Idaho Falls sees continued growth ? there are several reasons why

Nestled along the winding Snake River, Idaho Falls is known for its year-round outdoor activities and recreation, arts and culture scene and robust business environment. Boasting the lowest utility rates in the state and country, the people of this Eastern Idaho city continue to welcome others to experience the authentic, small-town feel of the municipality.

Those are just some of the reasons the region is experiencing growth and why businesses such as 7K Metals are headquartered there, providing jobs and attracting talent to the city.

Situated along Interstate 15 and State Highways 20 and 26, Idaho Falls offers many activities for outdoor enthusiasts. The city is the closest metropolitan area to Yellowstone’s famous geysers, mountains and waterfalls, with just a two-hour drive east to the area. When warm weather turns to the chilly winter months, Idaho Falls offers a place to snowmobile, snowshoe or cross-country ski in the Teton Mountains. For hikers, exploring the volcanic craters and lava fields at Craters of the Moon National Monument can be an unforgettable experience.

For city lovers, downtown Idaho Falls offers quaint shops, walkable streets and plenty of history. Walking tours are available for those who want to learn about the many centuries-old buildings and unique architecture around town. Those buildings are now home to local restaurants and breweries, antique shops, pubs or small boutiques.

For families, setting out for an adventure to the Museum of Idaho, Art Museum of Eastern Idaho, Sportsman’s Park, the Idaho Falls Aquarium or the Idaho Falls Zoo can offer plenty to fill up a day. And for people that want to enjoy a walk and take in the scenic views of the Snake River in the heart of town, there are nearly five miles of waterfront walking trails available that include a greenbelt of parks, walkways, piers and historic markers.

Ryan Whitesides, labor economist for the Public Affairs Bureau Idaho Department of Labor touted the positive aspects of the community that make it attractive to visitors and those looking to relocate.

“Idaho Falls encompasses a balanced industry footprint in health and education, government, transportation, retail trade, as well as professional and business services,” he said. “As a gateway to recreation and amenities such as Yellowstone and Teton National Parks, the city draws millions of annual visitors. Professionals and students comprise a developed workforce in concert with citizen access to community and state colleges and the impact of Idaho National Laboratory’s regional presence.”

According to the United States Census Bureau, in 2022, Idaho Falls had a population of nearly 68,000 people. The Idaho Department of Labor, via its Eastern Idaho Region Population Growth Forecast, estimated that the overall area will grow 11.9% between 2019 and 2029, and in Idaho Falls alone as of May 2024, nearly 35,000 people were employed.

The median household income for the area as of 2022 was $66,463, according to Data USA.

The business economy of Idaho Falls continues to thrive, too. Whitesides reported the largest employers in Idaho Falls as of the fourth quarter in 2023 were Battell Energy Alliance ? parent company of Idaho National Laboratory (5,702 employees), City of Idaho Falls (901 employees), Melaleuca, Inc. (850 employees), Bonneville County (563 employees) and Idaho Falls Community Hospital (512 employees). For those that are looking to expand their education and hone their talents, there are also six secondary education institutions that call Idaho Falls home and six post-secondary institutions that are in operation across the greater Idaho Falls area.

Idaho Falls-based business 7K Metals is one of the area’s businesses that has seen much success and has put down roots there. Three of the company’s founders call Idaho Falls their hometown, so it was a natural fit to open their business there. Since its inception in 2016, the company has expanded from the Gem State to now having an international presence in the precious-metals industry.

The company also specializes in educating first-time buyers and experienced collectors on responsible strategies for acquiring gold and silver. Today, the company boasts a team of 75 employees that help serve over 80,000 customers.

“After traveling around the world, the [owners] are even more dedicated to making a local impact by growing a global company right here in Idaho Falls,” said Blake Davis, chief sales and marketing officer at 7K Metals. “Our company is trying to provide more than jobs for people. Quality of life matters. We believe people want more than a job; they want a purpose-driven career that doesn’t just ‘take care of their bills’ but ultimately gets them closer to their goals and dreams.”

Looking ahead at the growth anticipated for 7K Metals, Davis said that the team is anticipating robust growth as they continue to introduce new, custom-designed products. They also plan to grow and expand the company’s education program, which makes it easy for beginners to start collecting precious metals.

“We are just getting started,” Davis said. “We look forward to the next growth phases for our business, which will require much more help from the local workforce.”

As for what’s on the horizon for the rest of Idaho Falls, development and progress will likely continue ? especially as more and more people discover its beauty.

“A vibrant economy and family-oriented environment is a bastion for population growth in Idaho Falls and immediate vicinity,” Whitesides said.

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