Utah is known for its stunning natural landscapes and vibrant communities. It is often a top choice for people seeking a new place to live. But before packing your bags, understanding the cost of living in Utah is crucial for planning your budget effectively. From housing and groceries to transportation and taxes, this blog covers all aspects of living expenses in the Beehive State. Let’s explore the cost of living in Utah, so you can make an informed decision.
Table of contents
- Overview of the Cost of Living in Utah
- Cost of Accommodation in Utah
- Cost of Studying in Utah
- Cost of Utilities in Utah
- Cost of Grocery in Utah
- Cost of Transportation in Utah
- Miscellaneous Costs in Utah
- Cities with the Lowest Cost of Living in Utah
- Tips for Managing the Cost of Living in Utah
- FAQs on Cost of Living in Utah 2025
Overview of the Cost of Living in Utah
On average, the annual cost of living in Utah is USD 42,653, which is equal to approximately USD 3,554 per month. Compared to other U.S. states, Utah ranks 30th in cost of living, making it relatively affordable but not the cheapest. Here is a breakdown of expenses by category.
| Category | Average Annual Cost | Average Monthly Cost |
| Housing and Utilities | USD 7,278 | USD 606 |
| Health Care | USD 5,735 | USD 478 |
| Food and Beverages (non-restaurant) | USD 3,112 | USD 259 |
| Gas and Energy Goods | USD 1,162 | USD 97 |
| Other Personal Expenditures | USD 25,367 | USD 2,114 |
Cost of Accommodation in Utah
Housing is one of the most significant expenses when it comes to the cost of living in Utah. Whether you choose to rent or buy, the cost varies depending on the city and the type of accommodation. Below is an overview of housing costs in Utah. You can also look at the types of student accommodation in the USA, which will help you to manage your accommodation according to your budget.
| Types of Accommodation | Monthly Cost |
| Median Mortgage Payment | USD 1,682 |
| Median Studio Rent | USD 946 |
| Median 1-Bedroom Rent | USD 976 |
| Median 2-Bedroom Rent | USD 1,167 |
| Median 3-Bedroom Rent | USD 1,380 |
| Median 4-Bedroom Rent | USD 1,697 |
| Median 5-bedroom (or more) Rent | USD 1,840 |
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Cost of Accommodation by City
Every city in Utah has a different cost of accommodation. The city you choose will have a significant impact on your housing expenses. Understanding the cost of accommodation by city will help you to adjust your budget accordingly. Here are the typical home prices across major Utah cities.
| City | Typical Home Price |
| Salt Lake City | USD 523,590 |
| Ogden | USD 467,276 |
| Provo | USD 519,413 |
| St. George | USD 506,107 |
| Logan | USD 423,557 |
| Heber | USD 807,444 |
| Cedar City | USD 397,241 |
| Vernal | USD 273,115 |
| Price | USD 235,522 |
Cost of Studying in Utah
The cost of studying in Utah makes it an attractive option for students. Public universities like the University of Utah and Utah State University offer competitive tuition rates, especially for in-state students. Private institutions are pricier but often provide more personalised programs and facilities. Students can further lower costs through scholarships and part-time jobs. Below is a breakdown of the estimated expenses for studying in Utah.
| Expense | Cost for Public Institutions | Cost for Private Institutions |
| Tuition Fees (Annual) | USD 6,000 – 18,000 | USD 25,000 – 50,000 |
| Books & Supplies (Annual) | USD 1,200 – 1,800 | USD 1,200 – 1,800 |
Cost of Utilities in Utah
Utility expenses contribute significantly to the overall cost of living in Utah, covering essentials like electricity, water, gas, and internet. Compared to national averages, Utah’s utility costs are relatively affordable, offering some relief for residents. Below is a detailed breakdown of average monthly utility expenses to help you budget effectively.
| Utility Type | Average Monthly Cost |
| Electricity | USD 81 |
| Gas | USD 52 |
| Cable & Internet | USD 97 |
| Water | USD 41 |
| Total Utilities | USD 271 |
Cost of Grocery in Utah
Food is a necessary expense when considering the cost of living in Utah. Understanding grocery and food costs can help you manage your budget in a better way. Here’s what you can expect to spend on average on groceries and food items.
| Grocery Item | Approximate Cost |
| Milk (1 liter) | USD 0.95 |
| Eggs (12) | USD 3.88 |
| Apples (1 kg) | USD 4.20 |
| Bananas (1 kg) | USD 2.00 |
| Oranges (1 kg) | USD 3.50 |
| Tomatoes (1 kg) | USD 3.30 |
| Potatoes (1 kg) | USD 2.00 |
| Onions (1 kg) | USD 2.50 |
| Lettuce (1 head) | USD 1.90 |
| Rice (1 kg) | USD 3.30 |
| Bread (500g loaf) | USD 3.50 |
| Water (1.5-liter bottle) | USD 2.50 |
Cost of Transportation in Utah
Transportation costs depend on your lifestyle and commute. Public transportation and personal vehicles are common choices in Utah. While considering the cost of living in Utah, don’t forget to calculate the transportation costs. Below are the average transportation costs.
| Mode of Transport | Cost |
| One-Way Public Transit Ticket | USD 2.50 |
| Monthly Transit Pass | USD 85.00 |
| Taxi Start (Normal Tariff) | USD 5.00 |
| Taxi Fare per Kilometer | USD 2.50 |
| Taxi 1-Hour Waiting (Normal Tariff) | USD 49.00 |
| Gasoline (per litre) | USD 1.04 |
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Miscellaneous Costs in Utah
After covering essential expenses, you may want to budget for entertainment and leisure. Here are some common activity costs that you need to understand to manage your stay here. You can explore beautiful parks in the USA for your recreational activities or check out the restaurants and other stuff.
Below is the cost of miscellaneous things that you might to keep in consideration while calculating the cost of living in Utah. So, without any further ado, let’s have a look at them:
| Activity | Cost |
| Natural History Museum Admission | USD 0 to USD 19.95 |
| Hogle Zoo Admission | USD 0 to USD 23.95 |
| Zion National Park Entry Fee | USD 35 per vehicle |
Cities with the Lowest Cost of Living in Utah
The cost of Living in Utah varies according to the different cities. If you’re looking for affordability, consider these cities with the lowest cost of living in Utah. Refer to the table below to get a clear picture of the city-wise expenses in Utah.
| City | Cost of Living Index |
| Cedar City | 98.1 |
| Ogden | 100.4 |
| Provo | 104.4 |
Tips for Managing the Cost of Living in Utah
Managing your budget while living abroad will help you in various ways. Here we have mentioned some of the tips to manage the cost of living in Utah and plan your budget wisely. These tips will help you in planning for further activities in an effective way.
- Choose Affordable Housing: Consider renting in more affordable areas like Cedar City or Ogden.
- Optimise Transportation: Use public transit or carpool to save on fuel costs.
- Shop Smart: Buy groceries in bulk and take advantage of local farmer’s markets.
- Leverage Tax Benefits: Utah’s flat tax rate is advantageous; maximise deductions where possible.
The cost of living in Utah offers a mix of affordability and a high quality of life, making it an attractive place to live. By understanding the cost of living and budgeting accordingly, you can enjoy everything the state has to offer without financial stress. Whether you’re planning a move or just exploring your options, this guide provides a detailed look at the cost of living in Utah.
Hope you liked reading our blog about the Cost of Living in Utah. For a stress-free stay during your study abroad adventure, choose Fly Homes. Call 1800572118 to reserve your ideal accommodation abroad with ease.
FAQs on Cost of Living in Utah 2025
The average cost of living in Utah for a single person is around USD 1,100 per month, excluding rent. If you add housing expenses, they range from USD 2,200 to USD 3,500, depending on your lifestyle and location within the state.
The cost of Housing in Utah varies widely. A one-bedroom apartment costs about USD1,200 to USD 1,700 monthly, while a three-bedroom apartment in city centres can cost USD2,750 or more.
Utilities in Utah are affordable, with basic costs averaging USD 160 per month. This includes electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage services. Internet services cost about USD69 monthly.
Public transportation is budget-friendly. A one-way ticket costs USD 2.50, and a monthly pass is about USD 85. If you drive, gasoline costs approximately USD 1.04 per litre.
Yes, dining out in Utah is reasonably priced. A meal at an affordable restaurant costs around USD 17, while a three-course dinner for two at a mid-range restaurant is approximately USD 80.
Cedar City has the lowest cost of living in Utah, with an index of 98.1. It offers affordable housing and a small-town vibe, making it ideal for budget-conscious residents.
Utah is student-friendly, with affordable tuition fees at universities like Brigham Young University (USD 6,496 annually) and Utah State University (USD 24,802 annually). Living costs for students average USD 1,100 monthly without rent.
Utah ranks 30th in the U.S. for cost of living. While it’s more expensive than states like Wyoming, it’s cheaper than California and Colorado, offering a balanced lifestyle.
Recreation in Utah is affordable. A visit to Zion National Park costs USD 35 per vehicle for seven days, while tickets to the Hogle Zoo range from USD 0 to USD 23.95, depending on age and season.
Healthcare costs in Utah average USD 5,735 per year per person. Actual costs depend on your medical needs and insurance coverage.
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