13 Things to Know Before Moving to Utah

Known for its high quality of life, Utah is a highly sought-after state. Between its access to stunning mountains, including some of the best skiing in the country, affordable cost of living, and low crime rate, it’s no surprise why Utah is such a popular state to call home.

So if you’re ready to pack up and move to the Beehive State, here are 13 things to know before you go.

1. What's It Like Living in Utah

Utah is the 13th largest state by size, yet it is the 30th-most populated state in the country, with a population of 3,337,975. The state has seen a significant population boom over the last few years and now ranks with the fourth-highest population growth rate.

Still, the state is not known for being very diverse, with over 92% of Utah residents speaking English at home. After English, the following most common languages spoken in Utah include Spanish, German, and Navajo.

Located in the country's Western region, you’ll find Idaho to the north, Wyoming to the northeast, Colorado to the east, Arizona to the south, and Nevada to the west.

The state sits at the convergence of the Colorado Plateau, the Great Basin, and the Rocky Mountains, three distinct geological regions. As a result, Utah is geographically diverse, with everything from pine forests in mountain valleys to arid deserts with sand dunes.

2. Cost of Living in Utah

Utah is a relatively low-priced state. The overall cost of living in Utah is 110.8, higher than the US average of 100 but lower than Colorado's neighboring and competing state, which sits at 121.1. Try our rent calculator to estimate how much to spend on rent.

Using the state capital, Salt Lake City, as an example, according to Payscale, the cost of living in Utah is 6% lower, and housing is also 8% lower than the national average.

Here’s an idea of how much things cost when moving to Utah, as reported by Payscale:

• Energy bill: $130.77
• Loaf of bread: $3.25
• Doctor’s visit: $88.17
• $2.80 for a gallon of gas

Large cities like Salt Lake City will be the most expensive areas in the state. However, you can still find rent specials or team up with roommates if needed.

Salt Lake City

Salt Lake City is not only the state capital but also the most populated city in Utah. The mountain landscape provides a beautiful backdrop for this urban gem of a town.

Research shows that the average estimated monthly cost (without rent) for a single person in Salt Lake City is $864.70. For a family of four, these costs bump up to $3,095.29.

Though the city’s rent prices aren’t exorbitantly high, the cost of living in Salt Lake City is still a bit higher than in other areas of the state. Median rents in Salt Lake City stand at $1,764 for a one-bedroom and $12,368 for a two-bedroom. That's above the national average of $1,101 for a one-bedroom.

Orem

Renting in Family City USA, Orem, Utah, means you’ve come across one of the best places in the country to raise children. You can be close to Utah's big city life and mountains in this sacred, family-friendly city.

Orem's average monthly net salary (after tax) is $3,716.00. Additionally, you can anticipate paying $7.80 per meal at an inexpensive restaurant in this city.

Median rents in Orem stand at $1,436 for a one-bedroom and $1,779 for a two-bedroom. That's above the national average of $1,101 for a one-bedroom.

St. George

Another great city in Utah is St. George, situated in the state's southwestern region near Snow Canyon State Park. St. George is known for its 18th-century buildings and gorgeous landscape.

Research shows that Greensboro’s average monthly net salary (after tax) is $2,710.00. Additionally, the cost of an individual meal at the average inexpensive restaurant is $11.75.

Median rents in St. George stand at $1,070 for a one-bedroom and $1,425 for a two-bedroom. That's just slightly below the national average of $1,101 for a one-bedroom.

3. Taxes in Utah

Utah has a flat income tax rate of only 4.95%. Additionally, homeowners pay below-average property taxes in Utah compared to the rest of the country.

There is a statewide sales tax rate of 4.8499%, with each city adding additional amounts. For example, there is a 7.75% sales tax rate in Salt Lake City, including Utah state, Salt Lake County, Salt Lake City, and Special tax rates for the city.

4. Who’s Moving to Utah?

According to Apartment List’s most recent migration report, the highest share of people moving to Salt Lake City are from within the state in Ogden, Provo, and Heber. Renters living in Salt Lake City are considering moving elsewhere but staying within the state in Provo or Ogden. Others are looking to leave Utah for Seattle.

5. Utah Job Market and Economy

Compared to other similarly sized metropolitan areas across the county, Salt Lake City has a healthier job market. The average annual salary in Salt Lake City is currently $50,104, slightly below the national average of $53,490. Thankfully, the unemployment rate is only 4.5%, well below the national average of 8.1%.

Utah has continued to see tremendous job growth in the last few years. In Salt Lake City, utilities, technology, transportation, and trade have significantly changed. Construction, manufacturing, finance, healthcare, and education have seen considerable growth.

Some of the largest companies in Salt Lake City include Microsoft, 3M Health Information Systems, Adobe Systems, Delta Airlines, Novus Credit Services, the University of Utah, and Intermountain Healthcare.

6. Public Transportation in Utah

You can take advantage of the UTA bus system, FrontRunner commuter rail, and TRAX light rail in major northern cities from Provo to North Ogden. Even Free Fare Zone boundaries, covering all of downtown, can help you get around on a budget.

But, to take advantage of all that Utah has to offer, it is best recommended to have a vehicle of your own.

7. Weather in Utah

With sweltering summers statewide and cold temperatures in winter due to the elevation, it’s safe to say that Utah’s temperatures are rather extreme. The average winter temperatures throughout the state range from a high of 30°F to 55°F. Some areas will see temperatures drop below 0°F most years.

In Salt Lake City, the winters are partly cloudy, snowy, and cold. Conversely, the summers are mostly clear, hot, and dry. For the year, the temperature typically varies from 23°F to 93°F. On infrequent occasions, it will drop below 10°F or above 100°F.

8. Utah Attractions

Utah is a playground for attractions, from national parks, museums, historical landmarks, etc.

National Parks

Utah is only home to five national parks, colloquially called the Mighty Five. The two most popular include Zion National Park and Arches National Park.

Zion National Park

Zion National Park is one of the most popular national parks, bringing crowds all year round. On the other hand, Kolob Canyons and Kolob Terrace are less popular, allowing you to be closer to nature than ever.

Arches National Park

Of the national parks in Utah, Arches is one of the most interactive. It is home to the highest concentration of sandstone arches on the planet and is close to Moab, making it easy to access year-round.

Notable Museums

In addition to the Mighty Five, Utah is also home to 260 museums. Some of the most popular include the Natural History Museum of Utah and Hill Aerospace Museum.

Natural History Museum of Utah

In Salt Lake City, you will find a museum dedicated to the science behind the beautiful Utah landscape. Experience the observatory deck, museum store, and cafe, in this incredible museum that showcases over 5,000 artifacts.

Hill Aerospace Museum

Covering 30 acres of the Hill Air Force Base, the Hill Aerospace Museum lies just five miles south of Ogden. In this museum, you will find nearly 100 displayed aircraft with thousands of artifacts showcasing the history of the U.S. Air Force.

Things to Do

Here are some of the things you must do while living in Utah.

Take a Drive Through Big Cottonwood Canyon

Take a drive or stop and enjoy countless outdoor activities in Salt Lake City’s Big Cottonwood Canyon, located in the Wasatch Mountains.

Enjoy a Scenic Chairlift Ride at Deer Valley Resort

You can check out Deer Valley Resort in Park City for al fresco dining, scenic chairlift rides, hiking, and mountain biking during the summer season.

9. Food Scene and Nightlife in Utah

Utah's melting pot of different cultures offers something for everyone and is quickly making its mark on the country as a foodie state. The state has countless foods unique to it, including fry sauce, funeral potatoes, pastrami burgers, and Utah honey.

You’ll also find plenty of restaurants and bars, many of which provide live entertainment in the evenings. Make sure to hit the clubs in the downtown areas of Salt Lake City, including the Westerner Club, Urban Lounge, and Burt’s Tiki Lounge.

There’s no shortage of shopping in Utah. Some of the most popular shopping destinations include City Creek Center in Salt Lake City, Fashion Place in Murray, and Gardner Village in West Jordan.

10. Major Annual Utah Events

Utah is home to countless festivals and events throughout the year, including some of the most popular:

Snowbird’s Annual Oktoberfest - Over 60,000 people flock to Snowboard each October for the Annual Oktoberfest, which hosts tasty German cuisine and live music.

Deer Valley Music Festival - The outdoor concert festival featuring the Utah Symphony is known as Deer Valley Music Festival, which comes every July to August in Park City.

Sundance Film Festival - One of the most well-known festivals in the state is Sundance Film Festiva,l which occurs every January. Sundance is held at the Sundance Resort and in Salt Lake City and Park City.

Moab Music Festival - Take in the most unforgettable outdoor setting for a concert held every August to September at the Moab Music Festival.

St. George Art Festival - In St. George, each April, you’ll find the St. George Art Festival at the St. George Town Square.

Tulip Festival at Thanksgiving Point - The Tulip Festival takes place from late April to May, where nature lovers can enjoy over 280,000 tulips across 55 acres.

Utah Arts Festival - Salt Lake City hosts the Utah Arts Festival each June, the largest outdoor festival in the state.

Craft Lake City DIY Festival - The DIY Festival of Salt Lake City comes to the city every August and brings all things crafts, arts, and homemade creations.

Heber Valley Music & Cowboy Poetry Gathering - In East Heber, each October, you’ll find the Heber Valley Music & Cowboy Poetry Gathering, considered the largest cowboy poetry event in the country.

11. Sports in Utah

Utah is home to two major professional sports teams, including the Utah Jazz of the NBA and Real Salt Lake of the MLS.

12. Top Universities in Utah

Utah does not take higher education lightly. Here, you’ll find 36 colleges and universities. Some of the highest-ranking include Brigham Young University, the University of Utah, Westminster College, Snow College, and Western Governors University.

13. What City in Utah Should You Make Your Home?

Utah's best city to move to depends on your lifestyle preferences, career aspirations, and budget.

Salt Lake City is ideal for unlimited access to world-class amenities and culture. The booming downtown areas, endless entertainment options, and thriving job markets make them all happening places. But, just remember, living in bustling cities comes at a cost.

If you’re looking for a dense suburban lifestyle, you might consider alternative cities such as St. George, Ogden, Orem, or Family City USA.

Final Thoughts

Ready to move somewhere with some of the world's best skiing and the Might Five but unsure about the cost of living in Utah? Hopefully, you’ve got a better idea and can start searching for some of the best places to live in Utah.

Register for Apartment List to find your perfect neighborhood and apartment in Utah.

FAQs: What to Know Before Moving to Utah

What’s the weather in Utah?

With scorching summers statewide and cold temperatures in winter due to the elevation, it’s safe to say that Utah’s temperatures are rather extreme. The average winter temperatures throughout the state range from a high of 30°F to 55°F. Some areas will see temperatures drop below 0°F most years.

What’s the timezone in Utah?

Utah is in Mountain Standard Time (MST) or Mountain Daylight Time (MDT), depending on the time of year. This time zone is also Greenwich Mean Time - 6 (GMT-6), two hours behind New York City.

What to do in Utah?

Utah’s biggest draw is its pristine outdoors, beckoning hikers, explorers, and enthusiasts alike. Zion National Park is one of the most popular attractions in Utah and makes up just one of the Mighty Five national parks within the state.

What region is Utah In?

Located in the country's Western region, you’ll find Idaho to the north, Wyoming to the northeast, Colorado to the east, Arizona to the south, and Nevada to the west.

What are the benefits of moving to Utah?

Utah's unbeatable skiing, affordable cost of living, and low crime rates attract college students, millennials, and retirees looking for a desirable place to live, work, and play. In short, moving to Utah offers tons of benefits!

What are the pros and cons of living in Utah?

The pros of living in Utah include the competitive cost of living, excellent education opportunities, and outdoor paradise. The cons of living in Utah include the heavy influence of religion, high tax rates in some areas, and the inversion layer. Every city has its pros and cons.

What’s the best neighborhood to move to in Utah?

The nine best neighborhoods in Utah can be found in Salt Lake City, West Valley City, West Jordan, Provo, Orem, Sandy, St. George, Ogden, and South Jordan.

What’s it like living in Utah?

Known for its high quality of life, Utah is highly sought-after. Between its access to stunning mountains, including some of the best skiing in the country, affordable cost of living, and low crime rate, it’s no surprise why Utah is such a popular state to call home.

What are the taxes in Utah?

Utah has a flat income tax rate of only 4.95%. Additionally, homeowners pay below-average property taxes in Utah compared to the rest of the country.

What jobs are popular in Utah?

Utah has continued to see tremendous job growth in the last few years. In Salt Lake City, utilities, technology, transportation, and trade have seen significant growth. In addition, construction, manufacturing, finance, health care, and education have all seen remarkable growth.

What universities are in Utah?

In Utah, they do not take higher education lightly. Here, you’ll find 36 colleges and universities. Some of the highest-ranking include Brigham Young University, the University of Utah, Westminster College, Snow College, and Western Governors University.

What are things to do in Utah?

There are plenty of things to do in Utah, whether you like spending your time exploring year-round festivals or taking a hike and enjoying the outdoors. Unfortunately, finding something to do in Utah can be challenging because you have so many options.