Been meaning to ask this. We have two kids and Median household income is $86,431, which feels pretty solid for the area. With a population of 10,133, Rathdrum is a small town. The weather takes some getting used to. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. The weather takes some getting used to. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Property taxes are high but you get good services. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. The city has invested a lot in new development. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting.
9 upvotes
12 Replies
Jordan J.
nah I disagree
36 upvotes
Jonathan Ramos
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem decent.
I've been here 4 years and it was the best decision I ever made. The thing nobody mentions is school system. It's wild and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the weather is legit. And if you're into photography, this place is surprisingly good.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Downtown side vs the Springfield side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
34 upvotes
Samantha R.
it depends on the neighborhood
25 upvotes
desert_landon17
I've been living here for 14 years and I'd say the quality of life is solid. The pet-friendliness is hit or miss compared to other places I've lived. Overall Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
23 upvotes
nashvillefan2024
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value cultural scene, you'll love it. The housing market is genuinely surprisingly good and I've found it exceeded my expectations. My neighborhood (West) is established and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Charlotte, be prepared for the culture shock. food scene is completely different here. And Chain restaurants dominate.
My advice would be to visit for at least a week before committing. Rent first, don't buy. And explore multiple neighborhoods - they're all different.
23 upvotes
Elijah Baker
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Downtown for 13 years. Moved from Houston for my partner's job. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is hit or miss. We bought in 2019 at k and it's now worth up a bit than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 2-bed in a safe area. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts.
**Employment:**
marketing is strong here. consulting is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are stable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I have mixed feelings honestly. The outdoor scene is excellent - we have desert landscapes within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Downtown schools are solid. If you have kids, this should be your number one factor in choosing a neighborhood.
**The Bad:**
I'd be lying if I said everything is great. Can feel isolated. Homeless population growing downtown. And public transit can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For families, I'd say this is a 5/10. No regrets on my end.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
19 upvotes
Jacob C.
Moved here from Salt Lake City about 10 years ago. I genuinely enjoy living here. Still getting used to job market but Hope this helps!.
15 upvotes
Luca Lopez
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 3-bedroom. it exceeded my expectations. Compared to Chicago it's tough.
15 upvotes
Aubrey
exactly what I was thinking
12 upvotes
lagirl2022
My experience has been mostly positive. it's not perfect but it works for me. The only thing I'd watch out for is dating scene. Other than that, Good luck with whatever you decide..
9 upvotes
Jeffrey R.
seconding this
7 upvotes
Camila
Bought a house here in 2024 and it was the best decision I ever made. Property values have gone up a bit since then.
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