With ample natural beauty and historic attractions, Utah is often seen as an outdoor enthusiast’s dream location.
Zion National Park, for instance, offers some of the most amazing scenery in the entire US.
As a result, housing and rental prices in the Beehive State are often high.
Utah is only behind California and Hawaii in terms of overall cost to live.
Just the same, there are several cities and towns throughout the state which offer affordable living costs.
Let’s explore some of the best and cheapest places to live in Utah.
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10 Cheapest Places to Live in Utah
1. Vernal
Located in northeastern Utah, just 20 miles from Colorado, lies the picturesque mountainside town of Vernal.
Long considered one of the most affordable places to live in Utah, the town’s population has increased by 5% since 2022.
The cost of living in Vernal is approximately 12% lower than the nation’s average.
When you break down the numbers even further, it’s obvious why many consider it the cheapest place to live in Utah.
The average home costs $226,100, over 33% cheaper than the national average and over 55% lower than the state’s average.
Two-bedroom rental is $840, more than 41% lower than the national and 52.4% cheaper than the state average.
Vernal has a thriving economy that relies on two things; tourism and extracting natural resources such as phosphate and natural gas.
Halliburton and Schlumberger both have offices in Vernal.
Thousands of tourists flock to the area each year, ready to enjoy the town’s local attractions.
Vernal is known for its Old West roots and is a large site for dinosaur fossils.
2. Provo
Provo is one of the fastest-growing cities in the United States.
Checkr recently named it “America’s biggest boomtown” based on its analysis of key annual data, including GDP growth, labor force growth, and number of businesses added.
If you’re looking for an affordable, family-friendly city to settle down in, Provo should be at the top of your list.
With a population of almost 115,000, this charming city has much to offer.
In addition to its award-winning school system, the town is home to Brigham Young University, the Museum of Natural Curiosities, and a large indoor rec center.
3. Spanish Fork
If you prefer a smaller suburban community, Spanish Fork is a lovely town just outside of Provo.
Situated between Utah Lake and the Wasatch Mountains, Spanish Fork is both beautiful and affordable.
The median price for rentals in Spanish Fork is almost $1,200, while the price-to-income ratio on homes is 5.89.
The town is home to nine large companies that employ over 1,000 residents from Spanish Fork and the surrounding area.
4. Ogden
Known for its affordable housing costs, Ogden is a popular destination for folks relocating to Utah.
Less than an hour from Salt Lake City, Ogden provides that small-town feel, without sacrificing the amenities that a big town offers.
Established in 1846, the town offers the perfect combination of history and outdoor activities.
It is home to the infamous George S. Eccles Dinosaur Park, which features a paleontology lab and life-size replicas of dinosaurs.
Ogden’s Historic District showcases the town’s history, including several Prohibition-era speakeasies, cowboys, and the railroad.
Ogden is a popular destination for both migrants and tourists who enjoy outdoor activities.
It is the gateway to several world-renowned ski resorts, including Nordic Valley, Snowbasin, and Powder Mountain.
The mountains provide the perfect backdrop wherever you go in the city.
With a population of almost 87,000, Ogden is twice the size of Spanish Fork.
The area’s median rental price is $930 and the property tax average is $2,170. Ogden’s average household income.
5. South Ogden
Just south of Ogden is the town of South Ogden.
With a low price-to-income ratio on homes of 5.42 and a cost of living that matches the national average, South Ogden has seen an influx of migrants over the past five years.
If the cost of living doesn’t draw you to South Ogden, the weather might.
Unlike much of the country, South Ogden has four distinct seasons.
The winters are perfect for skiing at one of the nearby resorts.
Residents spend the rest of the year enjoying the area’s many attractions, including Rohmer Park, Beus Pond Park, and Ogden Botanical Gardens.
6. Logan
Located less than 50 miles from Ogden is the northern Utah town of Logan.
The Logan River meanders through the south side of the city, which provides endless hours of fishing and entertainment for both travelers and residents.
Logan’s ideal location in the Cache Valley near the western side of the Bear River Mountains ensures the quintessential backdrop and hours of outdoor entertainment.
If you’re in the market for an apartment, you will be competing with students attending the local Utah State University.
The average rent ranges from $960 to $1,274.
With an average price-to-income ratio on homes of 4.75, purchasing a home may be the more affordable option.
7. Cedar City
Situated in southwestern Utah, Cedar City is the largest city in Iron County and offers a cost-effective alternative to many Utah cities.
With housing prices remaining relatively affordable, it appeals to both students and families.
The price-to-income ratio on homes of 4.47 reflects this affordability, complemented by a property tax average of $1,231 and a median income of $48,346.
In addition to its economic advantages, Cedar City boasts a range of recreational and cultural attractions.
Residents and visitors can explore picturesque hiking trails, delve into history at the Frontier Homestead State Park Museum, and marvel at the Cedar City Lighthouse – an intriguing landmark standing nearly 500 miles from the nearest ocean.
For enthusiasts of the performing arts, Cedar City offers a vibrant scene, highlighted by the annual Utah Shakespeare Festival and numerous arts venues.
Whether seeking outdoor adventures or cultural experiences, Cedar City presents a compelling destination within Utah’s diverse landscape.
8. Brigham City
Nestled in northern Utah, Brigham City offers a more economical lifestyle than its larger counterparts along the Wasatch Front.
With reasonable housing prices and a balanced blend of affordability and conveniences, it provides an attractive living environment.
Reflecting its affordability, Brigham City boasts a price-to-income ratio on homes of 3.39, complemented by a property tax average of $1,198 and a median household income of $53,504.
Perched along the scenic Wellsville Mountains, Brigham City provides a variety of recreational offerings, including hiking trails, Rees Pioneer Park, a Wildlife Education Center, and a Museum of Art & History.
9. Kaysville
Located in the suburbs of Salt Lake City, Kaysville is renowned for its cherry orchards, abundant parks, and expansive open spaces.
Residents value the area’s exceptional school system, making it an excellent place for families relocating to Utah.
Additionally, Kaysville earned recognition as one of the safest cities in Utah in 2023.
With a population of 32,761, Kaysville boasts an average household income of $110,700, a median rent price of $1,145, and a property tax average of $2,308.
Although home prices in Kaysville surpass the national average, the area’s high average income results in a low price-to-income ratio for homes.
Recent trends indicate a decrease in housing prices compared to the previous year, enhancing affordability for prospective residents.
10. Tooele
Situated approximately 34 miles southwest of Salt Lake City, Tooele is one of the more affordable options along the Wasatch Front.
As a growing community, it offers a range of affordable housing options and maintains a reasonable cost of living.
With a price-to-income ratio on homes of 3.06 and an average household income of $63,851, Tooele provides a favorable financial landscape for both current and future residents.
In addition to its economic advantages, Tooele boasts a variety of attractions and amenities.
Downtown Tooele invites exploration with its libraries, museum dedicated to mountain mining, and historical points of interest.
The nearby Oquirrh Mountains provide endless hours of outdoor recreation.
Other notable attractions include the Tooele Pioneer Museum, Deseret Peak Complex, and the iconic Bonneville Salt Flats.
Utah Safety Overview
READ THE FULL REPORT: Utah Safety Review
Safety Index:
- OVERALL RISK: LOW
- TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW
- PICKPOCKETS RISK: LOW
- NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM
- MUGGING RISK: LOW
- TERRORISM RISK: LOW
- SCAMS RISK: MEDIUM
- WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Utah an affordable state to live in?
Utah ranks average when it comes to the cost of living.
While rent and housing costs match or are lower than the national average, food and transportation costs are more expensive.
Depending upon location, you will need between $43,000 and $65,000 annually to live comfortably in Utah.
The state’s average annual salary is $57,462.
Are Utah home prices dropping?
In early 2024, Utah home prices were up 2.8% compared to 2023.
The current average price of a home in Utah is $509,433.
Are homes in Utah overpriced?
Like much of the country, Utah is experiencing a housing shortage.
According to a 2023 Business Insider report, Utah homes are overpriced by approximately 26.31%.
While these values will correct themselves over time, the ongoing shortage is expected to impact prices for several years to come.
