10 Best Neighborhoods in Salt Lake City, Utah
Utah is one of the fastest-growing states in the U.S., consistently ranking among the best overall. What makes Utah so popular? One major reason is its capital, Salt Lake City.
Salt Lake City (SLC) is a large metropolitan area covering 110.4 square miles and comprising 22 neighborhoods. The city is renowned for its active lifestyle, offering top activities like biking, hiking, mountain climbing, and skiing. It’s also famous for the history of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (LDS) and stunning architecture. With a robust job market and many opportunities, it’s no surprise that Salt Lake City has experienced a rapid increase in residents.
Living in Salt Lake City: A Quick Overview
Thinking about making Salt Lake City your new home? You're not alone! With the city’s breathtaking mountain views, vibrant culture, and endless outdoor activities, it's no wonder people are flocking to this dynamic city. Whether you're a young professional, a growing family, or someone looking for a fresh start, Salt Lake City has a neighborhood that's just right for you.
Cost of Living: Living in Salt Lake City is affordable compared to many other cities, as Utah is one of the most affordable states in the U.S. Here are some key facts:
- Average Salary: $65,880
- Median House Cost: $625,000
- Median Household Income: $75,529
- Average Rent: $1,604
- Median Monthly Mortgage Payment: $1,682
Traffic: Unlike the congested highways of other comparable cities in the West, traffic in Salt Lake City is relatively manageable. It is a rare place where traffic congestion is decreasing despite a booming population. Additionally, the city has implemented significant improvements in traffic management and offers various public transportation options, including light rail, buses, and commuter trains connecting the airport to the ski resorts.
Culture: Salt Lake City has a diverse mix of outdoor enthusiasts, cultural attractions, and a strong sense of community. It’s also home to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church), which has greatly influenced the city's culture and history.
Weather: Salt Lake City experiences all four seasons, with hot and dry summers, cold and snowy winters, and light seasonal rainfall. The city is known for its light, powdery snow, a result of the dry air. Spring and fall are both delightful, with blooming flowers and colorful foliage.
Top 10 Salt Lake City Neighborhoods
Yalecrest
Yalecrest is a wealthy neighborhood located on the East Bench of Salt Lake City, known for its historical and beautiful homes. With about 4,200 residents, the neighborhood offers busy brunch spots, fine dining, and American West-inspired art galleries. It also has three LDS churches plus museums, zoos, parks, bars, and cinemas. It’s popular with professionals, families, and students because it’s close to Downtown, the University of Utah, and commercial areas.
Average Rent: $2,004
Median home sale price: $1.7 Million
Greater Avenues
Located Northeast of Downtown, The Avenues is a neighborhood with smaller blocks and a unique layout outside the regular grid system. The Historical District between 6th Avenue and South Temple Street is nearly entirely residential, featuring many Victorian-era homes. The Avenues are known for restaurants and shops within the community offering beautiful valley views.
Average Rent: $1,273
Median Home Sale Price: $865K
Liberty Wells
Liberty Wells provides an urban-suburban mix feel, with many residents renting their homes. The neighborhood features numerous bars, restaurants, coffee shops, and parks. It's also a popular area for young professionals.
If you love walking, this neighborhood is perfect for you as it's very walkable. Coffee shops, stores, and especially downtown Salt Lake City are all within easy walking distance. Also known as a biker's paradise, you can easily bike to school or around the area, enjoying the neighborhood's charm and convenience.
Average Rent: $1,661
Median Home Sale Price: $555K
Wasatch Hollow
Wasatch Hollow might be slightly more expensive, but it’s worth it for its fairytale forest-like feel, with more than ten preserved parks. Ideal for nature lovers, it offers shaded walking paths and the chance to observe local wildlife like birds, squirrels, and even deer. It’s a safe and perfect neighborhood for outdoor activities.
Average Rent: $2,202
Median Home Sale Price: $938K
Central City
Central City is a popular neighborhood for home buyers. Although the average home price can trend high, it’s still famous to home buyers as it is known as Salt Lake City's first hipster hangout due to its eclectic scene with bustling shops, vibrant cuisine, and parks. This area features the Tower Theater, which hosts the Sundance Film Festival, and the historic hub of Trolley Square.
Average Rent: $1,771
Median Home Sale Price: $420K
Sugar House
Sugar House, an older neighborhood in southeastern Salt Lake City, is known for its small shops and the UTA S-Line Streetcar. It's undergoing redevelopment with many new apartment units ready for families and young professionals to call home. Ideal for University of Utah students, it offers a lively atmosphere with a mix of young professionals, students, and long-time residents. The area features vibrant local businesses, trendy eateries, and beautiful parks like Sugar House Park. However, housing prices here are on the rise.
Average Rent: $1,761
Median Home Sale Price: $704K
The Avenues/Capitol Hill
Capitol Hill is a friendly neighborhood with great views of the Utah State Capitol and other landmarks. The area has few transit options, so owning a car is beneficial. If you're looking for a fun, activity-filled neighborhood that fits your budget, “The Avenues” Capitol Hill area is a great choice.
Average Rent: $1,335
Median Home Sale Price: $548K
Fairpark
Fairpark is a diverse, friendly neighborhood known for its easy freeway access and walkability. It's ideal for nature lovers, offering numerous outdoor playgrounds and parks. In addition, the neighborhood hosts an annual International Market, which celebrates the rich diversity of Salt Lake City's growing population. This market is a year-round destination on Salt Lake's west side, featuring a pop-up food market that showcases a variety of international cuisines and unique cultural experiences.
Average Rent: $1,414
Median Home Sale Price: $450K
Downtown
Downtown Salt Lake City provides a full city experience with restaurants, bars, and recreational spots. It has beautiful mountains and sunset views and offers easy access to public transit. Although housing can be competitive, rent and home sale prices are relatively affordable compared to other SLC areas.
Average Rent: $1,364
Median Home Sale Price: $485K
Foothill/Sunnyside
Foothill/Sunnyside is one of SLC’s most densely populated neighborhoods, primarily housing University of Utah students and young professionals. The lively atmosphere and school spirit make the University of Utah a key part of the Foothill/Sunnyside neighborhood's character and charm. The area also features attractions like Utah’s Hogle Zoo.
Average Rent: $1,713
Median Home Sale Price: $407K
Bonneville Hills
Bonneville Hills is an affluent neighborhood known for its large single-family homes and friendly atmosphere. While housing prices are higher compared to other parts of the city, the area offers scenic trails perfect for hiking. With spacious properties and beautiful surroundings, Bonneville Hills is ideal for those who enjoy a blend of luxury and nature.
Average Rent: $1,851
Median Home Sale Price: $820K
Moving to Salt Lake City with U-Box by U-Haul
Moving to Salt Lake City is exciting as you explore your new environment and culture. With U-Box by U-Haul you get a cost-effective and flexible portable storage service that will make your moving experience smooth. You can store U-Box containers at your place or ours, and we'll ship them once you're ready.
If you need assistance with loading and unloading, an experienced team through MovingHelp.com can help, so you can focus on exploring your new neighborhood. Whether you are planning to drive to Salt Lake City yourself or are looking to ship your belongings, U-Box ensures a hassle-free and secure transition to your new home.