Lava Hot Springs, ID Utility & Living Guide

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Lava Hot Springs, ID Utility & Living Guide

Lava Hot Springs is a city along the Portneuf River in eastern Bannock County, Idaho, United States. It is part of the Pocatello, Idaho metropolitan area. The population was 358 at the 2020 census. Located in the mountainous valley of the Portneuf River on the old route of the Oregon Trail and Calif

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
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⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Lava Hot Springs
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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

City of Lava Hot Springs
🗑️ Garbage

$30/mo

Bannock 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$1900/mo
Median Home Price$280,000
Property Tax Rate1.1%
Avg Childcare/mo$900

The housing market in Lava Hot Springs is relatively small, with a mix of older homes and newer constructions. Rentals are limited, and prices may vary depending on the season. The city’s popularity as a tourist destination can drive up prices during peak seasons.

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

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
Moderate, with key industries in tourism, healthcare, and education
Top Local Concerns
Affordability, environmental preservation, public transportation
🚌 Transit for Families

Lava Hot Springs has limited public transportation, but the city is relatively walkable and bikeable, with some stroller-friendly sidewalks and parks

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Lava Hot Springs Foundation
  • 🎯
    South Bannock County Historical Center
  • 🎯
    Lava Hot Springs Public Pool

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The downtown area and surrounding neighborhoods offer a mix of older homes and newer constructions, with easy access to shops, restaurants, and outdoor recreation. The area around the hot springs is also popular, with scenic views and walking trails.

Household Budget Calculator

Estimate your real monthly cost of living in Lava Hot Springs based on your household profile.

📰 Live Local News

Lava Hot Springs has regulations regarding short-term rentals, and residents should be aware of zoning laws and environmental regulations

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📊 Lava Hot Springs — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs in Lava Hot Springs can fluctuate significantly by season, with higher electricity bills in the summer due to air conditioning and higher water bills in the winter due to snowmelt and irrigation. Residents can expect to pay more for utilities during the peak tourist season.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The ZIP code 83246 has a property tax millage rate of 1.1%, with no local surtaxes

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

6/10, with explanation: Lava Hot Springs has some stroller-friendly sidewalks and parks, but limited elevator access in transit and some uneven terrain, making it moderately accessible for families with strollers

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