Tahoe City

Resting on Lake Tahoe’s north shore and at the top of the Truckee River is Tahoe City, a winter and summer paradise made up of rustic cabins, urban lodges and mountain retreats. The median price for a single-family home here is $1.65 million, and 57% of residents own their home. “There are all different kinds of cabins,” says Realtor Rachel Capil at exp Realty. “The closer you get to the water, the bigger the homes get.”

If you're a fan of having four distinct seasons, you’ll get them in Tahoe City. “Fall is beautiful, and spring is perfect," Capil explains. "Winter can sometimes be overwhelmingly hard." In winter 2022-2023, the region saw more than 700 inches of snow. That’s great for skiers and snowboarders who flock to the resorts in town from California and Nevada; it’s not always ideal for people looking to get their daily chores completed. If you need to shop at a big box store or require specialty services, for example, you must travel to either Carson City or Reno, 21 and 37 miles away in Nevada, respectively. If you're thinking about moving to Tahoe City, there are a few more things Capil says you need to be aware of. “COVID-19 created inflation," she says. "Tahoe City used to be more reasonable. Now it’s expensive across the board — gas, groceries, property, rent.” Additionally, Tahoe City attracts tourists, which, Capil says, creates a disconnect with some residents who don’t want people who are short-term renters. “The population doubles,” she explains, while noting that this isn't all bad. “If you can’t have the tourists, you can’t have the income.”

Parents will be happy to know that the Tahoe-Truckee Unified School District is highly rated, according to Niche, which gave the school system an A and reports a student-to-teacher ratio of 18-to-1. Tahoe Lake Elementary School has a demanding accelerated learning program and earned an A-minus from Niche. North Tahoe School, the region’s middle school, has two clubs appropriate for the area — Nordic skiing and mountain biking. When students aren’t enjoying those pursuits, they’re hitting the books — Niche rates the school with an A-minus. The Environmental Club at North Tahoe High School has been instrumental in promoting the No Plastic Straws Campaign for the North Shore, and this institution is also an A-minus-rated school by Niche.

Capil says local must-visit spots include Cabin Fever, a popular home accessories store pitched toward the Lake Tahoe motif, and Geared for Games, a boutique toy store. Her go-to eatery, Za’s Lakefront, specializes in spectacular views and savory pizzas.

Tahoe City also has a plethora of parks where you can enjoy the outdoors. “It’s a total lifestyle,” Capil says. “What do people really like to do? They go to the lake.” If you're looking for an activity on a summer night, Tahoe City Commons Beach provides free concerts on Sundays and free movies on the beach on Wednesdays. Located in downtown Tahoe City, this 4-acre park is also perfect for sunbathing, picnicking or splashing around in Lake Tahoe. Lake Forest Beach Park offers more stunning views of Lake Tahoe and attracts bird-watchers, paddleboarders and kayakers. There is also a pier to dangle your feet off of. Skylandia State Park & Beach is a 24-acre space that attracts hikers, bikers and swimmers alike. Teach your child how to be the next Hank Aaron at Tahoe’s only outdoor batting cages at Pomin Park, or enjoy everyone’s favorite new sport, pickleball, at Tahoe City’s Kilner Park. If that isn’t your thing, there’s also a sand volleyball court where you can spike the ball. Capil adds that one of the best outdoor experiences in the neighborhood is Tahoe City Treetop — a zipline course affixed on 97 tree platforms made up of cedars and large pine trees.

Parks aren’t just for people — our four-legged friends need to get outside, too, and the Tahoe City Dog Park next to Conners Field is a perfect place for your canine pals to burn off some energy. Plenty of baggies, water and seating are available — you just need to bring the dog.

Written By

Robb Crocker

Photography Contributed By

Eli Tye

Video By

Jeffrey Knight