Idaho State Facts & Information

As of July 1, 2024, Idaho's population was 2,001,619, an increase of 30,497 from 2023. Idaho grew at a rate of 1.5% in 2024, ranking 7th in the nation for growth. The state continues to grow faster than the U.S. population overall, with most growth coming from people moving into the state rather than natural population increase.

Governor Brad Little is the 33rd governor of Idaho, serving since January 2019 and reelected in November 2022. A member of the Republican Party, he previously served as lieutenant governor from 2009 to 2019. His tenure is marked by unprecedented red tape reduction, record tax relief, and historic investments in education, workforce training, and infrastructure. In 2024, he signed House Bill 521, allocating $2 billion over 10 years for school facility projects.

Idaho's nominal GDP in 2024 was approximately $129 billion, with GDP per capita at $49,761, up 2.3% from 2023. The state's real GDP in inflation-adjusted terms was about $99.6 billion. Idaho ranked 46th in GDP per capita among all 50 states. The information industry has shown exceptional growth, with 2024 GDP at 2.3 times the 2014 level.

Idaho's primary industries include manufacturing, agriculture, food processing, timber, and mining. The finance, insurance, real estate, rental, and leasing industry adds the most real value to Idaho's GDP. Idaho is the number one producer of potatoes in the nation, contributing to 32% of the country's production. The state also has strong technology and information sectors, with that industry growing to 2.3 times its 2014 size.

Idaho's population growth of 1.5% in 2024 is driven primarily by in-migration rather than natural growth. The U.S. Census Bureau reports that most growth comes from people moving into the state, with natural growth accounting for only 6,195 people. Idaho outpaced its neighbors Washington, Wyoming, Montana, and Oregon in growth. Factors attracting newcomers include lower cost of living, business-friendly climate, outdoor recreation opportunities, and quality of life.

In his 2024 State of the State address, Governor Little identified funding for school facilities as his top priority. He signed House Bill 521 on April 2, 2024, which allocated $2 billion in total funding across 10 years for school facility projects across the state. This represents historic investment in education infrastructure and demonstrates the state's commitment to supporting growth in education alongside population growth.

Idaho.gov is the official website serving as your link to all official government resources, information, and online services. The site features an A-Z Agency Directory with direct links to all state agencies, boards, and commissions. Major departments include Agriculture, Children & Family Services, Consumer Protection, Correction, Education, Emergency Management, Health and Welfare, and Motor Vehicles. The Governor's office can be reached at 208-334-2100.

Idaho has 44 counties, making it one of the states with the most counties relative to its population. Counties range from heavily populated Ada County (containing Boise) to rural counties with fewer than 1,000 residents. Each county has its own government structure, typically including commissioners, sheriff, assessor, and other elected officials.

Governor Little's administration has delivered record tax relief to Idahoans. The state has implemented unprecedented red tape reduction and maintained business-friendly policies. Idaho has a flat income tax rate and competitive property tax rates compared to neighboring states. The state maintains prudent fiscal management with balanced budgets and strong credit ratings, making it attractive for both businesses and individuals.

Idaho stands out for its combination of rapid population growth (7th in the nation), strong agricultural heritage (leading potato producer at 32% of U.S. production), diverse geography from mountains to high desert, and growing technology sector. The state successfully balances traditional industries like agriculture, timber, and mining with modern sectors like information technology and professional services. Idaho's growth rate of 1.5% in 2024 outpaced all neighboring western states except Utah and Nevada.