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Living in Utah: Cost of Living, Healthcare and What to Know About Living in Utah | Expat Exchange
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Living in Utah

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on Feb 21, 2023

Summary: People often describe life in Utah as peaceful, family-oriented, and full of outdoor activities. People love the natural beauty of the state, the friendly people, and the abundance of outdoor activities like skiing, hiking, and camping. The cost of living in Utah is slightly below the national average, with the median home price being around $300,000. The approximate population of Utah is 3.2 million, and the largest cities are Salt Lake City, West Valley City, Provo, West Jordan, and Orem. The cons of living in Utah include the lack of diversity, the conservative political climate, and the high cost of housing in some areas. Additionally, the state has some of the worst air quality in the country due to its location in a valley surrounded by mountains.

Is the cost of living in Utah high?

We asked people about the cost of living in Utah, they wrote:

"The cost of living in Utah is generally considered to be quite affordable. Rental prices for a nice 1 bedroom apartment in Utah can range from around $800 to $1,200 per month, while a nice 2 bedroom apartment can range from around $1,000 to $1,500 per month. Eating dinner at a moderately priced restaurant in Utah can cost around $15 to $20 per person," mentioned an expat living in Utah.

What type of recreational facilities are in Utah?

When we asked people living in Utah about recreational activities, they mentioned:

"Utah offers a wide variety of recreational facilities for its residents to enjoy. From skiing and snowboarding on the slopes of the Wasatch Mountains to boating and fishing on the Great Salt Lake, there is something for everyone. Hiking and camping are popular activities in the many state and national parks, while mountain biking and rock climbing are also popular in the area. Utah also has a number of golf courses, tennis courts, and swimming pools for those looking for more traditional recreational activities. For those looking for something a bit more unique, Utah also offers hot air balloon rides, horseback riding, and ATV tours," said an expat in Utah.

What is the weather like in Utah?

"Utah has a diverse climate, ranging from hot and dry summers to cold and snowy winters. In the summer, temperatures can reach up to the 90s, while in the winter temperatures can drop to below freezing. Spring and fall are generally mild, with temperatures ranging from the 40s to the 70s. Utah is known for its high winds, especially in the spring and fall. The state also receives a fair amount of snowfall in the winter months, making it a great destination for winter sports," commented one expat who moved to Utah.

Are there good restaurants in Utah?

"One of Utah's favorite restaurants is Red Iguana, located in Salt Lake City. Red Iguana is known for its delicious Mexican cuisine, and its menu features a variety of dishes from tacos to enchiladas. The restaurant has been featured on the Food Network and has been voted the best Mexican restaurant in Utah for several years. https://www.rediguana.com/ Another popular restaurant in Utah is Log Haven, located in the Wasatch Mountains. Log Haven is a fine dining restaurant that serves a variety of dishes from steak to seafood. The restaurant is known for its beautiful views of the mountains and its cozy atmosphere. https://www.log-haven.com/ Finally, Takashi is a sushi restaurant located in Salt Lake City. Takashi is known for its fresh sushi and its unique atmosphere. The restaurant has been featured in several publications and has been voted one of the best sushi restaurants in Utah. https://www.takashisushi.com/," mentioned one expat inUtah.

Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Utah?

"People living in Utah typically buy groceries and do other shopping at local supermarkets, convenience stores, and department stores. Additionally, many Utahns shop at farmers markets, health food stores, and specialty stores for unique items. Online shopping is also popular in Utah, with many residents taking advantage of the convenience of ordering items from the comfort of their own homes," mentioned an expat living in Utah.

What are the visa & residency requirements in Utah?

"In order to obtain a visa to enter Utah, applicants must first submit an application to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This application must include proof of identity, proof of financial support, and a valid passport. Once the application is approved, the applicant will receive a visa that will allow them to enter the United States. In order to apply for residency in Utah, applicants must first submit an application to the Utah Department of Workforce Services. This application must include proof of identity, proof of financial support, and proof of legal status in the United States. Once the application is approved, the applicant will receive a residency card that will allow them to live and work in Utah," said one expat.

Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Utah?

"Healthcare and health insurance in Utah can be expensive. The cost of health insurance premiums in Utah is higher than the national average, and the cost of healthcare services can also be high. Additionally, Utah has some of the highest out-of-pocket costs for healthcare services in the country. These costs can be difficult for many people to afford, especially those who are uninsured or underinsured," mentioned one expat inUtah.

About the Author

Joshua Wood Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.

Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.

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