Park City ski area during winter in the Wasatch Mountains near Salt Lake City, Utah.

Top Reasons to Move to Salt Lake City in 2024

Many people are considering moving to Salt Lake City this year. With a thriving jobs market and stunning natural landscapes, there's a lot to like about Utah's State Capital. No other city mixes city conveniences with outdoor adventures quite the same, with the vast Great Salt Lake on the west side and the great Wasatch Mountain Range on the eastern fringe.

This unique blend attracts individuals and families from far and wide. Still, there's so much more to this city than its compelling mix of urban amenities and outdoor activities. So, let's walk you through the top reasons to move to Salt Lake City in 2024.

Plentiful Job Opportunities

When moving, it's only natural to consider the economic opportunities available, particularly if you have a family to support. The good news is that Salt Lake City is top tier nationwide for job opportunities. This year, the city was recognized as the third-best city for finding a job.

The economy thrives across numerous sectors, including technology (the greater Salt Lake area is colloquially known as the "Silicon Slopes"), customer service industries, finance, medical sciences, manufacturing and healthcare.

Better yet, the city boasts one of the lowest employment rates anywhere in the country, currently sitting at just 2.6%, indicating the city's strong economic performance. So, if you're looking to progress your career as part of your move, this is the perfect place.

World-Class Outdoor Activities

Another reason Salt Lake City is gaining the attention of many people looking to buy a new home in 2024 is its unrivaled outdoor activities.

The most obvious draw is the world-class skiing and snowboarding in the nearby Wasatch Mountains. There's the headline attraction of Park City, which hosted the 2002 Winter Olympic Games, and numerous other resorts that are among the best in the country.

If you prefer life on the water, plenty of lake-based activities are available at the Great Salt Lake, the largest salt lake in the Western Hemisphere. You can kayak, launch a boat, or spend time watching migratory birds not seen anywhere else in the county. Lake Utah, south of Salt Lake City, also offers numerous water-based activities.

On land, there are entire mountain ranges to explore. Residents are always at most minutes away from a place to go hiking, biking, or rock climbing. There are seasonal and cultural outdoor events to get involved with, including tractor pulls, which are fun for the whole family.

In short, if you're looking for the perfect work-life balance and a home with outdoor adventures, Salt Lake City should be on your short list of cities to buy a new home.

Lower Cost of Living Than Other Major Cities

You might be forgiven for thinking that living in this incredible paradise in the mountains comes at a cost, but that's a common misconception. Unlike cities with similar landscapes, like Denver, the cost of living is much more affordable than you might think. While the cost of living is a fraction higher than the national average, living costs such as utilities are 7% less expensive.

Also, due to the competitive employment market, salaries are often significantly higher in real terms than in similar locations. Take tech hubs like Boston, New York and San Francisco as examples. Individuals and families looking to move to Salt Lake City from these locations for employment in similar industries will likely have considerably more money left over each month.

Thriving Cultural Scene

While Salt Lake City is world-famous for its natural surroundings, what you may not know is that the city's cultural scene is as vibrant and diverse. There's something for everyone, including festivals, live music downtown and family-friendly activities.

One of the city's most prominent cultural landmarks is Temple Square, a center of historical and spiritual significance, offering a glimpse into the city's rich heritage. Additionally, the Utah Arts Festival, held every June since 1977, is a major draw for locals and tourists alike, and, of course, there's the world-renowned Sundance Film Festival, which, although primarily held in Park City, also has a significant presence in Salt Lake City.

In addition to these more prominent annual events, the city is home to various attractions that appeal to all ages, including Utah's Hogle Zoo, Tracy Aviary & Botanical Gardens, and City Creek Center for top-class shopping and dining.

Watch Major League Sports Year-Round

Salt Lake City is home to several major league sports teams with passionate followings. Most notable is the Utah Jazz, who play in the NBA. Their home is the Delta Center, a local landmark in the heart of Salt Lake City's downtown area, and they attract an average of 18,206 fans to each game.

Aside from basketball, Real Salt Lake represents the city in Major League Soccer (MLS), and they play at the Rio Tinto Stadium in nearby Sandy. The team has a dedicated, loyal fan base and has enjoyed multiple successes, winning the MLS Cup in 2009 and making the playoffs for the last three years. The other soccer team in the city is Utah Royals FC, who play in the National Women's Soccer League (NWSL).

If you're into professional sports, Salt Lake City's dynamic sports culture is an excellent fit for you.

Salt Lake City in 2024: A Dynamic Mix of Career Opportunities, Cultural Riches, and Outdoor Splendor


If you are considering a move in 2024 or seeking a change in your lifestyle, Salt Lake City should feature high on your list. Whether you're drawn by the growing job market, the mountain (pardon the pun!) of outdoor activities, the sheer cultural richness, the vibrant sports scene, or the allure of securing this incredible lifestyle for less than other similar cities, this location offers something for everyone.

If you want to learn more about the perfect blend of elevated living in Salt Lake City, check out LGI Homes' new home community in Salt Lake City. Our homes are available for immediate move-in, feature our CompleteHome™ package, and are in a family-friendly community.

Don't wait to find your perfect home in the "Crossroads of the West." Please contact us today speak to one of our New Home Consultants today.