Is Burley Safe, Pros and cons of living in Burley

Is it Safe to Live in Burley?

Burley, Idaho, presents a mixed picture regarding safety, with crime rates that are higher than the national average but lower than many other communities of similar size. The overall crime rate in Burley is reported at 11 crimes per one thousand residents (NeighborhoodScout). This rate indicates that while Burley is not among the communities with the very highest crime rates, it is still a place where caution is advised.

When examining specific crime types, violent crime in Burley occurs at a rate higher than in most communities across America (NeighborhoodScout). The chance of becoming a victim of violent crime, such as armed robbery or aggravated assault, is approximately 1 in 452, or 2 per one thousand inhabitants (NeighborhoodScout). Property crime also presents a concern, with a rate of 9 per one thousand population, meaning there is an above-average chance of falling victim to theft, burglary, arson, or motor vehicle theft (NeighborhoodScout).

Housing Costs and Availability

The housing market in Burley, Idaho, offers more affordable options compared to the national average. As of March 2026, the average home value in Burley was approximately $330,751, showing a 5.6% increase over the past year (Zillow). This median home price is considerably lower than many other areas, making homeownership more accessible for many.

Rental prices in Burley are also notably lower than the national average. As of May 2026, the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment was $891 per month, which is 46% less than the national average (Apartments.com). For a two-bedroom apartment, the average rent is around $1,182 per month, and for a three-bedroom, it’s approximately $1,398 per month (Apartments.com). These figures suggest that renting in Burley is an economically viable option.

Home Prices

The median listing price for homes in Burley was $402,500 as of March 2026 (Realtor.com®). This figure reflects a year-over-year price momentum of 10.05%, indicating sustained demand from buyers (Realtor.com®). However, other sources suggest a slightly lower median home price, with Redfin reporting the average Burley house price at $256,000 last month, down 18.8% since last year (Redfin). This discrepancy may be due to different methodologies or market segments analyzed by each source.

Rental Market

The rental market in Burley is active, with an average rent of $891 per month for a one-bedroom apartment (Apartments.com). This is a 46% decrease compared to the national average rent (Apartments.com). Rent in Burley has seen a slight increase of 1.9% over the past year, averaging an additional $18 per month (Apartments.com). The rental market shows a demand for housing, with a reported 7 active rental listings, indicating a relatively tight market (Realtor.com®).

Job Market and Economy

Burley’s economy is diverse, with key industries including manufacturing, retail trade, and agriculture. The city employs approximately 22,131 people, and in 2024, the largest sectors were Manufacturing (3,605 people), Retail Trade (2,609 people), and Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing & Hunting (2,591 people) (Data USA). The city has a significant presence in food processing, with McCain Foods being the largest French fry-producing plant in North America (Southern Idaho Economic Development).

The average salary in Burley, Idaho, is approximately $72,612 annually, translating to an hourly wage of about $35 (ERI SalaryExpert). This figure is competitive within the region, though specific salaries can vary widely based on industry and role. The unemployment rate in Burley is notably low, often reported as much lower than the national average (Point2Homes).

Major Employers

Several major companies contribute to Burley’s employment landscape. Intermountain Healthcare is a significant healthcare provider in the region (Zippia). Other key employers include C-A-L Ranch Stores, D.L. Evans Bank, Idaho Milk Transport, and Goode Motor Ford (Zippia). The presence of these diverse businesses provides a range of job opportunities for residents.

Salaries and Wages

The average annual salary in Burley is around $72,612, with salaries typically ranging from $63,494 to $83,077 (ERI SalaryExpert). For a skilled laborer, the average hourly wage is approximately $18.24 (Indeed). These figures provide a general understanding of earning potential within the city.

Climate and Environment

Burley experiences a semi-arid climate characterized by cold winters and hot, dry summers. The temperature typically ranges from 20°F to 88°F throughout the year, with extreme temperatures rarely falling below 5°F or exceeding 96°F (Burley Municipal Airport). The hottest month is July, with average highs of 87°F and lows of 56°F, while January is the coldest, with average lows of 21°F and highs of 36°F (Burley Municipal Airport).

Precipitation in Burley is relatively low, consistent with its semi-arid climate. The area experiences distinct seasons, with clear summers and cloudier winters. Average monthly wind speeds vary, with higher speeds typically in February and lower speeds in August (Burley Municipal Airport).

Average Temperatures

Summers in Burley are warm and generally clear, with July being the hottest month, averaging a high of 87°F (Burley Municipal Airport). Winters are cold, with January seeing average lows of 21°F (Burley Municipal Airport). The temperature variation throughout the year means residents experience distinct seasonal changes.

Rainfall and Precipitation

Burley receives a modest amount of precipitation annually, typical for a semi-arid region. Specific monthly precipitation data is available, showing variations throughout the year, with higher amounts often occurring in spring and fall months (Burley, Idaho Climate Summary). Snowfall is also a factor during the winter months.

Education and Schools

The educational landscape in Burley, Idaho, is served by the Cassia County Joint School District and the Minidoka County Joint School District. These districts oversee a range of public schools from elementary to high school levels.

Burley Senior High School has an overall Niche grade of C+, with 1,024 students in grades 9-12 (Niche). According to state test scores, 22% of students are proficient in math and 43% in reading (Niche). Other schools in the district, such as Burley Junior High School, also receive a C+ overall grade (Niche).

School Ratings

Burley Senior High School holds an overall Niche grade of C+ (Niche). The school has a student-teacher ratio of 19 to 1 (Niche). While the school shows strengths in areas like diversity (A-), it faces challenges in academic proficiency, with 22% of students scoring proficient in math and 43% in reading (Niche).

School Districts

The Cassia County Joint School District serves a significant portion of Burley’s students, operating 17 schools with approximately 5,507 students (Niche). This district has an overall Niche grade of B- (Niche). The Minidoka County Joint School District also serves some areas around Burley, receiving a rating of 4.07 out of 5 (Niche).

Demographics and Population

Burley, Idaho, has a population of approximately 11,704 residents as of the 2020 census (Wikipedia). The city’s population has seen steady growth over the past few decades (Wikipedia). The median age in Burley is 31.6 years (Wikipedia).

The racial and ethnic makeup of Burley is diverse. In 2021, the city’s population was composed of 60.3% White, 33.8% Hispanic (any race), 0.9% Native American, 0.4% Asian, and 4.0% identifying with two or more races (Wikipedia). The Hispanic or Latino population constitutes a significant portion of the city’s residents.

Population Trends

Burley has experienced steady population growth over the years, with its population reaching 11,704 in 2020, an increase from 10,345 in 2010 (Wikipedia). The city is projected to continue this growth, with an estimated population of 12,435 in 2026 (Burley Population 2026).

Ethnic and Racial Makeup

The demographic profile of Burley shows a White population making up approximately 60.3% of residents, followed by a substantial Hispanic or Latino population at 33.8% (Wikipedia). Other racial groups, including Native American and Asian populations, are present in smaller percentages (Wikipedia).

Cost of Living

Burley, Idaho, offers a cost of living that is generally lower than the national average. The overall cost of living in Burley is estimated to be 9% lower than the U.S. national average (Salary.com). This affordability is a significant draw for individuals and families considering a move to the area.

Key components of the cost of living, such as housing and food, are particularly more affordable in Burley. Housing costs are about 22.7% lower than the national average, and food expenses are 34.1% below average (Salary.com). While energy, transportation, and healthcare costs are slightly higher than the national average, the overall savings contribute to a lower cost of living.

Housing Costs

Housing costs in Burley are a major factor contributing to its affordability. The average monthly rent for a single person is $928, and for a family of four, it is $1,701 (Salary.com). These figures are substantially lower than the national averages, making Burley an attractive option for those seeking budget-friendly housing.

Everyday Expenses

Beyond housing, everyday expenses in Burley are also relatively low. Food costs are about 34.1% below the national average (Salary.com). While utilities, transportation, and healthcare are slightly more expensive than the national average, they do not significantly offset the overall cost savings experienced in Burley.