Why Live in Rigby
Rigby, Idaho, known as the Birthplace of Television, is a small city situated between Idaho Falls and Rexburg in eastern Idaho. The community has a historical connection to Philo Farnsworth, the inventor of the TV, and maintains a scientific presence with many residents working at the nearby Idaho National Laboratory. Rigby is characterized by its rural atmosphere and dense forests, offering a slower pace of life compared to Idaho Falls. Housing options range from early 1900s bungalows and cottages in downtown Rigby to New Traditional styles on spacious lots farther out, often featuring properties with outbuildings like barns or detached garages. Recreational attractions include Jefferson County Lake, which offers kayaking, fishing, swimming, and camping, and Rigby City Park with sports facilities and playgrounds. The Farnsworth TV & Pioneer Museum and Yellowstone Bear World provide unique local experiences. Rigby's downtown area is home to locally owned shops and restaurants, such as Lil’ Mike’s Bar-B-Que, alongside chain stores like Family Dollar and Ace Hardware. The community hosts several annual events, including Hot Classic Nights and Stampede Days, adding to its vibrant local culture. Jefferson School District 251 serves the area, with Rigby High School offering dual enrollment courses and earning a high rating. U.S. Route 20 provides convenient commutes to nearby cities, with Idaho Falls 15 miles southwest and Rexburg 13 miles northeast. Rigby also has several churches, including congregations of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to rent a home in Rigby, ID?
The median rent for a home in Rigby, ID is $1,400 per month, though prices vary by neighborhood, size, and property type. As of May 2026, condos tend to be the most affordable option while townhouses and single-family homes are currently more expensive.
How much do you need to make to afford rent in Rigby, ID?
To comfortably afford the median rent in Rigby, ID, a household needs to earn roughly $56,000 per year. This is based on the common guideline that households should spend no more than 30% of gross income on housing. Most landlords require monthly household income of at least 3x the monthly rent, and with a median rent of $1,400 per month in Rigby, ID, renters typically need to show $4,200 per month in gross income to qualify. Actual affordability will vary depending on household debts, other living expenses, and overall budget.
Is it more affordable to rent or buy in Rigby, ID?
In Rigby, ID, the price-to-rent ratio is 25.9, which generally favors renting. This ratio divides the median home price by the annual median rent: below 15 typically favors buying, 15 to 20 is balanced, and above 20 typically favors renting. Your finances, how long you plan to stay, and costs like mortgage rates, taxes, and maintenance all factor into the decision.
Rental Home Trends in Rigby, ID
There are currently 1 homes available for rent in Rigby, ID. The median rent is $1,400 per month, with single-family homes renting at $2,600, townhouses at $1,400 and condos at $1,120.
Number of Homes for Rent
1
Median Single Family Home Rent
$2,600
Median Townhouse Rent
$1,400