 billion) |
| U.S. employees | 3,800 (one-third in Lewiston) | 300 |
| Locations | Idaho (Lewiston), Minnesota (Anoka), Arkansas (Lonoke) and Oregon (Sweet Home). | Arkansas (Little Rock) and Missouri (Ozark). Imports/distributes Perazzi shotguns in Azusa, California. |
| Brands | Federal, Remington, CCI, HEVI-Shot and Speer. | Fiocchi (acquired in 2022) |
| Ammo sales breakdown | No. 1 in the U.S. for sales of commercial and law enforcement ammunition. | 80% civilian and 20% defense and law enforcement. |
| Operating profit | $.4 billion | |
| Transaction profit | $2.2 billion |
- Lewis-Clark State College reported 18% growth in fall 2024 of career technical education program enrollments compared to one year ago. Top programs include diesel (38 students), graphic communications (25 students), auto mechanics (25 students), welding, fire service and industrial electronics. Source: Lewis-Clark State College
- The Lapwai School District has announced plans to build a new Career Technical Education Center facility to expand its carpentry and fabrication programs. The new building will be adjacent to the current career technical building and funding for the $1.3 million project will come from grants, private donations and local education program funds. Source: Lewiston Tribune
- EC Motorsports has begun construction of a sprint boat racing track with plans to host two racing events in 2025. Source: Big Country News
- St. Joseph Regional Medical Center was one of three Idaho hospitals recognized as high performing in maternity care by U.S. News and World Report. This is the third consecutive year the medical center has been recognized for this achievement. Source: St. Joseph Regional Medical Center, U.S. News and World Report
- United Airlines will discontinue flights between the Lewiston-Nez Perce County Airport and Denver, effective Jan. 31, 2025. This daily service began in October 2021 and is the only flight United Airlines offers from the regional airport. Source: Lewiston-Nez Perce County Airport
- Avista Utilities will be rebuilding eight miles of transmission lines along Stagecoach Road (south of Lewiston). The wood poles will be replaced with new steel poles and the conductor will be upgraded. Due to a combination of poor road conditions and planned utility work, the road will be closed for public access through the end of February 2025. Avista plans to begin work at the beginning of February through the end of May 2025. Source: Big Country News
- Freedom Tires was selected as one of seven Idaho Local Gems by U.S. Senator Jim Risch. The mobile tire service company serves customers from Lewiston to Moscow. Source: Big Country News
- Big Lots announced that all U.S. retail stores are in the process of closing. Current Idaho locations include Lewiston, Coeur d’Alene, Idaho Falls and Meridian. Source: Big Lots
Idaho County
- The City of Grangeville was awarded a $65,000 wastewater planning study grant by the Idaho Department of Environmental Quality. Total project cost is estimated at $256,000. Source: Idaho Department of Environmental Quality
- The Nez Perce Tribe has been awarded a $1.9 million America the Beautiful Challenge grant to restore 22 acres of an abandoned hydraulic mine in Leggett Creek near Elk City. The project will focus on reducing excess sediment and reducing erosion. Source: Lewiston Tribune
- Sidney Resources has secured $8 million in funding to build a 12,000 square foot milling and processing facility in Warren, Idaho. Construction will begin in Spring 2025 with completion expected by the end of 2025. The company recently announced a 1,900 acre expansion in the Warren District Project that brings total company land holdings to 3,174 acres. Source: Sidney Resources
- The Idaho State Board of Education approved Mountain View School District’s request to have Idaho County voters decide in May 2025 whether to split the school district into two separate districts. The school district covers the largest square area of any district in Idaho. If a simple majority vote occurs in favor, the split is scheduled to happen in the fall of 2026. The last time a school district deconsolidated was in 2006 when the Mountain View School District spun off the Salmon River Joint School District in Riggins. Source: Idaho Board of Education, Idaho Ed News
- Rocky Mountain HVAC installed new propane heaters in the Cottonwood High School shop building and will be updating thermostats in all high school classrooms. The high school will begin accepting bids to replace the windows in January 2025. Source: Cottonwood Chronicle
Latah County
- The City of Moscow will build a new 18,000 square foot city shop building to store its fleet of city vehicles and equipment. Construction will begin in spring 2025 with plans for completion before 2026. Source: Lewiston Tribune
- The University of Idaho was awarded a nearly $600,000 IDeA Networks of Biomedical Research Excellence grant towards tendon tissue research among three laboratories on the Moscow campus. Source: Big Country News
- Family Promise of the Palouse is seeking a new location in Moscow by spring 2025 for its daytime homeless shelter as the current building has significant underlying issues. Family Promise opened its shelter in 2013 and helps an average of 15 families per year. Source: Lewiston Tribune
Clearwater County
- Starting in January 2025, the Clearwater Progress and the Idaho County Free Press newspapers will combine under the Idaho County Free Press publication. Klement Enterprises has owned both newspapers since acquiring the Clearwater Progress in 2020. Source: Clearwater Progress
Lewis County
- Highway 64 between Nezperce and Kamiah has been reopened after closing in April 2024 due to washouts and structural issues. Source: Lewiston Tribune
- A propane leak at Hearthstone Bakery resulted in a temporary evacuation and shut down of Main Street in Kamiah. Source: Idaho County Free Press
Openings
- Retro Vibes & Vintage Sounds, Moscow
- Champions Edge Training, Lewiston
- Idaho County Dermatology, Grangeville
- Jackson’s fuel pumps and convenience store, Riggins
- The Establishment has reopened its bar and is hiring staff for its upcoming kitchen opening, Grangeville
Closings
- Marsh’s Trading Post, Lewiston (to close Dec. 31)
- Zip’s Drive-In will be closing one of its two Lewiston locations
- Orofino Flower Shop, Orofino (to close Dec. 31)
- Rove Fitness, Lewiston
- LaRe Boutique, Lewiston
This Idaho Department of Labor project is funded by the U.S. Department of Labor for SFY25 as part of the Workforce Information grant (40%) and state/nonfederal funds (60%) totaling $885,703.
This workforce product was funded by a grant awarded by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Employment and Training Administration. The product was created by the recipient and does not necessarily reflect the official position of the U.S. Department of Labor. The U.S. Department of Labor makes no guarantees, warranties, or assurances of any kind, express or implied, with respect to such information, including any information on linked sites and including, but not limited to, accuracy of the information or its completeness, timeliness, usefulness, adequacy, continued availability, or ownership. This product is copyrighted by the institution that created it. Internal use by an organization and/or personal use by an individual for non-commercial purposes is permissible. All other uses require the prior authorization of the copyright owner.
Regional labor market information
- Labor demand in northern Idaho declined in November 2024, with a total of 1,331 unique job postings in the region – a decrease from 1,846. This decline (roughly a 28% decrease in postings) is consistent with past seasonal trends. In 2023, postings declined from 1,707 in October to 1,340 in November. The unemployment rate decreased slightly from 4.8% to 4.7% but remains higher than November 2023. Both total labor force and total employment remain above their 2023 levels.
| Northern Idaho seasonally adjusted data | Nov-24 (P) | Oct-24 (R) | Nov-23 (B) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Civilian labor force | 129,282 | 129,120 | 127,809 |
| Total employment | 123,202 | 122,879 | 122,705 |
| Unemployment | 6,080 | 6,241 | 5,104 |
| % of labor force unemployed | 4.7% | 4.8% | 4.0% |
| Source: Idaho Department of Labor | P – Preliminary, R – Revised, B – Benchmarked | ||
| Top 10 occupations by unique job postings in northern Idaho | Postings, Nov-24 | Postings, Nov-23 |
|---|---|---|
| Registered nurses | 74 | 52 |
| Laborers, freight and material movers | 38 | 25 |
| Merchandise displayers and window trimmers | 35 | 20 |
| Home health and personal care aides | 35 | 40 |
| First line supervisors of retail sales workers | 35 | 29 |
| Fast food and counter workers | 27 | 23 |
| Retail salespersons | 25 | 49 |
| Medical and health services managers | 24 | 30 |
| Food services managers | 23 | 17 |
| Sales representatives, wholesale and manufacturing | 23 | 14 |
| Source: Conference Board data via Lightcast |
| Top 10 industries by unique job postings in northern Idaho | Postings, Nov-24 | Postings, Nov-23 |
|---|---|---|
| Health care and social assistance | 201 | 221 |
| Retail trade | 155 | 183 |
| Administrative and support services | 152 | 112 |
| Accommodation and food services | 67 | 111 |
| Finance and insurance | 56 | 89 |
| Manufacturing | 50 | 56 |
| Professional, scientific and technical services | 50 | 62 |
| Construction | 46 | 34 |
| Wholesale trade | 33 | 34 |
| Educational services | 32 | 33 |
| Source: Conference Board data via Lightcast |
| Top 10 hardest-to-fill occupations in northern Idaho | Median duration, Nov-24 | Median duration, Nov-23 |
|---|---|---|
| Lifeguards, ski patrol and other recreational protective services | 29 | N/A |
| Unclassified occupations | 27 | N/A |
| Nurse practitioners | 27 | N/A |
| Community and social service specialists, all other | 27 | N/A |
| Computer systems analysts | 27 | N/A |
| Home appliance repairers | 27 | N/A |
| Editors | 27 | N/A |
| Coaches and scouts | 26 | N/A |
| Home health and personal care aides | 25 | N/A |
| Telemarketers | 24 | N/A |
| Source: Conference Board data via Lightcast |
Regional news
Bonnor County
- An application for a large industrial facility in northern Sandpoint is under review by the city’s Planning and Zoning Commission. Although the operator of the proposed facility has not been announced yet, the traffic impact study for the project indicates a 25,500 square foot facility which would employ roughly 150 people. Source: Coeur d’Alene Press
Kootenai County
- Construction is underway on a new food truck and restaurant court in Post Falls. Named Eats on Spokane Street, the facility will feature a 1,500 square foot bar and restaurant with outdoor spaces for seven food trucks. Confirmed tenants so far include MelFit Healthy Kitchen, Nachos Cantina and a Charcuteria food truck. Construction on the $1.2 million project has begun and the space is expected to open in the spring of 2025. Source: Journal of Business
- A large new commercial center is being built on Highway 41 in northern Post Falls. The Early Dawn Commercial Center will include three separate buildings that are 12,000 square feet each, with space for five or six commercial suites per structure. The facility is expected to open in April. Source: Coeur d’Alene Press
- North Idaho College is finalizing plans to cut its athletics budget by about $1.8 million over the next two years. College leadership began examining options for reducing the athletics budget after it increased sharply over the last two school years, from $2.2 million to $6.2 million. The current proposal entails reducing funding for tuition, fees, and housing for student athletes, as well as eliminating the golf program. Source: Coeur d’Alene Press
Openings
- Lanai (Coeur d’Alene)
- Rose Restorative (Post Falls)
- Boiada Brazilian Grill (Coeur d’Alene)
- Oval Office Restaurant (Re-opening in Coeur d’Alene)
- Lash & Locks Girl Studio (Coeur d’Alene)
- Albatross Golf Experience (Coeur d’Alene)
- Squad9 (Post Falls)
- REVV Health (Coeur d’Alene)
- Earth Fairy Holistics (Coeur d’Alene)
This Idaho Department of Labor project is funded by the U.S. Department of Labor for SFY25 as part of the Workforce Information grant (40%) and state/nonfederal funds (60%) totaling $885,703.
This workforce product was funded by a grant awarded by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Employment and Training Administration. The product was created by the recipient and does not necessarily reflect the official position of the U.S. Department of Labor. The U.S. Department of Labor makes no guarantees, warranties, or assurances of any kind, express or implied, with respect to such information, including any information on linked sites and including, but not limited to, accuracy of the information or its completeness, timeliness, usefulness, adequacy, continued availability, or ownership. This product is copyrighted by the institution that created it. Internal use by an organization and/or personal use by an individual for non-commercial purposes is permissible. All other uses require the prior authorization of the copyright owner.
Regional labor market information
- Labor demand in northern Idaho remained largely stable in October 2024, with a total of 1,903 unique job postings in the region — a slight increase from 1,860 in September. The unemployment rate stayed stable from September to October at 4.8% but saw a year-over-year increase from October 2023’s rate of 4.1%. Both the total labor force and total employment remain above their 2023 levels for October.
| Northern Idaho seasonally adjusted data | Oct-24 (P) | Sept-24 (R) | Oct-23 (B) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Civilian labor force | 129,095 | 128,770 | 127,182 |
| Total employment | 122,846 | 122,584 | 121,922 |
| Unemployment | 6,249 | 6,186 | 5,260 |
| % of labor force unemployed | 4.8% | 4.8% | 4.1% |
| Source: Idaho Department of Labor | P – Preliminary, R – Revised, B – Benchmarked | ||
| Top 10 occupations by unique job postings in northern Idaho | Postings, Oct-24 | Postings, Oct-23 |
|---|---|---|
| Registered nurses | 91 | 79 |
| Retail salespersons | 82 | 52 |
| Home health and personal care aides | 63 | 39 |
| Unclassified occupations | 46 | 48 |
| Laborers, freight, stock, material movers and hand | 42 | 45 |
| First-line supervisors of retail sales workers | 34 | 29 |
| Medical and health services managers | 29 | 38 |
| Fast food and counter workers | 28 | 18 |
| Customer service representatives | 27 | 48 |
| Merchandise displayers and window trimmers | 26 | 19 |
| Source: Conference Board data via Lightcast |
| Top 10 industries by job unique postings in northern Idaho | Postings, Oct-24 | Postings, Oct-23 |
|---|---|---|
| Health care and social assistance | 323 | 234 |
| Retail trade | 270 | 207 |
| Administrative and support services | 217 | 175 |
| Manufacturing | 103 | 94 |
| Accommodation and food services | 90 | 102 |
| Professional, scientific and technical services | 78 | 89 |
| Finance and insurance | 66 | 89 |
| Wholesale trade | 65 | 53 |
| Other services (except public administration) | 63 | 38 |
| Educational services | 51 | 34 |
| Source: Conference Board data via Lightcast |
| Top 10 hardest-to-fill occupations in northern Idaho | Median duration, Oct-24 | Median duration, Oct-23 |
|---|---|---|
| Title examiners, abstractors and searchers | 29 | N/A |
| Physical therapist aides | 27 | N/A |
| Licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses | 26 | N/A |
| Traffic technicians | 26 | N/A |
| Claims adjusters, examiners and investigators | 25 | N/A |
| Cooks and restaurant workers | 25 | 19 |
| Financial examiners | 25 | N/A |
| Construction and building inspectors | 24 | N/A |
| Lodging managers | 24 | N/A |
| Farm and home management educators | 23 | 10 |
| Source: Conference Board data via Lightcast |
Regional news
Kootenai County
- The North Point Plaza development is under construction on Highway 41 north of Post Falls. Early tenants will include a 7-Eleven opening December and a Grocery Outlet store in early 2025. Four additional parcels are available for tenants. Source: Coeur d’Alene Press
- A new Indigo Urgent Care is under construction in Hayden. Indigo currently operates a network of urgent cares across the inland northwest, including in Coeur d’Alene. Source: Coeur d’Alene Press
- A mixed used building named the “Nonna” is under development in Post Falls, with commercial space on the ground floor and 33 apartments on the upper three floors. Source: Coeur d’Alene Press
Openings
- Chipotle (Post Falls)
- Trader Joe’s (Coeur d’Alene)
- Joyful Journey Childcare (Hayden)
- Premiere Aesthetics (Post Falls)
- Boost Espresso (Coeur d’Alene)
- Paris Vintage (Coeur d’Alene)
- Pete Paws Resort 9 (Coeur d’Alene)
- Farwest Steel (Post Falls)
- SMP Ink CDA (Coeur d’Alene)
- Hair’s The Thing (Coeur d’Alene)
- Treehouse Restaurant (Coeur d’Alene)
- Armory Outpost (Hayden)
- Divine Nails & Spa (Coeur d’Alene)
- Honeysuckle Suites (Hayden)
- La Pinata (Post Falls)
- MAC Physical Therapy (Post Falls)
- Orchid Nails & Spa (Coeur d’Alene)
This Idaho Department of Labor project is funded by the U.S. Department of Labor for SFY25 as part of the Workforce Information grant (40%) and state/nonfederal funds (60%) totaling $885,703.
This workforce product was funded by a grant awarded by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Employment and Training Administration. The product was created by the recipient and does not necessarily reflect the official position of the U.S. Department of Labor. The U.S. Department of Labor makes no guarantees, warranties, or assurances of any kind, express or implied, with respect to such information, including any information on linked sites and including, but not limited to, accuracy of the information or its completeness, timeliness, usefulness, adequacy, continued availability, or ownership. This product is copyrighted by the institution that created it. Internal use by an organization and/or personal use by an individual for non-commercial purposes is permissible. All other uses require the prior authorization of the copyright owner.
Regional news
North Central Idaho
- The U.S. Department of Agriculture has awarded $6.4 million in Regional Conservation Partnership Program funds to improve fish and wildlife habitat for the lower south fork Clearwater River watershed. Funds will be used for floodplain connection and large wood and boulder placement for habitat diversity. It will also create both water and land-based habitats utilizing native vegetation. Source: U.S. Department of Agriculture
Nez Perce County
- Sofidel America completed its acquisition of Clearwater Paper’s private label tissue production plant in Lewiston along with three other production plants in Nevada, North Carolina and Illinois. Clearwater Paper has retained ownership of its paperboard and pulp divisions. The company will sell pulp to Sofidel for tissue production. The new ownership structure will see almost 500 local Lewiston employees transferred from Clearwater Paper to Sofidel. With the acquisition, Sofidel America now operates 12 plants in 11 states and is the fourth largest tissue paper manufacturer in the U.S. with 7% market share (No. 1 being Georgia Pacific at 27%, No. 2 being Procter and Gamble at 15%, No. 3 being Kimberly-Clark at 14% and No. 5 being Essity at 6%). Clearwater Paper will lease land and facilities to Sofidel as well as provide a services and use agreement. Source: Clearwater Paper, Sofidel America
- Lewis-Clark State College’s Industrial Maintenance and Millwright Technology program was awarded a $17,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture for the purchase of two gas tungsten arc welders. The welders were scheduled to arrive in November 2024. Source: Lewis-Clark State College
- The City of Lewiston will be hiring an engineering firm to assess the condition of six of its eight drinking water reservoirs, plans to build a new sidewalk near Orchards Elementary School and will install additional playground equipment at Pioneer Park. Source: Lewiston Tribune
- Following the PACS Group Inc. acquisition of 53 of Prestige Care’s skilled nursing and assisted living facilities in mid-2024, Prestige Care and Rehabilitation – The Orchards has now been renamed Orchard View Post Acute. Source: PAC Group
- The Mango Tree, an Indian kitchen and tap house, has announced plans to open in downtown Lewiston and is currently hiring staff. The restaurant currently has four locations in Spokane, one in Coeur d’Alene and another in Wichita, Kansas. Source: The Mango Tree
- Marsh’s Trading Post has announced plans to close at the end of 2024. Source: Big Country News
- Denny’s has applied for a building permit in the former Shari’s restaurant location in Lewiston. Denny’s recently opened up a location in Moscow in November 2023. Source: Lewiston Tribune
Idaho County
- The Mountain View School District 244 school board voted to deconsolidate in early November. The process would break up Mountain View into two school districts – Clearwater Valley school district 245 and Grangeville school district 246. The next step is to receive approval from both the Idaho State Board of Education and by public vote in May 2025. Source: Idaho Education News
- Mountain View School District considerations:
- Idaho County covers over 8,400 square land miles and is Idaho’s largest county by area (No. 2 is Owyhee County at 7,600 square miles and No. 3 is Custer County at 4,900 square miles). Idaho County ranks as the 18th largest county by square land area in the continental U.S. Idaho County had a 2023 population of just under 18,000, a population density of just over two people per square mile (Idaho’s statewide average density of people per square mile is 23) and just over one housing unit per square mile. The Mountain View School district is the largest in Idaho and covers over 7,400 square miles (No. 2 being Bruneau-Grand View at 5,100 square miles) versus the median Idaho school district area of 386 square miles. Mountain View School district is the 8th largest school district in the continental U.S. by square land area.
- The U.S. Census Bureau five-year 2022 American Community Survey estimates 32% of Idaho County households had related children under the age of 18 residing with them, compared to 44% for Idaho statewide.
- Mountain View School District considerations:
- Syringa Hospital will be launching a new surgical service line for the treatment of acid reflux. Syringa will be the first critical access hospital nationally to offer the procedure. Source: Idaho County Free Press
- The Idaho County assessor reported 98 new homes were added throughout the county the past year, compared to an average addition of 74 per year over the last five years. This is the largest increase in 22 years. The 98 new homes have added $16 million in tax revenue, but the assessor highlighted that county appraisers have a difficult time accessing the properties in order to complete appraisals. Source: Idaho County Free Press
- Elk City was selected as an Innovia Foundation Community Heart and Soul initiative grant recipient for $30,000 towards community-based projects over the next two years. Residents will identify what is most important to them in their community and what they prioritize. Some successful outcomes from other program participants have included increased economic development, additional volunteerism, more active community engagement in decision making and community-supported programs. Source: Idaho County Free Press
- St. John Bosco Academy completed construction on the Angelus Center. The new facility includes a 26,000 square foot gymnasium and theater along with classrooms and a commercial kitchen. Source: Idaho County Free Press
Latah County
- University of Idaho was awarded a $7.8 million grant for its ECLIPSE program to promote employment training resources for college-age students with intellectual and developmental disabilities. These students will attend on-campus inclusive education programs within Idaho. Source: University of Idaho
- Through a financial gift from the J.R. Simplot Family Foundation, the University of Idaho has established its first endowed deanship of the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences that will receive financial support for pursuing and investing in forward looking agribusiness advancement opportunities. Source: University of Idaho
- The Latah County Library District has purchased a commercial building in Kendrick for a future library site projected to open in Fall 2025. The current Juliaetta location will close once the new site in Kendrick is up and running. The library district currently operates seven branch locations throughout Latah County. Source: Latah County Library District
- The Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) has halted further construction on completing the six new miles of Highway 95 south of Moscow for the upcoming winter months. ITD generally forecasts construction season on this project to last between April and October. The project was initially expected to be open in fall of 2024 but has now been moved back to the last part of 2025. Source: Idaho Transportation Department
Clearwater County
- Orofino’s Dining on the Edge restaurant will change ownership by the end of 2024. Source: Clearwater Tribune
Openings
- STB Boutique has moved to a new location, Lewiston
- The Habit Coffee Shop has moved to a new location, Cottonwood
- Edge of Heaven Wedding and Event Barn, Deary
- Stephanie’s Biz Services, Lewiston
- Family Hospice St. Joseph Regional Medical Center is now Heart ‘n Home Hospice, Lewiston
- Deno’s Curbside Kitchen food truck, Lewiston
- Hickory Farms seasonal store in the Lewiston Center Mall
- Backwoods Brew coffee opened a new permanent location in Lewiston along with the existing mobile trailer
- Jackman Tire, Lewiston
- Reclaimed West, Lewiston
- Valentine, Olofson, and Stoffer Law Office, Lewiston
Closings
- Bait Shop Grill and Restaurant closed but is expected to be reopened under new ownership, Lewiston
This Idaho Department of Labor project is funded by the U.S. Department of Labor for SFY25 as part of the Workforce Information grant (40%) and state/nonfederal funds (60%) totaling $885,703.
This workforce product was funded by a grant awarded by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Employment and Training Administration. The product was created by the recipient and does not necessarily reflect the official position of the U.S. Department of Labor. The U.S. Department of Labor makes no guarantees, warranties, or assurances of any kind, express or implied, with respect to such information, including any information on linked sites and including, but not limited to, accuracy of the information or its completeness, timeliness, usefulness, adequacy, continued availability, or ownership. This product is copyrighted by the institution that created it. Internal use by an organization and/or personal use by an individual for non-commercial purposes is permissible. All other uses require the prior authorization of the copyright owner.
Regional labor market information
- Labor demand in south central Idaho remained strong in October 2024, with a total of 3,899 unique job postings in the region, a 7% increase from 3,641 unique postings in September 2024. The unemployment rate remained at 3.5% from September 2024 and has increased 0.3% from October 2023. Total employment has increased 2.5% over the past year.
| South central Idaho seasonally adjusted data | Oct-24 (P) | Sep-24 (R) | Oct-23 (B) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Civilian labor force | 109,455 | 108,277 | 106,440 |
| Total employment | 105,591 | 104,463 | 103,050 |
| Unemployment | 3,864 | 3,814 | 3,390 |
| % of labor force unemployed | 3.5% | 3.5% | 3.2% |
| Source: Idaho Department of Labor | P – Preliminary | R – Revised | B – Benchmarked |
| Top 10 occupations by unique job postings in south central Idaho | Postings, Oct-24 | Postings, Oct-23 |
|---|---|---|
| Retail salespersons | 139 | 89 |
| Heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers | 123 | 115 |
| Registered nurses | 103 | 81 |
| Customer service representatives | 68 | 75 |
| First-line supervisors of retail sales workers | 65 | 74 |
| Laborers, freights, stock, material movers and hand | 64 | 33 |
| Sales representatives, wholesale, manufacturing, except technical and scientific products | 46 | 15 |
| Driver and sales workers | 45 | 48 |
| Maintenance, repair workers and general | 41 | 43 |
| Secretaries, administrative assistants, except legal, medical and executive | 37 | 20 |
| Source: Conference Board data via Lightcast | ||
| Top 10 industries by unique job postings in south central Idaho | Postings, Oct-24 | Postings, Oct-23 |
|---|---|---|
| Retail trade | 474 | 356 |
| Health care and social assistance | 445 | 254 |
| Manufacturing | 342 | 256 |
| Wholesale trade | 150 | 81 |
| Construction | 137 | 53 |
| Finance and insurance | 117 | 70 |
| Professional, scientific and technical services | 114 | 125 |
| Public administration | 107 | 62 |
| Accommodation and food services | 91 | 161 |
| Transportation and warehousing | 85 | 95 |
| Source: Conference Board data via Lightcast | ||
- Construction, health care and social assistance job postings increased 158% and 75%, respectively, over the year. Accommodation and food services job openings decreased 43% over the year.
| Top 10 hardest-to-fill occupations in south central Idaho | Days to fill, Oct-24 | Days to fill, Oct-23 |
|---|---|---|
| Cost estimators | 59 | N/A |
| Natural science managers | 58 | 31 |
| Speech-language pathologists | 58 | 51 |
| Merchandise displayers and window trimmers | 58 | 22 |
| Food and tobacco roasting, baking, drying machine operators and tenders | 57 | N/A |
| First-line supervisors of security workers | 56 | 59 |
| Web developers | 55 | N/A |
| Clinical and counseling psychologists | 55 | N/A |
| Cement masons and concrete finishers | 55 | N/A |
| Lawyers | 53 | N/A |
| Source: Conference Board data via Lightcast | ||
Regional news
Blaine County
- The Freidman Memorial Airport Authority board has approved a lease agreement allowing business jet servicer Clay Lacy to construct a terminal on a 10-acre plot southwest of the runway. The terminal is planned to have 70,000 square feet of hangar space for business jets and 45,000 square feet for smaller general aviation planes. The design of the terminal is still awaiting approval. Source: Idaho Mountain Express
Twin Falls County
- The privately-owned “Splash Canyon Hotel” is being constructed on the corner of Bridgeview and Pole Line in Twin Falls offering indoor water slides, pools and hot tubs. The hotel will be constructed in two phases. The first phase will have 64 rooms, with 20-30 additional rooms planned in phase two. The hotel is planned for completion in Summer of 2025. Source: Magic Valley Times News
- North Canyon Network of Care has opened a 23,000 square foot clinic in Twin Falls. The new three-story building has 25 exam rooms, expanding their services in Twin Falls from primarily orthopedic services to provide family medicine, ear, nose, throat, gynecology, urology services and diagnostic imaging services. Source: Magic Valley Times News
This Idaho Department of Labor project is funded by the U.S. Department of Labor for SFY25 as part of the Workforce Information grant (40%) and state/nonfederal funds (60%) totaling $885,703.
This workforce product was funded by a grant awarded by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Employment and Training Administration. The product was created by the recipient and does not necessarily reflect the official position of the U.S. Department of Labor. The U.S. Department of Labor makes no guarantees, warranties, or assurances of any kind, express or implied, with respect to such information, including any information on linked sites and including, but not limited to, accuracy of the information or its completeness, timeliness, usefulness, adequacy, continued availability, or ownership. This product is copyrighted by the institution that created it. Internal use by an organization and/or personal use by an individual for non-commercial purposes is permissible. All other uses require the prior authorization of the copyright owner.
Region
Southwestern Idaho’s single-family home sales – October 2023 and 2024
| Median price sold | 2024 | 2023 | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ada | $540,000 | $539,900 | 0.0% |
| Adams | $499,000 | $553,100 | -9.8% |
| Boise | $485,000 | $508,000 | -4.5% |
| Canyon | $413,990 | $400,000 | 3.5% |
| Elmore | $347,250 | $340,000 | 2.1% |
| Gem | $410,121 | $544,388 | -24.7% |
| Owyhee | $370,000 | $479,900 | -22.9% |
| Payette | $403,989 | $368,149 | 11.2% |
| Valley | $830,000 | $900,000 | -7.8% |
| Washington | $325,750 | $445,000 | -26.8% |
| Source: Intermountain Multiple Listing Service | |||
Figure 1b.
| Days on market | 2024 | 2023 | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ada | 42 | 39 | 7.7% |
| Adams | 91 | 67 | 35.8% |
| Boise | 72 | 73 | -1.4% |
| Canyon | 52 | 40 | 30.0% |
| Elmore | 46 | 36 | 27.8% |
| Gem | 51 | 48 | 6.3% |
| Owyhee | 74 | 61 | 21.3% |
| Payette | 56 | 43 | 30.2% |
| Valley | 65 | 51 | 27.5% |
| Washington | 56 | 100 | -44.0% |
| Regional average days | 61 | 56 | 8.4% |
| Source: Intermountain Multiple Listing Service | |||
Figure 1c.
| Inventory | 2024 | 2023 | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ada | 1,693 | 1,509 | 12.2% |
| Adams | 35 | 18 | 94.4% |
| Boise | 113 | 70 | 61.4% |
| Canyon | 1,085 | 873 | 24.3% |
| Elmore | 122 | 87 | 40.2% |
| Gem | 92 | 95 | -3.2% |
| Owyhee | 36 | 34 | 5.9% |
| Payette | 130 | 96 | 35.4% |
| Valley | 158 | 111 | 42.3% |
| Washington | 53 | 42 | 26.2% |
| Regional totals | 3,517 | 2,935 | 19.8% |
| Source: Intermountain Multiple Listing Service | |||
Figure 1d.
| Total homes sold | 2024 | 2023 | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ada | 805 | 557 | 44.5% |
| Adams | 9 | 9 | 0.0% |
| Boise | 15 | 12 | 25.0% |
| Canyon | 457 | 329 | 38.9% |
| Elmore | 26 | 25 | 4.0% |
| Gem | 30 | 22 | 36.4% |
| Owyhee | 9 | 9 | 0.0% |
| Payette | 38 | 28 | 35.7% |
| Valley | 23 | 27 | -14.8% |
| Washington | 8 | 9 | -11.1% |
| SW sold and % change | 1,420 | 1,027 | 38.3% |
| Source: Intermountain Multiple Listing Service | |||
| Oct-23 | Oct-24 | % change | # change | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Unique postings | 9,199 | 9,696 | 5.4% | 497 |
| Days posted | 11 | 15 | 36.4% | 4 |
| Number of employers | 2,332 | 2,312 | -0.9% | -20 |
| Advertised wage | $21.23 | $27.91 | 31.5% | $6.68 |
| Share wage advertisements | 43% | 52% | 20.9% | 9% |
| Source: Help Wanted Online data via Lightcast |
| Top 10 occupations by unique job postings in southwestern Idaho | Postings, Oct-24 | Postings, Oct-23 | Year over year % change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Retail salespersons | 288 | 262 | 9.9% |
| Registered nurses | 318 | 413 | -23.0% |
| Customer service representatives | 205 | 194 | 5.7% |
| Computer occupations, all other | 261 | 170 | 53.5% |
| Sales representatives, wholesale, manufacturing, except technical and scientific products | 182 | 137 | 32.8% |
| Software developers | 206 | 168 | 22.6% |
| First-line supervisors of retail sales workers | 139 | 155 | -10.3% |
| Laborers, freight, stock, material movers and hand | 117 | 109 | 7.3% |
| Project management specialists | 118 | 85 | 38.8% |
| Fast food and counter workers | 105 | 93 | 12.9% |
| Source: Help Wanted Online data via Lightcast |
Ada County
- Kuna’s $7.2 million supplemental levy passed the voters’ scrutiny with 59% support. The levy will add $18 per $100,000 in taxable assessed value per year. Source: Idaho Education News
- Hewett Park updated its playground equipment and ADA-approved pathways through the park. The city of Boise held a ribbon cutting to celebrate the combining of two different playground areas. The addition of updated equipment allows for imaginative play, provides climbing structures, a sensory garden wall and safer bonded rubber surface material. The park benefits 3,364 residents from 1,223 households within a 10-minute walk of the renovated space and equipment. Source: Idaho Press
- The Boise City Council approved $2.7 million towards repairs of the downtown Union Block building. A mechanism to be reimbursed by the private owner has not been established due to the immediacy of the situation. Source: Idaho Statesman
- Meta announced its Kuna Data Center is on schedule and set to open in 2025. It is referred to as a mega data center with two buildings that could hold eight football fields in length each. There will be an estimated 700,000 servers housed at the center with an estimated 100 workers. The construction was paused for eight months with the company reevaluating needs — creating a redesign. The center will be using 100% renewable energy while adding 200 megawatts of renewable energy to the state’s grid. A data center needs significant quantities of water to counter the heat permeating from the servers. This led to Meta’s creation of a $100 million Water Treatment Center with a goal of being water positive by 2030, indicating the company will economize its water usage and return more water than is used. The community of Kuna is the recipient of the new water treatment plant, donated by Meta passing on the management and maintenance also. Technology continues at a rapid pace. Company leadership anticipates the data center evolving and looking different, even in five years. Source: Idaho Business Review
- The State Board of Education approved the expansion of Meridian’s Idaho State University campus. Currently, the Meridian facility has about 1,000 students in graduate programs primarily, with 160 staff and faculty to support the programs. The parcel was purchased about five years ago and in 2023, $5.4 million in funding was appropriated by the Legislature’s permanent building fund. Earlier this year, the city of Meridian annexed and zoned the property and will review the development agreement between the university and the city, allowing the site development to commence. Source: Idaho Statesman
- Boise State University’s fall enrollment grew by 2% to a record total enrollment of 27,250 students. In-state, degree-seeking undergraduate levels increased by 657 students or 6.5%. The number of new Idaho students increased by more than 51% since 2020. Source: Idaho Education News
- The city of Boise recently signed up for a new program, provided by Idaho Power, allowing for the purchase of renewable clean energy for the next 20 years. The program is coined ‘Clean Energy Your Way’ with Boise as the first Idaho city to sign on, purchasing solar power from Black Mesa Energy project in Elmore County. The program is available for all Idaho Power customers including residential and business with different plans for each account type. So far, the city has purchased solar power for the Boise Airport and the Lander Street wastewater treatment plant. This move brings the city 25% closer to its goal of full renewable energy by 2030. This occurs without paying a premium for the renewable source except for the first 18 months of the project. Source: Idaho Capital Sun
- Ada County commissioners awarded a 30-year lease of the former Les Bois horse racing track at Expo Idaho for development of a soccer stadium, with the potential for other sports to utilize the facility. The commissioners, the developers, representatives from the Boise Hawks minor league baseball team and a Garden City leader met after the official vote to discuss potentially replacing the Hawk’s Memorial Stadium with the planned stadium. The possibility of funding it through an urban renewal district is under consideration, but it is early in the plan and design stages. Source: Idaho Statesman
Canyon County
- The Star Middleton Fire District’s property tax levy failed at the polls. It would have added $2.25 million to its annual budget. The new fire station is under construction and the levy would have supported the labor and equipment, as well as the gear that each firefighter has custom fit. Source: Idaho News 6
- The Caldwell School District’s patrons passed a two-year, $4.1 million levy that failed at the polls in May. The lack of a levy on the books carried consequences such as staff layoffs, the closure of Lincoln Elementary School, repurposing of two other schools, along with the cancellation of a contract for school resource officers and the implementation of a pay-to-play athletics fee. Much of the budget chopping will be reversed with the voters’ approval by simple majority. Except for this recent period from May to November, Caldwell School District has had a levy for the past 50 years. The solution was better education and outreach regarding the school needs and the impact of the levy. Source: Idaho Press
Elmore County
The city of Glenns Ferry issued a boil order for its tap water, including uses such as drinking, cooking, making ice, washing dishes or brushing teeth. The school district administration recommended parents send their children to school with at least one bottle of water since the school water fountain is turned off. The city’s filtration system is not adequately working, with city personnel working to solve the problem. A sunset date for the boil order has not yet been released. Source: Mountain Home News
Owyhee County
- Idaho Power was awarded almost $500,000 from the U.S. Department of Energy to provide enhancements at C.J. Strike Reservoir campgrounds. The work will begin next year and is expected to cost between $2 million and $3 million. Improvements include electrical pedestals to camper electrical access and to cut down noise levels, adding electrical charging stations for electrical vehicles in the parks and increasing potable water availability at the campgrounds. Program funding came from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. Additionally, the North Park Campground at the reservoir is closed until the end of 2024. The docks are being replaced with ones that will accommodate changes in water levels as the utility requires additional power generation during the peak summer season. Other areas are on the schedule for ramp replacement in 2025. Source: The Owyhee Avalanche
- Homedale’s 10-year, $9.5 million plant facility levy passed with 63% support. This levy is smaller than the previous levy that fell off at the end of June 2024. Taxpayers are expected to pay less over the future 10-year period. Source: Idaho Education News
Valley County
- Tamarack Resort in Donnelly announced it is moving forward with its plan to increase the ski resort base triple its current skiable domain of 1,100 acres. It submitted a plan to expand its special use permit with the U.S. Forest Service. A public comment period and then an Environmental Impact Statement must be submitted for approval by the U.S. Forest Service. Meanwhile, the resort acquired an additional 500 acres that allow it to connect with another parcel it owns and develop a mix of residential units for ski-in, ski-out access. Source: Idaho News 6
- Cascade School Districts two-year, $1.3 million supplemental levy passed with 58% support. Approval of the levy does not change the property tax bill of residents, since the existing levy that fell off June 30, is the same amount. Source: Idaho Education News
- A housing needs study commissioned by West Central Mountains Economic Development Council was presented at the organization’s 7th Annual Economic Summit. Findings by Agnew Beck, a contracted consulting firm, included:
- Over the next 10 years, 1,400 homes and apartments are needed in Valley County. Being broken out, it equates to 1,200 new housing units and 200 existing homes needing renovation updates.
- Most of the demand can be met by developments already approved or proposed.
- There is an estimated range between 2,000 and 5,000 new residents that could move to the area by 2033.
- Regionally, over the past five years, home values rose by 83% while rental rates increased by 34% compared to wage growth of 29%. Evidence is shown in the increasing unaffordability pronounced in tourism towns.
- The study found 67% of all homes in the region are considered vacant. McCall has the highest share of vacant homes at 68%, Donnelly is at 56% and Cascade is at 55%. Vacant is a proxy for vacation homes, second homes or rental homes. Source: The Star-News
Washington County
- The Weiser River’s Galloway Diversion Dam was restored in quick order once grant funding was identified, grants written and awarded. The 100-year dam had aged and eroded to the degree of a likely failure in the near term. The Weiser River Water District received $124,410 from an Idaho Aging Infrastructure grant awarded by the Idaho Water Resource Board and $150,000 from the Water Quality Program for Agriculture grant given by the Idaho Water and Soil Conservation Commission. The total cost for the job was $383,000, with some matching money making up the difference. The work was completed in one month by the contracting firm of Braun-Jensen Inc. who extended the life of the dam for another 50-100 years. Source: Idaho Capital Sun
Openings
- Boise In-N-Out opened with less hoopla and shorter lines than its first location’s opening in Meridian earlier this year. Other restaurants in Nampa and Twin Falls are in the design pipeline while a second Meridian location has submitted a pre-application to the city. Source: Idaho Statesman
- The Franklin Apartments, an affordable housing project bankrolled by the city of Boise and various partners, held a ribbon cutting. There are 205 apartments spread across four buildings. This is the first property to be developed using the Housing Land Trust program which takes city-owned land and leases it to a private company that builds the housing and rents in an affordable structure. Source: KTVB News
- Marco’s Pizza has opened its fifth Treasure Valley restaurant in Boise, sharing a building with Starbucks. Source: Idaho Statesman
- Rapido Burrito opened in Boise in a former Gyro Shack location. Source: Idaho Statesman
- Insomnia Cookies celebrated the Boise opening of its first shop in Idaho near Boise State University. Their cookies are freshly baked and served warm. The cookie shop is hiring part-time workers. Source: Idaho Business Review
- Wright Physical Therapy opened in Nampa with a grand opening ceremony. This is its sixth Idaho location. Source: Idaho Business Review
- The Idaho Hispanic Foundation (IHF) held a ribbon cutting at its new resource center housed within the Idaho Hispanic Community Center. Wells Fargo took the opportunity to present a $10,000 check in support of IHF’s business program. IHF was previously located at the recently closed Snake River Elementary. Source: Idaho Press
- Bar Please! opened in downtown Boise in the former Alchemist coffee shop and cafe. It shares the space with the Thick as Thieves speakeasy. The menu is short but curated for both artisan cocktails and bar snacks. Source: Idaho Statesman
Closures
- Quik-Wok Restaurant in Meridian closed after 23 years. Two other locations in Boise and Kuna continue operations. Source: Idaho Statesman
- Squeeze In closed its only Idaho restaurant, located in Eagle. It opened four years ago. Source: Idaho Statesman
- Tommy’s Italian closed both its Boise and Meridian restaurants after hanging on for a year in Meridian and after five months of opening in Boise. The operator cited low foot traffic and staffing as reasons for the closure. The original restaurant, il Sugo Italian Kitchen, continues to operate in Meridian. Source: Idaho Statesman
- Pieology’s restaurant in Kuna closed after less than a year in operation. Pieology has 95 locations nationwide. Source: Idaho Statesman
- Somewhere Bar, an iconic Garden City nightclub, closed its doors. It is identified by the large rearing stallion on top of the building and was home to the former Ranch Club for about 50 years. A reason for the closure was not provided, while the Facebook post regarding the closure declared “we have been loud, proud and courageous. That’s not going to change.” Source: Idaho Statesman
- Zeeks Pizza closed its Eagle full-service restaurant after 18 months. The Washington-based company tapped Eagle as its first out-of-state venture. The closure will leave 25 restaurants, both corporate and franchise, operating in Washington. Source: Idaho Statesman
Groundbreakings
- The city of Marsing broke ground on the Owyhee County Fitness Court. The ground was donated by the Marsing School District and is adjacent to its offices. The cost is expected to range between $180,000 to $200,000, with exercise stations designed for all age groups. Donations have reached $129,000 and came from the local governments of Marsing and Owyhee County, along with community members and businesses. Another $50,000 to $70,000 is needed to achieve full funding. Source: The Owyhee Avalanche
- The YMCA broke ground on its new facility across the street from its original downtown Boise location. The new three-story building is projected to cost $80 million and will include a child care center, an indoor track, an indoor play space, a teenage hangout area, a Blue Cross of Idaho health center and a ninja course — in addition to its studio space, gym, swimming pool complex and administrative space. Its opening is scheduled for the fall of 2026 and the capital campaign has its last $5 million to raise in addition to its $35 million in charitable donations and $40 million in financing. Source: Idaho Statesman
This Idaho Department of Labor project is funded by the U.S. Department of Labor for SFY25 as part of the Workforce Information grant (40%) and state/nonfederal funds (60%) totaling $885,703.
This workforce product was funded by a grant awarded by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Employment and Training Administration. The product was created by the recipient and does not necessarily reflect the official position of the U.S. Department of Labor. The U.S. Department of Labor makes no guarantees, warranties, or assurances of any kind, express or implied, with respect to such information, including any information on linked sites and including, but not limited to, accuracy of the information or its completeness, timeliness, usefulness, adequacy, continued availability, or ownership. This product is copyrighted by the institution that created it. Internal use by an organization and/or personal use by an individual for non-commercial purposes is permissible. All other uses require the prior authorization of the copyright owner.
Regional labor market information
- Labor force estimates for October 2024 from the Idaho Department of Labor’s Local Area Unemployment Statistics have total employment increasing, but unemployment decreasing in the nine-county eastern region. Seasonally adjusted, October’s preliminary estimates have labor force participants increasing by 286, with 215 more employed people and 71 more unemployed people. The seasonally adjusted unemployment rate for the region remained unchanged at 3% and 0.3 percentage points higher than October 2023.
| Eastern Idaho, seasonally adjusted data | Oct-24 (P) | Sep-24 (P) | Oct-23 (B) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Civilian labor force | 132,789 | 132,503 | 129,349 |
| Total employment | 128,696 | 128,481 | 125,883 |
| Unemployment | 4,093 | 4,022 | 3,466 |
| % of labor force unemployed | 3.0 | 3.0 | 2.7 |
| P – Preliminary, R – Revised, B – Benchmarked Source: Idaho Department of Labor |
|||
- There were an estimated 1,259 unique job postings in the eastern Idaho labor market for October 2024, according to The Conference Board: Help Wanted Online (this is regional online job postings data and not necessarily job openings data.) The 1,259 postings are a 3% decrease from 1,294 the prior month and a 12% year-over-year increase from 1,140. Registered nurses were the top occupation of unique (deduplicated) job postings in the region for October. New to the top occupations by quantity of job postings this month were radiologic technologists and physical therapists. Employer hiring demand from a job postings perspective increased 4% for retail salespersons, 26% for hand laborers and material movers and 11% for general and operations managers. Job postings decreased for all other carryover occupations from the month prior.
| Top 10 occupations by unique job postings in eastern Idaho, October 2024 | Postings |
|---|---|
| Registered nurses | 56 |
| Retail salespersons | 55 |
| Heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers | 44 |
| Radiologic technologists and technicians | 34 |
| First-line supervisors of retail sales workers | 29 |
| Hand laborers, freight, stock and material movers | 23 |
| Customer service representatives | 21 |
| Secretaries and administrative assistants | 20 |
| General and operations managers | 18 |
| Physical therapists | 16 |
| Source: Conference Board data via Lightcast | |
- This month, educational services replaced manufacturing in the top five of regional industries by quantity of job postings. Industry hiring demand based on job postings increased over the month in health care and social assistance by 5%, waste management and remediation services by 15%, education services by 22%, other services by 28% and finance and insurance by 37%. Areas that saw a decrease in job postings over the month were public administration by 36%, manufacturing by 30%; professional, scientific and technical services by 26%; transportation and warehousing by 24% and wholesale trade industries by 18%.
| Top industries by job unique postings in eastern Idaho, October 2024 | Postings |
|---|---|
| Health care and social assistance | 176 |
| Professional, scientific and technical services | 165 |
| Retail Trade | 141 |
| Administrative, support, waste management and remediation services | 120 |
| Educational services | 73 |
| Finance and insurance | 65 |
| Construction | 63 |
| Manufacturing | 62 |
| Wholesale trade | 62 |
| Other services | 36 |
| Public administration | 32 |
| Real estate and rental leasing | 28 |
| Transportation and warehousing | 25 |
| Source: Conference Board data via Lightcast | |
- October data on the hardest-to-fill occupations in eastern Idaho, in terms of highest median job posting duration and multiple unique job postings, include registered nurses, general and operations managers and project management specialists. Hardest-to-fill job posting challenges in October by occupational family were health care practitioners, technical and management. All occupations were new to this month’s hardest-to-fill jobs list, except general and operations managers and registered nurses.
| Top 10 hardest-to-fill occupations in eastern Idaho, October 2024 | Days to fill | Postings |
|---|---|---|
| Medical and health services managers | 25 | 8 |
| Speech-language pathologists | 25 | 6 |
| Financial managers | 24 | 7 |
| General and operations managers | 20 | 18 |
| Project management specialists | 18 | 13 |
| Hairdressers, hairstylists and cosmotologists | 17 | 9 |
| Accounts and auditors | 17 | 7 |
| Registered nurses | 16 | 56 |
| Computer programmers | 16 | 6 |
| All other physicians | 16 | 6 |
| Source: Conference Board data via Lightcast | ||
Regional news
- Yellowstone National Park hosted 838,458 visitors last month, the second highest September on record. So far in 2024, the park has hosted 4,349,689 recreation visits, an increase of 5% since 2023. The year-to-date numbers are just 120,000 lower than in 2021, the park’s record-setting year. Source: National Park Service
- The Idaho Falls Regional Airport received $2.5 million from the Federal Aviation Administration for expanding the terminal’s outbound baggage processing, ticketing, airline offices and baggage screening areas. Construction will begin in the Spring of 2025. Source: KIFI
- The U.S. and Idaho Departments of Agriculture partnered with the Resilient Food Systems Infrastructure Program, awarding the following equipment and infrastructure grants for increased capacity and output in eastern Idaho to:
- Farr Candy Co. in Idaho Falls – $95,000 for equipment to increase ice cream manufacturing.
- Salmon Valley Stewardship in Salmon – $99,620 for a community commercial kitchen for regional producers and food businesses.
- Walters Produce 2.0 in Newdale – $96,023 for potato line improvements to increase capacity. Source: Capital Press
- The new Arco Wind and Solar project located outside of Idaho Falls was approved by the Idaho board of land commissioners, becoming the first wind and solar farm on Idaho endowment land. The 49-year lease will be developed by Pacificorp on 11,000 acres for 10 to 12 wind turbines and 2,000-5,000 acres for solar generator equipment. Source: KIFI
- Bonneville, Teton, Fremont, Jefferson and Madison Counties are eligible to apply for low-interest federal Small Business Administration disaster loans to offset economic losses due to reduced revenue from the draught that began Aug. 13. Source: U.S. Small Business Administration
Bonneville County
- A new retail establishment, Kid to Kid, opened in Idaho Falls. Source: Idaho Department of Labor
- Amazing Glaze Donuts opened in Idaho Falls. Source: East Idaho News
- Game Grid, a tabletop gaming retailer, opened in Idaho Falls. Source: East Idaho News
- Vast Apparel opened in Idaho Falls. Source: Greater Idaho Falls Chamber of Commerce
- Budget Binzz, a retail shop, opened in Idaho Falls. Source: Idaho Department of Labor
- North 40 Adventures, a new clothing, boutique and sporting goods shop, opened in Idaho Falls. Source: East Idaho News
- Another location of Park Avenue Grill opened in Idaho Falls. Source: Idaho Department of Labor
- 208 Outlets, an overstock liquidation company, opened in Idaho Falls. Source: Idaho Falls Magazine
- Burly Burger, a restaurant chain based in Utah, opened in Idaho Falls. Source: East Idaho News
- OneZo, a boba tea store, opened in Idaho Falls. Source: Idaho Falls Magazine
- Rediscovered Treasures, an Idaho Falls consignment shop, is permanently closing. Source: Idaho Department of Labor
- Bill’s Bike and Snow, a retailer in Idaho Falls, is permanently closing. Source: Idaho Department of Labor
- The Greater Idaho Falls Chamber of Commerce announced ribbon cutting and/or groundbreaking ceremonies at Vast Apparel, U.S. Bank, The Little Play Hut Play Café, Transformative Journey Healthcare, North 40 Adventures and United Energy Workers Healthcare. These establishments either opened their doors within the past six months, moved to a new location due to expansion, or have remodeled or expanded their current location. Source: Greater Idaho Falls Chamber of Commerce
- Greater Idaho Falls Transit was inducted into the Idaho Transportation Department’s Hall of Fame for Innovation as something unique, not previously applied in the public transportation industry. The data obtained through this project will lead to further planning and recommendations for other services and possible expansion to surrounding areas. By the end of October 2024, the transit company gave over 220,000 rides in Idaho Falls. The program is planning to add five additional vehicles over the next six months. Source: KIFI
- The Bonneville School District’s $5.8 million supplemental levy passed. Source: East Idaho News
- The Idaho Falls School District’s $1.6 million supplemental levy passed. Source: East Idaho News
- The city of Ammon’s $1.25 million street levy passed. Source: East Idaho News
Clark County
- The Clark County School District’s $500,000 supplemental levy passed. Source: East Idaho News
Custer County
- Challis City Council reversed an ordinance and will now allow tiny homes, including five small, manufactured homes, to be parked inside the Round Valley RV Park. Source: Challis Messenger
- The Challis School District’s $1.4 million supplemental levy passed. Source: East Idaho News
Fremont County
- Wooden Nickel Stained Glass, a retailer in St. Anthony, is permanently closing. Source: East Idaho News
- The Fremont County School District’s $3 million supplemental levy passed. Source: East Idaho News
Jefferson County
- Idaho Elite K9 Training and Boarding Suites opened in Rigby. Source: East Idaho News
- The Ririe School District’s $745,000 supplemental levy passed. Source: East Idaho News
- The West Jefferson School District’s $720,000 supplemental levy passed. Source: East Idaho News
- The former U.S. Bank building in Rigby was sold to an undisclosed business. Source: Idaho Business Review
- The Jefferson County Board of Commissioners approved a $1 million purchase for 37 acres of land to be used as a gravel pit for the Road and Bridge Department and for landfill expansion. Source: Jefferson Star
Madison County
- Great Clips hair salon opened in Rexburg. Source: East Idaho News
- Sumo Boba, a drink shop, opened in Rexburg. Source: East Idaho News
- Masala Indian Cuisine opened in Rexburg. Source: East Idaho News
Teton County
- The Teton School District’s $9.9 million supplemental levy passed. Source: East Idaho News
Eastern Idaho residential real estate statistics – October 2023 and 2024
Figure 5.| Median price sold | Sep-24 | Sep-23 | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bonneville | $450,000 | $429,725 | 4.7% |
| Butte | $198,000 | $270,500 | -26.8% |
| Clark | $240,000 | $216,188 | 11.0% |
| Custer | $499,974 | $625,000 | -20.0% |
| Fremont | $747,900 | $697,000 | 7.3% |
| Jefferson | $525,000 | $534,375 | -1.8% |
| Lemhi | $579,750 | $657,000 | -11.8% |
| Madison | $398,500 | $394,700 | 1.0% |
| Teton | $993,750 | $939,000 | 5.8% |
| Source: RDC Inventory Core Metrics | |||
| Active listings (inventory) | Oct-24 | Oct-23 | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bonneville | 402 | 357 | 12.6% |
| Butte | 18 | 22 | -18.2% |
| Clark | 1 | 2 | -50.0% |
| Custer | 48 | 34 | 41.2% |
| Fremont | 143 | 113 | 26.5% |
| Jefferson | 116 | 98 | 18.4% |
| Lemhi | 58 | 47 | 23.4% |
| Madison | 99 | 86 | 15.1% |
| Teton | 137 | 109 | 25.7% |
| Source: RDC Inventory Core Metrics | #Colspan# | #Colspan# | #Colspan# |
| Median days on market | Oct-24 | Oct-23 | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bonneville | 52 | 40 | 30.0% |
| Butte | 85 | 84 | 1.2% |
| Clark | 162 | 57 | 184.2% |
| Custer | 94 | 106 | -11.3% |
| Fremont | 105 | 82 | 28.0% |
| Jefferson | 64 | 77 | -16.9% |
| Lemhi | 97 | 89 | 9.0% |
| Madison | 74 | 47 | 57.4% |
| Teton | 97 | 85 | 14.1% |
| Source: RDC Inventory Core Metrics | #Colspan# | #Colspan# | #Colspan# |
| Total homes pending sale | Oct-24 | Oct-23 | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bonneville | 201 | 159 | 26.4% |
| Butte | 4 | 4 | 0.0% |
| Clark | 2 | N/A | N/A |
| Custer | 8 | 6 | 33.3% |
| Fremont | 36 | 24 | 50.0% |
| Jefferson | 38 | 34 | 11.8% |
| Lemhi | 6 | 6 | 0.0% |
| Madison | 36 | 27 | 33.3% |
| Teton | 73 | 49 | 49.0% |
| Source: RDC Inventory Core Metrics | |||
This Idaho Department of Labor project is funded by the U.S. Department of Labor for SFY25 as part of the Workforce Information grant (40%) and state/nonfederal funds (60%) totaling $885,703.
This workforce product was funded by a grant awarded by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Employment and Training Administration. The product was created by the recipient and does not necessarily reflect the official position of the U.S. Department of Labor. The U.S. Department of Labor makes no guarantees, warranties, or assurances of any kind, express or implied, with respect to such information, including any information on linked sites and including, but not limited to, accuracy of the information or its completeness, timeliness, usefulness, adequacy, continued availability, or ownership. This product is copyrighted by the institution that created it. Internal use by an organization and/or personal use by an individual for non-commercial purposes is permissible. All other uses require the prior authorization of the copyright owner.
Regional labor market information
- Labor force estimates for October 2024 from the Idaho Department of Labor’s Local Area Unemployment Statistics had total employment and total unemployment increasing in the seven-county southeastern region. Seasonally adjusted, October’s preliminary estimates have labor force participants increasing by 246 people, with 184 more employed people and 62 more unemployed people. The seasonally adjusted unemployment rate was 3.6%, a 0.1% increase from September 2024 and 0.3% higher than October 2023.
| Southeastern Idaho, seasonally adjusted data | Oct-24 (P) | Sep-24 (R) | Oct-23 (B) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Civilian labor force | 91,325 | 91,079 | 88,516 |
| Total employment | 88,071 | 87,887 | 85,631 |
| Unemployment | 3,254 | 3,192 | 2,885 |
| % of labor force unemployed | 3.6% | 3.5% | 3.3% |
| Source: Idaho Department of Labor | P – Preliminary, R – Revised, B – Benchmarked | ||
- In October 2024 there were 622 unique online job postings in the southeastern Idaho labor market area, which increased 17% from the prior month at 532 and 8% over the year at 578. The median job posting duration was 15 days, up three days from September and up six days from October 2023.
| Top 10 occupations by unique job postings in southeastern Idaho, October 2024 | Postings, Oct-24 | Postings, Oct-23 |
|---|---|---|
| Retail salespersons | 37 | 15 |
| Registered nurses | 27 | 26 |
| Heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers | 19 | 21 |
| First-line supervisors of retail sales workers | 16 | 7 |
| Customer service representatives | 14 | 22 |
| General and operations managers | 13 | 10 |
| Merchandise displayers and window trimmers | 13 | 11 |
| Laborers, freight, stock, material movers and hand | 10 | 7 |
| Janitors, cleaners, except maids and housekeeping cleaners | 10 | 5 |
| Secretaries, administrative assistants, except legal, medical and executive | 8 | 5 |
| Source: Conference Board data via Lightcast |
- The top occupational families by unique online job postings in southeastern Idaho for October were health care practitioners and technical, sales and related, transportation and management, and transportation and material moving occupations. Among specific occupations, retail salespersons are at the top of the list with 37 unique online postings, followed by registered nurses with 27 postings, heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers with 19 postings, retail first-line supervisors with 16 postings and customer service representatives with 14 postings.
| Top industries by job unique postings in southeastern Idaho, October 2024 | Postings, Oct-24 | Postings, Oct-23 |
|---|---|---|
| General medical and surgical hospitals | 75 | 51 |
| Other general government support | 22 | 11 |
| Supermarkets and other grocery retailers (except convenience retailers) | 21 | 3 |
| Colleges, universities and professional schools | 21 | 17 |
| Direct health and medical insurance carriers | 18 | 28 |
| Department stores | 17 | 9 |
| All other support services | 14 | 0 |
| Elementary and secondary schools | 14 | 0 |
| Gasoline stations with convenience stores | 13 | 3 |
| Commercial and institutional building construction | 11 | 9 |
| Source: Conference Board data via Lightcast |
- Figure 3 shows health care and social assistance, retail, manufacturing, education services and public administration are at the top of broadly defined industries by unique online job postings in October. Looking at specific industries, medical and surgical hospitals had the most unique job postings and increased year over year by 47%. There were large year-over-year increases in all other support services, elementary schools, supermarkets and other grocery retailers.
| Top 10 hardest-to-fill occupations in southeastern Idaho, October 2024 | Median duration, Oct-24 | Unique postings, Oct-24 |
|---|---|---|
| Home health and personal care aides | 29 | 8 |
| Painting, coating and decorating workers | 25 | 1 |
| Parking attendants | 25 | 3 |
| Insurance appraisers and auto damage | 24 | 1 |
| Market research analysts and marketing specialists | 22 | 3 |
| Claims adjusters, examiners and investigators | 22 | 1 |
| Registered nurses | 20 | 27 |
| Marketing managers | 20 | 1 |
| Medical assistants | 20 | 7 |
| Hairdressers, hairstylists and cosmetologists | 19 | 2 |
| Source: Conference Board data via Lightcast |
- Figure 4 highlights industries that stood out in October for the median number of days an occupational job posting is listed. Based on the hiring challenges by median number of days an occupational job posting is listed, the business and finance and health care support occupations stood out in October, with insurance appraiser postings at a median duration of 24 days, market research analysts at 22 days, home health aides at 29 days and medical assistants at 20 days. Registered nurses, defined as health care practitioners rather than health care support workers, were one of the top in-demand jobs in the region.
| County housing data, October 2024 | Median listing price | Month over month price change | Median days on the market | Active listings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bannock | $399,900 | -2.75% | 72 | 320 |
| Bear Lake | $578,225 | -6.31% | 98 | 67 |
| Bingham | $409,825 | -7.8% | 58 | 126 |
| Caribou | $350,000 | 0.73 | 102 | 31 |
| Franklin | $568,125 | 10.53% | 80 | 48 |
| Oneida | $439,000 | 3.92% | 85 | 23 |
| Power | $389,000 | 0% | 75 | 24 |
| Source: Realtor.com | ||||
- There was some negative price movement in October in Bannock, Bear Lake and Bingham counties while there was a substantial 11% median price increase in Franklin County. The county with the longest median time on the market was Caribou County at 102 days. Power County had the lowest median listing price in the region at $389,000 while Bingham County had the shortest median days on the market at 58.
Regional news
Bannock County
- The Idaho Bassheads, a Pocatello car club, held its fundraiser for Toys for Tots. The same event also held a trunk-or-treat immediately following the fundraiser. In 2023, this event raised $3,000 and served 1,000 children during the trunk-or-treat event. Source: Idaho State Journal
- The Pocatello and Chubbuck School District created a committee to review elementary and middle school attendance to optimize capacity. Source: Idaho State Journal
- The Pocatello Fire Department quickly contained a fire in downtown Pocatello after spotting smoke from the location. This fire, at Acute Rescue and Transport, was later investigated as arson. Source: Idaho State Journal
- The Idaho State University (ISU) Community Psychiatric Center opened to treat patients 14 years and older who are experiencing a variety of mental health struggles. Source: East Idaho News
- ISU reported its fourth consecutive enrollment increase at 3.5%. The Fall 2024 class is the largest first-year student class this decade. Source: Idaho EdNews
- The Pebble Creek Ski Area unveiled its new conveyor lift, installed on the Aspen Beginner Area. Source: Idaho State Journal
- The Brady Chapel held a ribbon cutting for the restoration of the historical Pocatello building. This was the result of $13,000 in donations raised by the Friends of Brady Chapel, Idaho Heritage Trust and the National Trust for Historic Preservation. Source: East Idaho News
- The U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree passed through Pocatello on its way from Alaska to Washington DC during the Veterans Day parade. Source: Idaho State Journal
- Openings included The Martlet (a brewery), Community All-Stars (a theater nonprofit) and Blush Beauty Spa. Source: KIFI News, Idaho State Journal
Bear Lake County
- The Bear Lake School District updated its stage lighting thanks to the Bear Lake Education Foundation, community fundraising amounting to over $16,000 in contributions and a grant from the Idaho Commission on the Arts. The state-of-the-art lighting improves the quality of the school’s stage productions. Source: The News Examiner
Bingham County
- The Jason Lee United Methodist church hosted its Holiday Bazaar featuring homemade crafts and sweets. There were 166 lunches served at a cost of $12 each. Source: Idaho State Journal
- The Blackfoot Does, in association with the Elk fraternity, raised $721.12 with a cornhole tournament for foster families in Blackfoot. Source: Idaho State Journal
- Tokyo Japanese Steakhouse and Sushi opened. Source: East Idaho News
Caribou County
- The Soda Springs Presbyterian Church hosted its annual Harvest Bazaar. An event that has taken place since 1942, the bazaar serves dinner to guests and host a variety of baked goods, handmade items and a silent auction. The event raised about $6,300. Source: The News Examiner, Idaho State Journal
- Soda Springs opened a new Maverik and Liberty Car Dealership. Source: The News-Examiner, Idaho State Journal
Franklin County
- Preston held its annual downtown trick-or-treat event where local businesses pitched in to hand out treats. Source: The Preston Citizen
Oneida County
- The Oneida Pioneer Museum reported 700 visitors in 2024, about the same as 2023. Source: The Idaho Enterprise
Power County
- The American Falls Airport grand opening was delayed for weather concerns. They received a $700,000 grant from the Federal Aviation Association and $5 million from the Association for Small Town Airports. Source: The Power County Press
This Idaho Department of Labor project is funded by the U.S. Department of Labor for SFY25 as part of the Workforce Information grant (40%) and state/nonfederal funds (60%) totaling $885,703.
This workforce product was funded by a grant awarded by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Employment and Training Administration. The product was created by the recipient and does not necessarily reflect the official position of the U.S. Department of Labor. The U.S. Department of Labor makes no guarantees, warranties, or assurances of any kind, express or implied, with respect to such information, including any information on linked sites and including, but not limited to, accuracy of the information or its completeness, timeliness, usefulness, adequacy, continued availability, or ownership. This product is copyrighted by the institution that created it. Internal use by an organization and/or personal use by an individual for non-commercial purposes is permissible. All other uses require the prior authorization of the copyright owner.
Regional labor market information
- Labor demand in northern Idaho remained stable in September, with a total of 1,860 unique job postings in the region – a slight decline from 1,923 in August. The unemployment rate decreased slightly from 4.9% to 4.8%, increasing by 0.7% from September 2023. Overall, total employment has increased slightly over the last year.
Figure 1.
| Northern Idaho seasonally adjusted data | Sep-24 (P) | Aug-24 (R) | Sep-23 (B) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Civilian labor force | 128,822 | 128,001 | 126,983 |
| Total employment | 122,646 | 121,694 | 121,769 |
| Unemployment | 6,176 | 6,307 | 5,214 |
| % of labor force unemployed | 4.8% | 4.9% | 4.1% |
| Source: Idaho Department of Labor | P – Preliminary, R – Revised, B – Benchmarked | ||
Figure 2.
| Top 10 occupations by unique job postings in northern Idaho | Postings, Sep-24 | Postings, Sep-23 |
|---|---|---|
| Retail salespersons | 74 | 66 |
| Registered nurses | 66 | 83 |
| Home health and personal care aides | 63 | 39 |
| Unclassified occupation | 57 | 45 |
| Fast food and counter workers | 44 | 26 |
| First-line supervisors of retail sales workers | 43 | 35 |
| Laborers, freight, stock, material movers and hand | 34 | 33 |
| Janitors and cleaners | 31 | 28 |
| Secretaries and administrative assistants | 30 | 29 |
| Customer service representatives | 29 | 46 |
| Source: Conference Board data via Lightcast |
Figure 3.
| Top 10 industries by unique job postings in northern Idaho | Postings, Sep-24 | Postings, Sep-23 |
|---|---|---|
| Health care and social assistance | 274 | 257 |
| Retail trade | 221 | 237 |
| Administrative and support services | 179 | 169 |
| Accommodation and support services | 101 | 135 |
| Manufacturing | 90 | 113 |
| Wholesale trade | 84 | 91 |
| Professional, scientific and technical services | 82 | 101 |
| Finance and insurance | 73 | 89 |
| Construction | 59 | 37 |
| Other services (except public administration) | 51 | 46 |
| Source: Conference Board data via Lightcast |
Figure 4.
| Top 10 hardest-to-fill occupations in northern Idaho | Median duration, Sep-24 | Median duration, Sep-23 |
|---|---|---|
| Laundry and dry-cleaning workers | 25 | N/A |
| Chief Executives | 24 | N/A |
| Substance abuse, behavioral disorder and mental health counselors | 24 | N/A |
| Public relations specialists | 23 | N/A |
| Dispatchers, except police, fire and ambulance | 22 | N/A |
| Biological scientists, all other | 22 | N/A |
| Nurse practitioners | 20 | N/A |
| Clinical laboratory technologists and technicians | 20 | N/A |
| Door-to-door sales workers, news and street vendors | 20 | N/A |
| Lawyers | 20 | N/A |
| Source: Conference Board data via Lightcast |
Kootenai County
- Kootenai Health is constructing a new facility in Coeur d’Alene and upgrading its existing Women’s Imaging Center in Post Falls. The project will add additional mammography scanners, ultrasound machines and bone density scanners to provide better screening and increase capacity. Kootenai Health timed the announcement of the new investments to coincide with October’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month and plans to begin work on the new screening facility in 2025. Source: Coeur d’Alene Press
- The North Point Plaza commercial complex is under construction in north Post Falls and early tenants will begin opening for business in the coming months. A 7-Eleven gas station is slated to open in December, followed by a Grocery Outlet in early 2025. Four parcels remain available for future tenants. Source: Coeur d’ Alene Press
- Camkels Holdings, a north Idaho based development company, is planning a four-story mixed used building in Post Falls which will include 9,800 square feet of commercial space on the ground floor and 3,8000 square feet of combined residential space on its upper floors. The ground floor commercial space will have room for a total of seven tenants, while the residential floors will include a mix of 33 one and two-bedroom apartments. The project is slated for completion in 2026. Source: Journal of Business
- North Idaho College (NIC) hosted a site visit from accreditation evaluators, now awaiting their report results. NIC leadership hosted a team from the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities, who conducted the final site visit to NIC before the April 2025 decision on NIC’s accreditation status. The college has been under a show cause sanction since early 2023. Source: Coeur d’Alene Press
- The city of Coeur d’Alene approved a $2.3 million contract to begin improvements to Government Way. The new project will improve 10 different intersections on the busy north-south arterial, including improved pedestrian crossings, signals and synchronized lights to help traffic flow. Government Way has become one of the growing city’s most important corridors and has daily traffic in excess of 16,000 vehicles. Source: Coeur d’Alene Press
Openings
- The Little Gym (Post Falls).
- Tony Mills Photography (Coeur d’Alene).
- Moose Lounge North (Hayden).
- Dragon Jacket Insulation (Post Falls).
- Metal America (Post Falls).
- Garage Door Design (Post Falls).
- Perma Column (Post Falls).
- Vintage Guild (Coeur d’Alene).
- Coffee Warehouse (Post Falls).
- Idaho Puppy Co. (Coeur d’Alene).
- La Pinata (Post Falls).
This Idaho Department of Labor project is funded by the U.S. Department of Labor for SFY25 as part of the Workforce Information grant (40%) and state/nonfederal funds (60%) totaling $885,703.
This workforce product was funded by a grant awarded by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Employment and Training Administration. The product was created by the recipient and does not necessarily reflect the official position of the U.S. Department of Labor. The U.S. Department of Labor makes no guarantees, warranties, or assurances of any kind, express or implied, with respect to such information, including any information on linked sites and including, but not limited to, accuracy of the information or its completeness, timeliness, usefulness, adequacy, continued availability, or ownership. This product is copyrighted by the institution that created it. Internal use by an organization and/or personal use by an individual for non-commercial purposes is permissible. All other uses require the prior authorization of the copyright owner.
Regional labor market information
Labor force estimates in Figure 1 for September 2024 from the Idaho Department of Labor’s Local Area Unemployment Statistics show total employment increasing, but unemployment decreasing in the nine-county eastern region. Seasonally adjusted, September’s preliminary estimates have labor force participants remaining unchanged, with 493 more employed people and 133 fewer unemployed people. The seasonally adjusted unemployment rate for the region decreased to 3.0%, 0.4 percentage points higher than September 2023.
Figure 1.
| Eastern Idaho, seasonally adjusted data | Sep-24 (P) | Aug-24 (P) | Sep-23 (B) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Civilian labor force | 132,732 | 132,372 | 129,691 |
| Total employment | 128,708 | 128,215 | 126,285 |
| Unemployment | 4,024 | 4,157 | 3,406 |
| % of labor force unemployed | 3.0 | 3.1 | 2.6 |
| P – Preliminary, R – Revised, B – Benchmarked Source: Idaho Department of Labor |
|||
Considering Figure 2, there were an estimated 1,294 unique job postings in the eastern Idaho labor market for September 2024, according to The Conference Board: Help Wanted Online. (Note, this is regional online job postings data and not necessarily job openings data.) Postings decreased 11% from 1,457 the prior month and dropped 2% from 1,319 year-over-year. Heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers were the top occupation of unique (deduplicated) job postings in the region this month. Secretaries, administrative assistants and customer service representatives were new to the top five, while construction laborers, cashiers, hand laborers and freight, stock and material mover and general and operations managers were new to the top 10. Employer hiring demand from a job posting perspective increased 31% for heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers, 21% for retail salespersons, 11% for customer service representatives and 25% for secretaries and administrative assistants. Conversely, job postings decreased 32% for retail sales supervisors.
Figure 2.
| Top 10 occupations by unique job postings in eastern Idaho, September 2024 | Postings |
|---|---|
| Heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers | 75 |
| Registered nurses | 61 |
| Retail salespersons | 53 |
| Customer service representatives | 28 |
| Secretaries and administrative assistants, except legal, medical and executive | 24 |
| Construction laborers | 24 |
| First-line supervisors of retail sales workers | 21 |
| Cashiers | 17 |
| Hand laborers, freight, stock and material movers | 17 |
| General and operations managers | 16 |
| Source: Conference Board data via Lightcast | |
Figure 3 shows professional, scientific and technical services remained at the top of eastern region’s rankings for industries by unique job postings in September. However, waste management and remediation services replaced education services in the top five this month. Industry hiring demand from a job posting perspective increased 64% in transportation and warehousing, 12% in health care and social assistance, 20% in professional, scientific and technical services, 35% in manufacturing, 30% in public administration, 43% in accommodation and food services and 40% in construction. Conversely, job postings decreased 4% over the month in retail trade, 8% in education services, and 22% in finance and insurance industries.
Figure 3.
| Top industries by job unique postings in eastern Idaho, September 2024 | Postings |
|---|---|
| Professional, scientific and technical services | 224 |
| Health care and social assistance | 168 |
| Retail Trade | 144 |
| Administrative, support, waste management and remediation services | 102 |
| Manufacturing | 89 |
| Wholesale trade | 76 |
| Construction | 62 |
| Educational services | 57 |
| Public administration | 50 |
| Accommodation and food services | 42 |
| Finance and insurance | 41 |
| Transportation and warehousing | 33 |
| Other services | 26 |
| Source: Conference Board data via Lightcast | |
As indicated in Figure 4, September data from The Conference Board denotes the hardest-to-fill occupations in eastern Idaho, in terms of combination of time to fill (median job posting duration) and multiple unique job postings. These included mechanical engineers, general and operations managers, registered nurses, heavy truck drivers and retail sales supervisors. Hardest-to-fill job posting challenges in September by occupational family were management, transportation and material moving and health care support. All occupations were new to the hardest-to-fill jobs list this month.
Figure 4.
| Top 10 hardest-to-fill occupations in eastern Idaho, September 2024 | Days to fill | Postings |
|---|---|---|
| Mechanical engineers | 27 | 9 |
| Computer systems engineers or architects | 27 | 7 |
| General and operations managers | 20 | 16 |
| Registered nurses | 19 | 61 |
| Heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers | 18 | 75 |
| Pharmacy technicians | 17 | 16 |
| First-line supervisors of retail sales workers | 16 | 21 |
| Underground mining loading and moving machine operators | 16 | 7 |
| First-line supervisors of office and administrative workers | 14 | 8 |
| Sales representatives of wholesale and manufacturing | 12 | 9 |
| Source: Conference Board data via Lightcast | ||
Regional news
- The College of Eastern Idaho opened their new Workforce Training Professional Development Center offering education in many trades, such as welding and crane operation. Additionally, a Peace Officer Standards and Training program was also established. The college is a member of the Intermountain-West Nuclear Energy Corridor, the only nuclear designated technology hub in the nation. Source: East Idaho News
- U.S. Department of Agriculture and Idaho officials met with their Japanese counterparts in Idaho Falls for a Plant Health Bilateral Meeting to promote agricultural trade between the U.S. and foreign countries. The main objective of the meeting was to negotiate with Japan to begin importation of fresh Idaho potatoes. Trade efforts have been ongoing for 30 years. Idaho officials, including Gov. Brad Little, will travel to Japan and Taiwan in November for a trade mission. Source: Idaho Capital Sun
- Work is nearly complete on the first phase of the Teton Pass landslide repair. Crews are preparing the detour to carry traffic through the winter. The Wyoming Department of Transportation is not planning long-term closures of the pass unless necessitated by weather conditions or other unforeseen circumstances. Due to supply chain constraints and unpredictable weather from Teton Pass’ high elevations, project work will likely take place through spring 2025. Source: KIFI
- Idaho Falls Regional Airport will now have a larger Delta Air Lines aircraft to Salt Lake City International Airport. It offers up to 109 seats rather than regional 76-passenger jets. Source: East Idaho News
Bonneville County
- Cannon Skate Shop opened in Idaho Falls. Source: East Idaho News
- Broulim’s Fresh Foods is building its 12th grocery store at a new commercial development, Riviera Park, in Ammon. Source: Mountain West Commercial Real Estate
- Eastern Idaho’s first autism clinic, Opal Autism Center, opened in Idaho Falls. Source: East Idaho News
- Goldenwest Credit Union opened a new branch in Idaho Falls. Source: Greater Idaho Chamber of Commerce
- Sancho Taco opened in Idaho Falls. Source: Greater Idaho Falls Chamber of Commerce
- The US Bank branch in downtown Idaho Falls is closing. Source: Idaho Department of Labor
- The Idaho Community Foundation awarded grants to:
- College of Eastern Idaho Foundation Inc. – received $4,000 to support the Center for New Directions.
- Community Food Basket Idaho Falls – received $12,000 for health and wellness programs.
- Development Workshop Inc. – received $3,941 for community benefit programs.
- Domestic Violence Intervention Center – received $12,000 for educational and economic opportunities.
- Habitat for Humanity Idaho Falls Inc. – received $5,000 for housing stability efforts.
- Idaho Falls Arts Council Inc. – received $3,000 to support arts and culture.
- Idaho Falls Rescue Mission – received $5,000 for housing stability.
- Museum of Idaho – received $3,000 to support arts and culture.
- Promise Ridge Inc. – received $5,000 for housing stability efforts.
- Salvation Army Idaho Falls Corps – received $4,000 for housing stability.
Source: Post Register
- Bonneville County Courthouse is renovating the vacated police department space for a new jury courtroom, payment offices and office spaces for judges and clerks. The estimated cost is $2.2 million with expected completion by February 2025. Source: Post Register
- The Greater Idaho Falls Chamber of Commerce announced ribbon cutting and/or groundbreaking ceremonies at Salon H. Davis, Tad Jenkins Auto Group, Goldenwest Credit Union, Opal Autism Center, Infusion Specialists, Century 21 High Desert Realty, Avanti Body, Sancho Taco and Westmark Credit Union Member Solutions Center. These establishments have either opened their doors within the past six months, moved to a new location due to expansion, or remodeled or amplified their current location. Source: Greater Idaho Falls Chamber of Commerce
Butte County
- The National Park Service and Shoshone-Bannock Tribes held a special event and ceremony to dedicate the new Craters of the Moon Trail Interpretive Waysides at Devil’s Orchard Nature Trail. Source: KIFI
Custer County
- Due to wildfires, the city of Stanley option tax revenues from tourism decreased about 24% in August and estimates September’s revenue loss will be about the same. The revenue losses to the businesses themselves were estimated at $1.5 million, not including option tax revenues. The Small Business Administration and the governor’s office have agreed to declare Economic Injury Disaster in Custer County, which opens the availability of Small Business Administration disaster loans to local businesses. Source: Boise State Public Radio
- The Wapiti Fire between Lowman and Stanley has burned 128,000 acres and is 85% contained. Nearly 400 personnel were working on the fire. The Idaho Transportation Department continues replacing damaged infrastructure and signage along with removing trees along the highway. Source: KIFI
- The Red Rock Fire near Challis temporarily stranded 45 firefighters after destroying a bridge and numerous structures in the area. The fire has grown to 74,000 acres at 19% containment with 564 personnel. People living in the area have been evacuated. Source: East Idaho News and KIFI
- The Stanley School expansion project broke ground and aims to be completed by summer 2025. Two new classrooms and a library are being added with funds of $550,000 from Challis School District trustees and $700,000 from Stanley School Parents Association. Source: Challis Messenger
Fremont County
- The Fish Creek Fire is estimated to be 25,017 acres and 79% contained. Source: KIFI
Jefferson County
- Snake River Meadow RV Park and Campground opened in Ririe, available for weddings, corporate retreats, family reunions and more. Source: East Idaho News
- Rigby City Council approved a 15-unit residential Planned Unit Development. Source: Jefferson Star
Lemhi County
- The Garden Fire has burned 10,000 acres and is 0% contained. There are 177 personnel on site working to contain it. Source: KIFI
- The U.S. Department of Agriculture awarded $4.8 million to the Panther Creek Project at the Municipal Watershed in the Salmon-Challis National Forest. This is part of an effort to expand work on the U.S. Forest Service Wildfire Crisis Strategy. Source: Capital Press
- Exploration of copper at Electra Battery Materials’ Iron Creek cobalt project will be expanded with financial commitments to Phoenix Copper for 2026 and 2028. Electra has applied for a 10-year exploration permit to drill at 91 sites. Source: Challis Messenger
Madison County
- UNIQ Supply, a custom logo firm, opened their corporate headquarters in Rexburg. Source: Rexburg Standard Journal
- The following establishments opened in Rexburg: Chipotle Mexican Grill, Sparks BBQ, Tagg-N-Go Carwash and South Fork Flooring. Source: East Idaho News
- New Fong’s, a restaurant in Rexburg, is permanently closing after 18 years of business. Source: East Idaho News
- The city of Rexburg partnered with Silver Star Communications and Lightbridge Fiber Network for a connectivity project to be completed by fall 2025. The network will cover every street, have open access and is being built with 100% private investment. The four providers to choose from include ConnectFast, Intellipop, Altitude Fiber and Direct Communications. Source: Rexburg Standard Journal
- Rexburg Parks Department has introduced the new Teton River Park project. The project will take about 10 years to develop where people can go tubing, paddle boarding and biking. Source: KIFI
- Brigham Young University-Idaho Fall 2024 enrollment consists of 24,111 campus-based students, which is a 3.4% increase over the fall 2023 semester. This was also the largest incoming freshman class in school history. Source: BYU-Idaho Newsroom
- Rexburg City Council approved a $66,000 tennis court conversion into six pickleball courts, to be completed by the spring of 2025. Source: Rexburg Standard Journal
Teton County
- Primrose Park opened in Driggs and was funded by Tributary, a private residential community. The park has a playground, soccer field, sand volleyball, basketball and pickleball court. Source: Teton Valley News
- The Idaho Community Foundation awarded grants to:
- Above and Beyond the Classroom Teton Valley – received $7,500 for educational and economic opportunities.
- Community Resource Center of Teton Valley – will receive $2,500 for housing stability efforts.
- Full Circle Education Inc. – will receive $1,000 for educational and economic opportunities.
- Teton Valley Education Foundation – will receive $2,000 for educational opportunities.
- Teton Valley Mental Health Coalition – will receive $2,500 for health and wellness programs.
Source: Teton Valley News
Eastern Idaho residential real estate statistics – September 2023 and 2024
Figure 5.
| Median price sold | Sep-24 | Sep-23 | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bonneville | $462,000 | $439,900 | 5.0% |
| Butte | $241,250 | $269,000 | -10.3% |
| Clark | $240,000 | $224,750 | 6.8% |
| Custer | $499,450 | $500,000 | -0.1% |
| Fremont | $716,225 | $699,000 | 2.5% |
| Jefferson | $523,125 | $560,000 | -6.6% |
| Lemhi | $593,000 | $712,000 | -16.7% |
| Madison | $407,125 | $417,963 | -2.6% |
| Teton | $896,000 | $972,500 | -7.9% |
| Source: RDC Inventory Core Metrics | |||
Figure 6.
| Active listings (inventory) | Sep-24 | Sep-23 | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bonneville | 409 | 330 | 23.9% |
| Butte | 14 | 21 | -33.3% |
| Clark | 1 | 2 | -50.0% |
| Custer | 46 | 31 | 48.4% |
| Fremont | 151 | 118 | 28.0% |
| Jefferson | 122 | 101 | 20.8% |
| Lemhi | 60 | 51 | 17.6% |
| Madison | 110 | 89 | 23.6% |
| Teton | 164 | 138 | 18.8% |
| Source: RDC Inventory Core Metrics | #Colspan# | #Colspan# | #Colspan# |
Figure 7.
| Median days on market | Sep-24 | Sep-23 | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bonneville | 50 | 46 | 8.7% |
| Butte | 78 | 52 | 50.0% |
| Clark | 162 | 26 | 523.1% |
| Custer | 94 | 105 | -10.5% |
| Fremont | 90 | 66 | 36.4% |
| Jefferson | 57 | 60 | -5.0% |
| Lemhi | 80 | 97 | -17.5% |
| Madison | 68 | 57 | 19.3% |
| Teton | 87 | 64 | 35.9% |
| Source: RDC Inventory Core Metrics | #Colspan# | #Colspan# | #Colspan# |
Figure 8.
| Total homes pending sale | Sep-24 | Sep-23 | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bonneville | 190 | 169 | 12.4% |
| Butte | 7 | 1 | 600.0% |
| Clark | 2 | N/A | N/A |
| Custer | 7 | 8 | -12.5% |
| Fremont | 34 | 27 | 25.9% |
| Jefferson | 30 | 31 | -3.2% |
| Lemhi | 7 | 6 | 16.7% |
| Madison | 37 | 33 | 12.1% |
| Teton | 172 | 53 | 224.5% |
| Source: RDC Inventory Core Metrics | |||
This Idaho Department of Labor project is funded by the U.S. Department of Labor for SFY25 as part of the Workforce Information grant (40%) and state/nonfederal funds (60%) totaling $885,703.
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