20 Best Places to Live in Utah in 2023

Thinking of moving to one of the best places to live in Utah? You're not alone. For the past 10 years, the Beehive State has been ranked among the fastest-growing states in the country. But is Utah a good place to live? Well, it boasts a strong job market, a reasonable cost of living, and a family-friendly vibe where the community is everything.

If you’re ready to explore moving to Utah but don’t know where to start, prepare for a challenge. Utah boasts a gorgeous landscape, quick access to snow skiing and hiking, and key industries like aerospace and engineering.

Not sure where to start turning the best places in Utah to visit into your new home? Here, we did the work for you by rounding up some of the best places to live in Utah.

1. Salt Lake City

• Population: 204,657
• Median Two-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $1,433
• Median Household Income: $65,880
• Walk Score: 59
• Transit Score: 44
• Bike Score: 74

As the capital and one of the best cities in Utah, Salt Lake City blends natural beauty with a strong economy and high quality of life. World-class ski resorts are within a short drive of the city, as well as hiking trails, golf courses, and national parks. Some of the best neighborhoods in Salt Lake City include Downtown, Sugar House, and Central City. The city is also known for being the religious headquarters of the Mormon church. You’ll find a focus on family in the area, but also plenty of cozy piano clubs and cocktail bars that make it one of the best places to live in your 20s.

2. West Valley City

• Population: 136,650
• Starting Rent for a Two-Bedroom Apartment: $1,095
• Median Household Income: $75,137
• Walk Score: 35
• Transit Score: 36
• Bike Score: 39

As a nearby suburb of Salt Lake City and the second-largest city in the state, West Valley City is one of the best places to live in Utah. While the suburb is family-oriented, it’s also diverse and inclusive. Since the 2002 Olympic hockey games, a boom of economic development has been a priority for local governments, and residents are seeing business parks pop up left and right from major employers like Verizon, Frito Lay, Backcountry, and UPS.

3. West Jordan

• Population: 116,664
• Median Rent for a Two-Bedroom Apartment: $1,751
• Median Household Income: $90,227
• Walk Score: 28
• Transit Score: 31
• Bike Score: 40

As one of the best cities near Salt Lake City, West Jordan is a growing suburb that's home to families and young professionals. Locals and visitors love the quaint Gardner Village shopping area, which boasts historic charm with brick-lined paths and boutiques, as well as upscale shopping and dining. Manufacturing, retail trade, health care, and social assistance are some of the biggest industries in the area, and you’ll also find plenty of culture and art around West Jordan with galleries, the West Jordan Symphony, and the West Jordan City Band.

4. Provo

• Population: 113,523
• Starting Rent for a Two-Bedroom Apartment: $1,095
• Median Household Income: $53,572
• Walk Score: 45
• Transit Score: 33
• Bike Score: 63

Provo is home to Brigham Young University (BYU), attracting college students from around the country. Enjoy over 100 restaurants, two shopping malls, and small and large international businesses in what many call the cornerstone of Utah's technology scene. The pro-business community is also home to the Utah Valley Regional Medical Center and the Utah State Hospital. For those who like to get outdoors and enjoy beautiful places in Utah, Provo boasts multiple hiking opportunities, including the Y Trail, the Provo River Parkway Trail, and Provo Canyon.

5. Orem

• Population: 95,910
• Starting Rent for a Two-Bedroom Apartment: $1,195
• Median Household Income: $70,412
• Walk Score: 43
• Transit Score: 33
• Bike Score: 56

Despite being one of the big cities in Utah, Orem's slogan is "Family City USA," which makes sense, considering that it frequently ranks as one of the best places to raise kids and is filled with trails and skiing spots. As for entertainment, the Orem Arts Council is consistently working on cultural strategies for the city to develop more of a presence, providing the Orem Bandstand to the community for free local performances and concerts. Orem is also renowned for the annual Timpanogos Storytelling Festival and a Summerfest celebration.

6. Sandy

• Population: 93,022
• Median Rent for a Two-Bedroom Apartment: $1,527
• Median Household Income: $100,749
• Walk Score: 35
• Transit Score: 25
• Bike Score: 37

Situated at the base of the Wasatch Mountains, Sandy rose to prominence after a railroad connected the area to Salt Lake City. It is now one of the best places in Utah. The area is home to young professionals and growing families looking for highly ranked and safe Salt Lake City suburbs. Some of the best things to see and do in Sandy are outside, such as skiing in the Wasatch Mountains, hiking in Rocky Mouth Canyon, and horseback riding.

7. St. George

• Population: 102,519
• Starting Rent for a Two-Bedroom Apartment: $1,223
• Median Household Income: $63,604
• Walk Score: 27
• Transit Score: 17
• Bike Score: 45

Located near Snow Canyon State Park, St. George sits in southwestern Utah and is celebrated for its state parks and year-round outdoor recreation. You’ll also find plenty of cultural opportunities, including the St. George Art Museum, which houses historical photos and works by local and regional artists, and the St. George Utah Temple, which offers colorful gardens, fountains, and a cascading waterfall.

8. Ogden

• Population: 86,825
• Starting Rent for a Two-Bedroom Apartment: $1,095
• Median Household Income: $58,284
• Walk Score: 44
• Transit Score: 35
• Bike Score: 44

Ogden is a gateway to local ski resorts and historic buildings and is a hotspot for freight rail traffic where manufacturing and commerce industries set up shop. Ogden is one of the most family-friendly areas in Utah, welcoming married couples and young professionals working at Hill Air Force Base. Ogden was once home to Prohibition-era speak-easies along historic 25th Street, which is now a central shopping and dining center.

9. South Jordan

• Population: 83,513
• Median Rent for a Two-Bedroom Apartment: $1,901
• Median Household Income: $111,774
• Walk Score: 26
• Transit Score: 14
• Bike Score: 44

Located 18 miles south of Salt Lake City, South Jordan is one of the few family-friendly cities near Salt Lake City that offers two TRAX light rail stops, a commuter rail stop, and a growing business market. Make a cultural stop at the Gale Center of History and Culture, which houses a museum, the Arts Council's Artist on Display, and an audiogram, or pay a visit to the Wasatch Gem Society, which hosts special events and an annual gem show.

10. Logan

• Population: 54,680
• Starting Rent for a Two-Bedroom Apartment: $995
• Median Household Income: $46,761
• Walk Score: 40
• Transit Score: N/A
• Bike Score: 51

Often voted the best place to live in Utah, Logan is nestled among the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest and the Bear River Mountains, with quick access to outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, fishing, and snowboarding. With a relatively low cost of living, you’ll have more money to enjoy the arts and culture scene or take in an outdoor festival in this family-friendly town. But you should also put aside extra for winter utilities to warm up from all that snow and outdoor recreation.

11. Kaysville

• Population: 32,761
• Starting Rent for a Two-Bedroom Apartment: $1,200
• Median Household Income: $110,700
• Walk Score: 20
• Transit Score: 19
• Bike Score: 36

Kaysville is a short drive to Salt Lake City but with a slower pace of life. Locals enjoy the small-town atmosphere with plenty of parks, playgrounds, and outdoor recreation. As one of the most desirable places to live in the area, you’ll enjoy the tranquility of the town. The historical heritage is strong in Kaysville, with charming architecture, local shops and restaurants, and a high quality of life that's known for its laid-back, peaceful vibe.

12. Highland

• Population: 19,902
• Starting Rent for a Two-Bedroom Apartment: $1,200
• Median Household Income: $156,136
• Walk Score: 9
• Transit Score: N/A
• Bike Score: 56

Nestled in the Wasatch Mountains, Highland is a town filled with natural beauty and opportunities for hiking, jogging, and tubing at sites like the nearby American Fork River. You can also take advantage of the Murdock Canal Trail, a scenic pathway that runs through the city. The tightknit community often organizes festivals and holiday celebrations. With a low crime rate and high-quality schools, Highland is also a popular spot for families.

13. Heber City

• Population: 17,865
• Starting Rent for a Two-Bedroom Apartment: $1,895
• Median Household Income: $86,365
• Walk Score: N/A
• Transit Score: N/A
• Bike Score: N/A

The scenic mountain town of Heber City is situated close to the Provo River, the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, and Wasatch Mountain State Park, providing ample opportunity for fishing, boating, horseback riding, and camping. The quaint downtown offers historic charm with locally owned shops, art galleries, restaurants, and cafes. There are always art exhibitions, live performances, concerts, and festivals going on, including the annual Midway Swiss Days festival, which offers food, music, and crafts.

14. Cedar City

• Population: 38,692
• Starting Rent for a Two-Bedroom Apartment: $900
• Median Household Income: $55,022
• Walk Score: 62
• Transit Score: N/A
• Bike Score: 54

Cedar City is a budget-friendly place, as it’s one of the cheapest places to live in Utah. Cedar City is located in the mountains of southern Utah, near Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon National Park, Cedar Breaks National Monument, and the Dixie National Forest. The town, known for its thriving arts and culture scene that includes the Tony Award-winning Utah Shakespeare Festival, is among the best cities in southern Utah. Cedar City is also home to Southern Utah University, which offers additional cultural and educational opportunities.

15. Park City

• Population: 8,374
• Starting Rent for a Two-Bedroom Apartment: $2,900
• Median Household Income: $121,701
• Walk Score: 73
• Transit Score: N/A
• Bike Score: 36

As one of the prettiest places in Utah, Park City boasts multiple premier skiing and snowboarding locations, including the Park City Mountain Resort, the Deer Valley Resort, and Canyons Village. Culture lovers know Park City as the home of the Sundance Film Festival, the Kimball Art Center, and the Egyptian Theatre. Its unparalleled natural beauty makes it easy to enjoy the Park Silly Sunday Market, the Park City Wine Festival, and other annual events. There are lots of tourists in Park City, which makes it a win for newcomers looking to work in the hospitality or outdoors industries.

16. Snyderville

• Population: 6,744
• Starting Rent for a Two-Bedroom Apartment: $2,695
• Median Household Income: $139,850
• Walk Score: 73
• Transit Score: N/A
• Bike Score: 36

Otherwise known as the Snyderville Basin, this area is just minutes from Park City and all the outdoor recreation you could want — while surrounded by the Wasatch Mountains. You'll also find numerous fitness centers, yoga studios, spas, and wellness centers that cater to residents' physical and mental well-being. There are also plenty of retail therapy outlets, dining options, and bars to unwind after a day of mountain biking, trail running, or golfing with your neighbors or roommate.

17. Yalecrest

• Population: 4,135
• Starting Rent for a Two-Bedroom Apartment: N/A
• Median Household Income: $138,152
• Walk Score: 58
• Transit Score: 42
• Bike Score: 74

Yalecrest is known for its tree-lined streets, amenities, and green spaces. The area is also near the University of Utah, with access to museums, sporting events, and libraries. The Yalecrest Historic District, established in 2001, also strives to maintain the unique character and charm of the area. Architecture lovers flock to see the well-preserved historic homes, which showcase a variety of architectural styles, including Tudor Revival, Colonial Revival, Craftsman, and Prairie.

18. Farmington

• Population: 25,660
• Starting Rent for a Two-Bedroom Apartment: $1,754
• Median Household Income: $107,559
• Walk Score: 48
• Transit Score: 34
• Bike Score: 76

Farmington is located just north of Salt Lake City. The area is home to Lagoon amusement park and offers a hub for entertainment, dining, and restaurants at Station Park. Nature lovers can explore Antelope Island State Park, Mueller Park Trailhead, and Adams Canyon Trail and year-round festivals and concerts. With high-quality schools and a strong sense of community, the area is popular with families.

19. Wasatch Hollow

• Population: 36,619
• Starting Rent for a Two-Bedroom Apartment: N/A
• Median Household Income: $94,044
• Walk Score: 64
• Transit Score: 35
• Bike Score: 75

The charming Wasatch Hollow offers breathtaking views of the Wasatch Mountains and plentiful hiking trails. The nearby Sugar House Park is popular, hosting walking trails, picnic areas, sports fields, and a pond. Wasatch Hollow is also ideally situated close to Westminster College and the University of Utah, which provide opportunities for continuing education, cultural events, and sporting events.

20. Summit Park

• Population: 8,820
• Starting Rent for a Two-Bedroom Apartment: $2,695
• Median Household Income: $156,200
• Walk Score: 45
• Transit Score: 53
• Bike Score: 32

Summit Park sits among the Wasatch Mountains and offers easy access to skiing, mountain biking, trail running, and cross-country skiing spots. You can count as many deer, moose, elk, and various birds as you can neighbors in this community known for its year-round beauty. Despite its tranquility, the area still offers the social amenities you want, from restaurants to supermarkets.

Make Your Move: Start Apartment Hunting

Towns in Utah vary greatly, making it a fantastic location for those in search of city life, mountainside retreats, and historic towns. Whether you want nightlife or to live among waterfalls and hiking gems, you can find your most ideal apartment in Utah.

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