Community Profile
Overview of the Area
Much of the fun-filled action in North Idaho can be found in the city at the center of the Idaho Panhandle - Coeur d' Alene.
The French name Coeur d' Alene (pronounced "core da lane") was given to the Indians by early French Canadians who traveled through the area in the 1790's. It's literal translation is "heart of awl," meaning hearts like the point of an awl (a leather-working tool). The reason it was applied to the tribe is still a mystery. The most common explanation is that it was an attempt to describe their shrewd, sharp, tough trading practices.
The Lake City, the sparkling jewel of the Gem State, is always abuzz with activity, including art shows, athletic events, outdoor fun and an endless list of things to do.
Coeur d' Alene is the county seat of Kootenai County and is the sixth largest city in the state. Located at the junction of Interstate 90 and U.S. 95, Coeur d' Alene is bound on the south by Lake Coeur d' Alene, which serves as the front yard for downtown. With city beaches, parks and docks, the lake is easily accessible for swimming, boating, picnicing and water related sports. Lake Coeur d' Alene, called one of the world's most beautiful lakes by the Encyclopedia Brittanica, extends 23 miles to the south and has 109 miles of shoreline. A moderate climate and cost of living, as well as quality health care, make Coeur d' Alene a popular retirement area.
Coeur d' Alene offers everything you've wanted for your home- - and more! In addition to a breathtaking setting, Idaho and Coeur d' Alene offer an economic base attractive to both individuals as well as business and industry.
Homes
Home costs in Idaho are 70% less than the national median-that means that the average 4 bedroom home here is 8 times less than San Francisco, and less than half as much as Seattle, Chicago, Philadelphia, Atlanta or Salt Lake City. Your selection is unlimited: a home on the lake, a home on a river, a home in town, a home in the woods, a home on acreage, or mansion or a cottage, a new ultra modern home, or an older home you can restore.
The Four Seasons
The four seasons are distinct in the Northwest. Summer, with July temperatures averaging 86.4 with 34% humidity, often lingers on through September in the warmth of an "Indian Summer." Winter brings January average temperatures of 21.0 and average annual snowfall of 49.7 inches. With the advent of Spring and cessation of winter sports, Idaho once again becomes green and in flower and the season cycle begins again.
State and Local Taxes
State and local taxes per capita, are 30% lower than the national average, and sixth lowest in the U.S.
Idaho ranks first of all states west of the Mississippi River for business tax structure - and second when compared with all 50 states (based on revenue balance, tax equity, fiscal equalization, property tax administration, and business climate). Add reasonable housing and lower taxes to lower utility rates, the second lowest cost of living in the Western States, and an expanding business climate, and Coeur d' Alene and North Idaho become a truly unique place to live, work and play.
Please browse our featured InfoLinks to get the full spectrum of information.
Outdoor Fun
Schweitzer Mountain Resort
Silverwood Theme Park
Idaho Department of Commerce
Idaho Golf CoursesIdaho Information
National Weather Service