Picturesque mountain views, incredible food, friendly people, exciting outdoor adventures…we’re certainly sold! In case you all need some further convincing though, let’s explore the capital and largest city in Utah: Salt Lake City!
Perhaps most known as the headquarters of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, Salt Lake is also quite a diverse place to live with a population growing at 160 residents per day (University of Utah, 2022). The “Crossroads of the West” has plenty for all backgrounds to enjoy and offers a high quality of life that our assignees love.
Rental Trends
Similar to most major markets, assignees will find that SLC’s rental market can initially feel quite intimidating. Prices have remained high and inventory has been low. As a result, assignees will have to move quickly to secure a property they are interested in. IOR’s Destination Services Consultants (DSCs) are wonderful resources to help assignees navigate a challenging market, and have the knowledge, resources, and relationships to make home finding a breeze. Assignees can expect to pay from $1,700+ USD/month for a 1-bedroom apartment.
Where to Live
Single assignees and those looking for more lively areas will look towards the vibrant neighborhood of Downtown SLC (1-bedrooms from $1,900 USD/month). Connected to the Light Rail System, and nearby to great food, nightlife, and entertainment, this area offers plenty to do. Another option that has become quite popular is the Sugar House neighborhood (1-bedrooms from $1,700 USD/month). Just south of the city center, this area has an urban feel, is very walkable, and has lots of dining and shopping.
There is no shortage of options for assignees with families. There are plenty of different areas in the SLC metro to suit all interests, and perhaps just as important, your commuting needs. Those looking to be close to the Wasatch Mountains can look towards the suburbs of Millcreek, Sandy, Draper, and Lehi. The master-planned area of Daybreak is also a beautiful and unique mountain-side area known for its diverse residents (3-bedrooms from $2,000-3,000 USD/month).
Insider Tips
Get ahead of the game. You will find that many listed properties are currently occupied and are not available for immediate move ins. Rental listings for apartments are now being posted up to 60 days in advance, and single family homes can be posted even further out. This makes it critical for assignees to start their search in advance and be ready to move quickly.
Check your calendar. SLC is a place with strong religious ties, which sometimes reflect in daily life. As a result, many property management companies and private landlords do not offer showings on Sundays.
Local Insights
There are many entertainment options in SLC. For culture goers, be sure to check out the Gallery Stroll on the 3rd Friday of every month, where over 20 galleries are open to the public featuring urban, contemporary, rustic, and other fine art. If you’re more of a movie goer, catch out the latest releases and get a slice of Americana by taking the group to the Redwood Drive In.
We all know that Salt Lake City is a skiing destination, but there’s so much more to this outdoor lover’s paradise! Gorgeous mountains, canyons, forests, and waterfalls make this area a great place to hike. Families and friends love to fish, tube, raft, and kayak down the beautiful Provo River. Another extremely cool outdoor adventure is heading out to Antelope Island State Park, a designated International Dark Sky Park. Salt Lakers head here for unbelievable stargazing, photography, and astronomy tours. Although many talk about SLC’s unique liquor laws, it is surely a city to satisfy your sweet tooth and get a (sugar) buzz! There are a number of great homemade donut options, like Banburry Cross Donuts. Head to Swig for custom craft sodas, grab an ice cream milkshake from Iceberg Drive In, and of course we cannot forget about Sweet Rolled Tacos, featuring over 20 different hand-crafted ice cream tacos!
