Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Desmet, ID
Considering a move to Desmet, ID? This quiet rural community of about 145 residents offers affordable living, with a median home price of $210,000 and rents around $900. Commutes are short at just over 20 minutes on average, and violent crime rates are quite low. While amenities are limited locally, you'll find quality public schools nearby and enjoy a peaceful lifestyle with scenic Idaho surroundings. Expect four distinct seasons and a close-knit, friendly atmosphere.
Demographics - Desmet, ID
Demographics - Desmet, ID
Desmet is a small rural community with around 145 residents, where the median age is 45 and the population density is low, offering a peaceful, close-knit environment. Most residents identify as White, with a notable Native American presence, and a modest percentage of non-English speakers. This setting appeals to those seeking a quiet lifestyle and a strong sense of local heritage.
Population:
145
Density:
110 per sq mi
Median Age:
45.2
Gender Ratio:
102 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
8.2%

Ethnic Composition
White:
84.0%
Others:
2.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Desmet, ID?
Desmet boasts an affordable cost of living, with a median home value of $210,000 and average rents at $900 per month, well below national averages. Essential expenses like utilities and groceries are also budget-friendly, thanks to a cost of living index of 88. State income tax rates are moderate, making the area attractive for cost-conscious movers.
Median House Value:
$210,000
Gross Rent:
$900
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$92
Auto Insurance:
$1,050
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,050
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$375
State Taxes:
Low:
1.0%
|
High:
6.0%
Cost Of Living Index:
88.0
Grocery:
93.5
Housing:
76.0
Utilities:
92.2
Transportation:
82.5
Health Care:
88.0
Miscellaneous:
91.0
Crime
Is Desmet, ID a safe place to live?
Desmet experiences very low violent crime, with only 160 incidents per 100,000 residents, and property crime risks are below average at 1,050 per 100,000. Residents enjoy a strong sense of safety, with a 1 in 625 chance of violent crime, making this community ideal for those prioritizing security. The overall crime index reflects a tranquil, low-risk environment.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
160
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,050
Crime Index:
1,210
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 625
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 95
Weather
What is the weather like in Desmet, ID year-round?
Desmet offers four distinct seasons, featuring cold winters with lows around 19°F and warm summers peaking near 83°F. The area receives about 24 inches of annual rainfall and enjoys sunshine on 46% of days. The varied climate supports a range of outdoor activities and scenic beauty throughout the year.

Winter
Min:
19°F
Max:
34°F

Spring
Min:
36°F
Max:
60°F

Summer
Min:
49°F
Max:
83°F

Fall
Min:
38°F
Max:
62°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
24.3 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
46%
Neighbors
Neighbors in Desmet typically have a median household income of $48,000 and a poverty rate just under 14%, reflecting a modest but stable economic environment. Most adults have completed high school, and commutes average about 20 minutes, with virtually no public transportation use. The community is friendly and close-knit, ideal for those seeking a slower pace of life.
Median Income:
$33,500
Household Income:
$48,000
Family Income:
$56,000
Per Capita Income:
$21,500
Income Male:
$30,000
Income Female:
$26,500
Poverty Rate:
13.8%
Non English Speakers:
8.2%
Rent:
$900
Unemployment Rate:
4.7%
Public Transport Usage:
0.0%
Commute Time:
20.3 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
88.5%
Bachelors or More:
17.2%
Education
How are the schools in Desmet, ID?
Families in Desmet have access to quality public education through nearby schools like Lapwai Elementary, offering favorable student-teacher ratios and a supportive learning environment. Higher education is available at Lewis-Clark State College, located about 37 miles away in Lewiston. The area’s educational options make it suitable for families and lifelong learners alike.

Public Schools
Name:
Lapwai Elementary School
Street:
404 S A St, Lapwai, ID 83540
Phone:
208-843-2960
Students:
340
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.5

Colleges
Name:
Lewis-Clark State College
City:
Lewiston
State:
ID
Distance:
37 miles
Students:
3,700
Healthcare
Healthcare access in Desmet is supported by nearby facilities such as St. Joseph Regional Medical Center in Lewiston, and nearly 90% of residents have health insurance. With about 1.1 physicians per 1,000 people, basic medical needs are met within a reasonable distance. The area maintains a solid healthcare index, ensuring essential services are available.

Major Hospitals
Name:
St. Joseph Regional Medical Center
Address:
415 Sixth St, Lewiston, ID 83501
Phone:
(208) 743-2511
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
89.7%
Health Care Index:
72.5
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Desmet, ID?
Desmet's housing market is affordable and stable, with a median home price of $210,000 and average rent for a two-bedroom at $900. Homeownership is prevalent, with nearly three-quarters of residents owning their homes and steady appreciation rates in recent years. Low foreclosure and rental vacancy rates add to the area’s housing appeal.
Median Home Price:
$210,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$900
Owner Occupied Rate:
73.4%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.5%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
7.2%
New Construction Rate:
0.7%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
Desmet residents are served by the Idaho Division of Motor Vehicles, with the nearest main office located in Boise. Essential DMV services, including licensing and registration, are accessible either online or by phone. The state’s DMV resources are user-friendly and straightforward for new arrivals.
State:
Idaho
Department:
Idaho Division of Motor Vehicles
Address:
3311 W State St, Boise, ID 83703
Phone:
1-208-334-8000
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.