Highlighted by five national parks and monuments, breathtaking views of snow-covered mountain peaks, and countless artistic havens of culture and commerce, living in Utah is one of a kind. The Beehive State has been in an exciting time of growth and development over the past several decades. After a flurry of cultural expansion, Utah now attracts young outdoor enthusiasts, tech-focused professionals, and those looking to settle down with their families among the stunning Wasatch mountains.
Our list of the best places to live in Utah boils down to signs of economic growth, a balanced cost of living, and, of course, an enthusiastic community. Whether you’re moving to Utah to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the state or looking for a place to blossom creatively, check out our list of the best places to live in Utah.
Salt Lake City | Big City in the Heart of the Salt Lake Valley
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It’s hard not to start this list with the cultural haven that is the state capital of Salt Lake City. Situated in the Salt Lake Valley, Salt Lake City is easily one of the best places to live in Utah. When most people think of SLC, they think of the Mormon Church. Though still a great part of the culture and architecture of the city, there has been an influx of young people, passionate outdoor adventurers, and a flourishing foodie and craft scene. Over the past few decades, the city has developed into a bit of a hipster haven and was even named one of the most gay-friendly spots in the country. Living in this area also offers easy access to other amazing nearby cities such as Eagle Mountain and Provo.
Ongoing economic growth and access to a diverse job scene make this a relatively affordable place to live for a city of this size as well. Trulia even advises that moving to Salt Lake City is the top national choice if you’re looking to stay fit and healthy. Additionally, Salt Lake City is home to top-rated colleges like Utah State University and Westminster University.
- Population: 204,653
- Median household income: $75,529
- Median home price: $593,000
Sandy | Amazing Community Popular Among Outdoor Lovers
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Head about 20 miles south of the SLC, and you’ll stumble upon the community-focused ski town of Sandy, Utah. After undergoing extensive downtown rehabilitation in 2015, this walkable city is very accessible while still maintaining its natural splendor. Newly renovated Sandy public schools in the Canyons School District make this a great town in Utah for young families. Sandy is also one of the safest places in America to call home. The crime rate of this city is 21% below the state average and 27% below the national average.
Living in Sandy is a bit pricier than many surrounding areas, but Money.com featured the city for having an impressive projected job and income growth. This area is also a great place for outdoor activities, and the nearby Wasatch Mountains are perfect for mountain biking, hiking, and skiing.
- Population: 93,029
- Median household income: $104,577
- Median home price: $655,000
Lehi | One of the Best Places to Live in Utah for Job-Seekers
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Nestled between Utah Lake and the Traverse Mountains, this quickly growing city is one of the best places to live in Utah. Both the population of those moving to Lehi as well as median household income continue to climb. Thanksgiving Point and Lehi’s historic downtown keep residents active and entertained, which is ideal for one of the largest communities of tech and math-focused specialists in the country.
Access to these high-paying local tech companies does mean overall higher home prices and cost of living, but this also supports the high-rated public schools in the area. The ongoing influx of things to do in Lehi creates a balanced city of outdoor activity and ways to immerse yourself in the natural wonders, arts, fine dining, and plenty of shopping year-round.
- Population: 84,368
- Median household income: $123,842
- Median home price: $530,000
American Fork | Cozy Residential Area With Small-Town Feel
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Similar to the surrounding towns, American Fork creates an equilibrium between personal and economic growth. With views of the Utah Lake and access to countless trails and other outdoor recreation, living in American Fork is a haven for outdoor lovers. American Fork is mostly a residential area, giving the city a small-town feel.
Over a third of those living in American Fork are college-educated or hold an education higher than a bachelor’s degree, speaking to the connected and growth-focused culture of the town. Spend a night at the ballet, head to the symphony orchestra, or enjoy one of the festivals arranged by the American Fork Art Council. The cost of living in American Fork is on par with other major suburbs of Salt Lake City and equally provides access to interesting and diverse jobs.
- Population: 33,986
- Median household income: $90,490
- Median home price: $539,000
Park City | One of the Best Places to Live in Utah for Families
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With today’s focus on finding that ideal work-life balance, Park City is becoming a bit of a destination. If you’re an outdoor enthusiast with children, Park City balances some of the best ski resorts and biking trails with one of the top school systems in the state. Several new schools have been built in the past few years, and the city is home to top-rated private schools like Park City Day School and Soaring Wings International Montessori School.
With access to Salt Lake City’s booming tech scene, it’s a bit easier to maintain the higher cost of living that comes with this haven for active mountain living with amazing views. This gorgeous city is full of family-friendly amenities, such as the Park City Museum and Utah Outdoor Adventures. It is also home to several cultural events like the Annual Sundance Film Festival.
- Population: 8,379
- Median household income: $132,315
- Median home price: $1.9 million
Provo | Incredible City Close to National Parks
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If a bustling college town is more your speed, Provo is the home of Brigham Young University. Located in Utah County, Provo is another top hub for popular companies such as Billings Computer, CircusTrix, and IProvo. Provo is also considered one of the best places to live in Utah due to its access to unique jobs and incredible schools. Additionally, this city provides easy access to attractions like Arches National Park and Eagle Mountain.
In 2014, Gallup rated Provo as the top US city for maintaining general well-being. Though the Church of LDS does play a significant role in Provo’s community, the Gallup poll found that the community itself was notably welcoming, caring, and focused on maintaining an active town. When not exploring one of the town’s museums or arts centers, residents enjoy hiking through Provo Canyon and Bridal Veil Falls, or learning about the many water activities possible on Utah Lake.
- Population: 113,516
- Median household income: $59,290
- Median home price: $444,000
Ogden | Fast-Growing City in Utah
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The picturesque city of Ogden made our list of the best places to live in Utah for its diversity, low cost of living, and access to unique and funky things to do year-round. The music, art, and nightlife scene is quickly on the rise as well as the median household income. Forbes has even named Ogden the 6th-fastest growing city in the entire country. This development is a further sign that Northern Utah is seeing the effects of the state’s overall expansion and popularity growth.
Packed with a new wave of young professionals, the lively downtown now caters to those who enjoy local theater, unique dive bars, and live music. New residents in Ogden can enjoy some of the city’s top restaurants, such as Harp and Hound and Roosters Brewing.
- Population: 86,813
- Median household income: $67,102
- Median home price: $378,000
St. George | Beautiful Suburb Close to Arizona Border
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The southernmost town on this list, St. George, is a large suburb in Washington County that sits right on the Arizona border. This prime location means that the weather is milder throughout the year, making this a popular location to retire.
The cost of living in St. George is one of the area’s best qualities, with affordable homes, rentals, and some of the top-rated public schools in the area. An active community association manages plenty to do in St. George, whether you’re a family with kids, a young professional looking for a night out, or a retiree who enjoys relaxing in wide-open spaces. Zion National Park is just a short drive away, making it easy to create a weekend of downtown fun and outdoor exploration.
- Population: 102,523
- Median household income: $70,386
- Median home price: $500,000
Orem | One of the Best Places to Live in Utah to Raise a Family
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One of our top picks for raising a family in Utah, Orem is designed around safe and balanced living with kids at an affordable price. The area is accessible to popular Provo, where a good deal of commuters head for work. In 2017, Money placed Orem on their coveted Best Places to live list, putting it at an impressive number 14. Orem is also home to Utah Valley University, making it a popular place to live among college students.
Median home prices are just under $499,000, and nearly 40% of household incomes peak over $75,000 a year. Between a strong sense of supportive community, stunning hiking trails, and unique summer festivals, this is one of the nicest places to live in Utah for families and singles alike.
- Population: 95,918
- Median household income: $77,718
- Median home price: $499,000
Draper | One of the Wealthiest Cities in Utah
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Draper attracts some of the wealthier residents throughout the Salt Lake City area and has shown incredible growth in the past several years. The public schools of Draper are highly rated and the city comes with a list of exciting things to do with kids such as Cowabunga Bay Waterpark, the Loveland Living Planet Aquarium, and a long list of parks and playgrounds.
In 2013, Draper also made Money’s list of best places to live in the country, noting its envious access to the hiking trails of Jordan River Parkway, its short drive to Salt Lake City, and its large number of restaurants, bars, and nightlife.
- Population: 50,635
- Median household income: $126,041
- Median home price: $868,000
Map of the Best Places to Live in Utah
Whether you’re just beginning your search or looking to move to Utah in the next several months, the team at Wasatch Moving Company can streamline your home relocation process. Offering packing and moving services for both residents and businesses throughout Salt Lake, Utah, and Davis County, our experienced team aims to personalize the moving process from start to finish. Give our team a call today at 801-335-5603 to get started with a free estimate.
