Pocatello - positives vs. negatives (Idaho Falls: insurance, property taxes, live in)

[talps1]

My husband and I are considering relocating to Pocatello from Lake Havaus City, AZ. We have heard wonderful things about Pocatello and it sounds like a very nice place to move. BUT.... with all that good I've heard, I would also like to know what some of the negative things may be, i.e. lack of work, extreme weather, etc. I have heard that the property taxes are outrageious, although from what I was told, that is only within in the City limits. I must admit, the more I hear about Pocatello, the more I like it, but I do need to find out some of the "realities" as well! Thanks for whatever information you can provide!

btw, speaking of extreme weather - we have extreme weather in Havasu, (extremely HOT), so I'm assuming if I can adjust to 120 degree Havasu weather, I can adjust to Pocatello weather whatever it may be!!

[twinprism]

I live in Pocatello and generally love it here.

Here's some generic info on some negatives.

Fewer "Chain" stores than surrounding cities of similar size. (but on the plus side, more unique local stores)
Fewer choice for retail shopping than Idaho Falls.
Property Taxes in the city limits are slightly higher than the state average.
Some areas of town can appear run down due to Pocatello's industrial/Railroad/Blue Collar past. These are largely being cleaned up.
The Pocatello Airport doesn't have many affordable flights anymore. Have to travel to Idaho Falls or Salt Lake City to catch a flight.

On the plus side...
Winter weather is usually slightly milder than surrounding areas.
Unparalleled access to the outdoors, hills and mountains around town are awesome.

I'll just post this link from a article written a year ago by a good friend of mine which explains better than I can what I like about Pocatello.

Idaho State Journal :: General :: Some advice for Pocatello newcomers

[seta]

we are considering leaving Naples, Florida and moving to Idaho...
Where should we consider...we like to have things to do, out doors, malls, dining...need jobs and insurance...we have dogs who are our kids, and lastly what is up with the high rape rates there...are we missing something or should we just reconsider the state of Idaho completely???
Seta