Priest River, ID Utility & Living Guide

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Priest River, ID Utility & Living Guide

Priest River is a city in Bonner County, Idaho. The population was 1,696 at the 2020 census, and 1,751 at the 2010 census. Located in the Idaho Panhandle region of the state, the city is at the mouth of the Priest River on the Pend Oreille River.

Last updated: June 26, 2026
Total Utilities$230/mo
1BR Rent$900/mo
Sales Tax6%
COL Index94 (-6% below national average)
Family Score8/10
Median Home$280,000
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⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Priest River
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💰 Budget Calculator
🔌 Utilities
🏠 Housing
📊 Cost of Living
💰 Taxes
👨‍👩‍👧 Families
🧮 Tools

Monthly Utility Costs

⚡ Electric

$110/mo

Idaho Power
🔥 Gas

N/A - Electric only
💧 Water

$40/mo

Priest River Water Department
🗑️ Garbage

$20/mo

Waste Management
📶 Internet

$60/mo

Combined Average Overhead$230/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom$900/mo
2 Bedrooms$1200/mo
3 Bedrooms$1800/mo
Median Home Price$280,000
Property Tax Rate0.9%
Avg Childcare/mo$800

The housing market in Priest River is relatively affordable, with a mix of older and newer homes available. Rentals are also available, but may be limited. The area is popular for those looking to escape city life and enjoy outdoor recreation.

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

94

US national avg = 100
vs National Avg

-6% below national average

Groceries

105

Transportation

88

Healthcare

110

Childcare/mo

$800

Tax Rates

Tax Overview
Total Sales Tax6%
Property Tax Rate0.9%
<p>State 6% + no County or City tax</p>

Idaho has a state income tax with rates ranging from 1.125% to 6.925%

Family & Relocation

Family Vibe Score
8/10
Safety Index

70

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 including tourism, healthcare, and manufacturing
Top Local Concerns
Economic growth, environmental conservation, public safety
🚌 Transit for Families

Public transit is limited, but the area is relatively flat and easy to navigate with a stroller

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Priest Lake
  • 🎯
    Schweitzer Mountain Resort
  • 🎯
    Sandpoint City Beach

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The downtown area and surrounding neighborhoods offer a charming small-town feel, with easy access to parks, trails, and outdoor recreation. The area is generally safe and family-friendly, with a strong sense of community.

Household Budget Calculator

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

📰 Live Local News

Zoning laws and building codes are in place to protect the natural environment and preserve the area’s character

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📊 Priest River — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs in Priest River tend to be higher in the winter months due to heating needs, with average electricity bills increasing by 20-30% from December to February. In the summer, costs are relatively stable, with some increase in water usage for lawn care and gardening.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The 83856 ZIP code has a property tax millage rate of 0.85%, with no local surtaxes

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

6/10, with wide sidewalks and easy access to parks, but limited elevator access in public buildings and some uneven terrain

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