Choosing the best place to live is a daunting task, especially when you have a plethora of options to choose from. If you are considering Utah, then you are in luck as it is home to some of the best cities in the United States. With its breathtaking natural scenery, booming economy, and exceptional quality of life, Utah has become a popular destination for individuals looking for the best place in Utah to live.
15 Best Cities to Live in Utah
- Salt Lake City
- Park City
- Provo
- St. George
- Ogden
- Moab
- Bountiful
- Logan
- Heber City
- Cedar City
- Sandy
- Lehi
- American Fork
- Orem
- Draper
1. Salt Lake City
Salt Lake City is the capital of Utah and the largest city in the state. Its population is 200,000 people. The city has a moderate cost of living, with the average rental cost for a one-bedroom apartment being around $1,200 per month. House prices in Salt Lake City vary depending on the neighborhood, but the median home price is around $400,000.
Salt Lake City is known for its stunning outdoor attractions. The city is nestled between the Wasatch Mountains and the Great Salt Lake, providing ample opportunities for hiking, skiing, and water sports. One popular outdoor destination is the nearby Big Cottonwood Canyon, which offers stunning views and world-class skiing in the winter months.
2. Park City
Park City, Utah is a stunning mountain town located in the western United States. With a population of around 8,000 people, it’s a small but lively community that offers a plethora of outdoor activities. Outdoor activities are a major draw to Park City. The town is known for its world-renowned ski resorts, such as Deer Valley and Park City Mountain. During the summer months, the town transforms into a mountain biking and hiking haven, with hundreds of miles of trails to explore.
The rental cost in Park City varies depending on the neighborhood, but a one-bedroom apartment typically starts at around $1,500 per month. The median home price is roughly $1 million, with some properties fetching even higher prices.
Despite being a small town, Park City offers an array of dining, shopping, and entertainment options. The historic Main Street is filled with quaint shops, art galleries, and restaurants, making it a must-visit destination.
3. Provo
Provo is a city located in the heart of the state. Its population is 120,000 people. The average rental cost for a one-bedroom apartment in Provo is around $1,100 per month, which is relatively affordable compared to other cities in the region. If you’re interested in buying a home, the median house price is around $400,000.
Provo is known for its thriving arts and culture scene. The city is home to numerous theaters, galleries, and museums, including the BYU Museum of Art.
One of the main draws to Provo is its proximity to the Wasatch Mountains, which offer an array of outdoor activities, such as hiking, skiing, and mountain biking. Provo is also home to several parks, including the scenic Provo River Parkway Trail.
4. St. George
With a population of around 90,000 people, St. George is located in the southwestern part of Utah. Renting a one-bedroom apartment in St. George costs around $1,100 per month, while the median home price is approximately $400,000.
St. George has several stunning national parks, including Zion National Park and Bryce Canyon National Park. These parks offer an array of outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and rock climbing.
St. George also boasts a thriving arts and culture scene. The city has several museums, theaters, and galleries, including the St. George Art Museum and the Tuacahn Amphitheatre.
5. Ogden
Ogden is located 35 miles north of Salt Lake City. With a population of around 90,000 people, The city is located near the Wasatch Mountains, which offer an array of outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and mountain biking. Ogden is also home to several parks, including the stunning Ogden River Parkway.
The average rental cost for a one-bedroom apartment in Ogden is around $900 per month, while the median house price is approximately $300,000.
Ogden has a vibrant arts and culture scene. The city has several museums, theaters, and galleries, including the Eccles Art Center and Peery’s Egyptian Theater.
6. Moab
Moab is the largest city Moab is located in southeastern Utah, The city has a population of over 5,500 people. Despite its size, Moab is known worldwide for its incredible outdoor attractions and stunning natural beauty.
Renting a one-bedroom apartment in Moab costs around $1,200 per month, while the median house price is approximately $420,000. The city has several galleries and museums, including the Moab Museum of Film and Western Heritage.
Moab has two national parks: Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park. These parks offer an array of outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and rock climbing. Moab is also home to the famous Slickrock Bike Trail, a challenging mountain biking trail that attracts enthusiasts from around the world.
7. Bountiful
Bountiful is a city in Davis County, Utah, with a population of around 43,000 people. It is known for its friendly community, safe neighborhoods, and scenic beauty.
The average rental cost for a one-bedroom apartment in Bountiful is around $1,100 per month, while the median house price is just over $400,000.
The city has several museums, theaters, and galleries, including the Bountiful/Davis Art Center and the Bountiful Historical Museum. Bountiful is also home to several parks and golf courses, making it an ideal location for outdoor enthusiasts. Bountiful has several outdoor attractions, including the stunning Mueller Park Trailhead and the nearby Great Salt Lake.
8. Logan
Logan is a city located in Cache County, Utah, and is home to Utah State University. With a population of just over 50,000, Logan offers a vibrant college town atmosphere with plenty of activities and events to keep residents entertained.
The rental cost for a one-bedroom apartment in Logan is around $750 per month, while the median house price is $310,000. The cost of living in Logan is slightly higher than the national average, but the quality of life is also higher, with excellent schools, low crime rates, and a strong economy.
Outdoor enthusiasts will love Logan’s proximity to the mountains, where they can enjoy hiking, camping, and skiing in the winter. The city also has a thriving arts and culture scene, with several museums, galleries, and theaters.
9. Heber City
Located in the beautiful Heber Valley, Heber City is a small town with a population of around 15,000. It offers a peaceful and scenic setting with easy access to outdoor recreation. Residents enjoy a high quality of life with excellent schools, low crime rates, and a strong sense of community.
Heber City is known for its stunning natural beauty, with nearby mountains, lakes, and parks offering plenty of opportunities for hiking, fishing, and camping. The city also has a vibrant downtown area with unique shops, restaurants, and events. The rental cost for a one-bedroom apartment in Heber City is around $900 per month, while the median house price is $455,000.
10. Cedar City
Nestled in southern Utah, Cedar City is a small city with a population of around 30,000. The rental cost for a one-bedroom apartment in Cedar City is around $750 per month, while the median house price is $292,000.
The city also has a thriving arts and culture scene, with several museums, galleries, and theaters. Cedar City is known for its stunning natural beauty, with nearby national parks and forests offering plenty of opportunities for hiking, camping, and outdoor recreation.
11. Sandy
Located just south of Salt Lake City, Sandy is a city with a population of around 95,000. It offers a suburban feel with plenty of amenities and easy access to downtown Salt Lake City.
The rental cost for a one-bedroom apartment in Sandy is around $1,100 per month, while the median house price is $427,000.
Sandy is known for its excellent shopping and dining options, with several malls and restaurants located within the city. The city also has several parks and recreational areas, including the South Jordan Canal Trail and the Dimple Dell Regional Park.
12. Lehi
Located in Utah County, Lehi is a city with a population of around 70,000. It offers a suburban feel with easy access to both Salt Lake City and Provo.
Lehi is known for its family-friendly atmosphere, with several parks, museums, and entertainment venues located within the city. The city is also home to several technology companies, including Adobe and Xactware, making it a great option for those in the tech industry. The rental cost for a one-bedroom apartment in Lehi is around $1,200 per month, while the median house price is $482,000.
Outdoor enthusiasts will love Lehi’s proximity to the mountains, where they can enjoy hiking, skiing, and other outdoor activities. The city also has several community events and festivals throughout the year, including the annual Lehi Roundup Rodeo.
13. American Fork
Located in Utah County, American Fork is a small city with a population of around 30,000. The cost of living in American Fork is higher than the national average, but residents enjoy excellent schools, low crime rates, and a strong sense of community.
The rental cost for a one-bedroom apartment in American Fork is around $1,100 per month, while the median house price is $450,000.
American Fork is known for its beautiful parks and recreational areas, including the American Fork Canyon and the Timpanogos Cave National Monument. The city also has several community events throughout the year, including the annual Steel Days celebration.
14. Orem
Located in Utah County, Orem is a city with a population of around 97,000. Orem is known for its beautiful parks and recreational areas, including the Provo Canyon and the Utah Lake State Park. The city also has several community events throughout the year, including the annual Summerfest celebration. The rental cost for a one-bedroom apartment in Orem is around $900 per month, while the median house price is $371,000.
15. Draper
Located in Salt Lake County, Draper is a city with a population of around 50,000. The rental cost for a one-bedroom apartment in Draper is around $1,100 per month, while the median house price is $549,000.
The city also has several community events throughout the year, including the annual Draper Days celebration. Draper is known for its beautiful parks and recreational areas, including the Corner Canyon Regional Park and the South Mountain Golf Course.
Conclusion:
Utah has no shortage of great cities to choose from, and the best place in Utah to live will depend on your personal preferences and lifestyle. Whether you are looking for a peaceful small town or a bustling city with plenty of opportunities, Utah has it all. From the charming community of Park City to the thriving metropolis of Salt Lake City, each city in Utah has something unique to offer. So, if you are searching for the best cities to live in Utah, consider your priorities, do your research, and choose a city that will meet your needs and make you happy.