City Profile

Moscow, Idaho

USA · Comprehensive city data and intelligence

Overall Score

Moscow, Idaho, nestled in the scenic Palouse region, is a vibrant city characterized by its strong academic presence, driven by the University of Idaho. This college town atmosphere fosters a youthful energy and a rich cultural scene, attracting students, faculty, and families alike. Its location offers access to both the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest and the amenities of a well-established community, making it a desirable place for those seeking a balance between academic pursuits and outdoor recreation.

About Idaho

Idaho, known as the "Gem State," is characterized by its vast natural beauty, including mountains, forests, and rivers, fostering a community-oriented and slower-paced lifestyle. The economy is diverse, with major industries including agriculture (especially potatoes), food processing, lumber and wood products, manufacturing, technology, mining, and a growing tourism sector. The cost of living in Idaho is generally below the national average, though housing costs in popular areas are rising. The climate varies across the state, with cold winters and warm, dry summers, and significant regional differences in precipitation and temperature due to elevation.

Cost of Living Weather & Climate Jobs & Economy Quality of Life Safety Demographics Economy Transportation Healthcare Housing Nearby Cities Similar Cities FAQ

26,286

Population

$76K

Avg Salary

111

Cost Index

75.0

Quality Score

Performance

Quality Scores

Business

Livability

Affordability

Growth

Expenses

Cost of Living

Moscow's cost of living is approximately 11% higher than the national average, with a cost index of 111. While housing costs, particularly home purchase prices, can be higher than the state average, rental prices remain relatively affordable compared to many larger U.S. cities. The presence of a major university influences the local economy and can contribute to a dynamic job market, though median household incomes are below the national average. Overall, the cost of living is influenced by a mix of factors including housing, utilities, and local services.

Average Rent

$1,338/mo

1BR Apartment (city centre)

$900.00

2BR Apartment (city centre)

$1,180.00

Income

Salary Insights

The economy of Moscow is significantly shaped by its role as a university town, with Educational Services being the largest employment sector, followed by Health Care & Social Assistance and Retail Trade. The University of Idaho is a primary economic driver, supporting a substantial portion of the local economy through employment and student spending. While the city experiences modest job growth, the presence of higher education and healthcare institutions provides a degree of economic stability. Professional, scientific, and technical services are also identified as growth sectors.

The average salary in Moscow is $76,000 per year. You would need approximately $84,360 to live comfortably.

Employment

Top Industries

Retail Trade Government Health Care & Social Assistance Professional, Scientific, & Technical Services Educational Services

Weather

Climate

🌡️

Avg Temp

☀️

Summer High

❄️

Winter Low

🌧️

Annual Rain

💧

Humidity

🌤️

Sunny Days

Mobility

Transport

Getting around Moscow is characterized by short commute times, with the average one-way commute being approximately 14.3 minutes. While car dependency is moderate, with 72.6% of residents traveling by personal vehicle, the city also boasts a walkability score of 48, indicating that some errands can be accomplished on foot. Public transit options are accessible, though not extensively detailed in available data.

14 min

Avg Commute

45.00/10

Transit Score

48.00/10

Walkability

Medium

Car Dependency