• The Complete Guide To

    Moving To & Living In Coeur d’Alene, Idaho (2023)

    Welcome to Coeur d’Alene, the jewel of North Idaho and one of America’s most beautiful cities. Situated on the shores of a glistening lake and surrounded by the Rocky Mountains, it is a town with a vibrant arts scene filled with galleries, first-rate museums, and performance halls. It has a wide range of local shops and restaurants, as well as luxury stores that offer everything from fine art to outdoor gear. Coeur d’Alene is a place to enjoy the outdoors--from kayaking, skiing, and cycling--you’ll find it all here! The city has a small-town appeal with big-city amenities.

    There are a few things you'll want to know before you make the transition to this incredible city including where it is, what there is to do, how to get around, where you should go first, and more! This complete guide will give you just a glimpse into the lifestyle of residents of Coeur d'Alene, Idaho.

  • chapter 1

    Thinking of Moving To Coeur d'Alene?

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  • chapter 2

    Things to Know About Coeur d’Alene, Idaho

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  • chapter 3

    Moving to Coeur d’Alene, Idaho for work

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  • chapter 4

    Coeur d’Alene, Idaho School Guide

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  • chapter 5

    Top Neighborhoods in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho

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  • chapter 6

    Must-try Places When Moving to Coeur d’Alene, Idaho

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  • chapter 7

    Coeur d’Alene, Idaho Public Transportation

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  • chapter 8

    Events in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho

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  • Chapter 1

    Thinking of Moving to Coeur d’Alene, Idaho?

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  • Where is Coeur d’Alene, Idaho?

    Coeur d’Alene, ID is located in the northern panhandle of Idaho. The city itself is located on the northern shores of Lake Coeur d'Alene, one of North America's cleanest and clearest lakes. It is also home to many rivers including both the Saint Joe River and the Spokane River. The city is also close to the Boise River and the Pend Oreille River.

    This grand city is the county seat of Kootenai County and happens to be the largest city in North Idaho. Due to its size and growing population of more than 53,000, there are countless things to see and do in and around Coeur d'Alene! Coeur d'Alene is located about thirty miles west of Washington State, which allows for ample opportunity to venture out into new states and cities for a day or weekend getaway!

  • The city is also settled along the north shore of Lake Coeur d'Alene, which is approximately 25 miles long, and just to the west of the Coeur d'Alene Mountains. If natural beauty is something you desire in a city, then Coeur d'Alene will be perfect for you! Stunning landscapes surround the city and countless activities await on the peaceful waters of the lake.

  • Chapter 2

    Things to Know About Coeur d’Alene, Idaho

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  • Fun facts about Coeur d’Alene, Idaho

    Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, sometimes referred to as Lake City due to the gorgeous natural dam-controlled lake that the city is known for, was officially named after the Coeur d'Alene people who lived along the rivers and lakes of the area stretching from eastern Washington to Montana. These Native American peoples were skilled hunter-gatherers, who practiced hunting, fishing, and foraging through the natural wilderness of what is now a thriving city.

    These days, the population of Coeur d'Alene, Idaho is seeing a large influx of retirees. In fact, the number of residents over the age of 65 has doubled between 2001 and 2019. This is largely due to the fact that the city of Coeur d'Alene provides a wide range of services for seniors and retirees including discounts on attractions, health care, pharmacies, recreation centers, and more!

  • The city experiences a wide range of temperatures throughout the year. Typically, the summers are warm and dry while the winters are cold and quite wet. On average, the temperature ranges from 29.8 °F in December to 69.0 °F in July and August. Very rarely do temperatures exceed 90 °F, but there are several chilly nights in the winter that drop below 10 °F. For those hoping to move to Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, you need to be prepared for a diverse climate and all that comes with it.

    Coeur d'Alene started out as a logging and mining community way back when. These days, the main contributor to the city's thriving economy is tourism. The picturesque Lake Coeur d'Alene draws many visitors every year who are hoping to take advantage of the crystal clear waters, lounge on the shorelines for picnics, or take a steamboat cruise to get a taste of historic Coeur d'Alene. The city has often been referred to as a "wonderland" and the "Lucerne of America" by many public magazines.

    To keep up with the growing tourist demand, Coeur d'Alene, Idaho is home to more than 30 motels to accommodate all the visitors! The city offers visitors a wide selection of lakefront parks, which include playgrounds, swimming pools, and hiking trails.

    In addition to being a popular tourist destination for those from out of state, Coeur d'Alene, Idaho is also a popular relocation spot for those who enjoy the retirement community lifestyle. Whether you're looking for an apartment rental or thinking of buying a house in Coeur d'Alene, there are plenty of properties to choose from!

  • Chapter 3

    Moving to Coeur d’Alene, Idaho for work

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  • Business & jobs in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho

    In the past, the economy of Coeur d'Alene was dependent on the success of the mining and logging industry. In fact, the Coeur d'Alene Mining District has been one of the world's most productive mining districts over the years! However, times have changed and mining and logging have fallen on the list of economic priorities.

    Nowadays, Coeur d'Alene, Idaho is home to a number of different companies and industries. The largest employer in the city is Hagadone Corporation and the Kootenai Medical Center. Coeur d'Alene is also the healthcare, educational, media, manufacturing, retail, and recreation center for North Idaho. With all of these fantastic options, there's room for all in this diverse city, no matter what job or career path you seek!

  • The retail of Coeur d'Alene, Idaho has expanded exponentially in the past few years. New stores and entertainment venues have flooded into the Downtown district and all throughout the city. Silver Lake Mall, the largest in North Idaho, opened in 1989 and has since remained a stable provider to working citizens of Coeur d'Alene.

    Companies that have set up their head offices within the borders of Coeur d'Alene include:

    Coeur d'Alene, Idaho has also become the heart of tourism for North Idaho. Being centrally located within the heart of Idaho's lake country, visitors come from all over, year-round, to enjoy the many wonderful outdoor activities that the region has to offer. This includes everything from sailing and paddleboarding to fishing and parasailing and everything in between!

    Along with all the lakeside fun, Coeur d'Alene also features two major resorts: the Coeur d'Alene Resort and the WorldMark Arrow Point Resort. On top of that, visitors can also check out the Coeur d'Alene Casino and the Silverwood Theme Park, Northwestern United States' largest theme park. Three major ski resorts are also within a short drive from the heart of the city: Silver Mountain Resort, Lookout Pass Ski and Recreation Area, and Schweitzer Mountain Ski Resort. As you can imagine, all of this adds up to a wealth of employment opportunities to residents of Coeur d'Alene, Idaho.

    It's clear to see that no matter what you're looking for, you can find work in Coeur d'Alene! The metropolitan area alone has a workforce of more than 80,000 people and an unemployment rate of 6.8 percent. The largest sectors in the city include trade, transportation, government, education, health services, and leisure and hospitality.

  • Chapter 4

    Coeurd’Alene, Idaho School Guide

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  • The best schools in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho

    The students residing in Coeur d'Alene have plenty of exceptional educational opportunities available to them within the Coeur d'Alene School District. Serving approximately 11,000 students in pre-kindergarten through 12th grade, Coeur d'Alene School District is home to a number of award-winning elementary, middle, and high schools.

    Top-quality resources and a plethora of extracurricular programs and activities give students attending a Coeur d'Alene school a leg up when it comes to furthering their educational career or entering the workforce after high school.

    Schools in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho include:

When it comes to postsecondary education, students have a couple of options to consider. North Idaho College is a public community college that has been a staple of the educational community in Coeur d'Alene since 1933. The University of Idaho has a Coeur d'Alene campus as well as a research park in the city.

  • Chapter 5

    Top Neighborhoods in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho

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  • Where to live in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho

    Coeur d'Alene, Idaho is considered a bedroom community for those who work in Spokane, Washington, which is just 30 miles to the west of the city. Those who are hoping to work in the larger city yet enjoy the small-town charm of Coeur d'Alene have ample opportunity to do so.

    As such, Coeur d'Alene features a number of beautiful neighborhoods and has developed several luxury communities within the last few years.

    Let's take a look at some of the top neighborhoods to choose from in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho:

  • Hayden Lake

    More specifically The Falls at Hayden Lake is a newer luxury neighborhood that features gorgeous scenery and manicured lawns. This gated, waterfront development is the epitome of what the Coeur d'Alene dream is all about. Boat slips are included with eat lot purchase and stunning lake views are just two of the perks to choosing this incredible community!

    Residents of Hayden Lake have access to several community amenities such as private parks, hiking trails, pavilions, luxury gondola-style tram, and acres of natural surroundings. The neighborhood is said to blur the lines between development and conservation, offering those who reside within the gates the benefits of both worlds.

    The cost of the comfortable lakeside living of The Falls at Hayden Lake averages around $1.5 million and is truly worth every penny! Spacious lots offer a private oasis and the designated hiking trail system that runs through the park-like community allows residents to maintain a healthy, active lifestyle surrounded by nature's finest.

  • Fernan Lake Village

    The beautiful neighborhood of Fernan Lake Village sits on the shores of Fernan Lake and boasts stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Located east of Downtown Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, it’s known as a “hidden gem” for locals, who enjoy fishing, canoeing, and paddleboarding on the lake.

    Living in Fernan Lake Village offers residents a rural feel. The neighborhood’s location is ideal for those looking to relax and enjoy life on the lake, while still living close enough to Downtown Coeur d’Alene and Interstate 90. Most residents own their homes and the medium price of real estate is approximately $450,000 (as of 2022).

    Real estate available in the Fernan Lake Village neighborhood is made up of predominantly small to medium-sized single-family homes, many built in the 1950’s and after.

  • Sanders Beach

    Those looking for a little slice of paradise can turn to the Sanders Beach neighborhood. This beachfront destination is the perfect mix of suburban living and coastal luxury. Homes in this Pacific Northwest community are upscale, distinctive, and full of character.

    Sanders Beach is located east of Tubbs Hill recreation area, south of Sherman Avenue, and about 20 minutes from the North Idaho College. This makes it an ideal residential area for students who also have easy access to the famous Hudsons Burgers, the Coeur d'Alene Public Library, and McEuen Park, not to mention just minutes from one of Coeur d'Alenes most popular public beaches!

    The average cost of real estate in Sanders Beach, Coeur d'Alene is about $712,000. This includes single-family homes, beautiful waterfront beach homes, trendy new condos and townhomes, and high-rise apartment complexes.

  • Downtown Coeur d'Alene

    Urbanites can certainly find something to meet their needs in the Downtown core of Coeur d'Alene, Idaho. Homes for sale Downtown range in cost from $125,000 to more than $2.7 million. The median listing is roughly $682,000 and real estate includes modern townhome developments and spacious condos.

    Downtown Coeur d'Alene is considered a hot commodity among Idaho real estate. Homes in this neighborhood sell quickly, so those hoping to score their dream downtown destination need to act fast!

    There are several multi-family home options found among the Downtown Coeur d'Alene real estate listings. This is an excellent opportunity for real estate investors who are hoping to maintain a passive income in one of the hottest downtown destinations.

    With a mixture of older and newer developments, Downtown Coeur d'Alene offers a little something for every potential homebuyer looking to make this urban area their home. Access to all the top city amenities, from the trendiest new eateries to the most booming nightclubs, is a major bonus for those living Downtown. The city is extremely walkable and easy to get around, making it a breeze to run errands or enjoy a night on the town.

Read this article for more info on the best neighborhoods and places to live in Coeur d'Alene

  • Chapter 6

    Must-try Places When Moving to Coeur d’Alene, Idaho

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  • Activities and entertainment in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho

    There's a reason why so many people flock to Coeur d'Alene, Idaho all year round: there's so much to see and do! In the warm summer months, locals and visitors alike take to the outdoors for camping, boating, and fishing. When the temperature drops and the snow falls, many enjoy snowmobiling through the winding hiking trails, skiing in the mountains, and ice skating on the frozen waters of Lake Coeur d'Alene.

    Nature lovers have a wealth of opportunities to explore, but Coeur d'Alene is not just for the outdoorsy type! With so many options for food, nightlife, and recreation in Coeur d’Alene, you can be sure that there is always something to do. Whether you are looking to hit up the hottest club or enjoy some live music on a Friday night, Coeur d'Alene has it all. Check out some of the top must-try places, both indoor and outdoor, for fun when moving to the area.

  • Coeur d’Alene Casino

    Located on Lake Coeur d’Alene, the casino offers an exciting nightlife experience that is sure to thrill any hungry gambler or party-goer! Their top floor features one of the hottest nightlife experiences in the entire city, with a bustling bar and lively dance floor. The casino also offers several dining options for its guests. From a casual steakhouse to a high-end fine dining restaurant, you can find anything your heart desires at this hotspot!

  • The Coeur d'Alene Resort

    One of the most popular tourist destinations in the city is the Coeur d'Alene Resort! A 0.75-mile long floating boardwalk and 165 acres of gorgeous natural scenery offer an escape within the city. You can choose to enjoy a sumptuous meal in one of the many top-quality restaurants, sip a cocktail while lounging in the lakeside infinity pool, or try your hand at golf on the resort's impressive course. There are countless ways to stay entertained at this incredible lakeside resort!

  • Beautiful Parks and Golf Courses

    Coeur d'Alene, Idaho is home to many beautiful green spaces including public parks and challenging golf courses. Some of the city's most popular parks include:

    When it comes to golf, there are plenty of courses to choose from in Coeur d'Alene! Whether you're a beginner hoping to learn or have been playing for years and looking for a challenge, you can find it somewhere in the area. Some of the top golf courses in Coeur d'Alene include:

  • Silverwood Theme Park

    The largest theme park in the Northwestern United States, Silverwood Theme Park is the perfect place to enjoy a day away in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho! What started as a small assortment of carnival rides, shops, and eateries, has grown into one of the largest theme and water parks in the American Northwest. Situated on 413 acres, Silverwood is home to more than 70 rides, slides, shows, and attractions! This incredible destination offers fun for the whole family and is definitely a must-do when you move to Coeur d'Alene, Idaho.

  • Hiking Trails

    Something that Coeur d'Alene, Idaho is best known for is the extensive collection of hiking trails to explore. The top trails in the area include:

    Nature enthusiasts can explore mile upon mile of gorgeous natural scenery along any one of these fantastic trail routes. Hilly landscapes, towering forests, and tranquil lakeside paths are what bring hikers from all over for a relaxing afternoon in the heart of nature.

  • Coeur d'Alene Arts Scene

    For the art enthusiast, Coeur d'Alene offers a growing number of opportunities. The community has everything from symphony and theater productions, including professional and community groups, to art galleries featuring local artwork and the Museum of North Idaho, located in Downtown Coeur d'Alene. The museum showcases the history of the area and provides permanent exhibits as well as temporary. No matter what your artistic interest, Coeur d'Alene, Idaho has a little culture for everyone!

  • Chapter 7

    Coeur d’Alene, Idaho Public Transportation

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  • How to get around Coeur d’Alene, Idaho

    Most of the greater Coeur d'Alene region is dependent on private vehicles to get around. Most homeowners in the city own their own vehicle and don't rely on public transportation to get from Point A to Point B. With a growing population and more and more housing developments popping up around the city, the average commute to work is approximately 18.5 minutes.

    Although most Coeur d'Alene residents rely on private transportation to get around, the city does offer a substantial public transportation system. This is an integral part of the city's growing tourist industry. Visitors who come to enjoy the vast lakes, beautiful beaches, and intricate hiking trails need a way to get from the heart of nature to the bustling downtown core and back.

  • An interurban electric railroad line was integrated in 1903 that connected Coeur d'Alene to Spokane. This allowed Washington residents to easily enjoy all that Lake Coeur d'Alene had to offer and Idaho locals ventured into the bigger city to enjoy all the amenities found there.

    Looking at the present day, free public bus service is available to locals, which is provided by Citylink. These buses operate in all of Kootenai County and leave the Riverstone Transfer Station main hub every sixty minutes, every day of the week, all year long. The Urban Route B serves Post Falls, Hayden, and West Coeur d'Alene. Urban Route C serves Downtown Coeur d'Alene, Fernan, and Hayden. The Rural Route serves the neighboring towns of Worley, Plummer, Tensed, and De Smet. And finally, the Link Route connects the transfer station at Riverstone and Worley.

    The closest airport to Coeur d'Alene and most of North Idaho is the Spokane International Airport. This major airport is served by six airlines and extends 40 miles to the west. The Coeur d'Alene Airport offers general aviation in Hayden and was built by the U.S. Army Air Corps in 1942. This smaller airport is an alternative to Weeks Field, which is now the site of the Kootenai County Fairgrounds.

  • Chapter 8

    Events in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho

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  • Fun things to do in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho

    Coeur d'Alene, Idaho is home to several exciting community events and activities that take place throughout the warm summer months; often by the lake. Some of the most popular festivities include:

    The Fourth of July Festival: Taking place, obviously, on the Fourth of July, this exciting event showcases a parade down Sherman Avenue, plenty of food and local craft vendors, carnival rides, and lots of live music and entertainment for all ages! Locals flock to the beach to watch the fireworks over the water and the Coeur d'Alene Resort offers special fireworks cruises off of Independence Point.

  • The Holiday Light Show: Every year at the end of November, the Holiday Light Show kicks off with a stunning array of lights lit up around town. The beautiful display remains until January 1st. The Holiday Light Show begins with a parade along Sherman Avenue and finishes with an incredible fireworks show.

    The Polar Bear Plunge: Another winter tradition, the Polar Bear Plunge takes place every year on January 1st. At noon, event participants gather to run into the freezing cold waters of Lake Coeur d'Alene along Sanders Beach.

    Art on the Green: One of the most well-attended events in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, Art on the Green pairs with the Street Fair and Taste of Coeur d'Alene to create one incredible weekend in August. Taking place at the North Idaho College Campus, Downtown Coeur d'Alene, and City Park, Art on the Green is a massive outdoor festival featuring local arts and crafts. The Street Fair is a shopping extravaganza and Taste of Coeur d'Alene is a delicious food festival. Combined, these three events offer an abundance of eclectic activity and bring in about 60,000 people every year!

    Coeur d'Alene also plays host to a number of sporting events. The most popular event is the Ironman Coeur d'Alene. This Ironman triathlon alternates between full- and half-distance Ironman events every year. Athletes take on a 2.4-mile double-loop swim through Lake Coeur d'Alene then transition to a 112-mile double-loop bike ride along the lake and surrounding countryside. Participants then finish with a 26.2-mile multiple-loop run that takes them through the popular McEuen Park and ends in Downtown on Sherman Avenue.

    For a slightly less challenging event, the city hosts both the Coeur d'Fondo bike race, a 15-108 mile course, and the Coeur d'Alene Crossing, a 2.4-mile swim across the lake. Additionally, the Coeur d'Alene marathon takes place every May along the North Idaho Centennial Trail. Whether you prefer to participate or observe, these exciting events bring in crowds every single time!

    Coeur d'Alene, Idaho is a city that offers something for everyone. With its abundance of community events and activities, locals and visitors never run out of things to do. From the Fourth of July Festival to the Art on the Green show, there's always something exciting happening in this vibrant town. And if that's not enough, Coeur d'Alene is home to an abundance of natural beauty and outdoor activities. Hikers, swimmers, and runners will love the scenic trails along Lake Coeur d'Alene and locals enjoy a number of festivals dedicated to sports and fitness held every summer at North Idaho College.

    With all that this beautiful city has to offer, it's no wonder so many people choose to move here! For those thinking of moving here, hopefully, this guide has given you just a glimpse into all the wonderful perks of this incredible city! 

    And if you're open to other wonderful towns in North Idaho, near Coeur d’Alene, be sure to check out our Moving to Post Falls guide.