How Much Do You Need to Make to Live in Utah?

Understanding the financial aspects of residing in Utah is a practical step for anyone considering a move or evaluating their current budget within the state. Living costs can fluctuate based on numerous factors, including individual spending habits and family size. This article provides an overview of typical expenses and income levels needed to support various lifestyles in Utah. It also explores how these costs differ across the state’s diverse geographical regions.

Key Living Expenses in Utah

Housing represents a significant portion of living expenses in Utah, reflecting the state’s growing real estate market. As of 2025, the median sales price for a single-family home statewide ranges from approximately $547,700 to $592,000. For those looking to rent, the average rent for a residential property across Utah is around $1,515 per month, though this can vary significantly by property type and location. A one-bedroom apartment averages about $1,100 monthly, while a two-bedroom unit might cost around $1,358.

Utility costs in Utah are generally considered moderate compared to national averages. A typical household can expect monthly utility expenses to average between $195.40 and $345.62, depending on usage and specific services. This includes electricity, which averages around $84.87 per month, and internet services, typically costing about $77.00 monthly.

Food expenses in Utah tend to be slightly below national averages. Monthly grocery costs for an individual average around $278.41. Dining out can add to these costs, with casual meals starting around $15 and mid-range restaurant meals potentially reaching $50.

Transportation costs are a consideration for Utah residents. For those relying on public transit, a monthly pass typically costs around $65 to $85. Vehicle owners should budget for fuel, with gasoline prices averaging approximately $3.45 to $3.579 per gallon. Annual vehicle maintenance costs are estimated at about $1,200. Car insurance premiums in Utah for full coverage can range from approximately $1,524 to $1,978 per year.

Healthcare expenses are a factor in the cost of living. The average monthly premium for individual health insurance in Utah is around $613 to $675. For a family of four, coverage can potentially cost around $2,073 per month. Childcare expenses can be substantial, with average monthly costs for daycare or preschool ranging from $786 to $1,381 per child.

Taxes impact residents’ finances. Utah imposes a flat state income tax rate of 4.55% for the 2024 tax year. The state sales tax rate is 4.85%, with an average combined state and local sales tax rate of 7.25%. Notably, the sales tax rate for grocery items is lower, at 1.75% for the state portion and 3% with local additions.

Property taxes are comparatively low, with an average effective rate of 0.55% on owner-occupied housing value, resulting in annual payments of $2,241. Primary residences receive a 45% exemption on their value before taxation.

Income Levels for Different Lifestyles

The income required to live in Utah varies depending on the desired lifestyle, from basic necessities to a comfortable standard of living. For a single adult, the living wage to meet basic needs in Utah is approximately $23.91 per hour, translating to an annual income of about $49,737 before taxes. This calculation includes essential expenses like food, housing, transportation, and healthcare. For a household with two working adults and two children, the living wage is estimated at $27.77 per hour per adult, requiring a combined annual income of around $115,512.

Moving beyond basic needs, a comfortable lifestyle in Utah requires a higher income that allows for discretionary spending, savings, and some luxuries. For a single adult, an estimated annual income of $99,466 is needed to live comfortably. This income level enables individuals to participate in hobbies, take vacations, and contribute to retirement savings.

For a family of four (two adults and two children), achieving a comfortable living standard in Utah typically requires a combined annual income of approximately $231,046. This figure accounts for a more expansive budget that includes essential expenditures, recreation, personal development, and long-term financial goals. The median household income in Utah is projected to reach $98,336 in 2025. Individual income needs will differ based on specific lifestyle choices and financial planning.

Cost of Living Across Utah’s Regions

Living costs in Utah are not uniform across the state; they fluctuate by geographical region, driven by population density, job opportunities, and access to amenities. Urban centers, such as Salt Lake City, generally present higher costs, particularly for housing. For instance, the average rent in Salt Lake City is around $1,464 per month, and the median home price in the area is notably higher than the state average. Park City stands out as one of Utah’s most expensive cities for rent, reflecting its status as a resort town.

Suburban areas surrounding urban hubs often offer a middle ground in cost. While still more expensive than rural regions, they typically provide a balance between proximity to urban conveniences and more affordable housing options. Areas near Salt Lake City, like Sandy and South Jordan, have higher average rents, often exceeding $1,700 per month. In contrast, cities like Provo and Orem can provide more affordable rental options compared to Salt Lake City.

Rural and southeastern parts of Utah generally have lower housing costs. Cedar City, for instance, has one of the lowest cost of living indexes in the state. While housing might be less expensive in these areas, residents may face potentially higher transportation costs due to longer commutes to services and employment centers.

Personalizing Your Utah Living Budget

Crafting a personalized budget for living in Utah requires assessing individual circumstances and financial goals. Factors such as family size, the number of income earners, and existing debt obligations significantly influence the necessary income level. Personal lifestyle preferences, including dining out versus cooking at home, entertainment activities, and travel, also play a substantial role in determining monthly expenditures. Understanding these variables is the first step toward effective financial planning.

To manage expenses and align them with income, utilizing budgeting tools and strategies is beneficial. Creating a detailed personal budget allows individuals to categorize and track their spending, identifying areas for adjustment. Various budgeting applications and spreadsheets are available to facilitate this process, providing a clear picture of cash flow. Consistent expense tracking helps ensure spending remains within planned limits.

For those considering a move to a specific area within Utah, seeking localized data is advisable. Information on local real estate markets, such as median home prices and rental rates in target cities or neighborhoods, can provide more precise cost estimates. Many online resources and local government websites offer community-specific cost-of-living calculators that can refine general statewide figures. Incorporating long-term financial objectives, such as building emergency savings, contributing to retirement accounts, and planning for future investments, into the required income calculation is also important.