West Valley City, UT vs. Taylorsville, UT: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
Groceries cost 11% more in Taylorsville than West Valley City, adding $150+/month to the average family’s food budget. This article provides a full cost of living comparison between West Valley City and nearby Taylorsville. It’s perfect for families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real cost of living in these two Salt Lake City suburbs in 2025.
1. Housing Costs
Housing is the biggest factor in the cost of living difference between West Valley City and Taylorsville. Median home prices in West Valley City are around $450,000 compared to $525,000 in Taylorsville.
| Housing Type | West Valley City | Taylorsville |
|---|---|---|
| 2BR Apartment Rent | $1,400 | $1,600 |
| 3BR Home Mortgage | $2,100 | $2,450 |
🏆 Winner: West Valley City. Expect to pay about 14% less on housing in West Valley City compared to Taylorsville.
2. Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility costs are fairly similar between the two cities. The typical household in West Valley City pays around $180/month for electricity, gas, water, and trash. Bills in Taylorsville average about $10/month higher.
Both cities experience cold winters and hot summers. Heating and cooling needs don’t vary much. Taylorsville residents can save with Rocky Mountain Power’s Time of Day program, which offers lower rates during off-peak hours.
🏆 Winner: Taylorsville. While base utility costs are close, Taylorsville’s off-peak program gives it a slight edge.
3. Groceries and Daily Expenses
Groceries will take a bigger bite out of your budget in Taylorsville. Expect to spend about 11% more on food and daily goods compared to West Valley City. A gallon of milk averages $3.50 in West Valley City versus $4.00 in Taylorsville.
Eating out is also pricier in Taylorsville. A basic meal for two at a neighborhood pub runs around $45 in West Valley City but closer to $60 in Taylorsville.
🏆 Winner: West Valley City, thanks to meaningfully lower food costs across the board.
4. Taxes and Fees
Utah’s statewide income tax is 4.85% as of 2025. Both West Valley City and Taylorsville charge a 7.25% sales tax. However, property taxes differ:
- West Valley City property tax rate: 0.7%
- Taylorsville property tax rate: 0.85%
For a $500K home, that’s a difference of $750/year. In West Valley City, HOA fees often include landscaping and trash, while Taylorsville residents usually pay separately.
🏆 Winner: West Valley City has a lower property tax rate and HOA fees often cover more.
5. Cost Summary Table
| Category | West Valley City | Taylorsville |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | $2,100 | $2,450 |
| Utilities | $180 | $170 |
| Groceries | $500 | $550 |
| Transportation | $130 | $100 |
| Taxes | $700 | $850 |
| Misc | $400 | $450 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $4,010 | $4,570 |
6. Lifestyle Fit
While costs are important, consider other tradeoffs too:
- Walkability: Taylorsville has a walk score of 42, while West Valley City scores 35. Neither are very walkable, but Taylorsville has a slight edge.
- Commute: Both cities have easy access to I-215. Driving to downtown Salt Lake City takes about 20 minutes from West Valley City versus 15 minutes from Taylorsville.
- Entertainment: Taylorsville is closer to major attractions like the Vivint Arena and Temple Square. West Valley City has its own draws like the USANA Amphitheatre and Hale Center Theatre.
7. FAQ
Is West Valley City more affordable than Taylorsville?
Yes, the cost of living is about 12% lower in West Valley City. Housing and food costs are the biggest factors.
Which city has lower rent?
Renting a 2BR apartment is around $200/month cheaper in West Valley City compared to Taylorsville.
Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
The typical mortgage payment on a 3BR house is $350/month less in West Valley City than Taylorsville. Median home prices are about $75,000 lower in West Valley City.
8. Conclusion
Overall, West Valley City comes out ahead in this cost of living comparison. A household moving from Taylorsville to West Valley City might save $400-600/month on housing and food alone. However, Taylorsville may still be worth the premium for some lifestyles. It offers shorter commutes, better walkability, and proximity to Salt Lake City proper.
Ultimately, both cities provide a relatively affordable suburban life within the Salt Lake City metro area. As you weigh job offers or relocation options, check out these additional resources: