Salt Lake City, Utah, is a place of contrasts—a city where rugged mountains meet urban innovation, and tradition intersects with rapid growth. Nestled in the heart of the American West, this city offers a unique blend of outdoor adventure, cultural experiences, and economic opportunity. Not sure if SLC is for you? Read on to find out what to expect if you’re considering a move to the Salt Lake City area in 2024.
You know it from: The Crow: Salvation, SLC Punk
Average 1 bedroom rent: $1,566 | Salt Lake City apartments for rent, Salt Lake City houses for rent
Average home price: $639,000 | Salt Lake City homes for sale
Average cost of full-service moving services: $191/hr for 2 movers
Average cost to rent a moving truck: $19 – $39/day
Top industries: Retail, Healthcare, Manufacturing
Move here for: The nature, summer and winter outdoor activities, and Sundance
Be sure to bring: Sunscreen, moisturizer, and all the outdoors gear you own – from skis to swimsuits to sleeping bags
Salt Lake City experiences all four seasons in full force, which means residents enjoy snowy winters, blooming springs, hot summers, and colorful autumns. However, the dry air in winter can be challenging for newcomers, especially if you’re used to more humid climates. The city averages about 56 inches of snow per year, so investing in a good snow shovel or snow blower is a smart move. The ski resorts nearby, like Alta and Snowbird, are world-class, which makes the winter weather more of an adventure than a chore.
Moving Tip: Try to time your move to the summer or fall months unless you want to be moving in the snow. In the winter, be prepared to navigate icy roads and make sure your car is suited for the winter snow with four wheel drive or snow chains.
If you love the great outdoors, Salt Lake City is practically paradise. With easy access to the Wasatch Mountains and a plethora of hiking, biking, and skiing opportunities, there’s always something to do outside. Whether you’re scaling the peaks of Mount Olympus or taking a scenic drive through Big Cottonwood Canyon, nature is right at your doorstep. The Great Salt Lake, while less of a swimming spot and more of a scenic wonder, adds to the natural beauty of the area. Just be aware that you might find yourself spending a lot of your free time outdoors, no matter the season.
Salt Lake City’s culinary landscape has expanded significantly in recent years. You’ll find everything from authentic Mexican street food at Red Iguana to farm-to-table dining at Pago. Coffee lovers can rejoice too—local spots like Publik Coffee Roasters offer some of the best brews in town. The city’s diverse population has brought an array of international cuisines, making it easy to satisfy any craving.
Moving Tip: Don’t expect the late-night dining options you’d find in larger cities; most places close early, so plan accordingly.
One unique challenge to living in Salt Lake City is the winter inversion, where cold air gets trapped in the valley, causing pollution levels to rise. This can lead to poor air quality for days or even weeks at a time, which might be a concern if you have respiratory issues. The inversion is most common in January and February, and locals often try to escape it by heading up to the mountains where the air is clearer.
Moving Tip: Investing in an air purifier for your home can help mitigate the effects when the inversion settles in.
Salt Lake City has become a hub for tech companies, earning it the nickname “Silicon Slopes.” Companies like Adobe, Qualtrics, and Domo have set up shop in the area, contributing to a strong job market. The unemployment rate is consistently lower than the national average, and the city’s economy is diversified across industries such as healthcare, finance, and education. If you’re in the tech industry, you’ll find ample opportunities here.
Moving Tip: The cost of living has been rising alongside the job market’s growth and is currently 9% above the national average.
The housing market in Salt Lake City is competitive, with homes and apartments often selling or renting out quickly. Neighborhoods like Sugar House and The Avenues are particularly sought after, thanks to their historic charm and proximity to downtown. The cost of living, especially housing, has been on the rise, making it essential to act fast if you find a place you love. Renting might be a more feasible option for newcomers as they get to know the city, but be prepared for rent prices that can rival those of larger metros.
While Salt Lake City’s public transit system, including the TRAX light rail and bus services, is continually improving, the city is still largely car-dependent. Most residents rely on their cars for daily commutes, and parking can be a hassle in more densely populated areas like downtown. If you’re moving from a city with a robust public transit system, adjusting to a more car-centric lifestyle might take some time.
Moving Tip: The good news is that Salt Lake City is easy to navigate, with a grid system that makes getting around fairly straightforward.
Let's face it: the best part of living in Salt Lake City is the access to Nature with a capital N. Residents are within a day’s drive of some of the most stunning national parks in the country. Zion, Bryce Canyon, and Arches National Parks are all just a few hours away, making weekend road trips an easy escape. These parks offer a variety of outdoor activities, from hiking and camping to photography and stargazing.
Moving Tip: Be sure to plan ahead! The National Parks Service has instituted timed entry reservations for many parks, Utah's included. Even those with American the Beautiful and annual passes are required to make reservations in advance if visiting between April 1 and October 31.
Salt Lake City might not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of arts and culture, but the city is steadily gaining a reputation for both. The Utah Museum of Fine Arts, Ballet West, and the Eccles Theater offer a range of performances and exhibits year-round. The city also hosts the Sundance Film Festival every January, attracting filmmakers and movie lovers from around the world. The local music scene is vibrant too, with venues like The Depot and Urban Lounge showcasing everything from indie bands to big-name acts.
Salt Lake City sits at an elevation of about 4,300 feet, which can take some adjustment if you’re moving from a lower altitude. The thinner air means you might find yourself getting winded more easily at first, and it’s important to stay hydrated, especially during the hot summer months. Over time, your body will acclimate, but it’s something to be aware of when you first move.
Moving Tip: The high altitude also means stronger UV rays, so even in winter – sunscreen is a must.
Salt Lake City offers a blend of modern amenities and historic charm, with neighborhoods like The Avenues, known for its Victorian homes, and Sugar House, which has seen a recent influx of new development. Downtown has a mix of high-rise apartments and historic buildings, giving the city a unique character. The city’s growth has led to some areas being redeveloped, but there’s still a strong preservation effort for historic sites.
Salt Lake City has seen significant growth over the past decade, with more people moving in and new developments springing up across the city. This growth has brought both opportunities and challenges, such as rising housing costs and increased traffic. However, it also means more amenities, job opportunities, and cultural offerings. The city is in a state of flux, and residents are actively shaping its future. If you’re looking for a city that’s evolving and full of potential, Salt Lake City might be just the place for you.
Methodology: Average rent prices sourced from Rent.com August 2024. Home prices sourced from Redfin August 2024. Average moving costs sourced from MoveBuddha. Employment data sourced from Statistical Atlas.
Rebecca Green is the Manager of Content and Product for Rent. Originally from Atlanta, she is passionate about interior design and affordable housing. When she's not writing for Redfin and Rent. you can find her exploring Portland and the Oregon Coast with her dog.