10 Best Neighborhoods in Salt Lake City, Utah
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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:
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Traffic
Unlike the congested highways of other comparable cities in the West, traffic in Salt Lake City is relatively manageable. 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 major 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 nearly 4,500 residents, the neighborhood offers busy brunch spots, fine dining, and American West-inspired art galleries. It also has three LDS 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.
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Greater Avenues
Located Northeast of downtown, The Avenues is a neighborhood with smaller blocks and a unique layout outside the regular grid system. The Historic 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.
The Greater Avenues is best for families looking to upgrade to a larger home and still wanting to be surrounded by mountains and trails on all sides.
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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.
Liberty Park is a wide-open park area surrounding a small pond and even has a local bird sanctuary, the Tracy Aviary. The aviary is a great place for families and couples looking for a relaxing but fun day out.
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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 neighborhood perfect for outdoor activities.
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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 — 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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Downtown
Downtown Salt Lake City offers a complete urban experience, featuring restaurants, bars, and recreational spots. The neighborhood boasts beautiful mountains and stunning sunset views, and it offers easy access to public transportation. Although housing can be competitive, rent and home sale prices are relatively affordable compared to other SLC areas.
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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.
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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.
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Moving to Salt Lake City with U-Haul
Moving to Salt Lake City is exciting as you explore your new environment and culture. With U-Haul moving trucks and U-Box by U-Haul, you get a cost-effective and flexible moving truck or portable storage container service that will make your moving experience smooth.
You can pick up a rental truck at one of the more than 25,000 U-Haul centers and neighborhood dealers. You can store U-Box containers at your place or at your local U-Haul center, 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-Haul ensures a hassle-free and secure transition to your new home.