Is Rexburg Safe, Pros and cons of living in Rexburg
Rexburg, Idaho, nestled in the Upper Snake River Valley, offers a unique blend of small-town charm and modern amenities. Known for its strong sense of community and proximity to natural beauty, Rexburg is a growing city that attracts those seeking a particular lifestyle. This guide explores the safety, cost of living, employment, climate, education, and demographics to provide a comprehensive overview for potential residents.
Understanding the various facets of life in Rexburg is crucial for anyone considering a move. From the safety of its neighborhoods to the opportunities available in its job market, this article aims to provide a clear picture. We will delve into the specifics of what makes Rexburg a distinct place to live, covering essential aspects that influence daily life and long-term satisfaction.
Is it Safe to Live in Rexburg?
Rexburg is considered a very safe city, with crime rates significantly below national averages. Violent crime in Rexburg is substantially lower than the national average, contributing to its reputation as a secure place to live. Property crime rates are also remarkably low, further enhancing the city’s safety profile.
According to FBI crime data, Rexburg’s average violent crime rate is approximately 12.2 per 100,000 residents, which is 88.5% below the national average (as reported by FBI crime data). Property crime averages about 9.8 incidents per 100,000 residents, also well below the national average (as reported by FBI crime data). NeighborhoodScout’s analysis of FBI crime statistics also indicates that Rexburg is safer than 61% of cities and towns in the U.S. (as reported by NeighborhoodScout).
Crime Statistics Overview
Over a recent five-year period, Rexburg recorded a low number of violent and property crimes. The city’s police department actively serves the community, maintaining a strong presence that contributes to public safety. This low crime environment is a significant draw for families and individuals alike.
The FBI Crime Data Explorer shows that Rexburg has experienced a low incidence of crime, with property crime being the most common offense, yet still at a very low rate. For instance, motor vehicle theft rates are exceptionally low compared to national benchmarks (as reported by FBI crime data). Furthermore, there have been a small number of reported hate crime incidents, with motivations spanning race, religion, and sexual orientation (as reported by FBI crime data).
Cost of Living in Rexburg
The cost of living in Rexburg is generally considered affordable, particularly when compared to national averages. While some costs may be higher than the Idaho state average, they remain competitive within the broader U.S. context.
The average cost of living in Rexburg is approximately $1988 per month, placing it in the top 22% of the most expensive cities globally but ranking favorably within the United States and Idaho (as reported by livingcost.org). This figure suggests that while Rexburg is not the cheapest city, it offers value, especially considering its amenities and location. For a single person, monthly living expenses are estimated around $2142, and for a family of four, around $4669 (as reported by Salary.com).
Housing Costs
Housing is a significant factor in the cost of living, and Rexburg offers relatively affordable options. Both rental and purchase prices are generally lower than the national median, making homeownership and renting accessible.
The median home price in Rexburg was approximately $350,000 as of March 2026 (as reported by Redfin). This reflects an increase from the previous year, indicating a growing market. Renting a one-bedroom apartment in Rexburg can start around $900 per month, with two-bedroom units averaging closer to $1,095 (as reported by Zillow and Rent.).
Everyday Expenses
Beyond housing, other daily expenses in Rexburg are also budget-friendly. Groceries and dining out are generally more affordable than in many other parts of the country. Transportation costs are also relatively low, especially for those who own a vehicle.
Grocery expenses for one person might range from $250 to $300 monthly. Dining at a casual restaurant typically costs between $12 and $15 per person. Transportation costs are considered inexpensive, contributing to the overall affordability of living in Rexburg (as reported by Kenna Real Estate Group).
Job Market and Economy
Rexburg boasts a diverse and growing job market, significantly influenced by its educational institutions and local businesses. The presence of Brigham Young University-Idaho (BYU-Idaho) is a major economic driver, creating numerous employment opportunities.
The largest industries in Rexburg include Educational Services, Retail Trade, and Health Care & Social Assistance (as reported by Data USA). Brigham Young University-Idaho alone employs a substantial number of people, providing a stable economic base for the city. Other significant employers include Madison Memorial Hospital and the City of Rexburg itself (as reported by Zippia and City of Rexburg).
Employment Statistics
The employed population in Rexburg is growing, with a positive annual growth rate in employment. The unemployment rate remains relatively low, indicating a healthy job market. The average salary in Rexburg provides a reasonable standard of living, especially when considering the city’s cost of living.
As of April 2026, the average annual salary in Rexburg is around $39,421 (as reported by ZipRecruiter). The unemployment rate was approximately 4.20% in early 2026 (as reported by YCharts). While the median household income was reported as $50,617 in 2024 (as reported by US Census Bureau), this is often balanced by the lower cost of living compared to national averages.
Climate and Weather
Rexburg experiences a climate characterized by distinct seasons, with warm summers and cold, snowy winters. The city enjoys a significant amount of sunshine throughout the year, balanced by moderate precipitation.
Summers in Rexburg are typically warm, dry, and mostly clear, with average daily high temperatures in July reaching around 84°F (as reported by Weather Spark). Winters are cold and snowy, with average daily high temperatures in January around 28°F and average lows of 13°F (as reported by Weather Spark). The city rarely experiences temperatures outside the range of 13°F to 86°F throughout the year (as reported by Weather Spark).
Precipitation and Seasonal Variations
Rexburg receives a moderate amount of rainfall annually, with precipitation spread throughout the year. May typically sees the most rain, while January has the least. Snowfall is common during the winter months, contributing to the picturesque winter landscape.
The average annual rainfall in Rexburg is around 13 inches (as reported by Livability.com). The wetter season, with a greater than 20% chance of precipitation, lasts from November to June, while the drier season spans from June to November. Snowfall averages about 55 inches per year (as reported by Livability.com).
Education and Schools
Rexburg is served by the Madison School District, which is highly regarded for its commitment to academic excellence. The district offers a comprehensive range of educational opportunities for students from early childhood through high school.
The Madison School District has a strong reputation, with an 89% high school graduation rate (as reported by City of Rexburg). The district operates an early education center, six elementary schools, a middle school, a junior high, and two high schools. Niche.com gives the Madison School District an overall rating of 4.37 out of 5, based on reviews and statistics from the U.S. Department of Education (as reported by Niche).
School Performance
Schools in Rexburg generally receive good ratings, reflecting the quality of education provided. Public schools in the area are noted for their student-teacher ratios and academic performance, with several elementary and high schools receiving positive reviews.
Madison Senior High School, for instance, holds a rating of 4.03 out of 5 (as reported by Niche). Central Elementary School is rated as a B-minus, with a student-teacher ratio of 17:1 (as reported by Niche). These ratings indicate a consistent focus on educational quality across the district.
Demographics and Population
Rexburg is a growing city with a relatively young median age, largely influenced by its large student population from Brigham Young University-Idaho. The population is predominantly White, with significant Hispanic and smaller percentages of other ethnic groups.
As of 2024, Rexburg’s population was approximately 40,695 (as reported by Data Commons). The median age in Rexburg is 21.0 years (as reported by US Census Bureau). The racial composition is about 81.2% White, 11.2% Hispanic, and 3.2% reporting Two or More Races (as reported by US Census Bureau).
Population Trends and Diversity
Rexburg has experienced significant population growth over the past decade. Projections indicate continued growth, although recent trends suggest a slight stabilization or minor decline after a period of rapid expansion. The city’s demographic makeup is largely consistent with its regional context, with a strong presence of the White and Hispanic populations.
The projected population for Rexburg in 2026 is 47,466, assuming an annual growth rate of 8.5% (as reported by US Census Bureau). However, other estimates suggest a more recent population of around 39,975 in 2023, with a slight decrease from the previous year (as reported by Neilsberg). The majority of residents are U.S. citizens, with a small percentage born outside the country (as reported by Data USA).
Pros and Cons of Living in Rexburg
Rexburg offers a compelling package for those seeking a community-oriented lifestyle with a lower cost of living and a safe environment. Its educational opportunities and natural surroundings are significant advantages.
Pros include a very low crime rate, making it a safe place to live (as reported by FBI crime data, NeighborhoodScout). The cost of living is also generally more affordable than the national average, particularly housing costs (as reported by livingcost.org, Redfin, Zillow). The presence of BYU-Idaho provides educational and cultural enrichment, and the city’s proximity to outdoor recreational areas is a major draw.
However, potential residents should consider the city’s climate, with cold, snowy winters. The median income, while offset by the cost of living, is lower than the national average (as reported by US Census Bureau, ZipRecruiter). The city’s demographics are also notably young, which may not appeal to all individuals or families.