Potlatch, ID Utility & Living Guide

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Potlatch, ID Utility & Living Guide

Potlatch is a city in the northwest United States, located in north central Idaho in Latah County, about six miles (10 km) east of the border with Washington. On the Palouse north of Moscow, it is served by State Highway 6, and bordered on the northeast by the small community of Onaway. As of the 20

Last updated: June 26, 2026
Total Utilities$270/mo
1BR Rent$900/mo
Sales Tax6%
COL Index94 (-6% below national average)
Family Score7/10
Median Home$280,000
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💰 Budget Calculator
🔌 Utilities
🏠 Housing
📊 Cost of Living
💰 Taxes
👨‍👩‍👧 Families
🧮 Tools

Monthly Utility Costs

⚡ Electric

$130/mo

Avista Utilities
🔥 Gas

N/A - Electric only
💧 Water

$50/mo

City of Potlatch Water Department
🗑️ Garbage

$30/mo

Latah 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$1800/mo
Median Home Price$280,000
Property Tax Rate1.1%
Avg Childcare/mo$800

The housing market in Potlatch is relatively affordable, with a mix of older and newer homes available. Rentals are also available, but options may be limited. The area is popular with families and retirees.

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

94

US national avg = 100
vs National Avg

-6% below national average

Groceries

105

Transportation

88

Healthcare

102

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 with a top rate of 6.925%, but no local income taxes

Family & Relocation

Family Vibe Score
7/10
Safety Index

70

Higher = safer
School Rating

7.2/10

GreatSchools avg
Avg Childcare

$800/mo

City Pulse

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

Public transit is limited in Potlatch, but the area is relatively walkable and bike-friendly

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    University of Idaho Arboretum
  • 🎯
    Latah County Fairgrounds
  • 🎯
    Potlatch River

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The area around the University of Idaho is popular with families, offering a mix of older and newer homes. The downtown area is also a desirable location, with shops and restaurants within walking distance. The surrounding rural areas offer more spacious properties and a quieter environment.

Household Budget Calculator

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

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📊 Potlatch — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs in Potlatch 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 decrease of 10-20% from June to August.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The ZIP code 83855 has a property tax millage rate of 1.1%, with no local surtaxes

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

6, with explanation: Potlatch has decent sidewalks and some park access, but elevator access in transit is limited and family infrastructure is still developing

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