Kootenai County began experiencing an unprecedented influx of new residents in 2020 as the COVID-19 pandemic transformed where Americans could live and work. With remote work suddenly viable for millions of professionals, North Idaho’s combination of outdoor recreation, lower cost of living, and quality of life attracted families from larger metropolitan areas.
Building permits surged to record levels across the county, with the cities of Post Falls, Coeur d’Alene, and Hayden all reporting significant increases in residential construction activity. Real estate agents reported multiple-offer situations becoming the norm, with homes frequently selling above asking price.
County officials acknowledged the growth was straining infrastructure and services, but noted that Kootenai County’s appeal as a place to live had become difficult to contain. The trend showed no signs of slowing as the year came to a close.