Once a barely known state on the map, Utah’s steady population growth has made it a favorite tourist destination and the fastest-growing state in the country over the past decade. What’s going on to send the Beehive State’s population booming?
While the answers are too numerous to list, one that consistently appears at the top of the reasons to visit Utah is its capital, Salt Lake City. But this impressive destination is more than a place where the government does its work. From the most popular shows in Salt Lake City to the must-see natural wonders put on by Mother Nature, here are 12 things that this incredible place is known for.
1. The Price Tag is More Budget-Friendly
As more people recognize the benefits of living away from metropolitan areas and in the country, smaller towns around these big cities are growing in popularity. Salt Lake City is full of these rural offshoots, and they’re all within easy reach of the Wasatch Range and other mountains.
For outdoor adventurers on a ski trip or transplanted residents searching for mountain living, Salt Lake City is more affordable than similar cities like Denver and Aspen (in Colorado) and more accessible than ski-friendly places like Anchorage, AK.
Salt Lake City’s cost of living is about 8% higher than the national average, which is still considered budget-friendly overall, especially since the household income is higher than average. Jobs tend to pay well, helping offset the slight increase in costs, and healthcare and groceries are lower than average.
2. Quality of Life is High
Looking for a new home where your quality of life will improve? SLC is the place to go. This outdoor-focused area provides something for everyone. Whether you’re a fitness buff looking for hiking and skiing, or a job seeker desiring better opportunities, Salt Lake City is waiting.
The Wasatch Mountains offer more than fun. With so many hospitality industries opening, jobs are everywhere. The urban environment means tech, arts, and culture fields are on the rise, too. Universities and schools have high grades, the community is connected, and household costs are balanced with better air quality and less traffic.
3. Higher Education is Important
Not everyone needs a higher education degree, but if you’re searching for a city that prizes education, Salt Lake City answers your call. The University of Utah is the top public university on the western side of the United States. Westminster University is smaller but still offers niche majors. Business colleges, tech universities, and healthcare degrees, plus more, are within driving distance of Salt Lake City.
4. The Job Industry is Rising
Just as the population keeps growing and vacationers bring more capital to the hospitality industry, the job situation in SLC is on the rise. If your stage of life means a new career change, consider this city as your next home.
With a ranking of one of the best states to find good jobs, anywhere in Utah is a good choice to move to. But SLC’s under 3% unemployment rate gives you a leg up when it comes to finding work in finance, tech, outdoors, science, and other professions.
Some of the largest companies in the world employ Salt Lake City’s residents. This city is always looking for skilled workers in areas like tech, healthcare, and education.
5. SLC is Family-Friendly
You might think that with so many ski resorts and tech industries, Salt Lake City is designed for young professionals. The reality is that it’s a very family-friendly place to live and explore.
In keeping with its nature focus, there are plenty of animal-related businesses ready to teach you and your children about conservation and caring for our furry, feathered, and scaly friends. Check out Wild Utah, the African Savanna, the Tracy Aviary, and the Deep Sea Lab. For hands-on experiences, be sure to visit the I Dig Dinos or The Garden over at the Discovery Gateway Children’s Museum. Not everything is animal-centered, though. Outdoor adventures, kid-friendly style, await at places like the Utah Olympic Park.
6. Getting Around is Easy
Don’t have a car? No worries! Public transportation in SLC is affordable and accessible. Utah Transit Authority makes finding and riding a rail or bus a breeze on its Transit App. Depending where you are and where you’re going, you may take the light rail (TRAX) or commuter train (FrontRunner). Looking to go greener? There are nearly 50 GREENbike stations located throughout Salt Lake City for your convenience.
7. Culture is Everywhere
Maybe skiing isn’t your thing, but you still want to learn about the history in the area. This goal is easy to reach just by exploring your surroundings, but for in-depth information and exhibits, check out the many art and history museums in Salt Lake City.
The history of Utah is ancient, but the city itself wasn’t settled until 1847. At that time, Mormon pioneers stumbled into the land, which was already inhabited by tribes of Native Americans like the Ute (giving Utah its name), the Navajo, and other important indigenous people. The pioneers fell in love with the scenery, and chose Salt Lake City as their new home.
This history is explained and shown at Utah State Parks, This is the Place Heritage Park, Temple Square, the Salt Lake Temple, and dozens of other museums and landmarks. It’s hard to walk through SLC without running into a reminder of the culture that lies behind its current urban look.
8. Root Root Root for Your Home Team
If SLC is now your home, and you’re a sports enthusiast, you can count yourself among the many excited fans of teams like the Utah Jazz, the Real Salt Lake, the Salt Lake Bees, the Utah Grizzlies, the Utah Royals, and the Utah Warriors Rugby! Whatever your sport is, there’s a team for that here — and we’re proud of them!
9. Festivals are Fun
Salt Lake City is full of should-not-miss festivals, and if you can’t find one in the area while you’re visiting, branch out just a bit, and there will likely be one elsewhere in the state. From the Sundance Film Festival in Park City to the Utah Arts Festival outdoor market, there’s a reason to celebrate all your favorite hobbies and pastimes.
10. Join the Arts and Entertainment Scene
Are you an artist, or is it a passion of yours? Is entertainment important to your life? Salt Lake City’s arts and entertainment industry is one of the finest in the country. The city’s most prominent venues highlight ethnic and native art, exhibits in the latest in technology, and flavorful experiences like wine tasting. Entertainment options are never-ending, with major artists heading to the Utah First Credit Union Amphitheater, classical music in Abravenel Hall, and Broadway hits at the Eccles.
11. It’s a Foodie Fantasy Life
Salt Lake City’s history is diverse, and the restaurants and eateries in the area reflect this unique mix of cuisine. From German Wiener Schnitzels and Bratwurst to American classics like fried chicken, there’s a meal for every craving that hits you while you’re in this foodie paradise!
12. The Nightlife is Only Missing You
Family fun is all well and good, but what happens when you want to let go of your stresses and let down your tresses? Salt Lake City understands — and answers.
Breweries, bars, clubs, and cocktails range from fun and entertaining to elegant and restful. Grab your old go-to favorite or try something new created from one of the many trained mixologists behind the bars in some of the more upscale establishments. Whether you’re looking for a night out with your friends or a drink that matches presentation with aroma, temperature, and taste, Salt Lake City is holding a seat for you.
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