Preston, ID
Population 5,800 · Idaho
About Preston, ID
Preston is a small town located in Idaho with a population of 5,800 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $55,625 per year, which is 26% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 34.5 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 Preston features a median home value of $280,500, which is 15% above the national median of $244,900. This positions Preston in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $794, 32% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 2,235 total housing units, 68% are owner-occupied (1,429 units) and 32% are renter-occupied (665 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Preston shows an unemployment rate of 1.1%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 14.1%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Preston have an average one-way commute time of 25.1 minutes.
Education & Demographics
15.7% of Preston 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 5.9% White, 3.2% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 0.4% of the population being foreign-born.
How Preston Ranks in Idaho
Cost of Living in Preston, ID
Compared to national averages, Preston has a median household income of $55,625 (26% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $280,500, which is 15% above the national median. Monthly rent at $794 is 32% below the US average of $1,163. Within Idaho, Preston's income is 15% below the state average of $65,190, and home values are 2% above the state median of $274,721.
Why Live in Preston, ID?
Preston offers rent that’s lower than the national average at $794/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 1.1%.
Potential considerations include median household income ($55,625) that falls below the national average. However, Preston’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Preston has a population of 5,800 with a median age of 34.5 years. Compare Preston with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Idaho.
Similar Cities Near Preston
Cities in Idaho with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Weiser | 5,803 | $45,463 | $196,200 | Compare |
| Rupert | 6,157 | $54,444 | $182,500 | Compare |
| Rigby | 5,251 | $78,278 | $267,200 | Compare |
| Fruitland | 6,405 | $62,703 | $286,300 | Compare |
| Shelley | 4,987 | $63,864 | $267,200 | Compare |
| Kimberly | 4,883 | $76,587 | $289,500 | Compare |
| American Falls | 4,636 | $58,376 | $172,800 | Compare |
| Buhl | 4,624 | $46,217 | $192,600 | 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 Preston With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Preston
What is the population of Preston, ID?
The population of Preston, ID is 5,800 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 Preston?
The median household income in Preston, ID is $55,625 per year, which is 26% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Preston?
The median home value in Preston, ID is $280,500, which is 15% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Preston?
The median monthly rent in Preston, ID is $794, which is 32% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Preston?
The unemployment rate in Preston, ID is 1.1%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Preston, ID a good place to live?
Preston offers a moderate cost of living, a competitive housing market, and a strong job market. With a population of 5,800 and a median age of 34.5, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Preston, ID?
15.7% of residents in Preston 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 Preston?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Preston, ID: median home value is $280,500 (15% above national), median rent is $794/month, and median household income is $55,625. The home-value-to-income ratio is 5.0x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in Preston?
The poverty rate in Preston, ID is 14.1%, 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 Preston, ID?
Preston's population is 5.9% White, 3.2% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 0.4% of residents are foreign-born.