Salt Lake City, UT vs. Sandy, UT: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
Which city gives you more for your money – Salt Lake City or Sandy? This article provides a detailed cost of living comparison to help families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone weighing the real-life expenses of living in these two Utah cities in 2025.
1. Housing Costs
Housing is often the biggest factor in cost of living. Here’s how typical rent and mortgage costs compare:
| Housing Type | Salt Lake City | Sandy |
|---|---|---|
| 2BR Apartment (Monthly Rent) | $1,550 | $1,700 |
| 3BR Home (Median Price) | $450,000 | $525,000 |
🏆 Winner: Salt Lake City. Rent and home prices tend to be 10-15% lower in Salt Lake City compared to Sandy.
For a detailed look at monthly expenses, see our guide on how much it costs to live in Salt Lake City each month.
2. Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility bills are fairly similar between the two cities. Expect to pay around $150-200 per month for electricity, gas, water, and trash for a 2BR apartment. Costs may rise 20-30% in winter months due to heating.
🏆 Winner: Tie. No significant difference in utility costs.
3. Groceries and Daily Expenses
Grocery prices are comparable in Salt Lake City and Sandy, with most staples within 5% of each other. Eating out is also similarly priced, although Salt Lake City has a wider range of budget-friendly dining options downtown.
🏆 Winner: Salt Lake City, but only slightly. Groceries are neck-and-neck while SLC offers more affordable restaurants.
4. Taxes and Fees
Utah has a flat 4.95% income tax rate statewide. Property taxes are also similar, averaging 0.60% in Salt Lake County and 0.66% in Sandy. Both cities charge a 6.85% sales tax. HOA fees are common in Sandy, often adding $200-400 per month.
🏆 Winner: Salt Lake City. Lower property taxes and fewer HOA fees give SLC the edge.
5. Cost Summary Table
| Category | Salt Lake City | Sandy |
|---|---|---|
| Housing (2BR Rent) | $1,550 | $1,700 |
| Utilities | $180 | $180 |
| Groceries | $400 | $420 |
| Transportation | $80 | $100 |
| Taxes (Property) | 0.60% | 0.66% |
| Misc Expenses | $250 | $300 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $2,460 | $2,700 |
Note: Monthly totals are based on pre-tax income for a professional household. See our full Salt Lake City cost of living breakdown for 2025.
6. Lifestyle Fit
Salt Lake City offers a more urban environment with walkable neighborhoods, public transit, and a lively downtown. Trade-offs include smaller living spaces, street noise, and limited parking.
Sandy provides a suburban lifestyle with larger homes, yards, and easy access to outdoor recreation. However, expect longer commutes and more driving for errands. Sandy averages 5°F cooler than SLC in summer due to its higher elevation.
7. FAQ
- Is Salt Lake City more affordable than Sandy? Yes, Salt Lake City has lower housing costs and fewer taxes/fees than Sandy, making it more affordable overall.
- Which city has lower rent? Salt Lake City has lower rent, with a typical 2BR apartment costing $150 less per month than in Sandy.
- Where is it cheaper to buy a home? Home prices are about 15% lower in Salt Lake City. The median price for a 3BR house is $450,000 in SLC vs. $525,000 in Sandy.
8. Conclusion
Salt Lake City comes out ahead on housing, taxes, and overall affordability, making it ideal for young professionals, singles, and those who prefer an urban lifestyle. Sandy’s appeal lies in its larger suburban homes, family-friendly neighborhoods, and outdoor access, although with a higher price tag.
Ultimately, the right choice depends on your budget, housing needs, and lifestyle priorities. Be sure to compare cost of living factors for other Utah cities you may be considering, such as Provo, West Jordan, or Ogden.
Ready to make your move? See our 2025 picks for the best moving companies to get settled in your new Utah home.