Thinking about raising a family in North Idaho? This isn’t just a headline—it’s real life for Kaylee Shandi, a young mom, CrossFit enthusiast, and physical therapist who made the move from Phoenix to Coeur d’Alene. In a recent episode of The North Idaho Experience podcast, Kaylee opened up about faith, family, health, politics, and what surprised her most after relocating.

Whether you’re considering a move or just curious about life here, her story offers a raw, honest look at why so many young families are choosing North Idaho—and how it’s changing their lives for the better.

From Phoenix Heat to Idaho Roots

Kaylee and her husband, Sheldon, made the move north with their baby girl—and a few cultural shocks in tow. Originally from Bozeman, Montana, Kaylee had long felt called to return to the mountains. But with Sheldon’s family rooted in the Navajo Nation and a career shift in motion, the decision to settle in Coeur d’Alene came down to three key factors:

• A faith-filled community
  
  
• An active, outdoorsy lifestyle
  
  
• The desire to raise their daughter with strong values
  
  

Faith, Fitness + First Impressions

One of the couple’s first steps after arriving? Plugging into the CrossFit community at Lakeside and finding a local church. For Kaylee, One Place Church in Hayden quickly felt like home. “It’s not just that people talk about Jesus here,” she shared, “they live it.”

She noticed right away how welcoming North Idaho is—from strangers greeting each other on trails to friendly DMV staff (yes, really). It’s a stark contrast to the often rushed, distant energy of big-city life.

Building Community the Old-School Way

Kaylee and her family didn’t just join a gym and a church—they found true community. From small business owners to moms at the park, neighbors rally around shared values like self-reliance, generosity, and faith. Even small gestures like grocery store smiles or CrossFit camaraderie have helped them feel right at home.

As a home-care physical therapist and former online business owner, Kaylee sees potential for both professional growth and purpose-driven living. “This community is different,” she says. “People live intentionally here.”

Why North Idaho Is a Magnet for Young Families

Kaylee isn’t alone. Families are relocating to North Idaho in record numbers—many trading higher paychecks and larger cities for:

• Safer neighborhoods
  
  
• Faith-based communities
  
  
• Outdoor freedom
  
  
• A slower, more meaningful pace of life
  
  

It’s not always easy—think cold winters and long gray stretches—but for those who crave connection, clarity, and culture that still values character, it’s worth every sacrifice.

Listen to the Full Interview

To hear more about Kaylee’s journey, including how her faith was rekindled, why she left big-city life behind, and how North Idaho is helping her raise a family with purpose, watch the full podcast episode here.

Reach out to our real estate team for a judgment-free conversation about whether North Idaho is the right fit for your family.