Arco, ID Utility & Living Guide

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Tier 3 Location

Arco, ID Utility & Living Guide

Living in Arco, Idaho offers a unique blend of small-town charm and outdoor recreation opportunities amidst the stunning natural beauty of the Lost River Valley

Last updated: June 26, 2026
Total Utilities$220/mo
1BR Rent$900/mo
Sales Tax6%
COL Index94 (-6% below national average)
Family Score7/10
Median Home$240,000
🌤️ Live Weather — Arco
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📷 Live Cameras — Arco
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⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Arco
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💰 Budget Calculator
🔌 Utilities
🏠 Housing
📊 Cost of Living
💰 Taxes
👨‍👩‍👧 Families
🧮 Tools

Monthly Utility Costs

⚡ Electric

$110/mo

Rocky Mountain Power
🔥 Gas

N/A - Electric only
💧 Water

$30/mo

City of Arco Water Department
🗑️ Garbage

$20/mo

Butte County Sanitation
📶 Internet

$60/mo

Combined Average Overhead $220/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom$900/mo
2 Bedrooms$1200/mo
3 Bedrooms$1500/mo
Median Home Price$240,000
Property Tax Rate0.8%
Avg Childcare/mo$800

The housing market in Arco is relatively affordable, with a mix of older and newer homes available for purchase or rent. However, the selection may be limited due to the small size of the town. Rentals are often quickly snatched up by INL workers and students.

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

94

US national avg = 100
vs National Avg

-6% below national average

Groceries

105

Transportation

88

Healthcare

110

Childcare/mo

$800

Tax Rates

Tax Overview
Total Sales Tax6%
Property Tax Rate0.8%
<p>State 6% + No County or City tax</p>

Idaho has a state income tax with rates ranging from 1.125% to 6.925%, but there are no local income taxes in Arco

Family & Relocation

Family Vibe Score
7/10
Safety Index

70

Higher = safer
School Rating

7/10

GreatSchools avg
Avg Childcare

$800/mo

City Pulse

Population Trend
+2% (growing)
Political Climate
Red
Business Momentum
Moderate, with key industries including nuclear research, healthcare, and tourism
Top Local Concerns
Economic diversification, environmental protection, affordable housing
🚌 Transit for Families

Arco has limited public transportation options, but the town is small and relatively walkable, making it accessible for families with strollers

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Craters of the Moon National Monument
  • 🎯
    Big Southern Butte
  • 🎯
    Lost River

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The area around the city center is popular with families due to its proximity to schools and parks, while the outskirts of town offer more rural settings with easy access to outdoor recreation

Household Budget Calculator

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

Local Briefing & Neighborhood Pulse

Live Local News

Zoning laws and building codes are in place to preserve the town’s character, and there may be specific regulations regarding outdoor recreation and environmental protection

Arco's economy is driven by the nearby Idaho National Laboratory, which brings a steady stream of high-paying jobs and investment to the area. However, the town's small size and remote location can make it challenging for new businesses to establish themselves.

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📊 Arco — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs in Arco tend to be higher in the winter due to heating needs, with average electricity bills increasing by 20-30% from December to February. In contrast, summer months see a slight decrease in utility costs as the mild temperatures reduce the need for air conditioning.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The ZIP code 83213 has a property tax millage rate of 0.8%, with no local surtaxes

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

6, Arco's sidewalks and parks are generally well-maintained, but the lack of public transportation and limited elevator access in some buildings can make it challenging for families with strollers to get around

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