Smelterville, ID
Population 670 · Idaho
About Smelterville, ID
Smelterville is a small community located in Idaho with a population of 670 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $46,597 per year, which is 38% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 49.2 years is notably older the US median age of 38.9 years, suggesting a more established community with a higher proportion of long-term residents.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Smelterville features a median home value of $117,600, which is 52% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Smelterville one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $825, 29% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 343 total housing units, 79% are owner-occupied (248 units) and 21% are renter-occupied (65 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Smelterville shows an unemployment rate of 5.1%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 19.9%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Smelterville have an average one-way commute time of 22.5 minutes.
Education & Demographics
0.0% of Smelterville 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 3.0% White, 1.5% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 0.0% of the population being foreign-born.
How Smelterville Ranks in Idaho
Cost of Living in Smelterville, ID
Compared to national averages, Smelterville has a median household income of $46,597 (38% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $117,600, which is 52% below the national median. Monthly rent at $825 is 29% below the US average of $1,163. Within Idaho, Smelterville's income is 29% below the state average of $65,190, and home values are 57% below the state median of $274,721.
Why Live in Smelterville, ID?
Smelterville offers affordable housing with a median home value of $117,600, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $825/month, and short commute times averaging just 22.5 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($46,597) that falls below the national average. However, Smelterville’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Smelterville has a population of 670 with a median age of 49.2 years. Compare Smelterville with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Idaho.
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Cities in Idaho with a similar population size.
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
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 Smelterville
What is the population of Smelterville, ID?
The population of Smelterville, ID is 670 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 Smelterville?
The median household income in Smelterville, ID is $46,597 per year, which is 38% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Smelterville?
The median home value in Smelterville, ID is $117,600, which is 52% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Smelterville?
The median monthly rent in Smelterville, ID is $825, which is 29% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Smelterville?
The unemployment rate in Smelterville, ID is 5.1%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Smelterville, ID a good place to live?
Smelterville offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 670 and a median age of 49.2, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Smelterville, ID?
0.0% of residents in Smelterville 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 Smelterville?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Smelterville, ID: median home value is $117,600 (52% below national), median rent is $825/month, and median household income is $46,597. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.5x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Smelterville?
The poverty rate in Smelterville, ID is 19.9%, 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 Smelterville, ID?
Smelterville's population is 3.0% White, 1.5% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 0.0% of residents are foreign-born.