Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Challis, ID
Considering a move to Challis, ID? This charming small town of 1,010 residents offers affordable living with a median home price of $183,000 and average rents around $740. Crime rates are low, and the average commute time is just 12.5 minutes, making life here peaceful and convenient. Residents enjoy a sunny, dry climate, access to local schools, and close proximity to Idaho's natural beauty—perfect for those seeking a slower pace and outdoor adventure.
Demographics - Challis, ID
Demographics - Challis, ID
Challis is a small, close-knit community of about 1,010 residents, characterized by a predominantly White population and a median age of 50.1 years. The area has a balanced gender ratio and a low percentage of non-English speakers, creating a friendly, familiar atmosphere ideal for those seeking a quiet lifestyle.
Population:
1,010
Density:
850 per sq mi
Median Age:
50.1
Gender Ratio:
101 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
3.5%

Ethnic Composition
White:
94.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Challis, ID?
Living in Challis is notably affordable, with a median home value of $183,000 and average rent around $740. The cost of living index is below the national average, making it an attractive option for those seeking lower housing and utility expenses.
Median House Value:
$183,000
Gross Rent:
$740
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$105
Auto Insurance:
$925
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,050
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$380
State Taxes:
Low:
1.0%
|
High:
6.5%
Cost Of Living Index:
88.0
Grocery:
94.2
Housing:
75.8
Utilities:
91.0
Transportation:
87.0
Health Care:
94.0
Miscellaneous:
92.5
Crime
Is Challis, ID a safe place to live?
Challis offers a safe environment, with a violent crime rate of just 95 incidents per 100,000 people and a low chance of encountering property crime. Residents can feel secure in this peaceful, small-town setting.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
95
Property Crimes Per 100k:
890
Crime Index:
985
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 1,050
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 112
Weather
What is the weather like in Challis, ID year-round?
Challis experiences a dry, sunny climate with about 69% of days offering sunshine and only around 9 inches of annual rainfall. Winters are cold, while summers are comfortably warm, making the area appealing for those who enjoy distinct seasons and outdoor activities.

Winter
Min:
8°F
Max:
33°F

Spring
Min:
25°F
Max:
60°F

Summer
Min:
45°F
Max:
87°F

Fall
Min:
20°F
Max:
65°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
9.1 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
69%
Neighbors
Residents of Challis enjoy a modest median household income of $42,500, with most households owning their homes and a low unemployment rate. The community is well-educated, with nearly 90% holding a high school diploma or higher, and neighbors are known for their welcoming, small-town spirit.
Median Income:
$32,000
Household Income:
$42,500
Family Income:
$51,000
Per Capita Income:
$23,500
Income Male:
$38,000
Income Female:
$26,000
Poverty Rate:
16.0%
Non English Speakers:
3.5%
Rent:
$740
Unemployment Rate:
4.2%
Public Transport Usage:
0.2%
Commute Time:
12.5 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
89.5%
Bachelors or More:
20.1%
Education
How are the schools in Challis, ID?
Challis features local public schools with favorable student-to-teacher ratios and a supportive learning environment. For higher education, residents can access the College of Eastern Idaho, located about 137 miles away, providing further educational opportunities.

Public Schools
Name:
Challis Junior Senior High School
Street:
Highway 93 South
Phone:
208-879-4231
Students:
180
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.7
Name:
Challis Elementary School
Street:
1000 School Ave
Phone:
208-879-4694
Students:
160
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.1

Colleges
Name:
College of Eastern Idaho
City:
Idaho Falls
State:
ID
Distance:
137 miles
Students:
1,800
Healthcare
Healthcare in Challis is supported by access to facilities like Steele Memorial Medical Center and a high rate of health insurance coverage among residents. With about 1.1 physicians per 1,000 people, basic medical needs are well-served in this rural area.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Steele Memorial Medical Center
Address:
203 S. Daisy St, Salmon, ID 83467
Phone:
(208) 756-5600
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
90.2%
Health Care Index:
77.5
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Challis, ID?
Challis offers a stable housing market with a median home price of $183,000 and a high rate of owner-occupied homes. Rental vacancies are moderate, and property values have appreciated by 3.2% over the past year, making it a solid choice for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$183,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$740
Owner Occupied Rate:
72.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.0%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.2%
New Construction Rate:
0.7%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.4%
DMV Information
Local DMV services are conveniently provided by the Idaho Division of Motor Vehicles right in Challis, ensuring residents have easy access to licensing and vehicle registration. The office is centrally located and offers standard DMV services for the community.
State:
Idaho
Department:
Idaho Division of Motor Vehicles
Address:
601 Camas Ave W, Challis, ID 83226
Phone:
(208) 879-5500
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.