Salt Lake City is considered moderately expensive in 2025, with average rent for a 2-bedroom apartment at $1,900 and slightly higher grocery costs compared to the national average.
Housing Costs in Salt Lake City
Housing options in Salt Lake City range from apartments and condos to single-family homes. Rental prices vary by neighborhood, with downtown and areas closer to the mountains typically commanding higher rates. As of 2025, the average rent for a 2-bedroom apartment in Salt Lake City is around $1,900 per month.
For those looking to purchase a home, the median price for a 3-bedroom house in Salt Lake City is approximately $450,000. However, prices can vary significantly depending on the neighborhood and property type:
- Sugarhouse: $500,000 – $700,000
- The Avenues: $600,000 – $900,000
- Rose Park: $350,000 – $450,000
- Downtown: $400,000 – $800,000 (mostly condos)
Some neighborhoods, particularly those with newer developments or gated communities, may have mandatory HOA fees ranging from $200 to $500 per month.
Utilities and Energy Bills
Basic utilities in Salt Lake City, including electric, gas, water, and trash, average around $200 per month for a 2-bedroom apartment. However, costs can spike during the summer months due to higher air conditioning usage. Here’s a breakdown of typical monthly utility costs:
| Utility | Average Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Electricity | $80 – $120 |
| Gas | $40 – $60 |
| Water/Sewer | $50 – $70 |
| Trash | $20 – $30 |
Groceries and Daily Expenses
The average grocery bill for a single person in Salt Lake City is around $300 per month, while a family of four can expect to spend closer to $900. These figures include basic household items and occasional dining out. To put this into perspective, a gallon of milk costs about $3.50, a dozen eggs are $2.50, and a loaf of bread is around $2.75.
Dining out can add up quickly, with a meal at a mid-range restaurant costing about $15-$20 per person. A fast-food combo meal is typically around $8.
Taxes and Hidden Fees
Salt Lake City residents pay a property tax rate of approximately 0.7% of their home’s assessed value. For a $450,000 home, this equates to about $3,150 per year or $263 per month.
Utah has a flat income tax rate of 4.95%, which is lower than many other states. However, sales tax in Salt Lake City is relatively high at 7.75%, which can add up on larger purchases.
Vehicle registration fees in Salt Lake City are based on the age and value of the car, but typically range from $100 to $300 per year.
Monthly Budget Summary
| Household | Estimated Monthly Budget |
|---|---|
| Single Person | $2,500 – $3,000 |
| Couple | $3,500 – $4,200 |
| Family of Four | $5,000 – $6,000 |
These figures are based on a comfortable lifestyle that includes housing, utilities, groceries, dining out, transportation, and some entertainment. Keep in mind that these are gross monthly income estimates (pre-tax).
Lifestyle Considerations
When choosing where to live in Salt Lake City, it’s important to consider factors like commute time, home size, access to parks and recreation, and proximity to jobs. Generally, living closer to downtown or the mountains will be more expensive but may offer better walkability and shorter commutes.
Newer homes in the suburbs often come with more square footage and amenities but may require longer drives and have fewer public transit options. Older homes in established neighborhoods can offer more character and mature landscaping but may have higher maintenance costs.
Salt Lake City is known for its outdoor recreation, with easy access to hiking, skiing, and mountain biking. However, taking advantage of these activities can add to your overall cost of living, especially if you need to purchase gear or pay for lift tickets.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Q: How much do I need to earn to live comfortably in Salt Lake City?
A: A comfortable lifestyle in Salt Lake City may require a gross monthly income of around $4,200 for a couple or $5,500 for a family of four. This allows for housing, utilities, groceries, dining out, and some entertainment. - Q: Is Salt Lake City more affordable than other major cities in the region?
A: Compared to cities like Denver or Seattle, Salt Lake City is generally more affordable, particularly when it comes to housing. However, it is slightly more expensive than some neighboring cities like Ogden or Provo. - Q: What are the top 3 costs that surprise newcomers to Salt Lake City?
A: Many newcomers are surprised by the high sales tax (7.75%), the cost of air conditioning during the summer months, and the price of outdoor recreation gear and activities. - Q: Are there ways to save money on housing in Salt Lake City?
A: Consider living farther from downtown or the mountains, where housing tends to be less expensive. Sharing a home or apartment with roommates can also significantly reduce your housing costs. - Q: How much should I budget for transportation in Salt Lake City?
A: If you own a car, budget for gas, insurance, maintenance, and registration fees, which can add up to $300-$500 per month. Public transit passes start at around $85 per month. - Q: What’s the best way to estimate my monthly expenses before moving to Salt Lake City?
A: Start by listing your essential expenses like housing, utilities, groceries, and transportation. Then, factor in discretionary spending like dining out, entertainment, and hobbies. Don’t forget to account for savings and any debt payments. Online cost of living calculators can also help you compare expenses between cities. - Q: How can I lower my moving costs to Salt Lake City?
A: See our 2025 moving company picks for vetted and affordable options. Booking early, purging unnecessary items, and packing yourself can also help reduce moving expenses.