What is Pocatello like? (crime, neighborhoods, universities)

[NWgirl]

Hello,

I've applied for a job in Pocatello and wonder if anyone here can tell me what the area is like from experience. I know that it is southeastern Idaho, that it has a drier climate than the Pacific NW, and that it has a high Mormon population.

Is it super Mormon there, like is there discrimination if you are not Mormon/LDS? Are there people with differing views there? I know that must sound like a completely idiotic question, but when I hear that a place has a high Mormon population, I get the impression that it is almost Stepford-like in that all the LDS folks are very similar and are not nice to non-LDS folks, especially kids. Just don't know if that is true at all. I don't mean to cause offense to any Mormons reading this.

Is there any kind of vibe or culture that Pocatello has? Is it conservative or liberal? Is it deserty at all like Central Oregon? Does it have DSL and broadband cable?

Thank you in advance for your replies!

[cleosmom]

Pocatello does have members of the LDS church, but the city itself tends to have a more liberal appeal as it is a college town.

Husband and I are both non-LDS and have gotten along for 15 years here (SE Idaho) without a hitch.

I wouldn't compare it to central, OR as the moutains are right there, but yes it is high desert... hmm that was clear as mud huh?

Yes, there is both DSL and cable modem in these parts. Plus, if you feel the need to jaunt to a big city, you're only a few hours away from Salt Lake City, UT

[NWgirl]

Hi Cleosmom,

Thanks for writing back. I obviously should have done more research because I didn't realize there was a college in Pocatello!

So what is the weather like in Pocatello? Are there any questionable or higher-crime neighborhoods to avoid? Anything you feel like sharing would be appreciated.

Thanks!

[altaina]

Idaho State University is one of the three major universities in the state. It has an enrollment something over 10,000 right now.

Even though it's officially "high desert" it doesn't feel like it. The city sits down in a valley amongst high hills, and as you look over it, it looks like a solid mass of trees!

You can get wind there in winter, but the hills shelter somewhat. Temps (not counting wind chill) can get down to single digits but not often. Summers in the 80's mostly.