Is Salt Lake City Right for You? An Honest Review of Its Pros and Cons

From endless outdoor activities to a food scene that’s way more exciting than you’d expect, Salt Lake City is such an attractive option. But before you pack up, let’s break down the pros and cons to help you decide.

Salt Lake City (SLC) is booming in economic growth, and it’s not just for the skiing or the stunning mountain views. More and more young professionals are flocking here, drawn by the city’s burgeoning job market, affordable lifestyle, and, let’s be real, the quality of life and active lifestyle. If you’re considering a move, you might be wondering if Salt Lake is the place for you. Here’s the rundown on what’s great, what’s not-so-great, and everything in between.

The Pros of Living in Salt Lake City

1. Access to Nature and Endless Recreational Activities

Salt Lake City is basically a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Nestled between the Wasatch Mountains and the Great Salt Lake, you’ve got access to some of the most jaw-dropping natural beauty around in these mountain ranges. Whether you’re into hiking, biking, camping, or just basking in the views, there are plenty of opportunities for physical activity. A few local spots to hit up for recreational opportunities:

• Ben Lomond: Ever wonder where the iconic Paramount Pictures logo comes from? This is the mountain that inspired it, standing tall at 9,716 feet north of Ogden. Great for a challenging hike and spectacular views.

• Mount Olympus: Need a heart-pumping climb? This one’s got a 6.3-mile trail that’s a Salt Lake local favorite. It’s tough, but the summit at 9,026 feet? Totally worth it.

• Twin Peaks (Board Fork): Ready for a real challenge? Twin Peaks towers at 11,330 feet and will reward you with a 10.5-mile hike and the most incredible views of the valley.

• City Creek Canyon: In the summer, you’ll see everyone from joggers to families picnicking by the water, and come winter, it’s one of the best places for cross-country skiing—without the crowds of the ski resorts.

And you could spend weeks exploring these nearby national parks—Zion, Arches, Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef, and Canyonlands, and still not see it all. And yes, the Great Salt Lake is just a short drive away, offering recreational opportunities from bird-watching to boating.

2. Skiing & Snowboarding – Let’s Talk Snow

Salt Lake City’s winter sports scene is top-tier, and the snow? Legendary. We’re talking about the “Greatest Snow on Earth” here. If you’re into skiing or snowboarding, you’ve hit the jackpot. You’re 45 minutes to an hour away from some of the best ski resorts in the country: Brighton, Alta-Snowbird, Deer Valley, Park City, and Snowbasin. So yes, while locals might grumble about the snow, it’s a huge perk if you’re into winter sports. Plus, Salt Lake hosted the 2002 Winter Olympics, so you know we take our snow seriously.

3. Lots of Sunshine

Okay, sure, it snows here, but Salt Lake is also blessed with sun. You’ll get about 238 days of sunshine a year, well above the national average of 205. If you love those crisp, clear blue skies and long summers, you’re in for a treat. Think of it as the perfect weather for everything from outdoor brunching to sunset hikes. And winter? It’s cold, but you’ll still have those bright sunny days.

4. A Thriving Job Market & Booming Tech Sector

Salt Lake City has one of the lowest unemployment rates in the country, hovering around 2.1%. The city’s tech boom (dubbed Silicon Slopes) is attracting startups and big names like Oracle, Goldman Sachs, Microsoft, Adobe, and eBay. If you’re a young professional or college grad, the city’s job market is a solid reason to call it home for plenty of economic opportunities. Plus, the low cost of living compared to tech hubs like Silicon Valley in San Francisco means you get plenty of career opportunities without the sky-high rent prices.

5. Affordable Rent – For Now

It’s not just about the job opportunities; Salt Lake City also offers affordable options. While housing costs have definitely spiked in the last few years, renting a one-bedroom apartment is still more affordable than in most major U.S. cities. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is around $1,650/month in many parts of the city. If you’re looking for a high-quality Landing furnished apartment, the average monthly rent is $1,550 for a 12-month commitment. And if you’re looking for a month-to-month stay, the average rent is $1,900. Move outside the downtown core, and that number could drop. It’s not the cheapest city, but it’s still affordable cost, way better than you’d think for a growing metropolis.

6. Robust Public Transportation & Easy Access to Major Cities

Salt Lake City’s public transportation system is a gem. The UTA Light Rail Trains (known locally as TRAX) makes it easy to get around the dynamic city, with routes connecting downtown to the suburbs, the airport, and even nearby ski resorts. There are also plenty of bus options, including the FrontRunner commuter rail, which connects Salt Lake with Provo and Ogden. Salt Lake City’s transportation costs start at $2.50 for a one-way fare. If you love biking, take advantage of the GREENbike program, which lets you rent bikes and get around the city in a fun, eco-friendly way.

Salt Lake City also serves as a great jumping-off point to larger cities nearby. It’s within a 6-hour drive to Las Vegas, Denver, and Jackson Hole, making it easy to explore other parts of the region.

7. The Cultural Scene – A City for Everyone

Salt Lake City has a surprisingly diverse and welcoming vibe. The city’s Mormon roots give it a unique cultural scene, but today it’s a melting pot of people from all backgrounds. You’ll find that the community here is incredibly generous, with Utah consistently ranking high for charitable giving and volunteerism. Neighborhoods such as Sugar House and Downtown Salt Lake City are evolving into a vibrant arts scene and cuisine experiences. City Creek Center is Salt Lake City’s premier shopping destination, and it’s not just about the high-end stores. Locals love it for its open-air design, complete with a creek running through the center, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

8. Four Distinct Seasons

Salt Lake experiences all four seasons, offering a variety of outdoor activities year-round. Summers are warm and perfect for hiking or mountain biking, while winters bring world-class skiing and snowboarding for winter sports enthusiasts. Spring and fall provide stunning scenery with wildflowers and vibrant foliage, making outdoor adventures even more enjoyable. This seasonal diversity allows residents to experience a bit of everything, from sunny lake days to cozy snow-covered landscapes.

The Cons of Living in Salt Lake City

1. Snow, Snow, and More Snow + Poor Air Quality

Let’s be real—if you’re not into winter weather, Salt Lake City might not be for you. The city averages 54 inches of snow per year and is one of the 15 snowiest states in the U.S., and while it’s beautiful, it can also be a hassle, especially in the winter months. Winter inversion (that nasty fog and pollution that gets trapped in the air) can make it tough to breathe if you have respiratory issues. So, if snowstorms and icy sidewalks aren’t your thing, you might want to rethink that move.

2. The Tourist Rush on the Slopes

Yes, the skiing is incredible, but the tourists? Not so much. Weekends and holidays are packed with people coming in from all over the world to experience the famous Utah snow. It can be a pain getting a reservation at your favorite downtown restaurant, and lift lines at the resorts. Let’s just say they can get long.

Tip from a local: Avoid the mountains on Presidents’ Day, MLK Day, or any long weekend.

3. The Job Market is Competitive

Salt Lake City’s growing popularity means more people are moving here—and that includes job seekers. More young professionals and college grads flock to the Salt Lake region and its many vibrant neighborhoods. While there is steady job growth, the competition for positions can be tough. So, if you’re not already in the city, securing your dream job here might take a little more hustle. But hey, nothing worthwhile comes easy, right?

4. Housing Prices Are on the Rise

As the city grows, so does the cost of housing. It’s no surprise that the housing market in Salt Lake City has skyrocketed, with the median home price at a cool $493,221—well above the national average. Buying might be a challenge if you’re not ready for a hefty down payment, but renting? Much more attainable.

5. A Street Grid That’s… Unique

Getting around Salt Lake City might trip you up at first thanks to the quirky street numbering system. It’s based on Temple Square (the Mormon epicenter), and it’s not the most intuitive at first glance. For example, Main Street runs north and south, and streets and avenues branch out from there. It’s a city with a bit of a learning curve, but once you get it, it’s pretty straightforward.

6. Crime Rates & Safety

Like many urban areas, Salt Lake City does have its share of crime. While the overall crime rate in Salt Lake is lower than the national average, property crime, such as theft and burglary, can be a concern in certain areas. Violent crime is relatively low, but like any growing city, there are neighborhoods where safety can be an issue, especially after dark.

That being said, there are plenty of safe and family-friendly areas. It’s important to do your research on neighborhoods before committing to a place to live. Local law enforcement and community initiatives have worked hard to make Salt Lake safer, and many neighborhoods are actively improving their safety measures.

7. The Party Scene? Meh.

If you’re after a wild nightlife scene, you might want to head to Vegas or Miami. Salt Lake’s nightlife isn’t terrible, but it’s not exactly what you’d call “happening.” While the city has its fair share of bars, breweries, and cozy spots, don’t expect the kind of party atmosphere you’d find in places like NYC or LA. The city is more laid-back, with a focus on the outdoors and family-friendly activities.

8. Utah’s Unique Alcohol Laws

Another consideration for those thinking of moving to Salt Lake is Utah’s state-run liquor stores. Unlike many other states, alcohol sales in Utah are heavily regulated by the government, meaning that all liquor must be purchased from state-run stores. These stores often have limited hours of operation, and the selection can be more limited than what you might find at private liquor retailers in other states. While this is something that many residents are accustomed to, it can be a bit of an adjustment for newcomers used to more relaxed alcohol laws.

Final Thoughts: Is Salt Lake City Right for You?

Salt Lake City has something for everyone—whether it’s outdoor adventures, a booming job market, or a great quality of life The cons, like the snow, tourist crowds, and a somewhat muted nightlife scene, might be deal-breakers for some, but for many, the city’s advantages far outweigh these downsides.

If you’re thinking about making the move, Landing has you covered with fully furnished apartments and flexible terms that make it easy to settle in. Ready to experience all that Salt Lake has to offer?