As of March 2025, the median rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in Sandy, UT stands at $1,450 per month, up 4.8% from a year ago. For those looking to rent or buy a home in this growing Salt Lake City suburb, it’s important to understand the full picture of housing costs in Sandy, including how much an apartment costs compared to a house.
The Housing Market in Sandy Today
Sandy’s housing market has remained competitive in recent years, with steady population growth and a strong local economy fueling demand. While inventory levels have improved slightly from the record lows seen in 2022-2023, the market still favors sellers overall. Homes spend an average of 28 days on the market before going under contract.
New apartment complexes and townhome developments continue to rise along the TRAX light rail line and in the city center, offering additional rental options. However, the pace of new construction has not kept up with the influx of new residents, contributing to rising rents and home prices.
Renting in Sandy: What’s Typical?
For renters, Sandy offers a variety of apartments, townhomes, and single-family homes. As of March 2025, the average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in Sandy is $1,450 per month, while a 2-bedroom unit goes for around $1,850. Rent prices can vary significantly based on factors like location, age of the building, and included amenities.
Newer luxury apartments in downtown Sandy often come with perks like covered parking, in-unit laundry, and even utilities included in the base rent. More affordable options can be found in West Sandy and older complexes. Students and young professionals tend to gravitate towards the Cairns district for its walkability and proximity to I-15.
Owning a Home in Sandy
For buyers, the median home price in Sandy currently sits at $550,000, which translates to a typical mortgage payment of around $2,900 per month (assuming 10% down on a 30-year fixed loan). However, the total monthly cost of ownership is closer to $3,500 once you factor in property taxes, homeowners insurance, HOA dues, and private mortgage insurance (PMI).
While Sandy has higher home prices than the national average, it remains more affordable than many other parts of the Salt Lake Valley. Popular neighborhoods for families include Granite, Peruvian Estates, and Flat Iron Mesa, while townhomes in the Eastmont area attract first-time buyers.
Renters vs. Homeowners: Who Lives Where?
Sandy’s homeownership rate stands at 72%, slightly higher than the national average of 64%. The city’s demographics skew towards married couples and families, who are more likely to own than rent. Around 80% of Sandy households with children live in owner-occupied homes.
Still, renting remains common for certain groups, including young adults (under 35), singles, and seniors. Factors like high student debt loads, rising mortgage rates, and the flexibility of renting continue to make homeownership less attainable or appealing for some Sandy residents.
Here’s what housing costs might look like each month in Sandy:
| Expense | Renting (1BR) | Owning |
|---|---|---|
| Rent/Mortgage | $1,450 | $2,900 |
| Property Tax | $0 | $350 |
| PMI | $0 | $150 |
| Insurance | $15 | $80 |
| Utilities* | $125 | $250 |
| HOA | $0 | $150 |
| Total | $1,590 | $3,880 |
*Estimates reflect mid-range properties and average usage.
What’s Driving Costs Up or Down?
Several factors influence the trajectory of housing costs in Sandy. On the demand side, the city’s strong job market (especially in tech and healthcare), highly rated schools, and outdoor recreation opportunities continue to attract new residents from pricier West Coast metros. Sandy also benefits from proximity to Silicon Slopes, Utah’s answer to Silicon Valley.
In terms of supply, a combination of geographical constraints, zoning restrictions, and rising construction costs have limited the pace of new housing development. While Sandy has taken steps to allow more density in certain areas, single-family zoning still predominates. Balancing the need for affordable starter homes with maintaining Sandy’s suburban character remains an ongoing debate.
FAQs About Housing in Sandy
- Is Sandy affordable to live in? While housing costs in Sandy exceed the national average, it remains more affordable than many other parts of Salt Lake County. Rents and home prices in Sandy are around 10-15% lower than in neighboring Draper and Cottonwood Heights.
- Why are housing prices changing? A combination of population growth, high demand, and limited housing supply have driven up costs in recent years. While rising mortgage rates have cooled the market slightly, most experts expect home prices in Sandy to keep climbing over the long run.
- How does Sandy compare to nearby cities? Sandy tends to be pricier than further-out suburbs like Herriman and Eagle Mountain but more affordable than Draper, Holladay, and Cottonwood Heights. For a more detailed look, see our guide to the cost of living in Sandy.
Making Smart Housing Decisions in Sandy
Whether renting or buying, housing costs are likely to be your biggest monthly expense in Sandy. Choosing the right neighborhood, prioritizing your must-haves, and staying within your budget are key. Renters can save by opting for older buildings, living with roommates, or negotiating lease terms. For buyers, shopping around for mortgages, improving your credit score, and expanding your search radius can help keep costs manageable.
For more tips on budgeting for housing in Sandy, check out our guide to monthly budget examples for Sandy residents. By doing your research and planning ahead, you can find a home that fits both your lifestyle and your finances in this desirable Salt Lake City suburb.