Cities and Towns in Gem County, Idaho
Founded in 1915, Gem County is one of 44 counties in the state of Idaho. Historically, Gem County was formed from Boise and Canyon Counties. The city of Emmett is the county seat. With FIPS code of 45, Gem County has a population of 19,792 and area of 563 square miles (1,458 km²).
List of all cities in Gem County, ID alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Emmett, ID | 83617 | 208 |
| Gross, ID | 83657 | 208 |
| Letha, ID | 83636 | 208 |
| Montour, ID | 83617 | 208 |
| Ola, ID | 83657 | 208 |
| Sweet, ID | 83670 | 208 |
Major Cities and Towns in Gem County, Idaho
Emmett
Area and Population
- Area: 2.92 square miles
- Population: Approximately 6,500
- Zip Codes: 83617
- Latitude: 43.8735° N
- Longitude: 116.4990° W
Location and History
Emmett is the largest city and the county seat of Gem County, Idaho, located in the western part of the state along the Payette River. The city was established in the 1860s as a settlement for miners and farmers, with its name originating from Emmett Cahalan, a local rancher and businessman. Emmett grew rapidly during the late 19th and early 20th centuries due to the expansion of agriculture, particularly fruit orchards, which thrive in the region’s fertile soil. The city’s location in the Emmett Valley, surrounded by the Boise and Payette National Forests, makes it a picturesque and strategic hub for both agriculture and outdoor recreation. Today, Emmett is known for its small-town charm, strong community spirit, and access to the natural beauty of the surrounding countryside.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Emmett is served by the Emmett Independent School District, with Emmett High School and Carberry Intermediate School being key educational institutions. The city hosts several annual events, including the Emmett Cherry Festival, which celebrates the area’s rich agricultural heritage and draws visitors from across the state. Notable landmarks include Black Canyon Diversion Dam, which is a significant source of irrigation water and recreational activities, and the Gem County Historical Society and Museum, which offers exhibits on the area’s pioneer history. The nearby Payette River provides opportunities for fishing, boating, and exploring the natural landscapes that define this vibrant community.
Sweet
Area and Population
- Area: Not formally incorporated; rural community
- Population: Approximately 400 (including surrounding areas)
- Zip Codes: 83670
- Latitude: 44.0086° N
- Longitude: 116.4194° W
Location and History
Sweet is a small, unincorporated community located north of Emmett in Gem County, Idaho. The town was established in the late 19th century and was named after Ezekiel Sweet, an early settler who was instrumental in developing the area. Sweet developed as an agricultural community, with its economy based on farming, ranching, and timber production from the nearby Boise National Forest. The town’s rural setting and close-knit community have allowed it to maintain its historic character while providing a peaceful environment for residents. Sweet is known for its scenic location in the rolling hills and valleys of western Idaho, offering stunning views and a quiet, rural lifestyle.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Sweet is part of the Emmett Independent School District, with students typically attending schools in nearby Emmett. The community is known for its agricultural heritage and its proximity to outdoor recreation areas, including the Boise National Forest, which offers opportunities for hiking, hunting, and exploring the region’s diverse wildlife. Notable landmarks include the historic Sweet Methodist Church, which has served as a focal point for the community since the early 1900s, and the annual Sweet Syringa Festival, which celebrates the town’s history and community spirit with parades, music, and local crafts. Sweet’s rural charm and strong sense of community make it a unique and welcoming place to live.
Letha
Area and Population
- Area: Not formally incorporated; rural community
- Population: Approximately 300 (including surrounding areas)
- Zip Codes: 83636
- Latitude: 43.9419° N
- Longitude: 116.6489° W
Location and History
Letha is a small, unincorporated community located southwest of Emmett in Gem County, Idaho. The town was established in the early 20th century and was named after Letha B. Voorhees, the daughter of a local landowner. Letha developed as a farming community, with its economy centered around the cultivation of crops such as corn, potatoes, and alfalfa. The town’s location near the Payette River provides it with ample water resources, making it an ideal area for agriculture. Over the years, Letha has remained a small, rural community with a strong connection to the land and a focus on preserving its agricultural heritage.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Letha is part of the Emmett Independent School District, with students typically attending schools in Emmett. The community is known for its quiet, rural atmosphere and its close-knit population. Notable landmarks include the Letha Community Church, which has served as a gathering place for residents since the town’s early days, and the surrounding farmland, which offers a picturesque backdrop for the community. The nearby Black Canyon Reservoir provides opportunities for fishing, boating, and other water-based recreation, making Letha an attractive location for those who enjoy outdoor activities in a peaceful, rural setting.
