Whether you’re drawn to North Idaho’s breathtaking landscapes, low crime rates, or strong sense of community, there are key realities to consider before making the move. In this guide, we’ll cover the pros, cons, and unexpected aspects of life in North Idaho—covering everything from cost of living and job opportunities to outdoor recreation and local culture.

Why People Love Living in North Idaho

1. Stunning Natural Beauty + Outdoor Recreation

North Idaho is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise, offering a range of activities year-round. Some of the top destinations include:

• Lake Coeur d’Alene, Hayden Lake, and Priest Lake – Ideal for boating, fishing, and water sports.
• Schweitzer Mountain Resort & Silver Mountain – Top skiing, snowboarding, and mountain biking destinations.
• Coeur d’Alene National Forest – A haven for hiking, off-roading, and wildlife exploration.

If you love an active lifestyle surrounded by stunning scenery, North Idaho won’t disappoint.

2. Small-Town Charm + Strong Community Ties

Unlike big cities where neighbors often keep to themselves, North Idaho fosters a strong sense of community with:

• Supportive locally owned businesses
• Active churches and family-friendly events
• A culture that values freedom, independence, and helping others

If you’re looking for a close-knit, welcoming atmosphere, North Idaho is the perfect place to put down roots.

3. Low Crime Rates + Safe Neighborhoods

Compared to national averages, North Idaho boasts significantly lower crime rates:

• Property crimes and violent crimes are rare.
• Law enforcement is well-supported and actively enforces the law.
• Many residents feel safe enough to leave their car and home doors unlocked (though it’s always best to take precautions).

For those prioritizing safety and peace of mind, North Idaho is a great place to live.

4. Lower Cost of Living (With Some Caveats)

While housing prices have risen, North Idaho still offers a lower cost of living compared to states like California, Oregon, and Washington. Benefits include:

• Lower property taxes
• Affordable vehicle registration and insurance
• No state income tax on Social Security benefits

However, some costs—like groceries and utilities—are on par with national averages.

Challenges of Living in North Idaho

1. Limited Job Market + Lower Wages

While industries like construction, hospitality, and small business entrepreneurship are growing, overall job opportunities are limited.

• Wages are generally lower than in major metro areas.
• Many professionals work remotely or commute to Washington for higher-paying jobs.
• Expanding industries include healthcare, tech, and manufacturing, but options remain fewer than in larger cities.

If career advancement is a priority, careful planning is essential.

2. Harsh Winters + Long Dark Months

North Idaho winters can be challenging:

• Some areas see over 40 inches of snow per year.
• Icy roads and freezing temperatures make driving difficult.
• The shortest winter days have only 8 hours of daylight.

However, if you love winter sports, North Idaho offers some of the best skiing, snowmobiling, and snowshoeing in the region.

3. Rising Home Prices + Housing Shortages

The secret is out—North Idaho is growing rapidly.

• Median home prices in Coeur d’Alene now range between $500,000-$600,000.
• High demand has led to limited availability and higher costs.
• More affordable options exist in Post Falls, Rathdrum, and Bonners Ferry, but prices are rising there, too.

4. Limited Public Transportation

North Idaho is car-dependent.

• Public transit is minimal.
• Winter biking is nearly impossible due to icy roads.
• Uber and Lyft exist but are unreliable in rural areas.

If you’re moving here, owning a car is a necessity.

Surprising Realities of Life in North Idaho

1. A Growing Arts + Culture Scene

While North Idaho is famous for outdoor adventures, its arts community is thriving.

• Coeur d’Alene’s Art on the Green Festival attracts artists from across the country.
• Local musicians, painters, and craftspeople flourish in Sandpoint and downtown CDA.
• Theater performances and live music events are gaining popularity.

2. Close Encounters with Wildlife

Wildlife sightings are common in North Idaho.

• Moose, deer, and elk frequently wander through neighborhoods.
• Bears and mountain lions occasionally appear in residential areas.
• Wolves are present in remote regions, though rarely a threat to humans.

If you have pets or livestock, being mindful of wildlife is essential.

3. Rapid Development + Population Growth

North Idaho’s small-town feel is evolving as more people relocate here.

• Housing developments are booming in Hayden, Post Falls, and Coeur d’Alene.
• High-rise condos and luxury developments are increasing in downtown CDA.
• Some locals are wary of rapid growth, but change is inevitable.

For those seeking a truly remote small-town vibe, areas further north—like Bonners Ferry—remain less developed.

Is North Idaho Right for You?

North Idaho is ideal if you: 

✅ Love outdoor adventure and small-town charm 

✅ Prefer low crime, strong community ties, and conservative values 

✅ Want to escape high taxes and big-city chaos 

✅ Don’t mind cold winters and a smaller job market

It may not be the best fit if you: 

❌ Need big-city amenities and diverse career opportunities 

❌ Hate cold, dark winters 

❌ Rely on public transportation 

❌ Aren’t comfortable with rural living and wildlife encounters

Thinking About Moving to North Idaho? We Can Help!

If North Idaho sounds like the right place for you, our real estate team is here to help. Whether you’re moving now or just starting your research, reach out to us—we’d love to answer your questions and give guidance on finding the perfect home in North Idaho.