Spencer, ID Utility & Living Guide

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Spencer, ID Utility & Living Guide

Spencer is an incorporated hamlet in Clark County, Idaho, United States. It serves as the base for the state's opal mine and is called the "Opal Capital of America": the mine proper is located 5–6 miles outside of town. The population was 31 at the 2020 census.

Last updated: June 26, 2026
Total Utilities$280/mo
1BR Rent$1100/mo
Sales Tax6%
COL Index105 (+5% above national average)
Family Score7/10
Median Home$280,000
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⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Spencer
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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

Spencer Water Department
🗑️ Garbage

$30/mo

Waste Management
📶 Internet

$70/mo

Combined Average Overhead$280/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom$1100/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 Spencer is relatively affordable, with a mix of older and newer homes available. However, the town’s small size means that inventory can be limited, and prices may vary depending on the location and condition of the property. Overall, Spencer offers a range of housing options for those looking to relocate to the area.

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 4% + County 1% + City 1%</p>

Idaho has a state income tax rate of 6.925%, with a progressive tax system and several deductions and credits available.

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 description
Business Momentum
Moderate with key industries in agriculture, healthcare, and education
Top Local Concerns
Economic growth, infrastructure development, public safety
🚌 Transit for Families

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

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Spencer City Park
  • 🎯
    Clark County Fairgrounds
  • 🎯
    Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The best neighborhoods for families in Spencer include the downtown area, which offers a mix of older and newer homes, as well as the surrounding rural areas, which provide a more secluded and natural environment. Overall, Spencer's small-town charm and strong sense of community make it an attractive option for families.

Household Budget Calculator

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

📰 Live Local News

Spencer has regulations in place regarding zoning, building permits, and environmental protection, and residents are encouraged to check with the town government for specific information.

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📊 Spencer — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

In Spencer, utility costs tend to fluctuate with the seasons, with higher electricity bills in the summer due to air conditioning usage and higher heating bills in the winter. However, the town's relatively mild climate means that these fluctuations are not as extreme as in other parts of the country.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The ZIP code 83446 has a property tax millage rate of 1.2%, with no local surtaxes specific to Clark County.

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

Score 6/10: Spencer has some sidewalks and parks, but the town's rural nature means that there are limited amenities and infrastructure for families with strollers, and elevator access in transit is not always available.

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