Is Utah a Good Place to Live?

Is Utah a Good Place to Live?  

Yes, the state of Utah is a great place to live. It offers a rare balance of breathtaking mountains and lakes, a fast-growing economy, and top-tier education.

From a booming job market to highly rated universities and schools, Utah has a great deal to offer individuals and families. But it’s not without challenges—rising housing costs and environmental concerns are important factors to consider.

Whether you're planning a move or simply exploring your options, this guide will help you determine if Utah is genuinely a good fit for your lifestyle and goals.

What You’ll Learn in this Guide

In this article, you will:

• Explore the advantages and disadvantages of living in Utah.

• Discover the facts and insights to help you determine whether relocating to the Beehive State is the right choice. 

Overview

Pros of Living in Utah

Pros of Living in Utah.webp

Cost of living in Utah

Utah's cost of living is relatively low compared to other states in the United States. The U.S. News & World Report ranks Utah #25 in cost of living and #27 in affordability. Utah residents have easy access to quality goods and services at affordable prices.

Here’s a table highlighting the cost of living in Utah.

Source: Social Finance - Cost of Living in Utah

Fast growing economy

Utah’s economy is one of the fastest-growing in the United States. According to Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute, the state led the nation with a real GDP increase of 4.5 percent, which is well above the national average of 2.8 percent in 2024. Utah's nominal GDP exceeded $300 billion for the first time, and personal income rose notably by 6.1 percent.

Job market and career opportunities

Utah’s job market is emerging as one of the most dynamic and resilient in the U.S., fueled by rapid growth in tech-driven industries, demographic shifts, and strategic expansion across key sectors, including healthcare, logistics, and manufacturing. In 2024, the state added 32,900 jobs year-over-year, bringing the total number of jobs to 1,782,800. The state’s unemployment rate is 3.5 percent, lower than the national unemployment rate of 4.2 percent.

Education

U.S. News & World Report ranks Utah #2 in education, #5 in higher education, and #6 in K-12 education. Utah is often highly ranked for education due to low student debt, affordable tuition, and a strong focus on research and innovation.

Here are the top 10 universities and colleges in Utah, ranked by Niche:

1. Brigham Young University

2. University of Utah

3. Utah State University

4. Westminster University – Utah

5. Ensign College

6. Weber State University

7. Southern Utah University

8. Utah Valley University

9. Western Governors University

10. Nightingale College

Outdoor recreation and scenery

Utah offers many recreational attractions for those who enjoy outdoor activities.

National parks in Utah

The five national parks are uniquely interconnected through the mountains of Utah. Each has its bold character, and connecting them makes the “Mighty Five” something you won't find anywhere else:

• Arches National Park: Known for the world’s highest concentration of natural sandstone arches, including the famous Delicate Arch and Landscape Arch. This Moab gem showcases dramatic rock formations that are ideal for rock climbing.

• Bryce Canyon National Park: Famous for its hoodoos, offering surreal views that change dramatically with the seasons and sunlight.

• Canyonlands National Park: Carved over millennia by the Colorado and Green Rivers, Canyonlands features vast canyons, mesas, and desert wilderness. 

• Capitol Reef National Park: Often referred to as Utah’s hidden gem, this park features the Waterpocket Fold, a massive wrinkle in the Earth’s crust.

• Zion National Park: Famed for its towering canyon walls and scenic hikes like Angels Landing and The Subway. It's an awe-inspiring experience and a favorite among hikers and photographers who love spending time outdoors.

Other attractions include:

• Cottonwood Canyons: Known for their natural beauty, outdoor recreational activities, and winter sports.

• Great Salt Lake: Boasts some of the world's largest populations of birds.

• The Wasatch Range: A mountain range extending through southeastern Idaho and northern Utah, featuring popular outdoor recreation and ski resorts.

Cons of Living in Utah

Cons of Living in Utah.webp

Expensive housing in Salt Lake City and other areas

Despite having a low cost of living, home prices in Utah are considerably higher than in other states. According to Zillow, the average home price in the United States is $361,263. In Utah, the average cost is higher at $530,787.

Here’s a table of the housing prices in many key parts of Utah.

Source: Zillow - Utah Housing Market

Environmental considerations

Air quality

Utah often faces challenges with poor air quality and frequently ranks among the worst in the United States for ozone and particulate pollution. This issue is most severe during the winter, due to cold air, atmospheric inversions, and weather conditions that trap pollution near the ground, which is exacerbated by the state's mountainous terrain.

Contributors to pollution include vehicle emissions, especially from older cars, residential wood burning, and industrial sources. Additionally, late summer wildfires in and around the state worsen air quality by releasing smoke and fine particulates into the atmosphere.

Utah is addressing its air quality issues through a State Implementation Plan to reduce emissions and the $74.4 million Beehive Emission Reduction Plan to increase renewable energy and decrease pollution. New rules targeting small equipment, recycling, and composting are under review, while public campaigns encourage residents to carpool, use public transportation, telework, and adjust their thermostats to improve air quality.

Water conservation

Utah's water conservation is a concern due to its arid climate, persistent drought conditions, and rapidly growing population. Indeed, the Beehive State is the second driest state in the country. And with more than 3.5 million residents, Utah faces increasing pressure on its water supply.

In response, state and local governments have implemented various conservation efforts, including setting goals to reduce water use, promoting water-efficient appliances, encouraging water-wise landscaping, and enacting supportive legislation.

Final Thoughts: Is Utah Right for You?

Whether you're planning a fresh start or considering a long-term stay, this guide offers a clear and practical overview to help you evaluate daily life in Utah. With reliable insights into the state’s lifestyle, economy, environment, and more, you'll be better equipped to align your personal goals with what the state has to offer. 

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the pros and cons of Utah?

Utah's pros and cons include a strong economy, excellent education, and beautiful scenery, balanced against the challenges of expensive housing, air pollution, and water conservation issues.

Is it expensive to live in Utah? 

Yes, it is expensive to live in Utah, primarily due to its above-average housing prices, although other living costs remain reasonably affordable.

Why are people moving away from Utah?

People are moving away from Utah primarily due to rising home prices, worsening air quality, and limited affordable housing options.

What part of Utah is best to live in?

The best part of Utah to live in depends on lifestyle preferences, but many favor Salt Lake City, Provo, and St. George for their strong job markets and outdoor amenities.