Here is a comprehensive career guide for Elementary School Teachers considering a move to Rexburg, Idaho.

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A Local's Guide to Teaching Elementary School in Rexburg, ID

As someone who has watched Rexburg grow from a quiet college town to a bustling regional hub, I can tell you that teaching here is a unique experience. You’re not just entering a school system; you’re stepping into a community deeply rooted in family values and education, anchored by the presence of Brigham Young University-Idaho (BYU-I). The rhythm of the city follows the academic calendar, and the sense of community is palpable.

This guide is designed to give you the unvarnished data and local insights you need to decide if Rexburg is the right place to build your teaching career. We’ll look at the numbers, the neighborhoods, and the day-to-day reality of life here.

The Salary Picture: Where Rexburg Stands

Let’s start with the most critical data. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and local district data, here’s how elementary school teacher salaries break down in the Rexburg metro area.

Median Salary: $63,001/year
Hourly Rate: $30.29/hour
National Average: $63,670/year
Jobs in Metro: 197
10-Year Job Growth: 1%

The first thing to notice is that Rexburg’s median salary is slightly below the national average. This is common for smaller metro areas in the Mountain West, but it’s offset by a significantly lower cost of living. The job market is stable but slow-growing; with only 197 positions in the metro, turnover is the primary driver of openings.

Experience-Level Breakdown

Salary progression in Madison School District #321 (the primary district serving Rexburg) follows a structured schedule based on education credits and years of experience. Here’s a realistic breakdown:

Experience Level	Estimated Annual Salary	Notes
Entry-Level (0-3 years, Bachelor's)	$45,000 - $52,000	Starting base pay before longevity steps.
Mid-Career (4-10 years, Bachelor's)	$55,000 - $65,000	Aligns with the $63,001 median.
Senior (11-20 years, Bachelor's)	$66,000 - $75,000	Includes longevity increments.
Expert/Lead (20+ years, Master's+)	$78,000 - $88,000+	Requires advanced degrees or leadership roles.

Comparison to Other Idaho Cities

Idaho’s teacher salary landscape is highly variable. Rexburg is positioned in the middle, offering better pay than rural areas but less than the Boise metro.

City	Median Salary	Cost of Living Index (US Avg = 100)
Rexburg	$63,001	96.5
Idaho Falls	~$60,500	~98.0
Boise	~$68,000	~103.5
Twin Falls	~$58,000	~95.0

While Boise offers higher pay, the cost of living is 7.5% above the national average, whereas Rexburg is 3.5% below. For a single teacher, this can mean a more comfortable lifestyle in Rexburg despite the lower nominal salary.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Understanding your net income is crucial. Let’s budget for a teacher earning the median salary of $63,001/year.

Estimated Monthly Take-Home Pay (After Taxes):
For a single filer with no dependents, federal and state taxes (Idaho has a progressive income tax from 1% to 7.4%), FICA, and health insurance deductions will take approximately 25-28% of gross pay.

• Gross Monthly: ~$5,250
• Estimated Net Monthly (Take-Home): ~$3,800 - $3,900

Monthly Budget Breakdown:

• Rent (1BR Apartment): -$1,109
• Utilities (Electric, Gas, Internet): -$220
• Groceries: -$350
• Car Payment/Insurance (Avg. for ID): -$450
• Fuel: -$120
• Health Insurance Premium (if not covered): -$200
• Retirement (TRS 5% contribution): -$265
• Personal/Discretionary: ~$1,000

Can They Afford to Buy a Home?
The median home price in Rexburg is approximately $375,000. For a teacher earning $63,001/year, the mortgage payment (20% down, 30-year fixed at 6.5%) would be around $1,900/month, plus taxes and insurance. This would consume nearly 50% of your gross income, which is not advisable. Most teachers here buy homes jointly with a spouse or after several years of saving and advancement. Renting is the norm for singles and new families.

Where the Jobs Are: Rexburg's Major Employers

The job market is dominated by the public school system, with a few other avenues to consider.

1. Madison School District #331: The largest employer. Serves Rexburg and the surrounding area. They have 8 elementary schools: Adams, Burton, Kennedy, Lincoln, Madison, Roosevelt, Summit, and Teton. Hiring is heaviest in late spring/early summer. Insider Tip: They prioritize candidates with a clear understanding of the district's focus on data-driven instruction and phonics-based literacy.

2. Rexburg Public Schools (RPS): A smaller, separate district with a few elementary schools. Often has a slightly more flexible hiring process and may be more open to alternative certification paths.

3. Brigham Young University-Idaho (BYU-I): While not a traditional K-5 employer, the university is the economic heart of the city. It hires for adjunct roles in education departments, summer youth programs, and administrative positions. It's a great networking hub.

4. Madison Memorial Hospital (now part of Idaho Falls-based MountainView Hospital network): A regional medical center. They occasionally hire for school nurse roles (requires RN license) or educational coordinators for community health programs.

5. Eastern Idaho Regional Medical Center (EIRMC) - Satellite Clinics: While the main hospital is in Idaho Falls (20 mins away), their presence in Rexburg means some healthcare-adjacent education roles exist, especially in pediatric care coordination.

6. Private & Charter Schools: Options like Legacy Charter School or smaller private academies offer alternative environments. Pay can be lower, but class sizes are often smaller.

Hiring Trends: The market is stable. Retirement rates are moderate, and enrollment is steady. With the 10-year job growth at 1%, competition for openings is moderate. Having a specialty (e.g., ESL, Special Education) significantly increases your chances.

Getting Licensed in ID

Idaho’s licensing is managed by the Idaho State Department of Education (ISDE). The process is straightforward but requires attention to detail.

Requirements:

1. Bachelor’s Degree: From an accredited institution.
2. Teacher Preparation Program: A state-approved program (in-state or out-of-state).
3. Background Check: Fingerprinting through the ISDE.
4. Praxis Exams: Core Academic Skills (if your GPA is below 2.75) and the Elementary Education: Multiple Subjects test (5001).
5. Application: Submit via the ISDE online portal.

Costs (Approximate):

• Initial Application Fee: $75
• Background Check: $35
• Praxis Exams: ~$210 (for the Multiple Subjects test)
• Total (Initial): ~$320

Timeline:

• With a completed out-of-state program: 4-6 weeks for processing after all documents are submitted.
• If you need to take Praxis exams: Add 2-3 months for study and test dates.
• Idaho offers a 3-Year Interim Certificate for new teachers, which is a probationary license. You must complete a mentorship program and additional coursework to convert it to a 5-Year Professional Certificate.

Best Neighborhoods for Elementary School Teachers

Rexburg is compact, and commutes are short. Your choice will depend more on lifestyle and proximity to your specific school.

1. Central Rexburg (Near Campus):

   • Vibe: Walkable, youthful, close to downtown shops and cafes. Older homes, some converted to rentals.
   • Rent Estimate (1BR): $1,000 - $1,200/month
   • Commute: <5 minutes to most schools. Easy bike or walk.
   • Best For: Social teachers who want to be in the heart of the action.

2. East Rexburg (Burton, Lincoln areas):

   • Vibe: Established, family-oriented neighborhoods with larger homes and mature trees. Quieter.
   • Rent Estimate (2BR Apartment/House): $1,200 - $1,500/month
   • Commute: 5-10 minutes by car. Close to Madison Memorial Hospital.
   • Best For: Teachers with families or those seeking a peaceful, suburban feel.

3. South Rexburg (Near Teton Highway):

   • Vibe: Growing area with new apartment complexes and single-family homes. More modern amenities.
   • Rent Estimate (1BR): $1,100 - $1,300/month
   • Commute: 5-10 minutes. Easy access to shopping centers.
   • Best For: New residents who want newer housing stock and convenience.

4. Northwest (Near BYU-I Sports Complex):

   • Vibe: Mostly student housing and some family rentals. Very close to campus and the Smith Fieldhouse.
   • Rent Estimate (1BR): $900 - $1,100/month (Often by the room).
   • Commute: <5 minutes to schools. Very bike-friendly.
   • Best For: Single teachers on a tight budget who don't mind a college-town atmosphere.

The Long Game: Career Growth

Growth in a small district is often about specialization rather than climbing a corporate ladder.

• Specialty Premiums: Moving into a high-need area like Special Education or English as a Second Language (ESL) often comes with stipends or higher placement on the salary schedule. A Master’s degree in these fields can push your salary toward the $75,000+ range faster.
• Advancement Paths: The most common path is from teacher to Instructional Coach or Department Head (in upper grades), then to Assistant Principal or Principal. These roles require a Master’s in Educational Leadership and can reach salaries of $90,000 - $105,000.
• 10-Year Outlook: With a 1% job growth rate, expect the market to remain stable. The biggest opportunity will come from retirements as the current teaching cohort ages. Building a strong reputation in the first 3-5 years is key to long-term job security.

The Verdict: Is Rexburg Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Very Low Cost of Living: Your $63,001 salary goes further here.	Low Nominal Salary: Below national average and some Idaho metros.
Strong Community: Deeply supportive, family-focused environment.	Limited Diversity: Cultural and demographic diversity is limited.
Short Commutes: Under 10 minutes to work, no traffic.	10-Year Growth (1%): Few new jobs, competitive for openings.
Outdoor Access: World-class hiking, fishing, and skiing nearby.	BYU-I Influence: Social/cultural norms are conservative and faith-based.
Stable District: Low turnover, established systems.	Rent Prices Rising: $1,109/month is high relative to local incomes.

Final Recommendation:
Rexburg is an excellent choice for teachers who prioritize quality of life, community, and outdoor access over the highest possible salary. It’s ideal for early-career teachers who can build experience affordably or for mid-career professionals seeking a slower pace of life. If you value cultural diversity, a vibrant nightlife, or rapid career advancement, a larger metro like Boise might be a better fit. For the right person, Rexburg offers a stable, rewarding, and affordable place to call home.

FAQs

1. What is the dating and social scene like for a single teacher?
It’s heavily influenced by BYU-I, which can be challenging for non-LDS singles. However, the community of fellow teachers and professionals is tight-knit. You’ll find social events through work, local hiking groups, and community sports leagues. It requires more effort than in a large city, but meaningful connections are possible.

2. How competitive is the job market for new teachers?
Moderately competitive. With only 197 jobs and 1% growth, openings are limited. However, the district’s need for Special Ed and ESL teachers creates consistent openings. Your best bet is to apply early (by March for fall positions) and be willing to work in a rural school outside Rexburg proper.

3. Are there opportunities for my non-teaching spouse?
Yes. The economy is diverse for a small town. BYU-I is the largest employer, followed by healthcare (Madison Memorial), retail, and agriculture. Idaho Falls, a 20-minute drive, has a much larger job market in engineering, nuclear energy (Idaho National Laboratory), and manufacturing.

4. What’s the winter like? Does the district close for snow?
Winters are cold and snowy, averaging 50-60 inches of snow. Madison School District is very resilient; they rarely close for snow. Roads are plowed quickly, and schools are often in session. You’ll need a reliable vehicle with all-wheel drive and good snow tires.

5. How do I handle the cost of living if my salary feels tight?
Many teachers here have a side hustle. Common ones include tutoring (especially for BYU-I students’ children), summer camps, or working retail during the holiday season. Budgeting is key, and sharing housing with a roommate can significantly reduce your rent burden, making the $63,001 salary feel much more comfortable.