List of Cities in Idaho Alphabetically

by btobers · Published August 8, 2024 · Updated November 11, 2024

Idaho has around 200 incorporated cities and towns. The state capital and largest city is Boise, which is a major cultural and economic center in the state. The top 10 largest cities are Boise, Meridian, Nampa, Idaho Falls, Caldwell, Pocatello, Coeur d’Alene, Twin Falls, Lewiston, and Post Falls. Idaho’s cities tend to be more spread out due to the state’s vast rural areas, but Boise and its surrounding towns have grown rapidly in recent years. Many smaller towns in Idaho rely on agriculture, tourism, and outdoor activities.

1. Boise

City Facts

Population: 237,446 (2023 estimate)
Area Code: 208, 986
Zip Codes: 83701–83799
County: Ada County

Geography and History

Boise, Idaho’s capital and largest city, is located in the southwestern part of the state along the Boise River, near the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. The city’s geography includes high desert plains and nearby mountainous areas that offer outdoor recreation like hiking and skiing. Boise was founded in 1863, initially as a military outpost during the Idaho Gold Rush. The city grew as a regional center for trade and transportation and later developed as a hub for agriculture. Boise’s economy diversified over the 20th century with the rise of technology, government services, and higher education. The city has retained its small-town charm while expanding into one of the fastest-growing metro areas in the U.S., known for its high quality of life and access to nature.

Colleges and Universities

Boise State University (BSU): The largest university in Idaho, BSU offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, with notable strengths in business, engineering, and education. The campus is located along the Boise River and is known for its strong athletics program, particularly football.
College of Western Idaho: A community college offering associate degrees and certificates in various fields, including healthcare, technology, and business, serving the greater Boise area.
University of Idaho (Boise Campus): While the main campus is in Moscow, the Boise campus offers graduate and professional programs, particularly in law, business, and education.
Northwest Nazarene University (nearby Nampa): A private Christian university offering degrees in the liberal arts, business, and education. Many Boise-area students attend this institution for its close proximity.
Concordia University School of Law (now closed): Previously located in Boise, it provided law education before its closure in 2020, leaving an impact on the local legal education landscape.

Major Landmarks

Boise features several notable landmarks, including the Idaho State Capitol, a grand neoclassical building in the heart of downtown. Julia Davis Park houses several museums, including the Boise Art Museum and the Idaho State Museum, along with a zoo and rose garden. Old Idaho Penitentiary is a historic site dating back to 1872, offering tours and exhibits on Idaho’s criminal history. Boise River Greenbelt is a 25-mile scenic pathway along the river, popular for biking and walking. Bogus Basin ski area is a short drive from the city and offers winter sports and summer activities. Freak Alley Gallery, an outdoor mural space, is a vibrant arts destination in downtown Boise. Anne Frank Human Rights Memorial is another key cultural site.

2. Meridian

City Facts

Population: 135,627 (2023 estimate)
Area Code: 208, 986
Zip Codes: 83642–83646
County: Ada County

Geography and History

Meridian is located just west of Boise and is part of the Boise metropolitan area. The city is situated on a flat, high-desert plain and experiences a semi-arid climate. Originally founded in 1893 as a small farming community, Meridian was named after the prime meridian, a reference to its precise geographical location. It remained a quiet town for much of the 20th century until suburban expansion from Boise began to transform Meridian in the 1990s. Today, it is one of the fastest-growing cities in the U.S., with a rapidly expanding population driven by residential development, a strong economy, and access to nearby Boise.

Colleges and Universities

College of Western Idaho (CWI): Meridian is home to CWI’s largest campus, offering associate degrees, technical training, and certificate programs in areas like business, healthcare, and technology. The college serves as a vital educational institution for the growing population in the Boise metropolitan area.
Boise State University (nearby Boise): Many Meridian residents commute to BSU for its wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
Idaho State University (Meridian Health Science Center): A branch of ISU focused on health sciences, offering professional programs in nursing, pharmacy, and physical therapy.
University of Idaho (Boise Campus): Although located in nearby Boise, U of I’s professional programs attract many students from Meridian, particularly those pursuing law, business, and public administration degrees.
Northwest Nazarene University (Nampa): This private Christian university, located just outside Meridian, provides degrees in education, business, and liberal arts, drawing students from across the Treasure Valley.

Major Landmarks

Meridian features several family-friendly landmarks and attractions. Roaring Springs Waterpark is one of the largest waterparks in the Pacific Northwest, drawing visitors from across Idaho. Wahooz Family Fun Zone offers mini-golf, go-karts, and arcade games. Julius M. Kleiner Memorial Park is a large community park with playgrounds, sports fields, and scenic walking paths. The Meridian Speedway hosts local racing events, while the Village at Meridian is a shopping and dining destination with a movie theater, fountain displays, and regular events. Meridian History Center offers a glimpse into the city’s agricultural past, preserving historical artifacts from its early years.

3. Nampa

City Facts

Population: 106,186 (2023 estimate)
Area Code: 208, 986
Zip Codes: 83651–83687
County: Canyon County

Geography and History

Nampa is located in southwestern Idaho, about 20 miles west of Boise, in the Treasure Valley. Its geography includes the Snake River Plain and fertile agricultural land, contributing to its longstanding role in Idaho’s farming and ranching industries. Nampa was founded in 1886 as a railroad town, quickly growing as a center for commerce and agriculture. The city’s economy thrived thanks to its position along the Oregon Short Line Railroad and the construction of irrigation canals that supported farming in the region. Today, Nampa is a rapidly growing city, known for its agricultural heritage, expanding manufacturing sector, and suburban development.

Colleges and Universities

Northwest Nazarene University (NNU): A private Christian liberal arts university located in Nampa, offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs in fields like business, education, nursing, and theology. NNU is well-regarded for its focus on faith-based education and strong ties to the local community.
College of Western Idaho (Nampa Campus): Serving Nampa and the surrounding areas, CWI offers associate degrees and technical programs in fields like automotive technology, healthcare, and business. Its Nampa campus is a key educational institution for students pursuing vocational training.
Boise State University (nearby Boise): Many Nampa residents commute to BSU for its variety of degree programs, particularly in engineering, business, and the arts.
University of Idaho (Boise Campus): Located nearby in Boise, U of I attracts Nampa students to its law, business, and public administration programs.
Idaho State University (Meridian Campus): ISU’s health science programs draw students from Nampa interested in nursing, pharmacy, and physical therapy.

Major Landmarks

Nampa is home to several key landmarks, including the Nampa Civic Center, which hosts concerts, performances, and community events. Lake Lowell offers outdoor recreation, including boating, fishing, and wildlife viewing as part of the Deer Flat National Wildlife Refuge. The Warhawk Air Museum preserves aviation history, with exhibits on World War II and modern military aircraft. Ford Idaho Center is a major entertainment venue, hosting rodeos, concerts, and the Snake River Stampede, one of the top rodeos in the U.S. Downtown Nampa has preserved its historic charm, with local shops, restaurants, and cultural events contributing to the city’s vibrant community life.

4. Idaho Falls

City Facts

Population: 67,599 (2023 estimate)
Area Code: 208, 986
Zip Codes: 83401–83406
County: Bonneville County

Geography and History

Idaho Falls is located in eastern Idaho, along the Snake River, in the fertile Snake River Plain. The city is surrounded by agricultural land, mountains, and is near Yellowstone National Park. Idaho Falls began as a small settlement in the 1860s known as Eagle Rock, serving travelers on the Oregon Trail. The construction of a bridge and later a dam on the Snake River allowed the town to grow, and it was renamed Idaho Falls in 1891. Agriculture, hydropower, and, more recently, nuclear research at the Idaho National Laboratory have driven the local economy. Idaho Falls serves as a regional hub for healthcare, retail, and cultural activities in eastern Idaho.

Colleges and Universities

Idaho State University (Idaho Falls Campus): A public university with a regional campus offering undergraduate and graduate programs in nursing, business, and engineering. The campus is closely linked to the Idaho National Laboratory, providing specialized research opportunities.
University of Idaho (Idaho Falls Campus): Focused on graduate programs, particularly in engineering and science, U of I’s Idaho Falls campus serves students working in or aspiring to work in the local energy and research sectors.
Eastern Idaho Technical College (College of Eastern Idaho): Offers technical and vocational training in fields like healthcare, technology, and trades. It is a key educational resource for students seeking to enter Idaho’s growing tech and energy industries.
Brigham Young University–Idaho (nearby Rexburg): Many students from Idaho Falls attend this private university, known for its programs in business, education, and the liberal arts, located in nearby Rexburg.
Stevens-Henager College (Idaho Falls Campus): A private college offering career-focused programs in business, healthcare, and technology.

Major Landmarks

Idaho Falls is known for its scenic Snake River Greenbelt, which offers walking and biking paths along the river, with views of the Idaho Falls waterfalls. The Art Museum of Eastern Idaho showcases local and regional art, while Museum of Idaho presents exhibits on the region’s natural history and culture. Tautphaus Park Zoo is one of the oldest zoos in the state, and Melaleuca Field hosts minor league baseball games. The Colonial Theater is a historic venue for performing arts, and Idaho Falls River Walk is a popular spot for community events and outdoor activities. The city’s proximity to Yellowstone National Park and Grand Teton National Park makes it a gateway to some of the most beautiful natural areas in the U.S.

5. Pocatello

City Facts

Population: 57,660 (2023 estimate)
Area Code: 208, 986
Zip Codes: 83201–83209
County: Bannock County

Geography and History

Pocatello is located in southeastern Idaho, along the Portneuf River, nestled between mountain ranges in the high desert region. Its semi-arid climate offers hot summers and cold winters, with access to outdoor activities year-round. Pocatello was founded in the 1880s as a railroad town and was named after Chief Pocatello of the Shoshone tribe. The city grew rapidly due to its strategic location on the railroad and its role as a hub for agriculture and trade in the region. Today, Pocatello is a regional center for education, manufacturing, and transportation, with a strong connection to Idaho State University.

Colleges and Universities

Idaho State University (ISU): The largest educational institution in Pocatello, ISU offers undergraduate and graduate programs in fields such as business, engineering, health sciences, and education. ISU is also home to Idaho’s College of Pharmacy and College of Technology.
College of Southern Idaho (Pocatello Extension): Offers associate degrees and vocational training for Pocatello residents, with a focus on technical education and workforce development.
Brigham Young University–Idaho (nearby Rexburg): Located about an hour’s drive from Pocatello, BYU–Idaho attracts students from the region with its programs in education, business, and agriculture.
University of Idaho (distance education): Many Pocatello residents take advantage of U of I’s online and distance learning programs, particularly in fields like law, public administration, and engineering.
Stevens-Henager College (Idaho Falls Campus): Located nearby, this private institution offers degrees in business, healthcare, and technology, attracting students from Pocatello.

Major Landmarks

Pocatello is known for its historical and cultural landmarks, including the Fort Hall Replica, which commemorates the original 19th-century trading post. Museum of Clean offers unique exhibits focused on cleanliness and sanitation history, while the Bannock County Historical Museum explores local history. Idaho Museum of Natural History on ISU’s campus features exhibits on Idaho’s natural environment, archaeology, and paleontology. Pebble Creek Ski Area, located nearby, is a popular winter destination. Zoo Idaho offers a glimpse into local wildlife, and Ross Park Aquatic Complex is a favorite for summer recreation. Old Town Pocatello preserves the city’s historic buildings and hosts community events.

List of Cities in Idaho Alphabetically

1. Boise

City Facts

Geography and History

Colleges and Universities

Major Landmarks

2. Meridian

City Facts

Geography and History

Colleges and Universities

Major Landmarks

3. Nampa

City Facts

Geography and History

Colleges and Universities

Major Landmarks

4. Idaho Falls

City Facts

Geography and History

Colleges and Universities

Major Landmarks

5. Pocatello

City Facts

Geography and History

Colleges and Universities

Major Landmarks

List of All Cities and Towns in Idaho in Alphabetical Order

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