Melba, ID
Population 624 · Idaho
About Melba, ID
Melba is a small community located in Idaho with a population of 624 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $53,500 per year, which is 29% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 31 years is notably younger the US median age of 38.9 years, indicating a younger, often more dynamic population base.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Melba features a median home value of $306,000, which is 25% above the national median of $244,900. This positions Melba in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $993, 15% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 239 total housing units, 88% are owner-occupied (196 units) and 13% are renter-occupied (28 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Melba shows an unemployment rate of 1.0%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 19.5%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Melba have an average one-way commute time of 30.8 minutes.
Education & Demographics
8.3% of Melba residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The lower educational attainment rate may reflect the area's industry mix, with more employment in trades, manufacturing, or agricultural sectors. The community's demographic composition includes 33.0% White, 0.3% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 19.9% of the population being foreign-born.
How Melba Ranks in Idaho
Cost of Living in Melba, ID
Compared to national averages, Melba has a median household income of $53,500 (29% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $306,000, which is 25% above the national median. Monthly rent at $993 is 15% below the US average of $1,163. Within Idaho, Melba's income is 18% below the state average of $65,190, and home values are 11% above the state median of $274,721.
Why Live in Melba, ID?
Melba offers rent that’s lower than the national average at $993/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 1.0%.
Potential considerations include median household income ($53,500) that falls below the national average. However, Melba’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Melba has a population of 624 with a median age of 31 years. Compare Melba with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Idaho.
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Demographics
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Economy & Education
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Other Cities in Idaho
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Melba
What is the population of Melba, ID?
The population of Melba, ID is 624 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small community in Idaho.
What is the median household income in Melba?
The median household income in Melba, ID is $53,500 per year, which is 29% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Melba?
The median home value in Melba, ID is $306,000, which is 25% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Melba?
The median monthly rent in Melba, ID is $993, which is 15% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Melba?
The unemployment rate in Melba, ID is 1.0%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Melba, ID a good place to live?
Melba offers a moderate cost of living, a competitive housing market, and a strong job market. With a population of 624 and a median age of 31, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Melba, ID?
8.3% of residents in Melba aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The educational profile reflects the area's industry mix and employment landscape.
What is the cost of living in Melba?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Melba, ID: median home value is $306,000 (25% above national), median rent is $993/month, and median household income is $53,500. The home-value-to-income ratio is 5.7x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in Melba?
The poverty rate in Melba, ID is 19.5%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. Residents and prospective movers should be aware of the economic challenges facing parts of this community.
How diverse is Melba, ID?
Melba's population is 33.0% White, 0.3% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.3% two or more races. 19.9% of residents are foreign-born.