Raising Kids in Lake Tahoe: The Real Pros and Cons | with Hayden Haffey from Sierra Sotheby's Realty

Shay Phillips
Nov 6, 2025
3 min read

Updated: 4 days ago

What’s it really like to raise a family in Lake Tahoe? For many people dreaming of a slower, outdoor-focused lifestyle, the Tahoe Basin looks like paradise — and in many ways, it is. But as with anywhere, raising kids in Tahoe comes with both incredible perks and a few practical challenges.

In a recent episode of the Tahoe REI Podcast, host Shay Phillips sat down with Hayden Haffey, a top real estate agent with Sierra Sotheby’s International Realty and a father of two, to talk about what it’s really like raising kids in North Lake Tahoe.

The Big Advantages of Raising Kids in Tahoe

1. A Deep Connection to Nature

From learning to ski before they can read to spending summer afternoons at Burnt Cedar Beach, Tahoe kids grow up surrounded by mountains, water, and fresh air. Hayden notes that his daughters are “learning to walk and ski at the same time.” It’s an adventurous childhood built around exploration and discovery — something that’s hard to replicate in a city setting.

2. Safety and Community

Tahoe’s small-town environment creates a strong sense of trust and community. “It’s so safe here,” Hayden says. “You can let your kids play outside, and neighbors look out for one another.” Programs like Tahoe Connections for Families and active parent groups make it easy to find support, even if you don’t have family nearby.

3. Excellent Schools and Youth Programs

Whether you’re looking for public, private, or alternative education, Tahoe’s got you covered. Families can choose from options like Lake Tahoe School, Tahoe Expedition Academy, and Kings Beach Elementary — plus outdoor-oriented programs through the Incline Village Recreation Center, local ski teams, and Woodward Tahoe.

4. Endless Recreation

For Tahoe families, every season brings something new: skiing at Diamond Peak, hiking Mt. Rose, paddleboarding on the lake, mountain biking, and more. “Tahoe is your playground,” Shay says. “There’s no shortage of ways for kids to stay active and connected to the outdoors.”

The Challenges of Raising Kids in Tahoe

1. Limited Family Support Networks

One of the biggest hurdles for new families moving to Tahoe is distance from extended family. “Most people don’t have parents or siblings nearby,” Hayden explains. “It can make raising young kids more challenging.”

2. Fewer Urban Amenities

While Reno and Sacramento are just a short drive away, Tahoe doesn’t have big-city conveniences like museums, major concert venues, or large indoor play centers. But for many, that’s a worthwhile trade-off for a quieter, nature-filled environment.

3. The Cost of Living

Tahoe’s beauty comes at a price — housing, groceries, and childcare costs are typically higher than average. Working with a local agent who understands the area can help families find the right balance between budget, lifestyle, and location.

Incline Village: A Family-Friendly Hub

As a longtime Incline Village resident, Hayden highlights some of the community’s unique amenities — including three private beaches, a recreation center, and resident discounts at Diamond Peak Ski Resort and Incline Village Golf Courses.

“Having these kinds of amenities built into the community is incredible for families,” he says. “It’s easy to get your kids involved — whether it’s swim lessons, summer camps, or learning to ski.”

Final Thoughts

Raising kids in Lake Tahoe isn’t just about where you live — it’s about how you live. Families here enjoy a rare mix of safety, adventure, and community that shapes kids in meaningful ways.

For many, the trade-offs — longer winters, fewer big-city options — are worth every minute spent outdoors under that famous Tahoe blue sky.