Fernwood, ID Utility & Living Guide

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Fernwood, ID Utility & Living Guide

Fernwood is a small unincorporated community in the southeastern corner of Benewah County, Idaho, United States, located just to the east of State Highway 3. The city shares a public K-6 school with the communities of Clarkia, Santa and Emida. All students attend high school and middle school in St.

Last updated: June 26, 2026
Total Utilities$230/mo
1BR Rent$1000/mo
Sales Tax6%
COL Index105 (+5% above national average)
Family Score7/10
Median Home$280,000
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⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Fernwood
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💰 Budget Calculator
🔌 Utilities
🏠 Housing
📊 Cost of Living
💰 Taxes
👨‍👩‍👧 Families
🧮 Tools

Monthly Utility Costs

⚡ Electric

$110/mo

Avista Utilities
🔥 Gas

N/A - Electric only
💧 Water

$40/mo

Fernwood Water District
🗑️ Garbage

$20/mo

Waste Management
📶 Internet

$60/mo

Combined Average Overhead$230/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom$1000/mo
2 Bedrooms$1400/mo
3 Bedrooms$1900/mo
Median Home Price$280,000
Property Tax Rate1.1%
Avg Childcare/mo$900

The housing market in Fernwood is relatively stable, with a mix of older homes and new constructions. Rentals are available but limited, and prices have been steadily increasing over the past few years. Overall, Fernwood offers an affordable housing option for those looking to escape city life.

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

$900

Tax Rates

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

Idaho has a state income tax with a top rate of 6.925%, but no local income taxes are imposed in Fernwood.

Family & Relocation

Family Vibe Score
7/10
Safety Index

55

Higher = safer
School Rating

7/10

GreatSchools avg
Avg Childcare

$900/mo

City Pulse

Population Trend
+2% (growing)
Political Climate
Red
Business Momentum
Moderate, with key industries in forestry, tourism, and small manufacturing
Top Local Concerns
Job opportunities, infrastructure development, environmental conservation
🚌 Transit for Families

Fernwood has limited public transit, but its small size makes it walkable and bikeable, with some sidewalks and crosswalks, though stroller accessibility can be challenging in some areas.

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Silverwood Theme Park
  • 🎯
    Lake Pend Oreille
  • 🎯
    Kaniksu National Forest

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The area around Main Street is popular for its charm and community events, while neighborhoods near the lake offer scenic views and outdoor recreation opportunities. For families, the outskirts of town provide more spacious homes and yards.

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📊 Fernwood — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs in Fernwood fluctuate seasonally, with higher electricity bills in winter due to heating needs and slightly higher water bills in summer due to lawn irrigation. However, the overall cost remains relatively stable throughout the year.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The property tax millage rate in Fernwood's ZIP code is around 1.1%, with no additional local surtaxes.

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

6, Fernwood has some sidewalks and crosswalks, especially in the downtown area, but its rural nature means that not all areas are easily accessible with a stroller, and public transit is limited.

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