Kootenai County’s unemployment rate dropped to 3.1% in February 2026, the lowest level recorded in over two years and a figure that reflects the region’s diversifying economy beyond its traditional reliance on tourism and timber. The Idaho Department of Labor reported that the county added approximately 1,800 jobs over the past 12 months, with healthcare, construction, professional services, and hospitality leading the gains.
The 3.1% rate is slightly above the statewide Idaho average of 2.9% but significantly below the national rate of 4.0%, positioning Kootenai County as one of the strongest labor markets in the Pacific Northwest. The county’s civilian labor force now exceeds 98,000 workers — up from 82,000 just five years ago — reflecting both population growth and increased labor force participation.
Which Industries Are Hiring in Kootenai County
Healthcare led all sectors with approximately 580 new positions, driven by expansion at Kootenai Health and the growing network of outpatient clinics and specialty practices serving the region’s rapidly expanding population. Kootenai Health alone has over 450 open positions ranging from registered nurses and technicians to administrative and support staff.
Construction added 340 jobs as residential and commercial building activity continued at a robust pace throughout the county. Professional services — including accounting, legal, technology consulting, and real estate — contributed 280 new positions. Hospitality and tourism added 250 positions as hotels, restaurants, and recreation businesses staffed up ahead of the summer season.
“The diversity of our job growth is the most encouraging trend,” said Idaho Department of Labor economist Lisa Jensen. “Kootenai County is no longer a seasonal economy dependent on summer tourism. Healthcare, professional services, and construction provide year-round employment that stabilizes the labor market.”
Wage Growth and Cost of Living Challenges
Average wages in Kootenai County have risen 5.2% over the past year, outpacing the national average of 3.6%. However, the cost of living — particularly housing — has risen even faster, creating a gap between wage growth and affordability that affects workers at all income levels. The median home price in Kootenai County of $485,000 requires a household income of approximately $115,000 to qualify for a mortgage, while the county’s median household income is approximately $68,000.
The wage-housing gap has been most acute in the hospitality and service sectors, where starting wages of $14-17 per hour make renting in the Coeur d’Alene area difficult. Several restaurant and hotel operators have reported difficulty staffing positions and have increased wages and added benefits to attract workers.
What Comes Next
The Idaho Department of Labor projects continued job growth in Kootenai County through 2026, with the strongest gains expected in healthcare and construction. Job seekers can access current listings and career resources at the Idaho Department of Labor’s Coeur d’Alene office at 1221 W. Ironwood Drive or online at labor.idaho.gov. Employers seeking hiring assistance can contact the department’s employer services division at 208-457-8789.