Truckee vs. Incline Village: Which Tahoe Community Fits Your Lifestyle? | with Lukas Brassie of Compass Real Estate

If you’ve ever dreamed about owning a home in Lake Tahoe, you’ve probably wondered: Truckee or Incline Village? Both towns offer incredible access to the outdoors, mountain charm, and that coveted Tahoe lifestyle—but they deliver it in very different ways.

To unpack the nuances, I sat down with Compass Real Estate agent Lukas Brassie, one of North Lake Tahoe’s top real estate agents and someone who has lived extensively in both Truckee, California, and Incline Village, Nevada. With nearly $58 million in sales volume this year alone, Lukas knows what makes each side of the lake unique—and what kind of buyer each town attracts.

Lifestyle Comes First

“The first thing people need to think about is lifestyle,” Lukas says. “For most, this is going to be a second home or vacation property, so it really depends on how you plan to use it—are you more summer-focused or winter-focused? What do you love doing up here?”

Truckee and Incline each cater to different rhythms. Truckee tends to attract younger families and outdoor enthusiasts who want a vibrant, year-round community. Incline Village, on the other hand, leans quieter and more exclusive—perfect for those who crave tranquility and privacy.

The Truckee Advantage: Space, Amenities, and Community

“Truckee has a real downtown—walkable, full of shops and restaurants, a true sense of community,” Lukas explains. “You’re also going to get more for your money on the California side.”

While California’s property taxes and insurance rates can sting, the difference in home value more than compensates for most buyers. A $4 million home in Truckee often means new construction in a premier golf community like Martis Camp, Lahontan, Schaffer’s Mill, or Gray’s Crossing—complete with gyms, spas, restaurants, and kids’ programs.

“You just don’t get that same level of community amenities in Incline,” Lukas notes. “Truckee really shines when it comes to lifestyle and livability.”

Truckee’s proximity to world-class ski resorts—Palisades Tahoe, Northstar, Sugar Bowl, and Alpine Meadows—also makes it a winter paradise, while Donner Lake offers summer fun with private beaches and boat access.

The Incline Appeal: Serenity, Privacy, and Nevada Tax Benefits

Incline Village, on the Nevada side, draws a different crowd. With no state income tax, stunning lakefront properties, and access to three private beaches, Incline offers a slower pace and a sense of exclusivity.

“It’s a one-stop shop,” says Lukas. “You’ve got beaches, golf, skiing at Diamond Peak, and some great restaurants. It’s small, quiet, and ideal for people who want to get away from it all.”

Many Incline buyers are second-home owners or retirees who value peace over bustle. “If you’re already working in California, it’s often worth just paying California taxes and living in Truckee,” Lukas adds. “But if you’re high-income or planning a big liquidity event, Nevada’s tax advantages can make a huge difference.”

Families and Community Vibe

If you’re raising a family, Lukas doesn’t hesitate: “Truckee, hands down. Tons of young families, great schools, a real community feel. My wife and I lived there for three years with our kids—and even after moving just 15 minutes away, that’s still where our community is.”

While Incline has its share of families, the demographic skews older. “Honestly,” Lukas jokes, “a lot of the families in Incline drive over to Truckee to hang out.”

Lake Access and Walkability

Truckee homeowners often enjoy Donner Lake for swimming and boating, or they’ll make the 30-minute drive to Lake Tahoe for a beach day. Incline residents, meanwhile, enjoy direct access to Tahoe but give up some of Truckee’s energy and amenities.

And while Truckee has a charming, walkable downtown, most neighborhoods in both towns require driving. “There’s no bad neighborhood in Truckee,” Lukas says. “But if you want to walk everywhere, you’ll need to be right downtown.”

So, Truckee or Incline?

Here’s how Lukas breaks it down:

• Choose Truckee if you value community, space, newer homes, and an active lifestyle. Perfect for families and those who want a true mountain-town vibe.

• Choose Incline Village if you crave serenity, privacy, and tax benefits—or you’re seeking a luxurious second home with lake access and a quiet atmosphere.

Ultimately, it comes down to what kind of Tahoe life you want to live. “If you want a more vibrant, connected lifestyle,” Lukas says, “Truckee’s your spot. If you want peace, privacy, and tax perks, Incline’s hard to beat.”