Picture this: a land of breathtaking landscapes, friendly communities, and several mountain ranges for outdoor enthusiasts. A place where the political climate aligns with a “live and let live” attitude. That’s Northern Idaho for you! In this blog post, we’ll explore the reasons why so many people are moving to this charming region.

Natural Beauty & Outdoor Recreation

Why Are So Many People Moving to North Idaho? — It's easy to see why Coeur d'Alene is a tourist town with boat cruises and a striking view like this.

North Idaho is a real gem, with its stunning natural beauty and abundant outdoor recreation activities like Lake Coeur d’Alene, Priest Lake, and Idaho Panhandle National Forests. Adventure-seekers and nature-lovers alike simply can’t get enough of it.

With its lush forests, pristine lakes, and majestic mountains, North Idaho is the perfect destination for those seeking a picturesque escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Lake Coeur d'Alene

Lake Coeur d’Alene captivates with its breathtaking views and thrilling water activities. Want to explore the region located near the Canadian border? Hop on the 73-mile biking Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes and soak in the beauty of the Idaho Panhandle.

Don’t forget to visit the charming town of Harrison, where you can pedal around, peruse the shops, and learn about the local Native American tribes and their history in the area. And if you’re looking for more scenic beauty, the Pend Oreille Scenic Byway near Sandpoint offers jaw-dropping views of the mountains.

Priest Lake

Located atop Idaho’s panhandle, Priest Lake is a 19-mile long lake with majestic mountains providing a breathtaking backdrop. It’s an outdoorsman’s paradise, perfect for:

boating
kayaking
beachin’
camping
hikin’

With a sprawling 26,000 acres, Priest Lake is quite the catch, pun intended.

Priest Lake, located to the north of larger Lake Pend Oreille, provides a tranquil and scenic setting, ideal for both seasoned anglers and those seeking relaxation in nature.

Idaho Panhandle National Forests

Covering a whopping 2.5 million acres of public lands, Idaho Panhandle National Forests offer diverse landscapes, wildlife, and recreational activities. It’s a veritable paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Travel through the Selkirk Loop and marvel at the delightful spread of over 50 mammal species and 265+ bird species.

From hiking and swimming to rock climbing, the Idaho Panhandle National Forests offer an unforgettable adventure in a stunning natural playground. It’s time to gear up and plunge into this experience at Boulder Beach Water Park.

Laid-Back Lifestyle & Friendly Communities

The laid-back lifestyle and friendly communities in North Idaho are a breath of fresh air for those seeking a relaxed and welcoming environment. From quaint towns to adventure-packed destinations, North Idaho has it all.

Here's a small list of some of our charming communities.

Sandpoint

Sandpoint is the place to be if you’re looking for a charming city with a perfect blend of shopping, dining, and outdoor fun. Situated along the International Selkirk Loop, this delightful town offers endless opportunities for adventure and relaxation.

If you want to get your heart racing, try:

mountain biking
hiking the Gold Hill Trail and discovering the thrills of Schweitzer Mountain Resort
pedaling around the 280-mile-long International Selkirk Loop for a truly epic experience

Without a doubt, a visit to Sandpoint is essential when in North Idaho.

Bonners Ferry

Welcome to Bonners Ferry, “Idaho’s Most Friendly Town”. Surrounded by the Selkirk Mountains, this cozy little spot offers an array of outdoor activities like world class fishing on the Kootenai River.

After a day of adventure, you can unwind at Kootenai Brewing Company and savor some delicious grilled salmon. Bonners Ferry, with its modest population of 2,543, this is considered one of Idaho's smaller towns - as long as we don't count the population of black bear!

Post Falls

Located just west of Coeur d'Alene, and minutes from Spokane, Post Falls is an ideal location for rock climbing adventures and enjoying local craft brews. With a population of around 44,194, Post Falls offers a perfect balance of small-town charm and outdoor activities. Post Falls is a hub of activity where you can scale cliffs, wander through nature, embark on a boat voyage, or just relax on the beach.

And don’t forget to culminate your adventure day at Sawmill Grill or The Filling Station, where you can savor some local flavors.

The Political Climate & Its Influence

The political landscape in North Idaho plays a significant role in attracting people who support the state’s laws and policies and seek a “live and let live” attitude. In this solidly conservative political environment, North Idaho is seen as a place where people can live in rugged country with untouched beauty. Lower taxes, fewer regulations, and a strong emphasis on personal responsibility make North Idaho the ideal destination for those who prefer a more conservative lifestyle.

The prevailing ‘live and let live’ ethos in both North Idaho and Southern Idaho enables residents to enjoy their lives with minimal external interference, making it one of the region’s most appealing features. A custom home builder here in Idaho named Idaho Impact Homes even points out that many folks from Washington State live in Idaho to escape the growing tax burden of the Evergreen State. In places like Post Falls, Coeur d’Alene and even Moscow, you can easily live in Idaho and commute just a few minutes to a job in Washington that pays well.

Unique Attractions & Hidden Gems

North Idaho’s unique attractions and hidden gems entice even more people to move to the region. In fact, our neighbors just to the west, in Spokane, use us as their escape from the grind quite frequently. From world-class ski resorts to the deepest river gorge in North America, there’s no shortage of awe-inspiring experiences.

Silver Mountain Resort

Silver Mountain Resort is the place to be if you’re looking for an epic ski adventure. Boasting the world’s longest single-strand gondola and plenty of year-round outdoor fun, this resort is a must-visit attraction in North Idaho. From skiing and snowboarding to golfing, hiking, biking, and tubing, not to mention gondola rides, Silver Mountain Resort offers a range of activities to cater to everyone’s tastes.

And if you’re feeling adventurous, hike the 1.4-mile trail to the stunning 225-foot Copper Falls.

Hells Canyon

As the deepest river gorge in North America, Hells Canyon offers incredible views and adventure opportunities. The canyon offers myriad experiences such as:

Jet boating
Hiking
Camping
Fishing
Whitewater rafting

Not to mention the opportunity to admire stunning vistas. The Hells Canyon National Recreation Area is home to local wineries and sacred Nez Perce National Forest sites, making it an ideal destination for history buffs and wine enthusiasts alike.

So, pack your bags and embark on a journey to explore the awe-inspiring depths of Hells Canyon.

Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge

Spanning 2,774 acres and surrounded by majestic mountains, Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge offers a variety of activities for wildlife enthusiasts, including:

Hiking
Wildlife observation
Photography
Auto tours

The possibilities are endless in this stunning refuge.

The diverse landscapes and abundant wildlife of Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge further enhance North Idaho’s appeal as a destination.

Does the northern tip of Idaho want these people in their towns and the surrounding mountains?

The arrival of new settlers in North Idaho has sparked a considerable amount of controversy. Some view this migration as an exciting period of growth and development. They see the influx of people as a potential catalyst for economic prosperity, bringing in new businesses and opportunities. However, the other side of the coin presents a more cautious perspective. There is a concern that the influx of newcomers might disrupt the region's delicate equilibrium, potentially leading to significant changes in the established way of life and putting pressure on local resources.

The first concern stems from a fear of cultural dilution. North Idaho boasts a strong and unique identity. Its rugged landscapes, independent spirit, and conservative values form the bedrock of this identity. The locals cherish these characteristics and believe they set their homeland apart. However, there is a growing worry that the influx of new residents, especially those from more urban and liberal areas, might dilute this distinctive cultural identity. The fear is that these newcomers might not fully appreciate or adhere to the "live and let live" ethos that is so deeply ingrained in the local culture.

Another concern is the potential strain on local resources and infrastructure. With the population increase comes a greater demand for housing, public services, and infrastructure. While growth can certainly lead to economic opportunities, it can also put pressure on local resources. This surge in demand has already resulted in a significant rise in the cost of living. Real estate prices have more than doubled compared to what they were four years ago, making North Idaho less affordable for some long-standing residents.

This shift in affordability could lead to a change in the community dynamic. It might even result in the displacement of some locals. The fear is that the region's charm and appeal, which attracted these newcomers in the first place, could be lost. The locals worry that the essence of North Idaho, characterized by its unique culture and natural beauty, might be compromised in the process.

Final Thoughts

To wrap it up, North Idaho continues to charm a diverse range of people. This captivating region is experiencing a rapid growth spurt and shows no signs of slowing down in its allure to new residents. Yes, the doors are wide open, and the invitation stands! However, a word to the wise for those planning to move here: don't let the occasional grumbles of a few deter you. North Idaho is a welcoming place, but it's also a region that values its unique identity. So, if you're escaping a place that didn't suit you, remember, we welcome you to join us, but we don't want our beloved North Idaho to morph into the place you left behind. Come, experience the magic of North Idaho, and be a part of preserving its charm!

Frequently Asked Questions

What towns are considered northern Idaho?

Head up to northern Idaho and explore the beauty of Coeur d'Alene, Sandpoint, Wallace, Bonners Ferry, Post Falls, Saint Maries, Coolin, and Kellogg.

What is northern Idaho known for?

Northern Idaho is renowned for its picturesque forests, lakes and rivers perfect for outdoor adventures like skiing, biking and fishing. Experience the region's three ski resorts, big rivers and International Selkirk Loop - North America's only multinational scenic drive.

Why are people moving to northern Idaho?

People are moving to northern Idaho for a better life, with four perfect seasons of weather that provide comfortable summers, rainy springs, colorful falls, and mild winters. Live Better in North Idaho!

What makes Lake Coeur d'Alene special?

Lake Coeur d'Alene is a breathtaking destination offering an abundance of recreational activities and spectacular views along its scenic byway - a perfect getaway!The Controversy Surrounding the Influx to North Idaho

Why Are So Many People Moving to North Idaho?