No matter if you are going to move to Salt Lake City or consider relocating to Utah in general, you need to know some important details of the state of Utah as well as the best ways of arranging your relocation. Of course, you may have some experience and think you know everything about organizing a move. However, your relocation experience will most probably vary from state to state. Different living conditions, economic situation, rental fees, and the cost of life — all these should be taken into account at the stage when planning (considering) the move.

At Laaks Movers, we want your relocation experience to be as smooth and effective as possible. That’s why we have gathered all the most important details about relocating to Utah and put them together into this post. So keep reading to know what the state of Utah is famous for, what pros and cons of living there are, and what town in Utah it is best to relocate to.

Things to Know Before Moving to Utah

Utah is one of the largest states in North America and has a lot to offer for those seeking a better life. This constantly developing modern state provides amazing opportunities to its population. It is no wonder that many people from around the USA are heading to Utah, and the state’s population has been extremely increased in the last few years.

Here is a moving packing checklist of the things to know before moving to Utah:

  • It is the thirteenth-largest state by size and thirty-first most populous state in the USA;
  • The state population is above 3.15 million;
  • The state of Utah is a transport center. Information technology and scientific research, the mining industry, and government services are developed here;
  • Utah was the fastest-growing US state based on its population increase as of 2008, according to the United States Census Bureau;
  • The average income per family (household) in the period 2013-2017 was $65,325 (for your reference, in neighboring Arizona, it is at the level of $53,510, and in Connecticut, the average household income per family is $73,781);
  • The minimum wage in Utah is $7.25 per hour. The state itself does not set such a minimum, so the federal minimum wage is applied;
  • The median home value in Utah ($341,800) is above the national average of $227,700;
  • Utah ranks #27 in the country for its cost of living, with its cost of the living index being 98.4 out of 100.

As you can see, Utah is rather an expensive state to live in; however, it provides ample employment opportunities and top-notch living conditions to its population. So it is worth considering relocating to Utah.

relocating to Utah what to know

Relocating to Utah Pros and Cons

You never know what you get when relocating to Utah unless you try it yourself. However, as many people state and as recent data shows, there are a couple of good and bad things about moving to the state. So here are the moving to Utah pros and cons.

Pros of moving to Utah:

  • Lots of good employment options — Utah boasts of a booming economy and is ranked #2 in its economic health and employment levels;
  • Amazing nature — Utah has a lot to offer for those seeking wildlife and adventure. There are five stately national parks (Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, Arches, Bryce Canyon, and Zion). The Landscaped Arch, which is 291 feet from end to end and rises about 100 feet above the ground, is considered to be a natural wonder;
  • Low crime — It is one of the safest states in the USA. This refers to crime and emergency levels as well safety at the workplace;
  • Ample educational opportunities — there are lots of reputable colleges and universities in the state, so you will have what to choose from;
  • The best state for young people — Utah is one of the youngest states, with the median age of its population being 31 years.

Cons of moving to Utah:

  • High cost of living — Utah is rated #9 as one of the most expensive states;
  • Extreme weather — although nature is just amazing in Utah, you should be ready for icy winters and intensively hot summers there;
  • Some weird state laws — some state laws are just crazy.

All in all, the state of Utah is a good place to live in if you are looking for high living standards and are ready to pay for them. There is more you get than have to refuse from. 

Best Cities in Southern Utah and Western Utah

Are you ready to move to Utah? Here are some of the best cities in southern Utah and western Utah that you can consider for relocation.

#1 — Salt Lake City

The city is located in the northern part of Utah; it is the largest city in the state and its capital. This city is not only the leading economic and cultural center of the region but also the world capital of the Mormons. Salt Lake City is a wealthy city with great shopping malls, outdoor cafés, sky-high business centers, and old universities. Over the past decade, it began to attract people far from Mormonism, so its population began to grow rapidly.  

relocating to Utah Salt Lake

#2 — West Valley City

The western suburb of the capital of the American state of Utah, West Valley City, is the second-most populous city in the state. You will hardly have any problems with finding a job in the city as a lot of big companies and corporations are based there. However, be ready to pay quite a lot for renting a house in the area.

#3 — West Jordan

West Jordan is one of the most popular cities for relocation in the state of Utah. A booming economy, stellar educational opportunities, and safe living conditions — all these make people from around the country lead to West Jordan.

Top 10 Tips to Arrange a Move to Utah

Regardless of the town you choose for relocation, it is important to have a clear plan of action and contact a professional moving company to assist you with the move. The below tips will guide you in the process:

  1. Schedule the day of a move in advance;
  2. Pay all bills in advance and terminate all contracts;
  3. Buy several types of packaging materials;
  4. Get rid of unnecessary and old items that are broken or no longer in use;
  5. Pack items smartly without mixing clothes with kitchen utilities, etc.;
  6. Be sure to label all boxes. Sign not only what items are inside the box but also to which room the box should be taken to when unloading;
  7. Disassemble all furniture to the risk of damage;
  8. Use vacuum bags for clothes; they will help to save space;
  9. Put the most fragile items in a hard suitcase, additionally packing each of them with bubble wrap;
  10. Prepare a bag of the most necessary things (soap, hairbrush, slippers, clothes) that you will use before the boxes are unpacked. 

If it is your first move, and you have no clue of how to arrange it in the best way, then hire a professional moving company to safeguard yourself from the hassle.