Draper is considered a moderately expensive place to live in 2025, with average rent for a 2-bedroom apartment around $1,900 and slightly higher than average utility and grocery costs compared to national norms.
Is the true cost of living in Draper higher than you think? As a local housing and energy specialist, I’ll break down the real monthly expenses you can expect living in this desirable Salt Lake City suburb in 2025.

Housing Costs in Draper
Housing is the biggest factor in Draper’s cost of living. Typical housing options include single-family homes, townhomes, and apartments. Prices vary by neighborhood, with areas like SunCrest and Suncrest East commanding higher prices.
For renters, here’s what you can expect to pay monthly for a 2-bedroom apartment in Draper in 2025:
- Older complex (pre-2000): $1,600 – $1,900
- Newer luxury complex: $1,900 – $2,400
Buying a home in Draper is pricey, with a typical 3-bedroom, 2-bath house ranging from $550,000 in older neighborhoods to over $800,000 in high-end developments. Most single-family communities have HOA fees averaging $200-400 per month.
Utility Costs
Utility costs in Draper trend slightly higher than the national average. Expect the following monthly bills for a 1,000 sq ft apartment:
Utility | Estimated Monthly Cost |
---|---|
Electricity | $80 – $150 |
Gas | $30 – $60 |
Water/Sewer/Trash | $60 – $100 |
Internet | $50 – $80 |
Electric bills spike in the summer due to high A/C usage. Gas costs rise in winter for heating. Budget an extra $50/month for peak season utility costs.
Groceries and Food
Groceries in Draper cost about 5% more than the U.S. average. Expect to spend around $350-400 per person monthly on groceries and household items. Dining out adds another $200-300 per person.
A gallon of milk runs about $2.50, while a dozen eggs cost $2.75. Grabbing a quick lunch costs $12-15, and a nice dinner out for two averages $60-80.
Taxes and Fees
Draper’s property tax rate is 0.69%, slightly below the Salt Lake County average of 0.72%. For a $600,000 home, annual property taxes would be about $4,140.
Utah charges a 4.85% state income tax. Sales tax in Draper is 7.25%, including state, county and city levies. Vehicle registration fees are $150-300 annually depending on the age and type of vehicle.
Monthly Budget Summary
Household | Estimated Monthly Budget |
---|---|
Single person | $3,000 – $3,500 |
Couple | $4,200 – $5,000 |
Family of 4 | $6,000 – $7,000 |
These figures represent gross monthly income (pre-tax) needed for a comfortable lifestyle in Draper, including housing, food, utilities, and typical expenses. Your exact budget will vary based on your neighborhood, lifestyle, and spending habits.
Lifestyle Considerations
Living in Draper offers a high quality of life, with abundant outdoor recreation, great schools, and a friendly community feel. However, that lifestyle comes at a cost.
Newer homes in amenity-rich neighborhoods are spacious and luxurious but command top dollar. More affordable options exist in older areas, but may mean a longer commute or smaller space.
Traffic congestion is an issue, with typical commute times to Salt Lake City around 25-35 minutes. Public transit options are limited. Most households need two cars, adding to monthly expenses.
Frequently Asked Questions
What salary do you need to live comfortably in Draper?
To live comfortably in Draper, a single person needs to make at least $3,000-3,500 per month before taxes. Couples should aim for $4,200-5,000 in gross monthly income. Double income families with children will want $6,000+ per month.
Is Draper more expensive than Salt Lake City?
Yes, Draper is about 10-15% more expensive than Salt Lake City, primarily due to higher housing costs. Utilities and groceries are comparable between the two cities.
Are property taxes high in Draper?
Draper’s property tax rate of 0.69% is actually slightly lower than the Salt Lake County average of 0.72%. However, home prices in Draper are higher than the county average, so tax bills are sizable.
How much do you need to make to buy a house in Draper?
To afford a typical $600,000 home in Draper with a 10% down payment, you’d need a household income of about $9,500 per month before taxes. With 20% down, $8,500 in gross monthly income would suffice.
What’s the most affordable neighborhood in Draper?
Older neighborhoods on the west side of Draper, like Draper Heights and Draper Downs, offer the most affordable housing options. Townhomes and older single-family homes can be found starting in the low $400,000s.
How do Draper living costs compare to Lehi or Sandy?
Draper is slightly more expensive than neighboring Sandy and Lehi. Housing costs about 5-10% more in Draper. However, Draper is still more affordable than pricier SLC suburbs like Alpine or Holladay.
While Draper isn’t cheap, residents say the superb quality of life is worth the premium they pay over more affordable Salt Lake City suburbs. If you can budget $4,000-5,000 per month in household income, Draper offers an appealing lifestyle in a beautiful setting.