If you’ve ever dreamed of living in a small mountain town steeped in history and surrounded by breathtaking outdoor adventures, Wallace, Idaho might just be calling your name. Tucked away in the Silver Valley of Shoshone County, Wallace is a unique gem in North Idaho—rich in charm, character, and yes, a few quirks too.

In this post, we’ll cover what it’s really like to live in Wallace, including the pros, cons, and things you’ll want to know before packing your bags.

🏔️ The Pros of Living in Wallace

1. Historic Charm Everywhere You Look
   Wallace is known as “The Center of the Universe”—and once you step into town, you’ll understand why. Founded in 1884 and fueled by the silver mining boom, this town has preserved much of its original architecture. Strolling through downtown feels like stepping into a movie set (and it’s been one, by the way—Dante’s Peak was filmed here).
2. Outdoor Recreation Galore
   Whether you ski, hike, bike, fish, or snowmobile—Wallace is your kind of playground. You’re a short drive from Lookout Pass and Silver Mountain Ski Resort, both offering skiing in the winter and mountain biking in the summer. Don’t miss the Route of the Hiawatha trail, Palaski Trail, or the endless forest service roads if you’re into exploring off-grid.
3. Small-Town Vibes, Big Heart Community
   This is the kind of town where people wave at each other, shop local, and still chat in line at the coffee shop. It’s quiet, it’s slower-paced, and for many, it’s exactly the lifestyle they’re after.
4. Affordable Cost of Living
   Compared to Coeur d’Alene or Spokane, Wallace is incredibly affordable. The median home price hovers around $120,000, and rents average about $650/month. For buyers on a budget or remote workers looking for a low-overhead lifestyle, this is a major win.

The Cons of Living in Wallace

1. Harsh Winters & Steep Roads
   Wallace is nestled in the mountains, which means heavy snowfall, icy roads, and tricky commutes—especially over Fourth of July Pass heading to Coeur d’Alene. If you’re not comfortable driving in winter conditions, this could be a challenge.
2. Limited Job Market
   Unless you’re remote, retired, or work in mining, tourism, or hospitality, jobs can be scarce. Many residents either work from home or commute to larger towns.
3. Fewer Amenities
   Wallace has charm, but it doesn’t have a Costco. For bigger grocery trips or specialized medical care, you’ll likely need to drive to Kellogg or even Coeur d’Alene. There are some great local shops and restaurants, but don’t expect major retail chains.
4. Isolation Can Be a Double-Edged Sword
   You’re about 45 minutes from Coeur d’Alene and surrounded by wilderness. For some, that peace and privacy is paradise. For others, it feels a bit disconnected.

Schools + Safety

Wallace has a small school district with a B rating on niche.com, including a combined junior/senior high school. While small, these schools often offer a close-knit, community-based education experience. Crime here is low compared to national averages, and local law enforcement—led by Shoshone County Sheriff’s Department—takes pride in keeping the area safe.

Should You Move to Wallace?

Wallace is ideal for history buffs, nature lovers, remote workers, and anyone looking for a quieter, more affordable lifestyle surrounded by rugged North Idaho beauty. It’s not for everyone—but if you’re the kind of person who finds joy in character homes, snowy mountain mornings, and a close community, it might just be the perfect fit.

Thinking About Moving to Wallace?

If you’re considering relocating to Wallace—or anywhere in North Idaho—our real estate team would love to help. Whether you’re looking to move next month or next year, we’ve got the local insights, experience, and connections to help you make that smooth move.