10 Most Affordable Places to Live in Utah

Utah is known for its scenic beauty including towering mountains, the Great Salt Lake, and numerous ski resorts. With five national parks within its borders and a storied Winter Olympics legacy, Utah attracts both nature lovers and sports enthusiasts alike.

One might assume that living in an outdoor adventure paradise like Utah would be unaffordable but, in fact, the Beehive State is actually cheaper than many states in the U.S. It boasts low energy prices, property taxes, and utility costs, and there are many inexpensive places to live. Check out our list below of the 10 Most Affordable Places to Live in Utah.

10. Payson

Located in the Provo-Orem Metropolitan Area, Payson is home to several entertainment centers, a community theater, and a distinguished museum. It also hosts numerous festivals throughout the year and offers many hiking and biking opportunities. Surrounded by glorious mountains and lakes, it is also a very affordable place to live.

9. Magna

A charming town just 15 miles west of Salt Lake City, Magna is best known for its famous Empress Theater which is on the National Register of Historic Places. Magna also has a Mining Museum and for those who prefer outdoor activities, it also has a spectacular park system and numerous golf courses. Due to an attractive home price-to-income ratio, Magna is an affordable place to call home.

8. Tooele

Located 30 minutes southwest of Salt Lake City and bordered by the nearby Oquirrh Mountains, Tooele features historical libraries, a mountain mining museum, and its well-known Army Depot. It is also home to an annual arts festival and an impressive county fair. Housing is especially affordable in Tooele, along with low property taxes.

7. South Ogden

For those who prefer small-town life but like being close to a larger urban area, South Ogden might be perfect for your clients. Just south of nearby Ogden, South Ogden has bountiful parks, a thriving restaurant scene, and several local entertainment centers. Boasting a high median income average and an attractive home price-to-income ratio, South Ogden is a delightful and affordable place to live.

6. Clearfield

Fortune Magazine recently ranked Clearfield as one of 2022’s 25 Best Places to Live for Families, coming in at No. 6 on their list. The magazine analyzed more than 215,000 data points across 2,000 U.S. cities and towns to determine their selection. With mountains to the east and the Great Salt Lake to the west, there is an adventure in every direction in Clearfield.

5. Roy

Considered a suburb of nearby Ogden, Roy is home to a first-class Recreation Complex and Aquatic Center for the locals to enjoy. It also features an impressive park system and numerous golf courses, and every year, millions of migratory birds pass through Roy, making it a bird lover’s paradise. It also features an attractive and affordable lifestyle.

4. Cedar City

Located in southwestern Utah, Cedar Cityis the largest city in Iron County. It is known for its picturesque hiking trails and unique sights like the landlocked Cedar City Lighthouse. It also hosts an annual Shakespeare Festival and is home to multiple performing arts venues. With a very attractive home price-to-income ratio, Cedar City is a desirable, affordable destination.

3. Logan

Home to Utah State University, Logan offers plenty of amenities, culture, and charm. The city’s Historic District includes many notable homes and its Canyon Scenic Byway features spectacular fall colors. Logan also has a cost of living that is 8% lower than the national average and housing that is 17% lower than the national average, making it an affordable place to settle.

2. Brigham City

Situated along the Wellsville Mountains, Brigham City is home to Rees Pioneer Park, which features swimming pools and athletic courts available to all. Other attractions include a Wildlife Education Center, a Museum of Art & History, and outstanding hiking trails at Box Elder Canyon. With low property taxes and a desirable home price-to-income ratio, Brigham City is an attractive and affordable Utah location.

1. Ogden

Topping our list of affordable places is Ogden. Situated near magnificent mountains, Ogden provides convenient access to well-known ski resorts like Snowbasin Resort and Nordic Valley. There’s also plenty to do and explore within the city limits. Ogden’s Dinosaur Park is a family favorite, featuring a museum and over 100 replicas of prehistoric creatures. With one of the best home price-to-income ratios in the state, as well as lower-than-average property taxes, Ogden should be on your borrower’s list for an affordable place to live in Utah.

As a mortgage broker, your clients rely on your expertise to find them the best deals in these top 10 affordable cities. Our Quick Pricer tool can be an invaluable asset in your quest to secure the most advantageous mortgage rates. Be sure to explore our Programs section for additional resources tailored to your needs. If you have specific scenarios in mind, don’t hesitate to request them; we’re here to assist you. And if you’re interested in joining forces to provide even more value to your clients, consider becoming a partner with us. Together, we can empower individuals and families to achieve their dreams of homeownership in these thriving and budget-friendly cities.