Idaho Job Market: Top Industries, Salaries & Employers (2026)
Guide to the Idaho job market in 2026. Technology, agriculture, healthcare, and nuclear research across Boise and beyond.
Idaho has transformed from a primarily agricultural state into a growing technology and outdoor recreation hub. Boise's rapid population growth has attracted companies and workers from California and the Pacific Northwest, drawn by lower costs, no state tax burden comparable to CA, and exceptional quality of life.
Top Industries
- Technology: Micron Technology (HQ, Boise — 6,000+ employees, $15B CHIPS Act investment), HP Inc. (major Boise office), and Clearwater Analytics. Boise's tech sector grew 40% from 2020-2025. Average tech salary: $90,000.
- Agriculture: Idaho is #1 in potatoes, #1 in trout, and a top dairy producer. Agriculture contributes $28B+ annually. Simplot (HQ, Boise) and Chobani (Twin Falls) are major food companies.
- Healthcare: St. Luke's Health System, Saint Alphonsus, and Primary Health. 85,000+ healthcare workers. Growing demand with population influx.
- Outdoor Recreation: Skiing (Sun Valley), fishing, hunting, mountain biking. $8B+ industry. Growing outdoor brand presence.
- Manufacturing: Semiconductor manufacturing (Micron expansion), food processing, and wood products. 55,000+ manufacturing workers.
Major Employers
| Employer | Industry | Approx. ID Employees |
|---|---|---|
| St. Luke's Health System | Healthcare | 16,000+ |
| Micron Technology | Semiconductor | 6,500+ |
| State of Idaho | Government | 15,000+ |
| Boise State University | Education | 6,000+ |
| HP Inc. | Technology | 3,000+ |
| J.R. Simplot | Agriculture | 5,000+ |
| Walmart | Retail | 8,000+ |
Average Salary by Metro Area
| Metro Area | Avg Salary | Cost of Living Index |
|---|---|---|
| Boise | $54,870 | 102 |
| Idaho Falls | $52,340 | 90 |
| Coeur d'Alene | $47,630 | 105 |
| Twin Falls | $44,280 | 85 |
| Pocatello | $43,540 | 84 |
Growing Sectors
- Semiconductor Manufacturing: Micron's $15B CHIPS Act investment will create 2,000+ new high-paying jobs. Supply chain companies following.
- Nuclear Energy: Idaho National Laboratory (INL) near Idaho Falls is the nation's lead nuclear research lab. Small modular reactor (SMR) development drives growth. 5,500+ INL employees.
- Food Technology: Chobani's Twin Falls plant is the world's largest yogurt factory. Food innovation growing around dairy and potato processing.
Remote Work Availability
Boise has been a top remote worker destination since 2020. Many California tech workers relocated for the outdoor lifestyle and lower costs. However, housing prices have risen significantly (median home $420,000 in Boise). Coeur d'Alene and Idaho Falls offer more affordable alternatives.
FAQ
What is the minimum wage in Idaho?
$7.25/hour (federal floor). Boise market rates are typically $12-16+ entry level due to tight labor market and California migration driving up wages.