Kootenai County, located in North Idaho, is the third most populated county in the state, boasting a population of over 171,000 residents. It encompasses the lively Coeur d’Alene metropolitan area, which provides a range of attractions, amenities, and outdoor pursuits.
Yet, if you’re seeking a more peaceful and budget-friendly living environment, exploring some of the less famous neighborhoods in Kootenai County could be a worthwhile endeavor. These are the five most underrated neighborhoods in Kootenai County:
Hayden Lake
This picturesque neighborhood sits beside Hayden Lake, a beloved spot for activities like boating, fishing, swimming, and golfing. It has a quaint, welcoming feel and a deep-rooted history. Established in 1890 by Matthew Hayden, a pioneer and businessperson, he constructed a sawmill and hotel by the lake.
Nowadays, you can relish the Hayden Lake Country Club, Honeysuckle Beach Park, and Hayden Lake Library, all with a touch of history. The average home here is valued at $437,500, and the typical household income is $66,667.
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Rathdrum
Rathdrum, established in 1861, stands as one of Kootenai County’s oldest towns. Initially, it served as a stagecoach stop and was the county seat until 1908. Rathdrum is celebrated for its picturesque countryside and its closeness to nature.
Visitors can enjoy the offerings of Rathdrum Mountain Nature Park, providing hiking paths and opportunities for wildlife observation. For a deeper understanding of the town’s history, the Rathdrum Historical Museum is worth a visit. The average home value in Rathdrum is $280,800, with a median household income of $57,708.
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Harrison
Harrison, situated at the south of Coeur d’Alene Lake, is a charming town. In the past, it thrived as a busy center for trains and steamboats. Nowadays, it serves as a tranquil getaway for water sports enthusiasts and those seeking recreation.
Visitors can take advantage of amenities like the Harrison Marina, where boat rentals and tours are available. Alternatively, one can enjoy a leisurely walk along the Harrison Waterfront Trail, which links to the extensive 72-mile paved biking route known as the Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes, spanning the entire county. The average home in Harrison is valued at around $262,500, with the typical household earning about $41,250.
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Athol
Athol, situated north of Coeur d’Alene, is renowned for hosting Silverwood Theme Park, the biggest amusement park in the Northwest. This park boasts a wide array of entertainment with over 70 rides and attractions, including roller coasters, water slides, and live performances.
Additionally, Athol provides access to Farragut State Park, spanning 4,000 acres of wooded terrain and offering options for camping, hiking, fishing, and boating. The median home value in Athol is approximately $301,400, and the typical household income stands at around $51,250.
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Worley
Worley is a small rural town situated to the south of Coeur d’Alene. It serves as the main hub for the Coeur d’Alene Tribe, overseeing operations at the Coeur d’Alene Casino Resort Hotel, one of the largest gaming venues in Idaho.
The casino provides a range of amenities including gaming, dining, entertainment, spa services, and access to the highly regarded Circling Raven Golf Club, which is considered one of the top courses in the country.
Additionally, Worley houses a cultural center that highlights the rich history and traditions of the tribe. The town’s typical home value is around $187,500, and the average household income is approximately $43,750.
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Final Words
These are just a few of the undiscovered treasures that Kootenai County has in store for its visitors. If you are seeking for a place to live that combines the benefits of cost, convenience, and natural beauty, you might want to take a look at one of these areas that gets little attention.
