Payette, ID
Population 8,358 · Idaho
About Payette, ID
Payette is a small town located in Idaho with a population of 8,358 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $55,455 per year, which is 26% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 34.8 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 Payette features a median home value of $247,700, which is 1% above the national median of $244,900. This positions Payette in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $846, 27% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 3,004 total housing units, 55% are owner-occupied (1,632 units) and 45% are renter-occupied (1,335 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Payette shows an unemployment rate of 5.6%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 13.8%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Payette have an average one-way commute time of 21.7 minutes.
Education & Demographics
14.3% of Payette 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 22.3% White, 3.9% Hispanic or Latino, 0.2% Black or African American, and 1.5% Asian residents, with 5.9% of the population being foreign-born.
How Payette Ranks in Idaho
Cost of Living in Payette, ID
Compared to national averages, Payette has a median household income of $55,455 (26% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $247,700, which is 1% above the national median. Monthly rent at $846 is 27% below the US average of $1,163. Within Idaho, Payette's income is 15% below the state average of $65,190, and home values are 10% below the state median of $274,721.
Why Live in Payette, ID?
Payette offers rent that’s lower than the national average at $846/month, and short commute times averaging just 21.7 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($55,455) that falls below the national average. However, Payette’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Payette has a population of 8,358 with a median age of 34.8 years. Compare Payette with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Idaho.
Similar Cities Near Payette
Cities in Idaho with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Emmett | 7,948 | $58,523 | $299,000 | Compare |
| Sandpoint | 9,244 | $67,769 | $449,500 | Compare |
| Hailey | 9,439 | $83,084 | $574,500 | Compare |
| Middleton | 10,101 | $83,681 | $348,900 | Compare |
| Rathdrum | 10,133 | $86,431 | $381,800 | Compare |
| Fruitland | 6,405 | $62,703 | $286,300 | Compare |
| Rupert | 6,157 | $54,444 | $182,500 | Compare |
| Weiser | 5,803 | $45,463 | $196,200 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Idaho
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare Payette With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Payette
What is the population of Payette, ID?
The population of Payette, ID is 8,358 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small town in Idaho.
What is the median household income in Payette?
The median household income in Payette, ID is $55,455 per year, which is 26% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Payette?
The median home value in Payette, ID is $247,700, which is 1% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Payette?
The median monthly rent in Payette, ID is $846, which is 27% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Payette?
The unemployment rate in Payette, ID is 5.6%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Payette, ID a good place to live?
Payette offers a moderate cost of living, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 8,358 and a median age of 34.8, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Payette, ID?
14.3% of residents in Payette 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 Payette?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Payette, ID: median home value is $247,700 (1% above national), median rent is $846/month, and median household income is $55,455. The home-value-to-income ratio is 4.5x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in Payette?
The poverty rate in Payette, ID is 13.8%, 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 Payette, ID?
Payette's population is 22.3% White, 3.9% Hispanic or Latino, 0.2% Black or African American, 1.5% Asian, and 0.3% two or more races. 5.9% of residents are foreign-born.