Utah is more than just a nature lover’s paradise – it’s a destination that combines affordability and quality of life. In this blog post, we will answer a frequently asked question: What is the cost of living in Utah?

Housing Costs in Utah

Even with rising growth, Utah maintains an incredibly affordable cost of living.

Smaller cities, such as Orem and Provo, offer more economical options, while Salt Lake City, the state capital, has a slightly higher cost of living.

Utah offers various housing options, from the bustling urban center of Salt Lake City to the quiet town of Orem.

In Salt Lake City, the median home price is approximately $537,000, with rent for a two-bedroom apartment costing around $1,400 monthly.

In contrast, Orem offers a more relaxed pace of life, with a median home price of $425,000 and two-bedroom rents closer to $1,100.

It is important to note that these figures are averages, and actual prices may vary depending on the property’s location and characteristics.

It is important to mention that Utah has Lumos Language School campuses in Salt Lake City and Orem, providing additional options for learning English in welcoming and vibrant environments.

In addition, the variety of housing options, from cozy apartments to houses, caters to different preferences and budgets, with cities like Orem and Provo offering more affordable rental prices than Salt Lake City.

Transportation Costs in Utah

It’s not a lie that some states in the United States face challenges with public transportation. However, in Utah, there is no need to worry—public transportation not only exists, but it is also affordable.

This applies to those considering the state capital, Salt Lake City, and those who prefer to study in more remote locations, such as Orem, our school’s campus.

The state offers three public transportation options: buses, Trax (the well-known light rail), and a train, FrontRunner, which runs through all the cities in the Ogden to Provo Valley. These means of transportation are interconnected, which means that you can use them all by purchasing a single ticket. You can take a Trax, then a bus, a FrontRunner, and then a Trax, all with a single ticket. The current fare for a public transportation trip is $2.50.

Tickets can be purchased on the UTA website, at train or light rail stations, and through the Transit app, making it easy to buy tickets.

Food Costs in Utah

The average monthly grocery bill for one person in Utah is approximately $259, with flexibility for variations. The state strongly supports local producers, resulting in a supply of fresh and regional products.

The dining experience in Utah is diverse and affordable. Not only that, but the variety of restaurants is impressive, from large franchises to local establishments, encompassing a wide range of cuisines from around the world.

Additional Considerations

In addition to the costs mentioned above, there are other factors to consider when budgeting for life in Utah:

• Healthcare: Healthcare costs in Utah are slightly lower than the national average.
• Childcare: Childcare costs can vary depending on the child’s age and the type of care. However, in general, childcare costs in Utah are relatively affordable.
• Taxes: Utah has a flat state income tax rate of 4.95%.

Overall, Utah is a very affordable state to live in.