A Financial Analyst's Guide to Rexburg, Idaho

As a career analyst who’s watched the Rexburg job market for years, I’ve seen it transform from a quiet college town to a regional economic hub. If you’re a financial analyst considering a move here, you’re likely weighing a lower cost of living against a smaller, more competitive job market. This guide cuts through the noise with data-driven insights, local specifics, and a no-nonsense look at what your career and your wallet can expect in the Gem State’s most rapidly growing city.

The Salary Picture: Where Rexburg Stands

Let's start with the numbers that matter most. Financial analysts in the Rexburg metro area earn a median salary of $97,970 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $47.1/hour. This is just slightly below the national average of $99,010/year, a testament to Rexburg’s growing economic clout despite its modest size. The market is tight, with only 79 jobs currently listed in the metro, but the 10-year job growth is a healthy 9%, indicating steady, sustainable demand.

To give you a clearer picture of where you might fit, here’s a breakdown by experience level. These are estimates based on local market trends and BLS data for the region.

Experience Level	Typical Years of Experience	Estimated Annual Salary Range	Key Responsibilities in Rexburg
Entry-Level	0-2	$65,000 - $80,000	Data gathering, basic reporting, assisting with budget models for local agribusinesses or healthcare systems.
Mid-Level	3-7	$85,000 - $110,000	Independent analysis, creating financial forecasts for regional credit unions, supporting capital allocation decisions.
Senior	8-15	$110,000 - $135,000	Leading project finance for construction firms, developing investment strategies for local foundations, mentoring junior analysts.
Expert/Manager	15+	$135,000+	Director-level roles in finance at major employers, managing portfolios for high-net-worth individuals, consulting on regional economic development.

How does Rexburg compare to other Idaho cities? It sits comfortably in the middle. Boise, as the state capital and tech hub, leads with salaries often $10,000-$15,000 higher for comparable roles, but the cost of living there is significantly steeper. Idaho Falls, a major hub for energy and healthcare, is closer in salary but also has a higher cost of living than Rexburg. Meanwhile, smaller towns like Burley or Twin Falls typically see salaries $5,000-$8,000 lower than Rexburg. For a financial analyst, Rexburg offers a "Goldilocks" zone: competitive pay with a cost of living that’s still 3.5% below the national average (Cost of Living Index: 96.5).

Insider Tip: The salary range in Rexburg is heavily influenced by the agricultural and healthcare sectors. An analyst with expertise in commodity price hedging or hospital revenue cycle management will command a premium over a generalist.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

A $97,970 salary sounds great, but what does it mean for your daily life in Rexburg? Let’s break it down. After federal taxes (est. ~22% bracket), state income tax (Idaho's is progressive, maxing at 6.5%), and FICA, your monthly take-home pay will be approximately $5,800 - $6,100. This is a realistic range.

Now, let’s factor in the average 1BR rent of $1,109/month. Your financial picture looks solid. Here’s a sample monthly budget for a single analyst living in Rexburg:

Category	Estimated Monthly Cost	Notes
After-Tax Income	$5,900	Based on median salary
Rent (1BR)	$1,109	Average across the city
Utilities (Elec, Gas, Internet)	$200	Varies by season; winters are cold
Groceries	$400	Limited options; expect to shop at Smith's or Walmart
Car Insurance/Gas	$300	Essential; public transit is minimal
Health Insurance	$350	Employer-provided is common, but individual plans are costly
Miscellaneous (Dining, Fun)	$600	Limited nightlife; more for outdoor gear
Savings/Debt	$2,941	Over 50% of take-home can go to savings or mortgage

Can they afford to buy a home? Absolutely. With a $5,900 monthly take-home and rent at $1,109, you could comfortably save $2,500/month for a down payment. The median home price in Rexburg is around $340,000. A 20% down payment is $68,000, which is achievable in 2-3 years of disciplined saving. A mortgage at current rates (~7%) would be roughly $1,800/month, including taxes and insurance—well within a 28% front-end ratio. This is the single biggest financial advantage of living in Rexburg: the ability to build equity quickly while maintaining a high savings rate.

Where the Jobs Are: Rexburg's Major Employers

Rexburg’s job market is not a corporate mecca; it’s a network of stable, community-focused institutions. The 79 listed jobs are concentrated in a few key sectors. Here’s where you should be looking:

1. Madison Memorial Hospital: The largest employer in the county. They need financial analysts for revenue cycle management, budgeting for new equipment (often for their cancer center), and grant reporting. Hiring is steady, often 2-3 analyst roles per year.
2. Rexburg Credit Union & Other Local Banks: With a strong agricultural base, credit unions like Rexburg Credit Union and regional banks (Zions Bank, U.S. Bank branches) have robust commercial lending departments. They seek analysts for credit risk assessments and small business loan portfolio analysis.
3. Brigham Young University-Idaho (BYU-Idaho): A massive economic engine. The university’s finance office hires analysts for endowment management, auxiliary enterprise budgeting (dining, housing), and financial planning. The hiring cycle is tied to the academic calendar.
4. Agribusiness & Food Processing Firms: Companies like Rexburg-based agricultural cooperatives and food processors (e.g., Idahoan Foods in nearby Shelley) are major players. Analysts here focus on commodity cost analysis, supply chain logistics, and export market forecasting.
5. Construction & Real Estate Development: Driven by population growth, firms like Rexburg Construction and local developers need project finance analysts to manage budgets for new subdivisions and commercial properties.
6. Eastern Idaho Regional Medical Center (EIRMC) - Idaho Falls (30-min commute): While not in Rexburg, many residents commute. EIRMC’s finance department is large and offers roles in cost accounting and financial planning.
7. State & Local Government: Madison County and the City of Rexburg have finance departments that occasionally post analyst roles for budgeting and grant management.

Hiring Trends: The market is relationship-driven. Most jobs are filled through referrals or internal promotions. Networking with professionals at the Madison County Economic Development Council or attending the Rexburg Chamber of Commerce events is not optional—it’s essential.

Getting Licensed in ID

Idaho does not have a state-specific license for financial analysts (unlike for CPAs or CFPs). However, professional certifications are crucial for advancement.

• Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA): The gold standard. No state approval needed, but the three-level exam is a significant time and financial investment (total cost ~$3,000, plus study materials). It’s highly valued by employers in Rexburg, especially in banking and investment roles.
• Certified Public Accountant (CPA): Regulated by the Idaho Board of Accountancy. If you’re moving from another state, you must apply for licensure by endorsement. You’ll need to verify your education (150 credit hours), pass the AICPA ethics exam, and have your experience verified. Costs are around $500 in fees, plus the cost of the exam if not already passed.
• Financial Modeling & Valuation Analyst (FMVA): Offered by the Corporate Finance Institute, this is more practical for corporate financial analysis. No state licensing, but it’s a respected credential that can be obtained in under six months.

Timeline: If you’re already licensed/certified in another state, the transfer process can take 2-3 months. If starting from scratch, plan for 12-18 months for the CFA or CPA journey. Always check the Idaho Department of Finance website for any regulatory updates, especially if you’re dealing with securities.

Best Neighborhoods for Financial Analysts

Rexburg is eminently walkable and bike-friendly, but car-dependent for daily errands. Your neighborhood choice is less about commute and more about lifestyle.

1. Central Rexburg (Downtown): Close to the courthouse, city offices, and local banks. You can walk to work if your office is downtown. Rent for a 1BR is $950-$1,150. Best for those who want a small-town, walkable feel.
2. North Rexburg / St. Anthony Lake Area: Newer developments, more single-family homes. A 10-15 minute drive to downtown. Rent is similar, $1,000-$1,200, but you get more space. Ideal for young professionals planning to buy a home soon.
3. South Rexburg / Near BYU-Idaho: A mix of student housing and quiet residential streets. Rents can be slightly higher for modern units, $1,100-$1,300. The vibe is energetic and safe, with easy access to campus amenities.
4. Rigby (15-minute commute east): A neighboring town with a lower cost of living. 1BR rents can be $800-$1,000. It’s a quiet, family-oriented community if you’re willing to commute to Rexburg for work. Many healthcare workers at EIRMC live here.
5. Teton County Wilderness Corridor (Ashton/Island Park - 45 min commute): For extreme nature lovers. This is a niche choice, with limited rental stock and longer commutes. Rents are highly variable but can be lower if you find a long-term rental. Not recommended unless you work remotely.

Insider Tip: The rental market moves fast. Start your search 60 days before your move date. Use local Facebook groups like "Rexburg Rentals" and "Rexburg Buy/Sell/Trade" for the best leads, as many landlords don't list on major sites.

The Long Game: Career Growth

Rexburg’s career growth is steady but not explosive. It’s about depth, not just climbing a corporate ladder.

• Specialty Premiums: As mentioned, expertise in agricultural finance, healthcare revenue cycle, or nonprofit/grant management can add 10-15% to your salary. Generalist roles see slower growth.
• Advancement Paths: The typical path is Analyst -> Senior Analyst -> Finance Manager. In a small market, lateral moves to a different sector (e.g., from a credit union to a hospital) are often the only way to get a significant pay bump. Many senior analysts eventually transition into consulting for local businesses or start their own financial planning firms.
• 10-Year Outlook: The 9% job growth is positive. The influx of remote workers and retirees is expanding the service economy. However, competition for the coveted senior roles will intensify. Building a strong local network is your best investment. By 2034, expect more roles in sustainable finance (agri-tech) and financial technology to support the growing region.

The Verdict: Is Rexburg Right for You?

Rexburg is not for everyone. It’s a trade-off that rewards specific priorities. Use this table to decide.

Pros	Cons
Exceptional affordability (Cost of Living Index: 96.5). Your paycheck goes far.	Very limited job market (only 79 jobs). Fewer opportunities mean less choice.
High savings potential (ability to buy a home on a single analyst's salary).	Can be insular. It’s a tight-knit community; breaking in takes time and effort.
Stable, community-oriented employers (hospitals, credit unions, BYU-Idaho).	Limited cultural/diversity offerings compared to Boise or a major metro.
Access to world-class outdoor recreation (Teton Range, Henry's Lake, Mesa Falls).	Heavy reliance on a car. Public transit is minimal.
Low crime, safe, family-friendly environment.	Salaries are near the national average, not above it. Don’t expect a big raise for moving.

Final Recommendation:
Rexburg is an excellent choice for financial analysts who prioritize homeownership, a high savings rate, and outdoor access over a fast-paced, high-competition career path. It’s ideal for mid-career professionals (3-10 years experience) who can land a stable job quickly and want to plant roots. It’s not the right move for early-career analysts seeking rapid advancement, job-hopping opportunities, or a vibrant urban social scene. If you value stability, affordability, and mountains over skyscrapers, Rexburg could be your ideal financial and professional home.

FAQs

1. Is the job market really that small? What if I can’t find a job?
Yes, the market is niche. The key is to be flexible. Consider remote roles for companies based in other states while living in Rexburg for the low cost of living. Many analysts successfully do this. Also, be open to contract or temporary roles to get your foot in the door with local employers.

2. How important is knowing someone at BYU-Idaho or the hospital?
It’s critical. Over 60% of the professional jobs in Rexburg are filled through networks. Join the Idaho Society of CPAs (Eastern Idaho chapter) and attend BYU-Idaho’s Finance Department seminars (open to the public). Your goal is to have coffee with at least three financial professionals in your first month.

3. Will my non-compete be enforceable in Idaho?
Idaho law is generally employer-friendly regarding non-competes, especially for roles with access to trade secrets. If you’re moving from another state, your existing agreement will likely be upheld. Always consult an Idaho employment attorney before signing a new contract.

4. What’s the social life like for a single professional in their 30s?
It’s what you make of it. The social scene revolves around outdoor clubs (hiking, skiing), church groups (if you’re religious), and professional associations. There are a few good breweries and coffee shops, but a "nightlife" as you’d find in a city doesn’t exist. You’ll find community through shared interests, not random bar scenes.

5. How does the commute to Idaho Falls for a better job work?
It’s a very common 25-35 minute drive via US-20. The traffic is minimal. Many analysts live in Rexburg for the lower rent and commute to Idaho Falls for higher-paying jobs at EIRMC or the Idaho National Laboratory (INL). The gas cost is offset by the housing savings. It’s a viable strategy for expanding your job options.

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Sources: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) for Idaho Falls Metro Area (which includes Rexburg), Zillow Rental Market Data, Idaho Department of Finance, Madison County Economic Development Council, Cost of Living Index (C2ER), Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Tax Tables.