Smile—it’s the law…. literally. Pocatello, home of Idaho State University, is considered the “U.S. Smile Capital” because a tongue-in-cheek ordinance passed in 1948 made it illegal not to smile. The law, passed after a particularly long and cold winter, unintentionally remained on the books and is now a point of pride for the city of about 58,000. “Pocatello is a small enough community where I can run into someone and have a chat, and it’s a big enough community where we can attract those major retailers and restaurants,” says Greg Johnston, realtor at Premier Properties Real Estate Company. Pocatello started as a railroad town along the Oregon Trail, earning the nickname “Gateway to the Northwest.” Today, locals enjoy a slow-paced lifestyle with easy access to cultural activities like museums and sporting events.
Pocatello has been steadily growing for the past few years. The current population is around 58,000, 3% higher than 2020. The city makes up more than half of the Bannock County population. “Many people are moving out here because of the good quality of life and the lower real estate costs compared to Boise or Salt Lake City. It's a good balance of a small town feel and plenty of entertainment,” Johnston adds. White-collar jobs dominate the employment market; major industries include administrative support, sales and management. Large employers include Idaho State University, Pocatello/Chubback School District and the City of Pocatello.
Kids will enjoy the quirky and fun exhibits at the Museum of Clean in downtown Pocatello.
Classic mid century architecture paired with colorful murals will bring joy to your day and a smile to your face.
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Over 30 parks and trails
The Pocatello Parks and Recreation Department manages over 30 parks, multiple recreation facilities and trails. Upper Ross Park, home to Zoo Idaho, is popular because of its disc golf course, skate park and dog parks; in 2024, the city opened a pickleball complex with five courts. The Portneuf Greenway is a collection of trails totaling 13 miles for hiking, biking, rollerblading and jogging, and the Community Recreation Center has a fitness center with aerobics classes. For winter activities, Pebble Creek Ski Area is a family-friendly resort with trails for all levels, and the city also runs a ski area, the East Fork Mink Creek Nordic Center.
Sacajawea Park in Pocatello offers miles of paved trails in the heart of the city.
With miles of paved trails throughout the Pocatello area you wont be short of choices for your next run or walk.
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Variety of homes at lower prices than Boise
Pocatello’s median home price is $330,000, $185,000 less than Boise's. Johnston noted that the busiest time in the market is during summer, usually when students return to school. The oldest properties are concentrated in Historic Downtown and near the ISU campus, including bungalows and fixer-uppers predating the 1950s. Scattered throughout the city’s north side and east of campus are manufactured homes, ramblers, and 21st-century craftsman houses.
Colorful murals adorn the sides of buildings throughout the charming town of Pocatello.
Cottages and bungalows in Pocatello offer affordable space for smaller families and empty nesters.
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Architecturally diverse structures in Downtown Pocatello
Historic Downtown Pocatello has a country feel across its 18 blocks. It contains various architectural styles, such as Romanesque Revival, Art Deco and Gothic Revival properties; folks may also spot dates and builder’s initials on rooftops. Restaurants, service businesses and antique sellers operate from the first floor of the historic buildings, and when nighttime strikes, people flock to Main Street’s breweries and taprooms. Chain restaurants, mom-and-pop restaurants and national retailers sit along Highway 91, and grocery shopping can be done at Fred Meyer and WinCo Foods. The Pine Ridge Mall has a handful of stores, including JCPenney and Bath & Body Works.
Downtown Pocatello offers a rich and unique blend of old and new architecture from the 1930s to modern day.
Hotel Yellowstone in downtown Pocatello is one of the cities best known landmarks.
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Home to the World's Largest Janitor
Pocatello appears in many media depictions of Western and pop culture. It is mentioned in Judy Garland’s song “Born in a Trunk” from 1954’s “A Star is Born,” and its Western side comes through in the 1934 film “The Pocatello Kid.” Today, folks can see shows at the Rocky Mountain Ministries, a performing arts theatre, or watch the latest films at AMC Theatre. Holt Arena, or the ICCU Dome, is an enclosed stadium home to the Idaho State Bengals football team. “Saturdays in the fall, people are out tailgating then go to the football game,” Johnston says. Folks can meet the World’s Largest Janitor, Big Don, who stands over 20 feet tall at the Museum of Clean. The 75,000-square-foot museum goes through the history of cleaning, including over 100 years of vacuums and various collections of toilets.
Claimed as the Worlds Largest Janitor Big Don towers over visitors at the Museum of Clean in downtown Pocatello.
The Museum of Clean in Pocatello offers hours of good clean fun for kids of all ages.
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Pocatello/Chubback Schools is Idaho's fifth largest district
Pocatello/Chubback School District teaches over 12,000 students and is the fifth-largest district in the state. Rated B-plus by Niche, the district has 23 schools and an 89% graduation rate. Pocatello is also home to Idaho State University’s main campus; the college has approximately 13,000 students across 250 programs.
The Bowen Rendevous Center at Idaho State University is the central hub for student life on campus.
Students in Pocatello attend schools in the Pocatello Chubbock school district 25.
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Easy access to two major interstates
Pocatello has two major interstates. Interstate 15 runs north to south through the city, reaching Blackfoot and Downey, while Interstate 86 runs east to west, connecting the city to Twin Falls. The Pocatello Regional Transit is the city’s busing system; its seven routes have drop-off spots around the city, Idaho State University and Chubbuck. The Pocatello Regional Airport has two daily flights to Salt Lake City via Delta Airlines. Portneuf Medical Center offers medical care. Pocatello has four seasons, including snowy winters and hot summers where temperatures reach the 90s.
6% uptick in crime
According to the Idaho State Police 2023 Crime Report, Pocatello had a 6% increase in crime from 2022 to 2023. While it is an increase, the city has been on a downward trend in crime for the last five years. The most common offenses are assault and larceny. The city’s crime rate is reported to be 41% higher than the state’s crime rate.
Written By
Courtney Murphy
Photography Contributed By
Chad Jackson
Video By
Jonathan Bradley
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GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Pocatello, ID sell after 61 days on the market compared to the national average of 57 days. The median sale price for homes in Pocatello, ID over the last 12 months is $321,250, down 1% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Location, Location, Location! This home sits in a highly desirable neighborhood with close proximity to parks, shopping, and everyday amenities. The sellers have loved this location and it show. The home has been tastefully updated over the past few years with a remodeled kitchen, new flooring, and fresh interior paint. The main level features three bedrooms, two bathrooms and main floor laundry.
Welcome to this move-in ready upper west bench home in Pocatello, ID. The main level features new flooring and fresh interior paint, along with a convenient half bathroom and laundry area. Upstairs offers a versatile living space that could be used as a family room or office, along with three bedrooms and two full bathrooms. The home has seen numerous updates to give buyers peace of mind,
Adorable 3 bedroom 2 bath home with all the Charm and Upgrades you would want to see in the University Area! Great Location and Amenities with a strong rental history as an Airbnb. People Love this house! Come and See it For Yourself! The Many Upgrades include, New Roof (2022), Newer Water Heater and Softener, Newer Furnace and Central Air, Newer Fridge and Stove, Remote Keyless Entry System.
This exceptional property blends comfort, functionality, and income potential in a truly scenic setting. The kitchen features stunning Brazilian granite countertops, solid dark cherry wood cabinetry, and a gas stove—perfect for both everyday living and entertaining. Two natural gas furnaces, central air conditioning, and two natural gas fireplaces provide year-round comfort and efficiency. Step
Skip the "to-do" list and move right into this comfortable 6 bed, 3 full bathroom home in one of Chubbuck’s most desirable neighborhoods! First you’ll notice the curb appeal from the low maintenance landscaping, a 2 car garage, and lots of concrete for off street parking, which includes a large area for your RV! When you enter the almost 2,700 sqft ranch-style home, you’re greeted by a tall
Step inside this move-in ready home with no backyard neighbors! The property is perfectly situated next to Brooklyn’s Playground and the splash pad, offering a great location for outdoor fun and convenience. Inside, the home features a very functional layout with new carpet and gas fireplaces on both the main level and in the basement. The primary suite includes a newly renovated bathroom with a
Super cute home with no one behind you and with a view! This home featuring 4 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, a family room, and a living room. The spacious open kitchen includes a breakfast bar, and all appliances are included. The primary suite offers a walk-in closet, jetted tub, and shower. The laundry room is conveniently located near the bedrooms. Recent updates include newer carpet throughout the
This charming end-unit condo features a newer roof, a two-car garage/Carport, extra parking, an additional RV parking area, and Nice big windows that bring in the natural light. Freshly painted, newly renovated bathroom with a new tub, shower, sink, lighting, and countertops. The kitchen features ample counter space and a breakfast bar, and it is equipped with a refrigerator, stove, and
Location, Location, Location! This home sits in a highly desirable neighborhood with close proximity to parks, shopping, and everyday amenities. The sellers have loved this location and it show. The home has been tastefully updated over the past few years with a remodeled kitchen, new flooring, and fresh interior paint. The main level features three bedrooms, two bathrooms and main floor laundry.
OWNER FINANCING AVAILABLE WITH A MONTHLY PAYMENT LOWER THAN MOST TRADITIONAL LOAN OPTIONS! Beautifully updated 2-bedroom, 1.5-bath townhome offering comfortable, low-maintenance living. The interior has been refreshed with modern three-tone paint and durable LVP flooring throughout. The eat-in kitchen features tile flooring, a breakfast bar, updated appliances.. Just off the kitchen is a spacious
Spacious 1,800 square foot 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom, manufactured home. This home offers a functional layout with an open living area, large kitchen, office, laundry room, and comfortable bedrooms. Ideal for a new lot or private land. Home has a new water heater, updated plumbing, and some updated electrical. Home must be moved—Buyer is responsible for relocation and verifying all needed
Welcome to this spacious home located in the desirable university area of Pocatello. This 5-bedroom, 3-bathroom property offers plenty of room to spread out along with flexibility for a variety of living situations. This home is truly a hidden oasis—you have to see it in person and walk through it to fully appreciate everything it has to offer. The main level features hardwood flooring throughout
Peaceful living near Ross Park! This well-kept manufactured home in Cowboy Trailer Park features a two-car detached garage, quiet surroundings, and views of geese and deer in the nearby field. Enjoy a plum tree in back and easy access to the Ross Park Aquatic Complex, Zoo, Fort Hall Replica, and trail system. Lot rent $595/month includes sewer and garbage; water prorated.
$5000 Buyer's allowance. Looking for convenient single-level living? This charming 2-bedroom home could be just what you've been searching for! It features a bright and inviting living room and kitchen, beautiful hardwood floors, and the comfort of gas forced-air heating and central air conditioning. You'll also enjoy low-maintenance vinyl windows and siding, a spacious open deck, and a large
Welcome to this beautiful 2-story brick home that has been tastefully updated throughout. The home features an updated kitchen with granite countertops, and new flooring throughout. The bathroom offers a beautifully tiled custom shower with a glass door for a modern touch. Enjoy the comfort of gas heat and central A/C year-round. Situated on a corner lot, the property includes a fenced yard,
Bengal Creek apartments, in Pocatello, Idaho offers shared STUDENT apartment homes for rent. Located only a mile from ISU. The ISU shuttle stops at Bengal Creek regularly throughout the day. These fabulous apartments for rent offer shared living space, with all utilities included in the rent and free cable TV and free broadband internet access. Bengal Creek has a spa, pool, laundry facility,
New Rental in Pocatello! This well-maintained Double-wide trailer offers a comfortable and functional living space with three bedrooms and two bathrooms. The open layout features a spacious living area that flows seamlessly into the kitchen, quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, making it perfect for both everyday living and entertaining. This home has The master bedroom boasts its own
This brand new, stunning home includes 3 bedrooms, 2 full bathrooms and one-half bathroom. It offers an open living room connected to the kitchen, a family room and a versatile office or den area. The primary suite boasts two walk-in closets and a luxurious shower. Additionally, there are two other bedrooms and full bathroom.
New Rental in Pocatello! We're modern meets nostalgia. Have you dreamed of living in the 60s?! with the kitchen that rises up with gorgeous new quartz countertops that all face the sunset . This well-maintained single-wide trailer offers a comfortable and functional living space with three bedrooms and one bathroom. The open layout features a spacious living area that flows seamlessly into the
Cozy living and mountain views right in the heart of Old Town Pocatello! Crimson Court offers studio apartments with ample living space with units including your own kitchen. This location cannot be beat as it is within walking distance to the night life corridor, providing ample shopping and services. We are pet friendly with no breed or weight restrictions; we even have a dog park on site!
Great rental $1000 a month in rental income. Newer gas, water heater, newer, gas, furnace, luxury vinyl flooring, white cabinets, white exterior with black, skirting, mature trees, fully fenced yard laundry hook ups Seller will sell as well.
Kirkwood Meadows Apartments offers more than just a place to live, its a true community. Set on large green spaces with views of the surrounding hills, our one-, two-, and three-bedroom homes give you room to spread out, unwind, and enjoy the outdoors. Residents take advantage of amenities like our fenced dog park, walking paths, and spacious clubhouse, along with thoughtful extras like covered
Fargo Apartments are located in the historic district of old town Pocatello, ID and offers studio, 1 and 2 Bedroom apartment homes for rent. Claw foot tubs, fiber internet with individual access points in each apartments, fully-equipped kitchens, extra storage, laundry facilities and more! Fargo Apartments has been restored to include the original woodwork throughout the building. Fargo
Fully renovated historic property in the heart of Pocatello's historic district! Two story apartment building with 8 units total: 5 upstairs and 3 downstairs. All new! New windows, doors, roof, plumbing, electrical, appliances, flooring. All new! Super cute and cozy. Rent includes water/sewer/garbage, gas, and wifi. Resident pays for power.
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