Malad City is a city located in and serving as the county seat of Oneida County, Idaho, United States. It is situated in the Malad Valley along the Interstate 15 corridor, approximately 13 miles north of the Utah border.
The community was established in 1864, making it one of the oldest settled localities in the state of Idaho. The city's name is derived from the Malad River; the term "Malad" originates from the French word malade, meaning "sick." Historical accounts attribute this name to early 19th-century French-Canadian trappers who reportedly became ill after drinking from the river.
Malad City is recognized for its high concentration of residents with Welsh ancestry. In the mid-19th century, a significant number of Welsh immigrants, many of whom were members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, settled in the valley. The city claims to have the largest population of people of Welsh descent per capita outside of Wales. This cultural heritage is commemorated annually through the Malad Valley Welsh Festival, which features traditional music, poetry, and historical presentations.
Geographically, the city lies at an elevation of approximately 4,550 feet. The surrounding region is characterized by an arid climate and a landscape dominated by mountain ranges and agricultural land. The local economy is primarily supported by agriculture, ranching, and its role as a regional service center for Oneida County. According to the United States Census Bureau, the population has remained relatively stable over recent decades, functioning as a small rural hub within the southeastern Idaho region.