The chief sources of income of Pocatello and its surrounding trade area are manufacturing, mining, transportation, agriculture, medical products, processing of agricultural products, high-tech and nuclear research, recreation and tourism. Pocatello also serves as the retail hub for southeast Idaho.

Agriculture, including farming and processing Idaho's famous potatoes, is an important part of the local economy. The J.R. Simplot Company is a large employer in the region and plays a vital role in the community.

Regional industry also includes the Idaho National Laboratory (INL), located 60 miles northwest of Pocatello. INL currently employs about 12,000 people. By 2015, INL will be the pre-eminent nuclear energy laboratory with synergistic, world-class, multi-program capabilities and partnerships.

With an active economic development team head-quartered at the ISU research and Business Park, and the Bannock County Development Corporation working with development partners to facilitate job and business growth for the region, Pocatello's economic prospects and future are bright.