Princeton, ID Utility & Living Guide

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Princeton, ID Utility & Living Guide

Utilities, housing, taxes, cost of living, and local insights — everything residents and families need.

Last updated: June 26, 2026
Total Utilities$240/mo
1BR Rent$1000/mo
Sales Tax6%
COL Index105 (+5% above national average)
Family Score7/10
Median Home$280,000
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⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Princeton
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💰 Budget Calculator
🔌 Utilities
🏠 Housing
📊 Cost of Living
💰 Taxes
👨‍👩‍👧 Families
🧮 Tools

Monthly Utility Costs

⚡ Electric

$110/mo

Avista Utilities
🔥 Gas

N/A - Electric only
💧 Water

$40/mo

City of Princeton Water Department
🗑️ Garbage

$30/mo

Waste Management
📶 Internet

$60/mo

Combined Average Overhead$240/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom$1000/mo
2 Bedrooms$1400/mo
3 Bedrooms$1900/mo
Median Home Price$280,000
Property Tax Rate1.1%
Avg Childcare/mo$900

The housing market in Princeton is relatively affordable, with a mix of older and newer homes available. Rentals are also available, but may be limited. The city has seen some growth in recent years, but still maintains a small-town feel.

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

105

US national avg = 100
vs National Avg

+5% above national average

Groceries

102

Transportation

98

Healthcare

100

Childcare/mo

$900

Tax Rates

Tax Overview
Total Sales Tax6%
Property Tax Rate1.1%
<p>State 6% + County 0% + City 0%</p>

Idaho has a state income tax rate of 6.925%, with a top marginal rate of 6.925%

Family & Relocation

Family Vibe Score
7/10
Safety Index

55

Higher = safer
School Rating

7/10

GreatSchools avg
Avg Childcare

$900/mo

City Pulse

Population Trend
+2% (growing)
Political Climate
Red
Business Momentum
Moderate with key industries in tech, healthcare, and education
Top Local Concerns
affordability, education, public safety
🚌 Transit for Families

Princeton has limited public transportation, but the city is relatively walkable and bikeable

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Princeton City Park
  • 🎯
    Latah County Fairgrounds
  • 🎯
    Moscow Mountain

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The downtown area is a popular choice for families, with its proximity to schools, parks, and local businesses. The outskirts of town also offer more affordable options with larger yards and a more rural feel.

Household Budget Calculator

Estimate your real monthly cost of living in Princeton based on your household profile.

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📊 Princeton — Census & Demographic Data

Official data from the US Census Bureau, American Community Survey.

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs in Princeton tend to be higher in the winter months due to heating needs, with an average increase of 20-30% from December to February. In the summer, costs are relatively stable, with a slight increase in electricity usage for cooling.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The ZIP code 83857 has a property tax millage rate of 1.1%, with no local surtaxes

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

6 - Princeton has decent sidewalks and park access, but elevator access in transit is limited and family infrastructure could be improved

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