Utah cost of living
Can you afford to live in the Beehive State?
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A move to Utah means embracing the dramatic landscapes, friendly communities and strong local economies the state is known for. But before you start packing, it’s critical to understand what daily life might cost — especially if you’re managing a family budget or planning a major financial transition.
To determine the cost of living in Utah, our team reviewed data from the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis to understand average spending. We also used recent sources to gather housing, food, transportation, health care and utility costs for a full picture of everyday expenses.
People in Utah spend $51,027 each year on goods and services, on average.
Jump to insightThe median rent in Utah is $1,398, versus the national median rent of $1,639.
Jump to insightResidents in Utah spend $278.41 weekly on food at home.
Jump to insightAs of August 2025, the average price per gallon of regular gas is $3.34 in Utah.
Jump to insightRecent data shows that employees in Utah pay $1,728 annually for employee-sponsored health insurance coverage.
Jump to insightThe average cost of living in Utah
According to the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA), the average annual per-person spending in Utah was $51,027 in 2023. This figure reflects the value of what residents consume each year across housing, health care, food, gas and energy, and other goods and services.
Here’s a breakdown of the largest spending categories in Utah:
| Category | Annual per-capita cost in Utah |
|---|---|
| Housing and utilities | $9,220 |
| Health care | $6,833 |
| Food and beverages for off-premises consumption | $3,878 |
| Gasoline and other energy goods | $1,449 |
| All other personal consumption expenditures | $29,647 |
| Total cost | $51,027 |
Housing costs in Utah
For most Utah residents, housing makes up the largest share of their monthly expenses. Based on 2025 data from Apartments.com, Utah’s average rent is $1,398, which is lower than the national average of $1,639. Your actual rent will depend on your location and the size of your home or apartment. According to the U.S. Census Bureau’s latest findings, Utah’s average monthly rents are:
- One-bedroom rent: $1,282
- Two-bedroom rent: $1,460
- Three-bedroom rent: $1,739
- Four-bedroom rent: $2,072
If you are thinking about buying a home, Utah’s median home price is $562,800, which is higher than the national median of $446,638.
Property taxes also play a role in overall housing costs. Utah’s effective property tax rate is ranked at No. 46, with an average rate of 0.47%.
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Food costs in Utah
Your grocery bill in Utah will depend on everything from family size to where you choose to shop. According to the most recent U.S. Census data, the average weekly grocery spend in Utah is $278.41, compared with the U.S. average of $270.21.
Utah’s food costs can look quite different depending on your eating habits and location. People living in the Salt Lake City metro area or other urban centers may pay more when dining out or shopping at specialty stores, while those in smaller communities often find local produce and chain grocery prices more manageable. Families who prepare most meals at home may see significant savings, but frequent takeout or dining at restaurants will quickly increase your overall food expenses.
Transportation costs in Utah
Gas prices in Utah tend to be slightly above the national average. The average price per gallon of regular gas is $3.34 as of publishing, compared with the U.S. average of $3.13.
When it comes to car insurance, Utah’s average premium (which includes liability, collision and comprehensive coverage) is $1,128.99, versus the national average of $1,258.
Health care costs in Utah
The typical employee contribution for employer-sponsored health insurance in Utah is $1,728 per year, with employers covering the remainder of the $7,993 annual premium.
Across the country, employees on average pay $1,640 out of a total premium of $8,182.
Utility costs in Utah
Utah residents can expect their average monthly electric bill to come in around $84.97, compared with the national average of $136.84.
Natural gas prices in Utah are $9.50 per thousand cubic feet on average, while the national average is $12.92.
FAQ
Does Utah have a high cost of living?
No, Utah does not have a high cost of living compared with the national average. Daily expenses in Utah are generally lower across the board, especially for rent. While homebuying costs can be higher in Utah, locals often benefit from savings in other areas.
Is Utah a good place to live?
Yes, Utah is a good place to live if you value affordable living and a high quality of life. Even though Utah doesn’t see as many newcomers as some states, residents enjoy lower overall costs and communities that prioritize health and well-being.
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Is Utah good for renters?
Yes, Utah is good for renters. Renters in Utah often experience a high quality of life, and rent is typically lower than the national median. However, tenant protections and availability can be more limited than elsewhere, so it’s important to review your lease and local regulations before moving.
Article sources
ConsumerAffairs writers primarily rely on government data, industry experts and original research from other reputable publications to inform their work. Specific sources for this article include:
- Apartments.com, “Rent Trends.” Accessed Aug. 20, 2025.
- Redfin, “Redfin Data Center.” Accessed Aug. 20, 2025.
- Tax Foundation, “Where Do People Pay the Most in Property Taxes?” Accessed Aug. 20, 2025.
- United States Census Bureau, “Week 63 Household Pulse Survey: October 18 - October 30.” Accessed Aug. 20, 2025.
- AAA Gas Prices, “State Gas Price Averages.” Accessed Aug. 20, 2025.
- National Association of Insurance Commissioners, “2021/2022 Auto Insurance Database Report.” Accessed Aug. 20, 2025.
- KFF, “Average Annual Single Premium per Enrolled Employee For Employer-Based Health Insurance.” Accessed Aug. 20, 2025.
- U.S. Energy Information Administration, “2023 Average Monthly Bill- Residential.” Accessed Aug. 20, 2025.
