Who Should Buy a Rural Home in Priest River, Idaho?

Who should buy a rural home in Priest River, Idaho? Anyone who loves mountains, wildlife, clean air, and sparkling streams.

Priest River, Idaho began life as a logging town, and it has remained so throughout the years. Residents cling stubbornly to their logging heritage, and recreation is almost entirely centered around the great outdoors.

As the logging industry wanes, the town has become a haven for tele-commuters, artists, and retirees who seek quiet and solitude. The majority of newcomers arrive looking not for a home within the Priest River City limits, but for a rural home within a few miles of Priest River. They want privacy. Most choose a home with acreage that gives a buffer between residents and their neighbors.

The town offers basic shopping opportunities - a grocery store, hardware store, drug store, and of course a liquor store! You can also find a limited supply of "gifty" items, furniture, and two businesses who will be happy to install new carpet in the home you purchase.

Unless you're a "thrift shopper" you won't find clothing to buy in Priest River. If you are, you'll be in heaven, as the town boasts four establishments selling used clothing.

Shopping centers, entertainment, and hospitals are a mere hour's drive away in Spokane, Washington or Coeur d'Alene, Idaho. Priest River does have a medical and dental clinic, and a small hospital is located just 6 miles away in Newport, Washington.

Main street died out several years ago, but is now coming back to life, with old buildings being remodeled for new purposes. Along with others being renovated, the Historic Beardmore Building is finding new life. It was purchased by a grand-son of the original owner, who has been remodeling it into office suites and retail spaces. Residents were treated to a sneak preview last fall, during Priest River's first (hopefully) Annual Octoberfest. 

Main street is also home to the Priest River Branch of the West Bonner County Library. This is a busy spot, with computer stations filled most days, and residents enjoying the ongoing activities for children and adults alike. Andrew Carnegie would be proud to see how this small community makes use of the opportunity he so believed in.

Residents tend to watch out for each other - as evidenced by the number of active volunteers at both the food bank and the Monday Soup Kitchen, held at the Priest River Senior Center. Here is where anyone can walk in and get a good meal of soup, sandwiches, salads, and deserts - and pay whatever they can, if they can. The food is provided and served by volunteers from local churches, service groups such as the Rotary, and even local businesses. Two of the town's three banks take their turn at hosting this event.

If you're yearning for a taste of yesterday - small town life the way it was - then you should definitely consider purchasing a home in Priest River, Idaho.