Chester, ID Utility & Living Guide

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Tier 3 Location

Chester, ID Utility & Living Guide

Living in Chester, ID offers a tranquil and picturesque environment with easy access to outdoor recreation, making it an attractive option for those seeking a peaceful lifestyle.

Last updated: June 26, 2026
Total Utilities$280/mo
1BR Rent$1000/mo
Sales Tax6%
COL Index108 (+8% above national average)
Family Score7/10
Median Home$280,000
🌤️ Live Weather — Chester
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📷 Live Cameras — Chester
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⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Chester
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💰 Budget Calculator
🔌 Utilities
🏠 Housing
📊 Cost of Living
💰 Taxes
👨‍👩‍👧 Families
🧮 Tools

Monthly Utility Costs

⚡ Electric

$130/mo

Rocky Mountain Power
🔥 Gas

N/A - Electric only
💧 Water

$50/mo

Chester Water District
🗑️ Garbage

$30/mo

Fremont County Solid Waste
📶 Internet

$70/mo

Combined Average Overhead $280/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom$1000/mo
2 Bedrooms$1400/mo
3 Bedrooms$2000/mo
Median Home Price$280,000
Property Tax Rate1.1%
Avg Childcare/mo$900

The housing market in Chester is relatively small, with limited inventory and moderate growth. Homes tend to be affordable, with prices lower than in larger Idaho cities. Rentals are also available, though options may be limited.

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

108

US national avg = 100
vs National Avg

+8% above national average

Groceries

105

Transportation

92

Healthcare

102

Childcare/mo

$900

Tax Rates

Tax Overview
Total Sales Tax6%
Property Tax Rate1.1%
<p>State 6% + no County or City tax</p>

Idaho has a state income tax with a top rate of 6.925%, but no local income taxes are imposed.

Family & Relocation

Family Vibe Score
7/10
Safety Index

60

Higher = safer
School Rating

7/10

GreatSchools avg
Avg Childcare

$900/mo

City Pulse

Population Trend
+2% (growing)
Political Climate
Red
Business Momentum
Low, with key industries including agriculture, tourism, and small retail
Top Local Concerns
Economic growth, infrastructure development, environmental conservation
🚌 Transit for Families

Public transit is limited, but the area is relatively flat and walkable, with some sidewalks and bike paths.

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    St. Anthony Sand Dunes
  • 🎯
    Yellowstone Bear World
  • 🎯
    Rexburg Nature Park

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The area around the town center offers a mix of older and newer homes, with easy access to local amenities. The outskirts of town provide more rural settings and larger properties. Overall, Chester's small size means that most neighborhoods are relatively family-friendly.

Household Budget Calculator

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

Local Briefing & Neighborhood Pulse

Live Local News

Zoning regulations and building codes are in place to preserve the area’s natural beauty and manage growth.

Chester is experiencing moderate growth, driven by its natural attractions and outdoor recreation opportunities. However, the local economy remains relatively small, with limited job opportunities in certain sectors.

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📊 Chester — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs in Chester tend to be higher in winter due to heating needs, with average bills increasing by 20-30% from December to February. In contrast, summer months see lower utility bills, with a focus on minimal cooling needs.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The ZIP code 83421 has a property tax millage rate of 1.1%, with no local surtaxes.

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

6, with explanation: while sidewalks and bike paths are present, they can be limited in some areas, and elevator access in transit is not always available, but the town's small size and relatively flat terrain make it accessible for families with strollers.

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