Idaho is one of the best states for off grid living and for homesteading as well, there are so many opportunities in this state for off grid living that a lot of people choose this state as their permanent off grid state. Idaho is getting more popular than ever, and as every year new people settle in this state, the housing market is starting to get a little bit expensive. Other than that the cost of living and the price of land are fairly low in this state.
The best places to live off the grid in Idaho are the ones where the climate is relatively mild and the population density is low. Generally speaking the best places in Idaho for off grid living and homesteading are Ada County, Kootenai County, Bonneville County, Clark County, Idaho County, Owyhee County, and Payette County.
A lot of people dismiss Idaho as a good state for off grid living mostly due to the climate, although the truth is that the climate is fairly good for off grid living especially in the southern parts of the state. You can live off the grid in the northern parts of the state but the winters tend to be somewhat colder and the growing period is also a lot shorter. What you will notice in Idaho is that the weather can be unpredictable and this could be problematic if you are growing your own food.
The cost of housing in Idaho is 10-20% higher than the national average, although this is mostly true in areas where the population density is relatively high. There are plenty of places in Idaho where you will find housing below market price, especially if you are looking at properties in the northern parts of the state. If you want to know more about off grid living in this state then check out my recent article Off grid living in Idaho ( Gem State ).
Best Places To Live Off The Grid In Idaho
Idaho offers some of the most extraordinary places to live off the grid. The state’s vast wilderness, pristine lakes, and majestic mountains create an ideal setting for a self-sustaining lifestyle. Areas like Bonner County and Boundary County, situated in the northern part of the state, offer breathtaking views, abundant wildlife, and a strong sense of community. These regions provide ample opportunities for sustainable farming, off-grid energy systems, and a deep connection with nature.
Additionally, the remote communities of Custer County and Lemhi County in central Idaho offer a peaceful and secluded environment, surrounded by rugged landscapes and untouched beauty.
Ada County
Ada County is located in the western part of the state, and this county has the highest population density in the state. Although you have to take the population density in Idaho with a grain of salt as the counties tend to be relatively large. Currently, there are around 400k people living in an area of 1,055 sq mi, and your best options for off grid living and homesteading are in the southern parts of the county. If you want to use solar panels to generate power then check out my recent article ( Top 13 ) Problems with solar panels on roofs.
Kootenai County
Kootenai County is located in the northwestern part of the state, although the climate is not ideal for off grid living but it is still one of the better places for off grid living and homesteading. The population density in Kootenai County is relatively low due to the large size of the county. Currently, there are around 140k people living in an area of 1,245 sq mi which means that the price of land is relatively low, especially in the northern parts of the county.
Bonneville County
Bonneville County is located in the eastern part of the state, and this county is excellent for off grid living especially if you are looking for an area with a relatively mild climate. Bonneville County has a relatively low population density, as there are around 105k people living in an area of 1,869 sq mi. Due to the large size of the county, the demand for housing is relatively low, which means that the prices tend to be one of the lowest in the state. If you are planning to use a dishwasher off the grid then check out my recent article Best off grid dishwashers ( Top 8 ).
Clark County
Clark County is located in the eastern part of the state, and if you want dirt cheap land and housing then this is the place for you. The population density in Clark County is the lowest in the entire state, as there are only around 1k people living in an area of 1,765 sq mi. The best parts in this county for off grid living and homesteading are in the south and in the southeastern parts, trust me you will find that the price of land and housing is extremely low in these areas.
Idaho County
Idaho County is located in the northwestern part of the state, and this is by far one of the largest counties in the entire state. Idaho County has a fairly low population density as there are only around 17k people living in an area of 8,485 sq mi. As you can see the county is massive, so you will have no problem finding suitable land for off grid living and homesteading, although your best options will be in the southern parts of the county.
Owyhee County
Owyhee County is located in the southwestern part of the state, and this is an excellent place for off grid living mostly due to the mild climate. In addition to this as the population density in Owyhee County is relatively low you will have no problem finding suitable land for off grid living relatively cheap. Currently, there are around 12k people living in an area of 7,678 sq mi, and your best options for off grid living are in the southwestern parts of the county.
Payette County
Payette County is located in the western part of the state, and it is one of the smallest counties in Idaho. Although the size of the county is relatively small the population density is also fairly small, currently, there are around 23k people living in an area of 408 sq mi, and the best places for off grid living in this county are in the south and southeastern parts.
Key Takeaways
- Idaho is renowned for its vast wilderness areas, including mountains, forests, and pristine lakes. Off-grid living in Idaho provides access to abundant natural resources, such as timber, fresh water sources, and opportunities for outdoor activities like fishing, hunting, and hiking.
- Idaho offers excellent potential for renewable energy generation, particularly from solar and wind sources. The state receives ample sunshine and has consistent wind patterns in certain regions, making it ideal for harnessing clean and sustainable energy for off-grid living. Implementing solar panels or wind turbines can provide reliable electricity for off-grid homes.
- Idaho has a strong off-grid community and a culture that values self-reliance and sustainable living. Engaging with like-minded individuals and communities can provide valuable support, knowledge sharing, and a sense of belonging for those embracing the off-grid lifestyle in Idaho.