Welcome to Dalton Gardens, ID: The City of Acreage and Rural Character
Experience spacious living with a touch of the countryside, just minutes from downtown Coeur d'Alene.
Our Services in Dalton Gardens
Comprehensive real estate solutions for the unique Dalton Gardens market.
Defining the Dalton Gardens Community
Dalton Gardens is a unique community within Kootenai County, often viewed by residents as part of Coeur d'Alene, but it operates as a distinct, incorporated city with its own council and mayor. The city offers the "best of two worlds"—a house in the city that feels like it’s in the country.
Geography and Convenience
The city is bordered by Dalton Avenue, Prairie Avenue, Government Way, and Canfield Mountain. Residents benefit from quick access, located only five minutes from shopping, schools, and amenities in Coeur d'Alene and Hayden. Commuters have quick access to I-90 via 15th Street or Fourth Street, connecting to Post Falls and Spokane. The area was historically composed of fruit orchards but was sectioned off into larger parcels after a major freeze in the early 1900s. Today, it attracts homebuyers from outside metros like Los Angeles, Houston, and San Francisco.
Unique Land Use and Zoning Requirements
The One-Acre Minimum: The city's identity is dictated by its 1-acre (“Dalton Acre”) minimum lot size, preserving its low-density, agricultural heritage and allowing for a rural lifestyle, including raising livestock and building large shops.
Prohibition of ADUs: Critically, city code prohibits Accessory Living Units (ADUs), which prevents homeowners from generating rental income or housing family members independently on the same property.
Utilities: Many properties can subscribe to the Dalton Gardens Irrigation District for non-potable water. The vast majority of lots only have a single sewage wastewater allotment, and septic system expansion requires a permit from the Panhandle Health District.
Dalton Gardens Real Estate Market Overview
Dalton Gardens is a high-cost market reflecting the high value placed on its unique acreage and location. The market is somewhat competitive.
$1.0M
Median Sale Price
48 Days
Avg. Days on Market
98.2%
Sale-to-List Ratio
Market Breakdown & Tax Advantage
- Vacant Land Cost: A 1-acre vacant lot in the area sells for around $500,000.
- Entry-Level Homes: Older homes (1960s–1980s) start close to $1.0M but often require substantial remodeling.
- Remodeled/New Homes: Fully remodeled or newly built homes start around $1.5M and can reach $2.0M and up.
Tax Advantage: Dalton Gardens offers a low tax burden, with a median effective property tax rate of 0.34%, significantly lower than the national median (1.02%). However, due to higher property values (median assessed value of $803,528), the median annual tax bill is $2,801.
Lifestyle, Recreation, and Environmental Risk
The location provides unparalleled recreational access but carries specific environmental risks.
Recreation & Wildlife
The city is a "stone's throw from Canfield Mountain," which offers miles of trails for hiking and mountain biking.
Herds of deer call the area home and are considered a nuisance, often eating landscaping. Protecting a garden requires a fence of 7 feet or higher.
Environmental Risk
100% of properties in Dalton Gardens face a moderate risk of wildfire. The city has a minor flood risk, with 8% of properties at risk.
Idaho homeowners saw a 17% rise in insurance premiums in 2024 due to wildfire risk, making home hardening features important.
Things to Know About Dalton Gardens
Your guide to living in and enjoying this beautiful community.
The Rustic Moose
Cozy spot for American comfort food and breakfast.
Pesto's Pizza
Family-friendly pizzeria with classic and creative pies.
Dalton Restaurant
A classic diner experience with home-style cooking.
Close to Hayden/CDA
Dalton Gardens residents enjoy easy access to the diverse dining options in nearby Coeur d'Alene and Hayden.
Grocery & Deli Options
Local supermarkets offer great deli sandwiches and prepared foods for a quick bite.
Summer Farmers Markets
Nearby farmers markets provide fresh, local ingredients and food truck options.
Coffee Shops
Several drive-thru and sit-down coffee shops are conveniently located for your morning caffeine fix.
Pub & Grill Fare
Enjoy classic pub food and a friendly atmosphere at nearby taverns and grills.
Fast Food Chains
All major fast-food chains are located within a short drive for quick and easy meals.
Fine Dining Nearby
For special occasions, the fine dining of Coeur d'Alene is just minutes away.
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