What Is the Cost of Living in Salt Lake City, Utah?

The cost of living encompasses the various expenses of daily life within a specific geographic area. For individuals considering a move to Salt Lake City, Utah, understanding these financial aspects is an important step in planning. This overview provides a comprehensive look at the typical costs associated with living in Salt Lake City, covering everything from housing and everyday necessities to taxes and other significant expenditures.

Housing Costs

Housing represents a substantial portion of living expenses in Salt Lake City, reflecting the dynamic real estate market. Average rental costs for apartments vary by size and location. A studio apartment typically rents for around $1,200 per month, while a one-bedroom unit averages approximately $1,464 per month. For those needing more space, two-bedroom apartments generally cost about $1,827 monthly, and a three-bedroom rental can exceed $2,305 per month.

The housing market for purchases remains competitive, with continued appreciation forecast. The median sale price for homes in Salt Lake City was around $588,000 in July 2025. Single-family homes saw a median sales price of approximately $686,000 in July 2025. Condominiums and townhouses offer a comparatively more accessible entry point, with median prices around $425,000 in early 2025.

Utility costs contribute to the total housing expense. Electricity and cooling expenses can range from $150 to $250 per month during warmer periods, with heating costs in winter being similar. Water and sewer services typically cost around $15 to $20 each per month. These, along with street lighting and trash collection, are often combined into a single monthly bill from Salt Lake City Public Utilities. Internet services vary widely by provider and speed, with average starting prices under $45 per month and general averages for Utah around $77 monthly.

Everyday Expenses

Daily necessities form another significant part of the cost of living in Salt Lake City. Grocery expenses are slightly lower than the national average, though specific monthly averages can vary based on household size and dietary habits. A renter might budget around $679 per month for groceries. Dining out offers a range of options, with an inexpensive meal costing about $17, and a three-course dinner for two at a mid-range restaurant averaging around $80.

Transportation costs are also part of daily life, whether commuting or running errands. Public transit, provided by the Utah Transit Authority (UTA), offers monthly passes for approximately $65 to $85. For those who drive, gasoline prices averaged around $3.45 per gallon in 2025. Vehicle-related expenses include car insurance, which averages about $165 per month for full coverage in Salt Lake City. Annual vehicle maintenance costs in Utah are estimated to be around $1,200.

Personal care and routine household supplies also factor into the budget. A typical haircut costs about $21.87. While specific figures for other personal hygiene products and general household supplies are not readily available, these recurring purchases are a consistent part of monthly expenditures.

Other Significant Costs

Beyond regular housing and daily expenses, other substantial costs influence the overall financial picture in Salt Lake City. Healthcare expenses, for instance, can vary widely depending on the type of insurance coverage. In Utah, the average monthly premium for a Bronze health insurance plan is approximately $474, while a Silver plan averages around $621 per month. A single adult aged 40 might expect to pay about $613 per month for health insurance. Out-of-pocket costs for doctor visits and prescription medications depend heavily on individual insurance plans and deductibles, but generally align with or are slightly below national averages.

Childcare and education present considerable costs for families with young children. The average monthly cost for daycare or preschool in Salt Lake City is between $800 and $1,200 for a quality program. More specifically, the average monthly cost for childcare providers in Salt Lake City was around $2,175 in February 2025, rising to approximately $2,454 in August 2025. Infant daycare can be more expensive, typically ranging from $900 to $1,300 per month due to higher supervision requirements.

Leisure and entertainment activities also add to the cost of living. A movie ticket in Salt Lake City costs around $13.83. Popular recreational activities like skiing can be quite expensive, with day passes at resorts ranging from $220 to $300. While gym memberships are a common expense, their costs vary significantly by facility. The city also offers many free or low-cost outdoor options, such as hiking in nearby canyons or visiting parks.

Local Tax Landscape

Understanding the local tax landscape is important for residents in Salt Lake City, as it directly impacts their disposable income. The combined state and local sales tax rate in Salt Lake City is 8.25% as of February 2025, though some sources indicate a minimum combined rate of 8.45% for 2025. This rate includes a 4.85% state sales tax, along with county and special local taxes. Notably, food and food ingredients are subject to a lower statewide sales tax rate of 3%, comprising a 1.75% state portion and additional local and county components.

Utah imposes a flat state income tax rate, simplifying the process for many taxpayers. For the 2024 tax year, the rate was 4.55%. This rate was further reduced to 4.50% effective June 1, 2025. This flat rate applies to all taxable income, without complex brackets found in some other states.

Property taxes in Salt Lake County are generally considered lower than the national average. The average effective property tax rate in Utah is approximately 0.55%, with Salt Lake County showing an average effective rate of 0.59%. Residential property owners benefit from a significant exemption, as only 55% of their home’s fair market value is subject to taxation. For example, a home valued at $625,000 would be taxed on $343,750, resulting in an approximate annual tax bill of $5,255.25.