Business & Finance Idaho (ID) Rank #28 of 50

Economist Salary in Idaho

The median economist salary in Idaho is $107,104 per year, which is 6% below the national median of $113,940.

Median Salary
$107,104
vs National
$-6,836
State Rank
#28 of 50
Cost of Living
94%

Economist Salary Overview in Idaho (2026)

Idaho ranks #28 out of 50 states for economist compensation. Economist salaries in Idaho are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $107,104 per year, economists in Idaho earn $6,836 less than the national median of $113,940.

A key advantage of working in Idaho is its below-average cost of living (94% of the national index). This means the $107,104 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $113,940 in an average-cost area.

The salary spread in Idaho is significant: economists at the 10th percentile earn $58,280, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $186,120 — a $127,840 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Idaho for this role is Boise, where the median reaches $113,940.

Nationally, economist employment is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for economists across the country.

Economist Salary in Idaho by Experience

In Idaho, an entry-level economist earns around $61,100, while experienced professionals earn up to $173,900 per year. The cost of living index in Idaho is 94% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$61,100
$-3,900 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$108,100
$-6,900 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$173,900
$-11,100 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in Idaho

Percentile ID Salary
10th Percentile $58,280
25th Percentile $77,080
Median (50th) $107,104
75th Percentile $145,700
90th Percentile $186,120

Economist Salary by City in Idaho

The largest employment areas for economists in Idaho include Boise, Meridian, Nampa, and Idaho Falls. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Economist in Idaho

Education

Most economist positions require a master's degree. Idaho has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

EconometricsStatistical AnalysisR/PythonEconomic ModelingResearch MethodsPolicy Analysis

Job Outlook in Idaho

Nationally, economist employment is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (faster than average). Idaho's demand may vary based on local industry trends.

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Frequently Asked Questions: Economist Salary in Idaho

How much does a Economist make in Idaho? ▼
The median economist salary in Idaho is $107,104 per year, which is 6% below the national median of $113,940. Salaries range from $58,280 (10th percentile) to $186,120 (90th percentile).
How much does a Economist make per hour in Idaho? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $107,104, a economist in Idaho earns approximately $51 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Idaho a good state for economists? ▼
Idaho ranks #28 out of 50 states for economist pay. The cost of living index is 94% of the national average. Entry-level economists earn $61,100, while senior professionals earn $173,900.
How does Idaho compare to other states for economist salary? ▼
The highest paying state for economists is Hawaii at $193,698. Idaho's median of $107,104 ranks #28 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Montana ($108,243) and North Carolina ($108,243).
What is the entry-level economist salary in Idaho? ▼
An entry-level economist in Idaho earns approximately $61,100 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $108,100. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $173,900.
What city in Idaho pays economists the most? ▼
Boise is the highest paying city in Idaho for economists, with a median salary of $113,940. Other cities include Meridian and Nampa.