Why Jackson Hole Attracts Billionaires and Backcountry Skiers

As a former professional big mountain skier turned real estate and sustainability advisor with Innovation Properties Group (IPG), I’ve seen firsthand how the rugged beauty of the Tetons has transformed the Jackson Hole region into a magnet for both adventurers and investors. My journey from chasing powder across the globe to raising my children with my husband Rob Torti in Driggs, Idaho, reflects the dynamic real estate boom the Financial Times explores in its recent article on Jackson Hole’s allure.

The Transformation of a Mountain Paradise

For decades, Jackson Hole has drawn skiers, climbers, and outdoors enthusiasts seeking adventure in its steep, untamed terrain. I was one of those skiers, scaling iconic peaks and carving lines down couloirs designed for the boldest spirits. But the region’s mystique has evolved. What was once a rugged, frontier town has become a sought-after enclave where billionaires now compete for trophy properties, driving real estate values sky-high.

Driggs, Idaho — the quieter neighbor on the western side of the Tetons, where we now live — has been dubbed the “Next Jackson Hole” by the Wall Street Journal. This title speaks volumes about how far-reaching the Jackson Hole real estate boom has become. Once a hidden gem for those in the know, Driggs is experiencing a surge in interest as people look beyond Jackson for more accessible investments and a more authentic mountain lifestyle.

The Billionaire Effect

As highlighted in the Financial Times, Wyoming’s tax-friendly policies have attracted high-net-worth individuals, creating what some call a “billionaires buying out millionaires” phenomenon. This has reshaped Teton County into the highest-income county in the United States, with its stunning landscapes and remote work potential driving demand. The resulting housing crunch has pushed local workers and outdoor enthusiasts farther afield — many to Driggs, Victor, and surrounding areas in Idaho.

Adding to the market excitement, Jackson Hole Mountain Resort is now under new ownership, sparking renewed energy and investment interest throughout the region. This change has only intensified the market’s momentum as investors anticipate further development and enhanced mountain experiences.

Finding Balance: Adventure Meets Investment

Despite Jackson’s growing exclusivity, its core identity remains rooted in adventure. The Tetons aren’t just a backdrop for Instagram photos or luxury real estate brochures; they are a proving ground for skiers, climbers, and mountaineers. Places like Corbet’s Cabin, known for its iconic peanut butter and bacon waffles, remind us that Jackson Hole is still about earning your turns, not just buying them.

My Role as a Real Estate and Sustainability Advisor

What drew me to partner with IPG wasn’t just the opportunity to work in real estate — it was their commitment to sustainability. Having witnessed the tangible effects of global warming on mountain environments throughout my skiing career, I felt compelled to align with a company making meaningful strides in clean energy and life sciences real estate development.

At IPG, I provide comprehensive real estate services, including investment, development, and brokerage advisory services. I help investors navigate this unique mountain market, connecting them with opportunities that balance financial returns with environmental responsibility. Whether advising on commercial ventures or residential retreats, I draw on decades of lived experience here. I know what makes a property truly valuable in a place where natural beauty and sustainability are the ultimate currencies.

Looking Ahead

The allure of Jackson Hole and its surroundings isn’t waning — it’s evolving. As ski touring becomes one of the fastest-growing sports in America, the Tetons’ pull will only strengthen. For those considering an investment in this dynamic market, understanding the unique interplay between adventure culture, environmental sustainability, and high-value real estate is essential.

As someone who has lived, skied, and now works in this extraordinary environment, I see the Tetons not just as a spectacular setting but as a driver of opportunity — for adventure, for family, and for those ready to invest wisely and sustainably in the future of the mountain West.