One of the few cities in the agriculture-heavy Palouse Region, Moscow is a college town home to the University of Idaho. The city of 26,000 on the Washington border has a community feel with charming homes and a trendy downtown. “It’s a real up-and-coming community, and it’s got a small-town, artsy vibe,” says Justin Cofer, real estate broker at Beasley Realty. “It’s not a town; it’s a community. People are friendly.” Moscow is nicknamed “Fest City” and “Heart of the Arts” because of its variety of events, museums and the youthful energy from the college. The University of Idaho, or U of I, as locals say, is a major employer; locals can also commute to Pullman to the west for work. Employers in Pullman are Washington State University and Schweitzer Engineering. “There’s growth in Moscow; many people are moving from the Pacific [coast]. It’s become a relocation destination,” Cofer says.
Students in Moscow often attend The University of Idaho.
Locals enjoy walking through the downtown corridor to look through the local shops.
1/2
Vibrant downtown with a variety of cuisines
Downtown Moscow is just outside of campus. It’s a trendier downtown with bike lanes, outdoor seating and paved sidewalks. People can find everything from bars, food trucks, low-key spots with sandwiches and bagels, and New American restaurants with upscale interiors. Additionally, there are several chain restaurants and coffee shops. Downtown also features gift shops, convenience stores and essential services. The Moscow Food Co-op is a natural grocery store, while Rosauers and Safeway are regular grocery chains. The Moscow Farmers Market has provided local produce to the community since 1976. “They have a really cool farmers market, and it’s one of the biggest things in Moscow,” Cofer says. “They have people that sell fresh food, artisan vendors, soaps.” Other shopping is available on the west side of town. The Palouse Place is one such place, and it has Old Navy, Target and Marshalls. Walmart Supercenter is further west of this plaza.
Downtown Moscow features lots of older historical buildings.
Moscow has lots of local restaurants to choose from.
1/2
Tudors and bungalows in the Fort Russell Historic District
Non-student houses are mostly east of Highway 95 or south of the U of I Arboretum and Botanical Garden. Most properties were built after the 1970s, however, one neighborhood, the Fort Russell Historic District, is a designated area because the homes were built before the 1930s. These historic homes include a mixture of bungalows and Tudors. “It’s quaint houses with old-school architecture. As you get outside of Moscow, that’s where you have new construction,” Cofer says. Student housing is just outside U of I’s campus, and homes along the outskirts of town are 21st-century modern apartments and contemporary two-story homes. The median home price is $457,000.
Older historic homes can be found in Moscow's historic district.
New and contemporary homes are often found on the south end of Moscow.
1/2
Nicknamed 'Fest City' for its various events
Moscow earns the nickname of Fest City for its multiple events throughout the year. In February, the Palouse Cult Film Festival brings people together to spend three days watching cult classic movies. The Lionel Hampton Jazz Festival is one of the oldest jazz festivals in the country. The weekend includes performances from University of Idaho students and international jazz artists, plus over 100 workshops. Locals can also spend weekends cheering on the Vandals (University of Idaho) or the Cougars (Washington State University). Both Division I schools have dozens of sports each year.
Downtown Moscow providees amazing views over the nearby mountain ranges.
Moscow provides lots of public amenities in the local library.
1/2
Miles of connected trails between Pullman and Troy
Moscow operates over 30 parks and facilities. East City Park is in the heart of the city, with amenities like athletic courts and a stage for concerts. Mountain View Park has a bike trail and a soccer field, and Hamilton-Lowe Aquatics Center is popular in the summertime with its lazy river and lap pool. Hamilton Indoor Recreation Center has a basketball and volleyball court for all ages, while Eggan Youth Center offers multiple programs. The Latah Trail stretches over 12 miles across Latah County, connecting Moscow with Troy, 13 miles east. The Latah Trail also connects to the Bill Chipman Palouse Trail, which goes into Pullman, Washington. “The Chipman trail is still popular; many people hike and rollerblade,” Cofer says. The Vandal Golf Course on the University of Idaho campus offers daily rates for nine or 18 holes. Also on campus is the Arboretum and Botanical Garden; here, folks can jog on the paved pathways or explore over 17,000 plants. Moscow is 40 miles from Hells Gate State Park and McCroskey State Park; Hells Gate is popular for its water activities like boating and swimming, while McCroskey State Park has over 32 miles of mountain biking trails.
There are lots of local walking trails that sit near downtown Moscow.
The Latah trail provides miles of walking and biking trails through Moscow.
1/2
Moscow schools ranked third best in the state
Kids can attend Moscow School District, which earns an A-minus grade from Niche and is ranked as the third-best district in the state. The district teaches over 2,100 students across six schools and one alternative school. The University of Idaho has a student body of 12,000 students and offers over 100 undergraduate and nearly 70 graduate programs. U of I specializes in agriculture, engineering and military science, and Washington State University-Pullman campus is 9 miles away.
Moscow high schools sits on the hill overlooking the rest of the city.
The University of Idaho brings a large population of people moving to Moscow.
1/2
Two major highways and flights to Boise and Seattle
Drivers can use Highways 8 and 95 to travel around the city. Highway 8 goes into Pullman, Washington, while Highway 95 goes north and south to Coeur d’Alene and Lewiston. SMART Transit is Moscow’s free public transit system; two fixed bus routes operate on the east and west sides of the city. The West Route goes through the University of Idaho campus, and the East Route heads to downtown. Pullman-Moscow Regional Airport is the nearest option for air travel. Travelers can find two daily flights to Seattle and Boise.
Residents use Highway 8 to make trips to shops such as Target.
Moscow residents can take flight at the Pullman-Moscow Regional Airport.
1/2
After tragedy, Moscow is going through a period of healing
Moscow Police Department reported a 54% drop in crime from 2022 to 2023; the most common offense was larceny. The city's crime rate is still significantly lower than the state’s. The Moscow Police Department and the city went through a period of healing after the 2022 murders of four University of Idaho students, according to a police department report; as a result of the tragedies, the university created a Vandal Healing Garden along MacLean Field. This student-led project includes engraved sculptures with the victims' names and wooden blocks for messages or memories. The campus and community remember the victims with an annual vigil at this site.
Written By
Courtney Murphy
Photography Contributed By
Brandon Wong
Video By
Tyler Belile
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Cody Fenske,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
Pride of ownership is evident in this custom, move-in ready single level home! A great layout with 3 beds, 2 baths, vaulted ceilings and a private, fully fenced back yard. Solid cherry flooring, a new roof (2024) that includes a 50 year transferable warranty! Newly remodeled kitchen including additional quartz counter for increased functionality. Primary bedroom has a large walk-in closet plus
Welcome to this beautifully fully updated 2 bedroom, 1 bath home offering 924 sq ft of comfortable living space. Every detail has been refreshed, so you can simply unpack and enjoy. Step inside to find an inviting interior filled with great natural light and a clean, modern feel throughout. The kitchen shines with brand-new stainless steel appliances, and the home also includes a new washer and
5+ acres with sweeping Palouse views just 5 minutes from Moscow—ready to build. This property offers expansive views of the Palouse hills and Moscow Mountain. Gently rolling terrain provides multiple building sites, ideal for a custom home, hobby farm or small acreage property. Power is available at the property line, a driveway approach is already in place off a county-maintained road and the
Nearly 6 acres of sweeping Palouse views just 5 minutes from Moscow—ready to build. This property offers expansive views of the Palouse hills and Moscow Mountain. Gently rolling terrain provides multiple building sites, ideal for a custom home, hobby farm or small acreage property. Power is available at the property line, a driveway approach is already in place off a county-maintained road and
NEW PRICE! Affordable, low-maintenance condo living in a prime Moscow location near the University of Idaho, Palouse Empire Mall, restaurants, bus routes, and daily amenities. This popular single-level, ground-floor unit offers 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, and 1,050 sq ft of move-in-ready living space -ideal for owner-occupants, students or investors. Recent updates include new LVP flooring, fresh
Discover the building site you've been waiting for—an exceptional 5-acre parcel nestled in the coveted Nearing Addition minutes from downtown Moscow. Surrounded by mature timber, this property offers unmatched privacy, views, and a serene natural setting teeming with wildlife. Whether you're envisioning a peaceful retreat or a forever home, this beautifully wooded lot provides the perfect canvas.
Built in 2025 and located in Robinson Park, this well-maintained manufactured home offers modern construction and near-new condition. The original owner has lived in the home for about one year and kept it in excellent shape. A front-facing entry gives the home a more traditional residential feel and improves curb appeal, while the deck adds practical outdoor space. Inside, luxury vinyl plank
Just wow! Charming and spacious newer home (2012) with 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, and 2,412 feet of living space. 2 car garage with tall ceilings. A 12x30 shop as well! Covered pergola over the outdoor patio in the completely fenced backyard with included hot tub. RV parking out front. The living room welcomes you with its incredible gas fireplace & slate tile floors as you enter. The kitchen
John FreelandUnited Country Real Estate - Team Idaho
Perched on a hill just steps from the University of Idaho, this versatile duplex offers exceptional flexibility for both investors and owner-occupants. The upstairs and downstairs layouts can function independently or be connected via an internal access point, allowing use as a single-family home, a duplex, or a house-hack opportunity. The property is currently occupied with leases until 05/31/26
Discover the perfect blend of convenience and natural beauty with this stunning 3 acre buildable lot located immediately outside of Moscow! Set in a peaceful & picturesque setting, this parcel offers sweeping views of the surrounding Palouse ideal for your dream home, homestead, or getaway retreat! The property is ready to build, with power and natural gas at the paved road. Mild terrain and
Pride of ownership is evident in this custom, move-in ready single level home! A great layout with 3 beds, 2 baths, vaulted ceilings and a private, fully fenced back yard. Solid cherry flooring, a new roof (2024) that includes a 50 year transferable warranty! Newly remodeled kitchen including additional quartz counter for increased functionality. Primary bedroom has a large walk-in closet plus
Discover the perfect blend of convenience and natural beauty with this stunning 3 acre buildable lot located immediately outside of Moscow! Set in a peaceful & picturesque setting, this parcel offers sweeping views of the surrounding Palouse — ideal for your dream home, homestead, or getaway retreat! The property is ready to build, with power and natural gas at the paved road. Mild terrain and
This charming 3-bedroom, 2-bath manufactured home offers approximately 1,200 square feet of comfortable living space. Built in 1986, it features two decks/patios—perfect for relaxing—as well as two storage sheds that provide plenty of room for tools, hobbies, and seasonal items. Inside, the home welcomes you with a cozy living area highlighted by a wood-burning stove, creating both warmth and
***STUDENTS please note, due to the property guidelines we follow we have certain limitations on our ability to lease to households of all fulltime students. Please see at the bottom of this description***Tucked away off Main St, between Styner and Southview Ave, Creekside is ideally located allowing easy access to the HWY 95. There are nearby parks, shopping, along with a variety of
Experience effortless downtown living in our fully furnished, move-in-ready apartments. Designed for flexibility and comfort, these quiet units are attract traveling professionals, graduate students, or those looking for a quiet place to call home during their academic calendar. As a family-owned and operated business, we offer hassle-free short-term or year-long leases that include all
Welcome to Republic on Main, the place to live while you build your legacy! You chose The University of Idaho as the best school to help you create your unique future. Now choose a community to call home that has been crafted to help you achieve your highest potential. Feel secure knowing you have what you need to live your legacy!
Welcome to The Landing at Palouse Hills, where the essentials of comfortable living meet the friendly spirit of Moscow, Idaho. Nestled at 225-229 Baker Street, our community offers a straightforward, convenient living experience with easy access to everything this vibrant town has to offer.At The Landing at Palouse Hills, you’ll find thoughtfully designed apartments with practical layouts
Welcome to The Landing At Clearwater, where contemporary comfort meets the charm of Moscow, Idaho. Our community provides a contemporary living environment enveloped by stunning scenery and an energetic ambiance.With premium finishes and wide-open spaces, each floor plan at The Landing at Clearwater Apartments bring you unparalleled luxury without sacrificing on
Nestled against the picturesque backdrop of the Palouse region, our community offers the perfect blend of convenience and comfort for any lifestyle.Discover our spacious one and two bedroom floor plans designed with your lifestyle in mind. Each apartment features contemporary finishes, creating a stylish yet cozy atmosphere to call home. Conveniently located just minutes from the
Property Id: 1731846Looking for a charming apartment to rent? Look no further! This beautiful, recently renovated, apartment features one bedroom, one bathroom, and separate living and dining rooms. Located in a prime location, you'll have easy access to various amenities, such as laundromats, grocery stores, gas stations, fast food restaurants, recycling centers, brewpubs, and exercise
Property Id: 1732682Experience breathtaking views from the deck of this stunning 2 bedroom, 1 bath apartment! Located on the third level of a charming six-plex, this unit offers an amazing vista overlooking the campus of UI. NOT A POD! The whole apartment is yours! Enjoy covered parking and an extra storage closet on the ground level, as well as modern appliances like a refrigerator,
Property Id: 1543723808 White Ave, Moscow, ID 83843 is freshly painted, clean, and available for rent! This excellently located 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom single-level house is just blocks from Downtown Moscow and the University of Idaho. This property features a 2-car garage, driveway parking, excellent paved bike path access, storage shed, and an enormous backyard. Dishwasher, oven/range,
Property Id: 1167390809 E F St, Moscow, ID 83843 is now available for rent! This private, quiet, large 3 bedroom, 1 bathroom basement apartment that's distanced from the hustle and bustle of Downtown Moscow and the University of Idaho has a gas fireplace, 1-car garage, and off-street parking. This is the lower unit of a duplex. Dishwasher, oven/range, refrigerator, microwave, washer,
Property Id: 1731845Looking for a charming apartment to rent? Look no further! This beautiful, recently renovated, apartment features one bedroom, one bathroom, and separate living and dining rooms. Located in a prime location, you'll have easy access to various amenities, such as laundromats, grocery stores, gas stations, fast food restaurants, recycling centers, brewpubs, and exercise
Property Id: 1731933Discover this generously sized two-bedroom, one-bathroom apartment nestled within a charming 4-plex. Perfectly situated in close proximity to the University of Idaho, this unit offers convenience and comfort.You'll be delighted by the expansive deck, ideal for relaxation and gatherings. On-site coin-operated laundry facilities make life easier, ensuring you
Local Logic measures the walkability, access to public transit and bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.