.jpg?w=1000)
6 Best Places to Live in Utah in 2025!
Its Utah Time!
Table of Content
Are you considering Utah tobe your next living location? You are not alone… With its scenic terrain, low crime rate, and a growing job force, Utah has quickly positioned itself to be one of the safest and best places to live in the U.S, particularly for students, young professionals, or anyone looking for a balanced lifestyle. A lot of people don’t realize just how diverse the best places to live in Utah really are,there’s a mix of scenic towns, quiet suburbs, and growing cities.
Criteria | Information |
|---|---|
Also Known As | Beehive State |
Capital | Salt Lake City |
Population | (2020) 3,271,616; (2024 est.) 3,503,613 |
Crime rate in Utah | 4th lowest for violent crimes and 11th lowest for property crimes |
Time Zone | Mountain (GMT − 7 hours) |
Total Area (Sq Mi) | 84,898 |
Whether that means hiking red rock canyons, skiing, or snowboarding down world-famous slopes, or simply finding somewhere safe and affordable to live, there is a place in Utah for you.
This guide will chart out all of the best places to live in Utah, including the most affordable college towns and the most tech-friendly areas. So, whether you're moving to an area for school or for your first job (or anywhere in between), or simply want a change of pace, Utah has somewhere that ticks all the boxes. The top cities in Utah, like Salt Lake City, Provo, and Park City, consistently rank high for quality of life and outdoor activities.
Let's take a look at which Utah city might be right for you!
Salt Lake City, Utah
Salt Lake City is definitely on any list of the best places to live in Utah. The capital of Utah is home to the University of Utah, so there are almost always young people and students about. And neighborhoods like The Avenues and Sugar House have walkable neighborhoods, local shops, and small coffee houses perfect for fitting into the bustle of the city.
Attribute | Description |
|---|---|
Population | ~200,000 residents |
Best Neighborhoods | The Avenues, Sugar House, Capitol Hill |
Average Rent (1BR) | $1,200 – $1,600 per month |
Median Home Price | $400,000 – $550,000 |
Cost of Living | About 5% higher than national average |
Perfect For | Students, young professionals, outdoor enthusiasts |
Salt Lake City is a great mix of urban development and outdoor recreation for people who like to hit the mountains for hiking or skiing, and it is a quick drive away. Salt Lake City has a little bit of higher cost of living compared with some of the other beautiful cities of Utah, but the benefits of feel and opportunity make it worth it. Whether you prefer affordable neighborhoods or upscale communities, the best areas to live in Utah have something to suit every budget and taste.
Provo, Utah
Provo is a great location for students and families, truly ranking among the best places to live in Utah. Provo is home to Brigham Young University (BYU), which brings a vibrant, youthful feeling along with events and cultural happenings. The best neighborhoods in Provo include East Bay and Downtown Provo. These neighborhoods have affordable housing and proximity to shops and restaurants. Whether you're into skiing, hiking, or just want a strong sense of community, the best places to live in Utah offer all that and more.
Attribute | Description |
|---|---|
Population | ~115,000 residents |
Best Neighborhoods | East Bay, Riverbottom, Downtown Provo |
Average Rent (1BR) | $900 – $1,300 per month |
Median Home Price | $350,000 – $450,000 |
Cost of Living | Slightly below the national average |
Perfect For | College students, families, tech workers |
If you want an inexpensive place to live in Utah, Provo is a great option, albeit it may not feel as inexpensive as it once did. But the cost of living in Provo is undoubtedly cheaper than Salt Lake City, which is ideal for students or young adults just starting out. Provo is also a great place to live because of its sense of community, which can easily make newcomers feel at home rather quickly.
Park City, Utah
If you are an outdoor enthusiast, Park City is one of the best places to live in Utah. Park City is known for its ski resorts and mountain views, and neighborhoods in Park City like Deer Valley and Old Town are highly desirable if you have an avid interest in skiing, hiking, and the arts and festivals, with easy access. Though more expensive than other cities in Utah, if you like a quality lifestyle and enjoy outdoor exploration, the price can be worth it.
Attribute | Description |
|---|---|
Population | ~9,000 residents |
Best Neighborhoods | Deer Valley, Old Town, Canyons Village |
Average Rent (1BR) | $1,800 – $2,500 per month |
Median Home Price | $900,000 – $1,500,000+ |
Cost of Living | Around 40% higher than national average |
Perfect For | Ski lovers, affluent families, retirees |
Of course, Park City is not only about winter sports. It has a strong community and is also host to a lot of events year-round, which makes it an appealing option for families or for people looking for the benefits of a small town environment without sacrificing the advantages of being in a more robust location and community. Plus, with the tie to the outdoors, you can enjoy a safe, upscale area close to nature. Just remember, the home prices are higher and reflect the demand and quality of life in Park City.
Logan, Utah
Logan may be small, but it certainly has an affordable and attractive ambiance, making it one of the best places to live in Utah. Home to Utah State University, Logan is a classic college town with an approachable vibe and lots of housing near campus in Cache Valley and Hyde Park. With rental and housing rates everything below the state average, Logan makes a great living decision to help you and your family get the most out of your bucks.
Attribute | Description |
|---|---|
Population | ~52,000 residents |
Best Neighborhoods | Cache Valley, Hyde Park, Downtown Logan |
Average Rent (1BR) | $800 – $1,100 per month |
Median Home Price | $300,000 – $400,000 |
Cost of Living | About 10% below national average |
Perfect For | Students, families, budget-conscious residents |
More importantly, Logan's affordability combined with outdoor amenities, like hiking and fishing, set it apart. The cost of living is around ten percent below the national average, making it a good fit for students, families, and simply people looking for a quieter life. The sense of community is also strong in Logan, which helps you feel at home. From college towns like Logan to family-friendly spots like Sandy, the best places to live in Utah cater to different lifestyles and stages of life.
St. George, Utah
St. George is one of the fastest-growing cities and a unique area for anyone searching for warm weather and outdoor living in the best cities to live in Utah. Neighborhoods like SunRiver and Bloomington Hills are favorites among retirees and families who have access to Zion National Park and golf courses. The cost of living is very reasonable, and even the housing in St. George is generally cheaper compared to the rest of Utah.
If you're looking for a community that is a good fit for your active lifestyle, but you want to avoid the hustle of living in a big city, St. George is a perfect place for you to live. St. George is a safe, sunny place, and you will find that there are a lot of community events for all ages. Students and young professionals will enjoy living close to Dixie State University because it will add energy to the area.
Attribute | Description |
|---|---|
Population | ~95,000 residents |
Best Neighborhoods | SunRiver, Bloomington Hills, Green Springs |
Average Rent (1BR) | $1,000 – $1,400 per month |
Median Home Price | $350,000 – $500,000 |
Cost of Living | Slightly below national average |
Perfect For | Retirees, outdoor lovers, families |
Ogden, Utah
Ogden is a hidden treasure in terms of affordable places to live in Utah that have a lot to offer students and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Along with historic 25th Street and its location next to Weber State University, Ogden has a great mix of old-town charm and college town vibe. You could find affordable rent and homes in neighborhoods like Eccles Avenue and Shadow Valley, which could be perfect for first time homebuyers and renters.
What distinguishes Ogden is its location near ski and hiking mountains and developing downtown scene with breweries, restaurants, and shops. The cost of living is slightly below the national average making it a great choice for affordability and lifestyle. Ogden is worth a consideration whether you are relocating to Utah for school or starting over.
Attribute | Description |
|---|---|
Population | ~87,000 residents |
Best Neighborhoods | Historic 25th Street, Eccles Avenue, Shadow Valley |
Average Rent (1BR) | $850 – $1,200 per month |
Median Home Price | $300,000 – $400,000 |
Cost of Living | About 5% below national average |
Perfect For | Students, outdoor enthusiasts, first-time buyers |
Final thoughts
Everyone’s idea of home is different, but the best places to live in Utah tend to check a lot of boxes for students, families, and remote workers alike!
Utah genuinely has it all from the vibrant streets of Salt Lake City to the stillness of Logan, and the mountain town feel of Park City. Each of the best cities to live in Utah offer their own special place, whether it be the mountains, small pockets of community, or the affordability. If you are a student or young adult, this search for a city might encompass more than just studying or working , it is a search for a place to feel growth in a surrounding environment while also feeling safe.
Regardless of what caught your attention, whether it be low-cost living, outdoor pursuits, or opportunities, the best places to live in Utah are well worth taking a look at. If you’re planning to move, these top cities in Utah offer a mix of job opportunities, educational institutions, and welcoming communities.
Especially if you are moving to Utah, now is the time to research and find out what city resonates with you the most. Wherever you want a home amber has your back!
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the best place to live in Utah for young professionals?
Salt Lake City is one of the best cities to live in Utah as a young professional because of its rising job market, fun lifestyle, and access to outdoor activities.
What city in Utah has the lowest cost of living?
Logan is one of the cheapest places to live in Utah because it has lower rates of housing, good schools, and a friendly small-town atmosphere.
Is Utah a great state to raise a family?
Yes, Utah is one of the best states in America to raise a family. Some examples of safe cities in Utah include Sandy and Provo, both of which have good schools and a family-oriented environment.
What cities in Utah are the safest to live in?
The safest cities in Utah are Sandy, Provo, and St. George, as they consistently rank highest in crime and have many family-friendly family neighborhoods.
What is the best city to live in Utah for an outdoor lifestyle?
Park City is one of the best cities to live in Utah for someone who loves outdoors activities, as it has ski resorts, hiking trails, and beautiful mountain sites.