Moscow, ID (even if I will be working in Pullman)? And where to rent? (sales)

[Yankee Strings]

Hi Folks,

I have a job opportunity in Pullman, WA (WSU). After researching the area, it seems my wife and I would likely enjoy living in Moscow more than right in Pullman, even if I had a longer commute. My impression is that Moscow has more shopping, restaurants, a more quaint downtown, more parks, a farmer's market... just more charming. Does anyone else find that to be the case? And, if I am discounting living in Pullman too soon, please tell me.

I know I would have to pay income tax in ID even though I'd be working in WA, but I'm hoping the quality of life and access to conveniences and arts/cultural experiences would make it worth it. Opinions?

Also, any neighborhoods or property management companies you'd suggest for a married couple who wants a quiet/quaint area to rent a small house or half a duplex (away from undergrads), but still biking distance to downtown?

Thanks for any replies,
Nick

[DESERTRYDER]

Here are some photos of Moscow I found on a Moscow web site.Palouse Panorama

Here is a local Realtor that deals in home rentals too.

Team Idaho Real Estate - Moscow Idaho Real Estate - Rentals

Let us know.

[David Aguilar]

While I prefer Moscow to Pullman, I would suggest you give each city a full look-through so you can decide whether driving to Pullman each day would be worth living in Moscow, and so you can factor in all the niceties that go along with living/working in other states.

I wouldn't think the quality-of-life would be that drastic of a difference between the two cities, and anything you can enjoy in Moscow (and vice versa) can be done with a simple drive.

[MeInIdaho]

I've lived on the Palouse for quite some time and, although I love Idaho, I really think you should seriously consider Pullman. If you are willing to make the commute for work every day it would be easier to make the drive on Saturday mornings for the farmer's market, evening movies, meals out. It is less expensive to register a vehicle in Washington and you will not be paying state income taxes. The schools in both communities are equally good. Pullman also has a farmer's market every Wednesday evening. I've lived in Washington and worked in Idaho. You get no breaks at all on taxes and, unless you are looking to hunt in Idaho (resident hunting licenses are much less expensive) I can't really see why you wouldn't consider Pullman. It's a nice university town. Good luck no matter your decision, and welcome to the Northwest.

[MarKlar13]

If you and your wife are interested in living in a place with more culture, you are definitely more compatible with Moscow! WSU does have a larger campus and it is very gorgeous, but the U of I campus is beautiful as well. Moscow certainly offers more options for shopping and business. If you do end up moving out that way, I would HIGHLY recommend breakfast from The Breakfast Club which is located in downtown Moscow -- it's absolutely delicious and a great setting as well! Also check out the Food Co-op...they have an incredibly delicious deli there as well! Good Luck!

[nwexplor]

This sounds weird, but look at any contracts you currently have especially insurance policies. Have a discussion with them about living in one state and working in a different state BEFORE you have a claim. Yes, I had a problem with an insurance company for this reason. Read the fine print!

I second MeInIdaho's opinion and just add with respect to the tax issue: Idaho has an income tax and you also pay sales tax on food. Washington has higher sales tax but no tax on food and no income tax. Factor in a daily commute to work vs. a twice weekly trip (at most) for culture. It adds up.

Moscow's charm wears off pretty fast because it is produced by rival subcultural groups who are at war with each other. It's a more closed society for that reason--in Pullman, you never really know who anyone is, that's the upside of no culture, so there's less friction. Full disclosure: For me, both the hippy-dippy stuff and the wing-nut/tea bag stuff are deal-killers.

You should also look at neighboring small towns, especially Palouse and Uniontown.

The undergrads live everywhere in P/M, there is no avoiding them! Actually, they are much better citizens than I was when I was their age. It's the long-term residents you have to watch out for!

[MeInIdaho]

I second the nod to the Breakfast Club. Their huckleberry zuchinni bread is fabulous!