With its majestic mountain ranges, expensive desserts, and renowned national parks like Zion and Bryce Canyon, Utah provides endless outdoor adventure opportunities. The state’s cultural richness is reflected in its diverse cities, from the historic charm of Salt Lake City to the scenic allure of Park City. Whether you’re browsing homes for sale in Salt Lake City, considering renting in Park City, or exploring houses for rent in Provo, here’s what you need to know before moving to Utah.
Utah at a glance
Utah, known for its breathtaking landscapes and outdoor recreation, offers a distinctive living experience. The state is home to five national parks, known collectively as the “Mighty Five” — Zion, Bryce Canyon, Arches, Canyonlands, and Capitol Reef — providing unparalleled opportunities for hiking, biking, and exploring natural wonders. The Wasatch Front, which includes large cities like Salt Lake City and Provo, boasts a strong economy driven by tech industries and outdoor tourism, while the rural areas, such as St. George and Moab, offer a quieter, scenic lifestyle.
The climate in Utah varies significantly depending on the region, with cold, snowy winters in the mountainous areas and hot, dry summers in the desert regions. Cost of living is relatively moderate compared to other states, and more affordable options in rural regions. Whether you’re attracted by the urban amenities of metropolitan hubs or the small-town charm of places like Moab, Utah has a diverse range of living environments to suit different preferences and lifestyles.
1. Utah has a dry climate and low humidity
Utah’s dry climate, characterized by low humidity and minimal rainfall, can be an adjustment if you’re used to more temperate or humid environments. The arid conditions are particularly noticeable in the summer when temperatures can soar above 100°F in areas like Salt Lake City and St. George. Residents often deal with dry skin and lips, so moisturizing and staying hydrated are essential daily routines.
2. You might have to adjust to the altitude
Much of Utah sits at a high elevation, with Salt Lake City at about 4,300 feet and Park City at over 7,000 feet above sea level. This altitude can affect your body in various ways, including causing shortness of breath, headaches, and dehydration, especially during your first few weeks in the state. It’s common for newcomers to take it easy and drink plenty of water to help their bodies adjust. Outdoor activities, like hiking or skiing, might be more strenuous than you’re used to, so it’s important to pace yourself as you acclimate.
Insider tip: Visit the lower-elevation hiking areas around the Bonneville Shoreline Trail in Salt Lake City, which offers stunning views without the steep climbs of higher altitudes.
3. Many people travel to Utah for its recreation opportunities
Utah is a mecca for outdoor adventure, providing a wealth of recreational activities year-round. The state is home to five national parks, often referred to as the “Mighty 5″—Zion, Bryce Canyon, Arches, Canyonlands, and Capitol Reef—which provide some of the most stunning landscapes and hiking opportunities in the country. In the winter, the “Greatest Snow on Earth” draws skiers and snowboarders to world-renowned resorts like Snowbird and Park City. If you’re moving to Utah, be prepared to embrace an active lifestyle with endless options for hiking, biking, camping, and skiing.
Travel tip: Consider visiting the lesser-known Cedar Breaks National Monument, especially in the fall when the crowds thin out. It’s a hidden gem where you can enjoy breathtaking views and vibrant autumn colors without the hustle of more popular parks.
4. You may need to conserve water in Utah
Utah’s arid climate means water conservation is a way of life, with the state frequently experiencing drought conditions. Residents are often encouraged, or even required, to limit water use, particularly for lawn watering and car washing. Xeriscaping, or landscaping with drought-resistant plants, is popular and sometimes necessary to reduce water consumption. Additionally, many homes are equipped with low-flow fixtures and irrigation systems designed to minimize water usage.
5. Housing prices are rising but remain pretty affordable
Utah’s housing market has seen significant growth in recent years, with prices rising, especially in urban areas like Salt Lake City and Park City. As of 2024, the median home sale price in Salt Lake City is $639,000, while in more affordable areas like Ogden, it’s closer to $360,000. Rental rates also vary widely, with one-bedroom apartments in Salt Lake City averaging around $1,500 per month, while smaller towns like Saratoga Springs offer lower rates. Despite the increase, Utah remains more affordable than many other states with similar amenities, making it an attractive place for new residents.
6. Health and fitness culture is strong here
Utah consistently ranks as one of the healthiest states in the nation, with a strong emphasis on outdoor activities and overall wellness. Residents often participate in hiking, mountain biking, skiing, and other physical activities year-round. Many cities, like Salt Lake City and Provo, have extensive trail systems, public parks, and recreation centers that cater to this active lifestyle. The local diet also tends to be health-conscious, with numerous farmers’ markets and health food stores supporting a balanced, active lifestyle.
7. Utah has a flat income tax rate
Utah’s tax system is straightforward, with a flat income tax rate of 4.55%, which applies to all income levels. This simplicity can make financial planning easier for residents compared to states with more complex tax brackets. The state also boasts a relatively low cost of living and competitive property taxes, contributing to its appeal. However, it’s important to consider that other living expenses, such as housing and healthcare, may offset some of these benefits, depending on your location within the state. It’s important to weigh the pros and cons of living in Utah before making this state your home.
8. Winter sports are big deal here
Utah is world-famous for its winter sports, particularly skiing and snowboarding. The state’s mountains, including those in the Wasatch Range, offer some of the best powder conditions in the world, attracting people from around the globe. Major resorts like Deer Valley, Snowbird, and Alta are just a short drive from Salt Lake City, making it one of the best places to live in Utah. Whether you’re a seasoned skier or new to winter sports, Utah’s winter culture is something you’ll quickly become a part of.
9. Utah is a great place to stargaze
Utah’s vast, remote landscapes and low levels of light pollution make it one of the best places in the country for stargazing. The state is home to several International Dark Sky Parks, including Bryce Canyon National Park and Capitol Reef National Park, where the night skies are exceptionally clear. Even outside these parks, rural areas like the Great Basin and the desert regions offer incredible views of the Milky Way, meteor showers, and other celestial phenomena.
Travel tip: If you’re up for an adventure, consider setting up camp at Cedar Mesa or Escalante, where the skies are incredibly dark and you can enjoy a peaceful, unobstructed view of the stars. Try timing your visit around a new moon for the clearest skies and the most dazzling views of the Milky Way.
10. There are restrictions on alcohol in Utah
Utah’s alcohol laws are some of the most unique in the country, influenced by the state’s cultural and religious background. The state controls liquor sales through state-run stores, which are the only places you can buy spirits, wine, and beers with more than 5% alcohol by volume (ABV). Bars and restaurants operate under specific regulations, with some requiring food to be ordered with alcohol and others adhering to strict limits on the amount of alcohol in mixed drinks. You won’t find wine or strong beer in grocery stores, but they do sell beer up to 5% ABV.
Methodology
Population data sourced from the United States Census Bureau, while median home sale prices, average monthly rent, and data on affordable and largest cities are sourced from Redfin.
Source: rent.com