Kooskia, ID Utility & Living Guide

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Kooskia, ID Utility & Living Guide

Kooskia is a city in Idaho County, Idaho, United States. It is at the confluence of the South and Middle forks of the Clearwater River, combining to become the main river. The population was 514 at the 2020 census, down from 607 in 2010.

Last updated: June 26, 2026
Total Utilities$270/mo
1BR Rent$900/mo
Sales Tax6%
COL Index105 (+5% above national average)
Family Score7/10
Median Home$280,000
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⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Kooskia
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💰 Budget Calculator
🔌 Utilities
🏠 Housing
📊 Cost of Living
💰 Taxes
👨‍👩‍👧 Families
🧮 Tools

Monthly Utility Costs

⚡ Electric

$130/mo

Idaho Power
🔥 Gas

N/A - Electric only
💧 Water

$50/mo

Kooskia Water Department
🗑️ Garbage

$30/mo

Clearwater County Solid Waste
📶 Internet

$60/mo

Combined Average Overhead$270/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom$900/mo
2 Bedrooms$1200/mo
3 Bedrooms$1600/mo
Median Home Price$280,000
Property Tax Rate1.1%
Avg Childcare/mo$800

The housing market in Kooskia is relatively affordable, with a range of options from cozy cabins to larger family homes. However, the selection can be limited, and prices may vary depending on the location and amenities. Rentals are also available, but may be scarce, especially during peak season.

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

105

US national avg = 100
vs National Avg

+5% above national average

Groceries

102

Transportation

98

Healthcare

100

Childcare/mo

$800

Tax Rates

Tax Overview
Total Sales Tax6%
Property Tax Rate1.1%
<p>State 6% + No County or City tax</p>

Idaho has a state income tax rate ranging from 1.125% to 6.925%, with no local income taxes in Kooskia.

Family & Relocation

Family Vibe Score
7/10
Safety Index

60

Higher = safer
School Rating

7/10

GreatSchools avg
Avg Childcare

$800/mo

City Pulse

Population Trend
+2% (growing)
Political Climate
Red
Business Momentum
Moderate, with key industries in tourism, healthcare, and education
Top Local Concerns
Economic growth, infrastructure development, environmental protection
🚌 Transit for Families

Kooskia has limited public transportation, but the city is relatively small and walkable, with some sidewalks and crosswalks, making it possible to get around with a stroller.

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Clearwater National Forest
  • 🎯
    Lochsa River
  • 🎯
    Kooskia City Park

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The downtown area and surrounding neighborhoods offer a charming small-town feel, with easy access to local amenities and outdoor recreation. The outskirts of town also have some newer developments and subdivisions with more modern homes and amenities.

Household Budget Calculator

Estimate your real monthly cost of living in Kooskia based on your household profile.

📰 Live Local News

Kooskia has regulations regarding zoning, building permits, and environmental protection, which are enforced by the city and county authorities.

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📊 Kooskia — Census & Demographic Data

Official data from the US Census Bureau, American Community Survey.

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs in Kooskia tend to be higher in the winter months due to heating needs, with an average increase of 20-30% from December to February. In contrast, summer months see a decrease in utility costs, with an average savings of 10-20% from June to August.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The ZIP code 83539 has a property tax millage rate of 1.1%, with no local surtaxes specific to Clearwater County.

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

6/10, with some sidewalks and crosswalks, but limited accessibility in some areas, and a need for more family-friendly infrastructure, such as playgrounds and parks with amenities like restrooms and picnic tables.

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