Surrounded by mountains and seemingly endless forests (and with more than 60 lakes within 60 miles), this pretty town has a cozy feeling and is home to an emerging arts colony.   Where vacant spaces and watercraft rental shops once dominated the downtown, colorfully painted moose, public art and statues now exist.  Thanks to its somewhat remote location and beautiful scenery, the cost of living is high, roughly 10% above the national average, but the quality of life seems worth the price.   The median home price is $225,000, but there appears to a good supply of modest homes in the mid- to high-$100,000s as well as a good selection of upscale homes with prices starting in the $300,000s and reaching into the millions. 

 This is an interactive map.  Click on the arrows in the upper left hand corner to move the map to the East, West, North or South, and click on the +/- signs to zoom in and out.

Real estate is assessed at its full market value, and the average property tax rate is 1.18%.    A homeowner's primary residence is eligible for an exemption of 50% of the assessed value of the home, up to a maximum of $104,471 (2009).  Qualified homeowners, those who own and occupy their homes, meet certain income requirements and are at least 65, may be eligible for the circuit breaker program, which may reduce property taxes by as much as $1,320.  There is no intangible personal property tax, and Social Security is exempt from state income taxes.  Taxpayers may also receive a partial tax exemption for civil service and military retirement income received after age 65 (62 if disabled).   Out-of-state government pensions are fully taxed.

Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, Continued...