Written by chorton | Last updated on July 14, 2023
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Even outside the congested sprawl that is New York City, moving anywhere in New York State has benefits. The state is busy, beautiful and full of potential.
Whether you’re set on big city living or want to take advantage of the fall foliage and outdoor space upstate, if you want to call New York home, you’re going to need to take a close look at your budget. Calculating your cost of living, based on New York State prices, is a great way to start. Consider costs in these essential areas to see if this northeastern state is right for you.
New York Housing prices
It’s no secret that New York, overall, is an expensive place to live. Especially in and around The Big Apple, housing prices can skyrocket to the point that you’re cramming five people into a one-bedroom apartment.
That said, there’s always a deal to find, even if it means living a little further out than you’d anticipated. Here’s the cost of living in New York for housing in major cities.
Albany
As the state capital, Albany sits upstate along the Hudson River with a thriving urban center. It’s known for its diverse culture, great architecture and a lot of college students. Housing prices here are on the rise at 6.2 percent above the national average.
Rent prices are increasing only slightly year-over-year, keeping things pretty affordable. A one-bedroom apartment averages out to $1,267 per month, up 3 percent over last year. A two-bedroom apartment averages out to $1,465 per month, up 9 percent over last year.
Housing prices are also increasing at about the same rate, up 4.4 percent over last year. The median home price in Albany is currently $235,000.
Brooklyn
The largest New York City borough when it comes to population, Brooklyn is well-known for its people. The diverse crowd comes from all over the world, many to orchestrate a start-up or pursue an opportunity at one that’s taken off. A trendy place, that’s easy to navigate, Brooklyn is an attractive home for a lot of people, which is most likely why its housing prices are 196.7 percent above the national average.
Although rent prices are coming down in Brooklyn, when compared to last year, they’re still on the higher end. A one-bedroom apartment, down 25 percent, still has an average monthly rent of $2,600. Two-bedroom apartment prices have dropped by 53 percent, but are still $2,650 per month, on average.
Home prices are on the rise and pricy. The median home price in Brooklyn is $1.02 million, up 3 percent over last year.
Buffalo
The only city on the list coming in under the national average for housing, Buffalo is 6.8 percent below. The second-largest city in the state, situated right on Lake Erie, is what you think when. you think upstate.
Rents in Buffalo offer a mixed picture. One-bedroom apartments are up 5 percent, and two-bedroom apartments are down by 12 percent. This may make renting more affordable than buying since home prices are on the rise.
An average one-bed rents for $1,327 per month, a two-bed is at an average of $1,446 per month, but median home sales in Buffalo sit at $216,00, which is an 8 percent increase over last year.
Manhattan
As the literal center of everything, it’s no surprise housing prices in Manhattan are 382.7 percent above the national average (wow!). This is the most densely populated of the five boroughs, home to the Empire State Building, Times Square and Broadway. It’s also a major commercial, financial and cultural center. You get it all.
Average apartment rent aligns with this heightened housing cost. At $4,517 per month, finding an affordable place could be a challenge.
Home prices aren’t much better. The median home price in Manhattan, which stayed the same as last year, is currently $1.2 million.
Queens
Situated on Long Island, Queens is home to the U.S. Open tennis tournament, as well as great museums, restaurants and attractions. It’s also considered one of the safest New York City boroughs to live in and a great place for families. These attractive qualities have definitely boosted housing prices, which are 109.1 percent higher than the national average.
Apartment rent isn’t very cheap either, although prices are rising slowly. The average one-bedroom rent is $1,900, up 6 percent over last year, and two-bedrooms have an average monthly cost of $2,300, up 15 percent.
House prices are up 2.3 percent from last year. The median home price in Queens is pretty high though at $706,000.
Food prices
Another cost of living in New York is food. Averaging in all of New York State, food prices aren’t that expensive. The average New Yorker only spends between $233 and $267 per month on groceries, which isn’t that much. Of course, it depends a lot on where you live, whether you fit into what’s ‘average.’
Buffalo is 4.6 percent below the national average
Albany is 12.9 percent above the national average
Queens is 25.7 percent above the national average
Brooklyn is 29.2 percent above the national average
Manhattan is 44.4 percent above the national average
It’s no surprise that food prices are higher the closer in you get to New York City. You can see these differences much better when looking at the cost of individual items. For example, eggs in Manhattan are 38 percent more than eggs in Buffalo. Bananas in Brooklyn are 18 percent more than bananas in Albany.
This same price difference is apparent when on a date for two. A three-course meal in Brooklyn for you and a special someone is $90, but that same meal only costs you $73 in Buffalo. That’s a 19 percent difference just to live in the city.
Utility prices
Throughout New York State, utility prices hover pretty close to the average across the country. Two cities even tie, with utility prices slightly below average.
Albany and Buffalo tie at 4.6 percent below the national average
Manhattan is 3.3 percent above the national average
Queens is 4.4 percent above the national average
Brooklyn is 6.6 percent above the national average
Even with reasonable utility prices, monthly energy bills are high, on average, in every city on the list. They’re all above $150, with some even close to $200. It makes sense, though, when you think about how much electricity it takes to power this state, most of it concentrated in those neon signs in Times Square (they’re bright).
However, even with this energy consumption, the state’s Clean Energy Standard mandates New York provide 100 percent carbon-free electricity from all sources by 2040. They’re moving in the right direction for this cost of living in New York.
Transportation prices
Public transportation is big throughout New York, which is good because driving in some areas is downright intimidating. This includes city driving, as well as navigating all that winter snow. With a combination of buses, trains and your own car, here’s how the cities stack up when it comes to transportation prices as a cost of living in New York.
Buffalo is 0.6 percent below the national average
Albany is 0.8 percent above the national average
Queens is 9.2 percent above the national average
Brooklyn is 14.9 percent above the national average
Manhattan is 17.6 percent above the national average
Depending on where in New York you live, a car may really not be necessary. Public transportation in certain spots is amazing, and all five boroughs have impressive walk and bike scores. Manhattan, for example, has a walk score of 97 and a bike score of 87. You can definitely get around there without a vehicle.
NYC MTA
The New York City MTA extends its reach to all five boroughs, including Manhattan, Brooklyn and Queens. With subway, bus and rail lines, you can really get just about anywhere you need with the MTA.
Fares vary based on what line you’re riding and whether it’s an express. Most subway routes and local busses cost $2.75 per way. The express bus is $6.75.
The best way to use the MTA hassle-free is with a MetroCard. The cards themselves cost $1 plus the fee for the type of card you want. You also get unlimited swipes within a certain amount of time. For example, a 30-day unlimited MetroCard costs $127, but you get unlimited subway swipes for those 30 days.
CDTA in Albany
The Capital District Transportation Authority offers bus routes throughout Albany, but also services other cities within the Capital Region of the state. In Albany alone, there are 40 different routes.
The base fare for a ride on the CDTA is $1.50. For the most cost-effective ride, residents use a Navigator card which lets you add pay-as-you-go funds or buy a discounted monthly pass.
NFTA Metro in Buffalo
A combination bus and rail system, the NFTA actually covers both the Erie and Niagara Counties of New York. Within the heart of Buffalo, the rail system gets you where you need to go.
A standard fare is $2 for all NFTA Metro services. Monthly passes are also available for $75. There’s also a mobile app you can use to buy Metro funds to board both buses and the rail system.
Healthcare prices
Overall, the cost of living in New York for healthcare prices are pretty reasonable, with no city that much higher than the national average.
Buffalo is 8.2 percent below the national average
Brooklyn is 4.2 percent above the national average
Queens is 4.9 percent above the national average
Manhattan is 7.9 percent above the national average
Albany is 11.3 percent above the national average
Interestingly enough, the highest overall city, when it comes to healthcare prices, has the least expensive average doctor visit. Albany costs $99 on average to see the doc, while the most expensive visit will be in Queens at $132.86.
Goods and services prices
Overall, most of the things you have in your budget that aren’t completely necessary, but you really like having, cost more in New York, on average, than around the country.
Buffalo is 8.3 percent below the national average
Albany is 13.9 percent above the national average
Queens is 20.2 percent above the national average
Brooklyn is 23.8 percent above the national average
Manhattan is 33.1 percent above the national average
The sticker shock of childcare
One other item in the goods and services category that can really shift your monthly budget is childcare. Maybe you don’t need to pay for this now, but it’s a pricy item in New York, so it’s good to know.
A full-day, private preschool costs $2,043 per month in Brooklyn. Prices in other boroughs exceed $1,100 per month, as well. It’s not until you get further away, to Buffalo, that this cost dips below the $1,000 market. Preschool in Buffalo only averages out to $935.42.
Taxes in New York
Sales tax in New York can get high fast. The state has a sales tax of only 4 percent, but local areas can then add up to 4.875 to that total. That means the most you could possibly pay in sales tax is 8.88 percent. At this level, for every $1,000 you spend shopping, you’re automatically forking over $88.80 straight in taxes. That’s a high markup.
Of course, the areas within New York City max out their sales tax. Manhattan, Brooklyn and Queens all have an 8.88 percent sales tax rate. Buffalo is barely less at 8.75, and Albany is only slightly lower right at an even 8 percent.
Altogether, it’s expensive to shop (and live) in New York (but you knew that already).
How much do I need to earn to live in New York?
Living in New York comes with a hefty price tag, so it’s very important you calculate your cost of living properly in order to ensure your budget can handle it. The best way to do this is with our rent calculator, but there are a few basic numbers you can crunch, as well.
One of them is calculating how much you’d need to make annually to afford the average New York rent, which is $2,355 per month. To do this, you need to put 30 percent of your annual salary to rent. So, at this average price, you’d need to make $94,200 a year.
This is possible, but not always probable being that the average annual income in New York is only $88,030. This number comes close, but a few places may still be out of reach unless you bring in a roommate to supplement costs. That’s a game-changer for the budget.
Living in New York
The most amazing thing about New York is the assortment of lifestyles you can lead. You can take urban living to the extreme throughout New York City, or slow things down upstate. Sometimes, your budget will drive where you end up, and sometimes, you’ll cram yourself into a tiny apartment with roommates just to live in the middle of the action. Either way, New York has so much to offer and is a great place to take up residence.
Related articles:
The Cost of Living Index comes from coli.org.
The rent information included in this summary is based on a calculation of multifamily rental property inventory on Rent. as of June 2022.
Rent prices are for illustrative purposes only. This information does not constitute a pricing guarantee or financial advice related to the rental market.
The average cost of homeowners insurance in Kansas is $2,955 per year, or about $246 per month, according to a NerdWallet analysis. That’s more than the national average of $1,820 per year.
Note: Some insurance companies included in this article may have made changes in their underwriting practices and no longer issue new policies in your state. Even if an insurer serves your state, it may not write policies for all homes in all areas.
Why you can trust NerdWallet
Our writers and editors follow strict editorial guidelines to ensure fairness and accuracy in our writing and data analyses. You can trust the prices we show you because our data analysts take rigorous measures to eliminate inaccuracies in pricing data and may update rates for accuracy as new information becomes available.
We include rates from every locale in the country where coverage is offered and data is available. When comparing rates for different coverage amounts and backgrounds, we change only one variable at a time, so you can easily see how each factor affects pricing.
Our sample homeowner had good credit, $300,000 of dwelling coverage, $300,000 of liability coverage and a $1,000 deductible.
The best homeowners insurance in Kansas
If you’re looking to buy homeowners insurance from a well-rated national brand, consider one of these insurers from NerdWallet’s list of the best homeowners insurance companies.
More about the best home insurance companies in Kansas
State Farm
Well-established insurer with a lengthy list of coverage options.
Coverage options
More than average
Average set of discounts
NAIC complaints
Fewer than expected
State Farm
Well-established insurer with a lengthy list of coverage options.
Coverage options
More than average
Average set of discounts
NAIC complaints
Fewer than expected
State Farm is a great choice for homeowners who like to work directly with a representative, as the company sells policies through a wide network of agents. And its attention to customer service has paid off; the company has fewer customer complaints to state regulators than expected for a company of its size.
State Farm offers a free Ting device as a perk for home insurance policyholders. Ting is a smart plug that monitors your home’s electrical network to help prevent fires.
Chubb
Perks and high coverage limits for affluent homeowners.
Coverage options
About average
Great set of discounts
NAIC complaints
Far fewer than expected
Chubb
Perks and high coverage limits for affluent homeowners.
Coverage options
About average
Great set of discounts
NAIC complaints
Far fewer than expected
Chubb generally serves affluent policyholders with high-value homes, offering lofty coverage limits and plenty of perks. For example, the company covers water damage from backed-up sewers and drains, and it pays to bring your home up to the latest building codes during reconstruction after a claim. (Many insurers charge more for these types of coverage.)
Chubb policyholders may also be able to take advantage of the company’s HomeScan service, which uses infrared cameras to look for problems behind the walls of your home.
Farmers
Those seeking benefits like diminishing deductibles and claims forgiveness may want to consider Farmers.
Coverage options
More than average
Average set of discounts
NAIC complaints
Fewer than expected
Farmers
Those seeking benefits like diminishing deductibles and claims forgiveness may want to consider Farmers.
Coverage options
More than average
Average set of discounts
NAIC complaints
Fewer than expected
Homeowners policies from Farmers may include two valuable types of insurance: extended dwelling and replacement cost coverage. Extended dwelling coverage gives you extra insurance for the structure of your house, while replacement cost coverage offers higher reimbursement for stolen or destroyed belongings.
Some Farmers policies also come with perks that can save you money. For example, with claim forgiveness, Farmers won’t raise your rate for a claim as long as you haven’t filed one within the past five years.
American Family
Comprehensive coverage for homeowners in 19 states, mostly in the West and Midwest.
Coverage options
More than average
Average set of discounts
NAIC complaints
Fewer than expected
American Family
Comprehensive coverage for homeowners in 19 states, mostly in the West and Midwest.
Coverage options
More than average
Average set of discounts
NAIC complaints
Fewer than expected
Founded in Madison, Wisconsin, American Family receives fewer consumer complaints than expected for a company of its size. You may be able to customize your policy with optional add-ons such as identity theft, equipment breakdown or service line coverage, which pays for repairs to water, power or other underground lines that run to your house.
Homeowners may be able to save on their premiums by installing smart-home devices, bundling multiple policies or setting up automatic payments.
USAA
Offers perks and affordable rates for the military community.
Coverage options
Below average
Average set of discounts
NAIC complaints
Far fewer than expected
USAA
Offers perks and affordable rates for the military community.
Coverage options
Below average
Average set of discounts
NAIC complaints
Far fewer than expected
USAA sells homeowners insurance to veterans, active-duty military members and their families. If you fall into one of those groups, you might want to look into USAA’s offerings. The company’s homeowners policies include some unique perks such as deductible-free coverage for military uniforms and coverage for identity theft.
Homeowners in Kansas can take part in the company’s Connected Home program, which gives you a discount on your policy if you buy and install approved smart-home devices. These include water leak sensors, cameras and thermostats.
How much does homeowners insurance cost in Kansas?
The average annual cost of home insurance in Kansas is $2,955. That’s 62% more than the national average of $1,820.
In most states, including Kansas, many insurers use your credit-based insurance score to help set rates. Your insurance score is similar but not identical to your traditional credit score.
In Kansas, those with poor credit pay an average of $5,195 per year for homeowners insurance, according to NerdWallet’s rate analysis. That’s 76% more than those with good credit.
Average cost of homeowners insurance in Kansas by city
How much you pay for homeowners insurance in Kansas depends on where you live. For instance, the average cost of home insurance in Wichita is $3,250 per year, while homeowners in Topeka pay $2,605 per year, on average.
Average annual rate
Average monthly rate
Dodge City
Garden City
Hutchinson
Junction City
Kansas City
Leavenworth
Overland Park
The cheapest home insurance in Kansas
Here are the insurers we found with average annual rates below the Kansas average of $2,955.
What to know about Kansas homeowners insurance
When shopping for the best home insurance in Kansas, make sure to consider the potential for severe weather, including tornadoes, hailstorms, snowstorms, earthquakes and flooding. Read your policy carefully so you understand what’s covered and what isn’t.
Tornadoes
As part of Tornado Alley, Kansas gets more tornadoes than most states, seeing 68 tornadoes in 2022
. These storms can seriously damage homes, including roofing, windows and the structure itself.
Most home insurance will cover damage caused by strong winds. However, Kansans may have a separate wind and hail deductible, typically 1% to 2% of the dwelling coverage limit, which is the amount your insurer will pay to rebuild your house. So if your wind deductible is 1% and your house has $250,000 of dwelling coverage, you’d have to pay for the first $2,500 of wind damage yourself.
Another factor to consider is the cost of rebuilding your home if it’s destroyed. Talk to your insurer to make sure you have enough dwelling coverage to rebuild should that happen.
Flooding
Flooding is a concern for homeowners throughout Kansas because of heavy rain or rapid snowmelt. Standard homeowners insurance policies typically do not cover flood damage, so homeowners in flood-prone areas may need to buy separate flood insurance to protect their property from water damage.
To find out your risk, check out the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s flood maps and RiskFactor.com, a website from the nonprofit First Street Foundation. Even if your property is deemed low-risk, it may be worthwhile to buy flood insurance for extra peace of mind.
Remember that while you can buy flood coverage at any time, there’s typically a 30-day waiting period before the insurance takes effect. Here’s more information about flood insurance and waiting periods.
Thunderstorms and hail
Kansas is no stranger to spring storms, including punishing hailstorms bringing softball-sized hail that can damage your home. As with tornadoes, you may have a separate wind/hail deductible, typically 1% to 2% of your dwelling coverage.
Winter storms
Kansas can see harsh winter conditions, from freezing temperatures to blustering blizzards. A chilly winter wonderland can cause problems for Kansas homeowners, including frozen pipes or roof collapse under the weight of snow.
Homeowners insurance generally covers winter-related damage, but some types of damage may require extra coverage. For instance, you’ll typically need a separate flood insurance policy to cover flood damage caused by snowmelt.
Earthquakes
While not a massive risk for Kansas, the prevalence of earthquakes has increased over recent years, especially along the state’s southern border. However, standard homeowners insurance policies do not typically cover structural damage caused by earthquakes. You’d need to buy additional earthquake insurance.
Earthquake insurance often has a separate deductible, which can be between 5% and 25% of your dwelling coverage limit. If you have a 5% deductible on $200,000 of coverage, you’d need to pay $10,000 to repair earthquake damage before your insurance covers anything.
Kansas Insurance Department
The Kansas Insurance Department regulates the state’s insurance industry and provides consumer education on insurance and securities. The department’s staff can answer your questions about insurance by email at [email protected] or by phone at 800-432-2484.
Additionally, if you have a complaint about your insurer, the Kansas Insurance Department serves as an advocate. You can file a complaint online or can send in the consumer complaint form via mail or email.
Amanda Shapland contributed to this story.
Frequently asked questions
Is homeowners insurance required in Kansas?
Home insurance is not required by Kansas state law. However, your lender may require you to buy home insurance.
Does Kansas home insurance cover earthquakes?
Standard home insurance in Kansas does not cover earthquakes. If you live in a higher-risk area of the state, you may want to investigate separate earthquake insurance.
How can I save money on homeowners insurance in Kansas?
There are several ways to save money on home insurance in Kansas:
Shop around to make sure you’re getting the best rate.
Choose a higher deductible. In case of any claims, you’ll pay more out of pocket, but your premiums will be lower.
Embarking on the path to homeownership in Utah? Look no further – this Redfin guide is your key to understanding the nuances of purchasing a home in the Beehive State. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast seeking the perfect mountain retreat, an adventure seeker drawn to the state’s outdoor playground, or someone eager to become a part of its warm and tight-knit communities, Utah is a wonderful place to call home.
You might be interested in the buzz of Salt Lake City or the quiet charm of smaller towns – either way, Utah’s housing market covers all bases. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or a seasoned homeowner, this Redfin guide will help you navigate the homebuying process in Utah. Let’s dive in.
What’s it like to live in Utah?
Living in Utah seamlessly combines natural wonders and inviting communities. With mountains hovering over cities like the snow-clad Wasatch Range, you’ll be able to hit the slopes in renowned ski destinations like Deer Valley. Alternatively, you could visit the beauty of Zion National Park, a testament to Utah’s diverse geography. Utah is also known for hosting lively events throughout the state, such as the prestigious Sundance Film Festival in Park City, one of the largest independent film festivals in the world. Check out this article to learn more about the pros and cons of living in Utah.
Utah housing market insights
The Utah housing market is currently undergoing a series of interesting trends. The median sale price is $543,700, marking a 3.3% decline from the previous year. This shift is accompanied by a decrease in housing demand and a corresponding reduction in supply. Despite the lack of demand, notably competitive cities include Taylorsville, West Valley City, and Cottonwood Heights, where the housing market activity is particularly pronounced. On the flip side, cities like Vernal, Pleasant Grove, and Riverton are making their mark with rapid growth in sale prices, positioning them among the top 10 metros in Utah experiencing this upward trajectory. These dynamics create a diverse landscape within Utah’s housing market, offering challenges and opportunities for those looking to buy.
Finding your perfect location in Utah
Discovering your ideal location in Utah is pivotal to crafting a fulfilling lifestyle. Utah offers diverse settings that cater to individual preferences. Choosing the right spot by using tools like a cost of living calculator ensures access to activities and communities that align with your values, setting the stage for your journey in the Beehive State. To kick-start your exploration, here are five popular Utah cities.
#1: Logan, UT
Median home price: $360,000 Logan, UT homes for sale
Living in Logan includes a blend of a college town and stunning natural surroundings. Home to Utah State University, the city boasts youthful energy with cultural events and educational opportunities. Residents can stroll along the charming Main Street, explore the nearby Cache National Forest for outdoor adventures, and savor local produce at the Cache Valley Farmers Market.
#2: Ogden, UT
Median home price: $365,500 Ogden, UT homes for sale
The city’s revitalized downtown hosts lively art galleries, restaurants, and seasonal events, creating an exciting cultural scene. Outdoor enthusiasts can easily access nearby attractions like Snowbasin Resort for skiing or hiking in the stunning Ogden Canyon. At the same time, the scenic Ogden River Parkway provides a serene backdrop for leisurely walks and biking.
#3: Provo, UT
Median home price: $440,000 Provo, UT homes for sale
Home to Brigham Young University, the city exudes a youthful atmosphere with cultural events. Some events include the First Friday Art Gallery Stroll and the Freedom Festival. Residents can hike up Y Mountain for panoramic views, explore the historic downtown with its local shops and eateries, and take advantage of the Provo River for recreational activities like fishing and tubing. The cost of living in Provo is 4% higher than in Ogden, mainly attributed to housing, groceries, and lifestyle experiences.
#4: St. George, UT
Median home price: $523,000 St. George, UT homes for sale
The city’s warm climate makes it an ideal destination for golfing, hiking in Snow Canyon State Park, and exploring Zion National Park’s stunning red rock landscapes. Residents can also enjoy cultural events like the St. George Art Festival, showcasing local artists, and immerse themselves in the city’s historical sites, such as the Brigham Young Winter Home. However, the cost of living in St. George is 7% higher than the national median, so if you’re on a budget, you’ll want to check out affordable suburbs outside downtown.
#5: Salt Lake City, UT
Median home price: $595,000 Salt Lake City, UT homes for sale
With a backdrop of the majestic Wasatch Mountains, moving to Salt Lake City, you can enjoy skiing in nearby resorts like Alta and Snowbird or hiking in Millcreek Canyon. The city’s cultural scene thrives through events like the Utah Arts Festival, and residents can explore historical sites such as Temple Square or immerse themselves in contemporary cuisine and art galleries in the vibrant downtown area.
The homebuying process in Utah
Now that you’ve discovered some popular locations, let’s dive into the homebuying process.
1. Prioritize your finances
Prioritizing your finances first in the homebuying process in Utah is crucial to ensure a stable investment and a comfortable financial future. With factors like varying home prices, mortgage rates, and property taxes, a solid financial foundation, coupled with tools like an affordability calculator, allows you to navigate the market more effectively and make well-informed decisions.
Various programs are available for first-time homebuyers in Utah, including the Federal Home Loan Bank: Home$tart Program, which can assist with up to $7,500 in down payment assistance.
2. Get pre-approved from a lender
Getting pre-approved from a lender is essential when purchasing a house in Utah. The pre-approval clearly understands your budget, strengthens your negotiating power, and expedites the buying process by demonstrating your seriousness to sellers.
3. Connect with a local agent in Utah
Local real estate agents possess in-depth knowledge of the area’s neighborhoods, market trends, and potential pitfalls, ensuring you make informed decisions and find a property that aligns with your needs and budget. So whether you need a real estate agent in Salt Lake City or an agent in Provo, they’re here to help.
4. Start touring homes
During home tours, focus on the home’s condition, layout, and potential for future renovations. Additionally, pay attention to the neighborhood, nearby amenities, and commute times to ensure that the property aligns with your lifestyle and preferences in the beautiful Utah environment.
5. Make the offer
Making an offer in Utah involves careful consideration of the property’s market value, recent comparable sales, and any unique factors that might influence the negotiation. Your local real estate agent can provide valuable insights into crafting a competitive offer that reflects the current market conditions while aligning with your budget and goals.
6. Close on the house
The closing process in Utah is the final step of the homebuying process, where ownership is officially transferred. It involves legal and financial procedures, including signing documents, paying closing costs, and finalizing the mortgage. Working closely with your real estate agent and lender ensures a smooth and successful closing experience in Utah’s real estate landscape.Check out Redfin’s First-Time Homebuyer Guide for more in-depth information about the homebuying process.
Factors to consider when buying a house in Utah
Along with the geographical location of Utah, there are essential factors to consider when buying a home.
Climate and weather
Utah’s weather varies significantly between regions, with colder winters, potentially heavy snowfall in mountainous areas, and arid, hot summers in lower elevations that can contribute to wildfires. It’s essential to consider the weather when buying a house, not only for lifestyle reasons but also for practical matters like homeowners insurance that may vary based on the climate and potential weather-related risks.
Water rights and usage
Understanding water rights and usage is crucial when purchasing a house in Utah due to its arid climate and unique water management system. With water scarcity a potential concern, comprehending how water is allocated, any restrictions on usage, and the availability of water sources ensures you can sustainably maintain your property and lifestyle.
Homeowners associations
Many homes in Utah come with homeowners associations (HOAs) which are essential to note when buying a property, as these associations often have rules, regulations, and fees that can significantly impact your ownership experience. Understanding the HOA’s requirements, fees, and any restrictions they impose ensures that your lifestyle aligns with their guidelines and that you’re financially prepared for the associated costs.
Dual agency
Noting that Utah allows for dual agency is vital when navigating the real estate market, as it means a single real estate agent can represent both the buyer and the seller in a transaction. This arrangement requires high transparency and communication to protect both parties’ interests adequately.
Buying a house in Utah: Bottom line
Utah offers an enriching lifestyle with stunning landscapes, outdoor options, and community and cultural events. Assessing factors like housing market dynamics and living costs is important, but the opportunity to create a fulfilling life makes buying a house here a promising and exciting prospect.
Buying a house in Utah FAQs
What is the average down payment on a house in Utah?
The average down payment on a Utah house is typically 10% to 20% of the purchase price. For instance, on a $300,000 home, a 10% down payment is $30,000, while 20% is $60,000. Different loans impact this; FHA-backed loans often require around 3.5% down, like $10,500 on a $300,000 home. Down payment needs vary based on mortgage type, lender policies, credit history, etc.
Do you need a real estate agent to buy a house in Utah?
While not mandatory, having a real estate agent when buying a house in Utah is highly recommended. An experienced agent can provide valuable local market insights, guide you through complex paperwork and negotiations, and ensure you make informed decisions. Their expertise can streamline the process and help you find the right property while avoiding pitfalls.
Is buying a house in Utah expensive?
The cost of buying a house in Utah varies depending on factors like location and property type. The median sale price in Utah is $543,700, which is higher than the national median of $425,571. Generally, Utah offers a relatively affordable housing market compared to some other states, but prices can still vary widely within different cities and neighborhoods. Researching local market trends and working with a real estate professional can help gauge whether the cost aligns with your budget and preferences.
A landslide struck Laguna Beach’s Bluebird Canyon in 1978 — smashing cars, buckling streets and destroying 24 homes. An adjacent swath of earth broke loose in 2005, wiping out 12 more homes.
That wasn’t enough to keep Scott Tenney away. In 2010, Tenney and his wife, Mariella Simon, bought a 15-acre hillside ranch near the disaster area despite the listing warning that the property was on the site of an ancient landslide.
“We knew we’d have to do a bit of terracing and retaining, but California is what it is,” Tenney said. “It’s a dynamic place not just culturally, but geologically.”
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From an outside perspective, his might seem a confounding decision. But in Southern California it’s an extremely common one, because that geological diversity, as Tenney calls it, is not just the danger. It’s the allure.
Elevation has long been aspirational here — an escape from the urban flats.
Since settlers first started pouring in from the relative flatness of the East Coast and Midwest, they were captivated by California’s vertiginous landscape. Plein air painters flocked to capture the light of the arroyos. Health seekers sought the clean air of the San Gabriel foothills. Folk rockers found inspiration in Laurel and Topanga canyons. And the moneyed elite started building their houses higher and higher above the basin, forever seeking the trophy perch with the show-off view.
But that perch has always come at the risk of catastrophe. Homes slide into a gulch in Palos Verdes. Fires roar over the Malibu hills. A debris flow kills 23 people and destroys 130 homes in Montecito. Heavy snow traps thousands in the San Bernardino Mountains. And winter storms pull fragile bluffs into a rising sea.
These natural disasters so often occur where the tectonic plates collided and folded into beautiful vistas.
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While other regions may face only one main disaster threat — tornadoes in the Midwest, hurricanes on the Gulf and East coasts — California’s extreme topography brings siege from all sides: the ocean, the trees and brush, the sky above and the ground below. And oftentimes, the most attractive areas are some of the most dangerous.
A land of disasters
More and more people are crowding into the Wildland Urban Interface — the zone of transition between unoccupied land and human development. It’s where properties mingle with undeveloped (and often steep) land, and it’s uniquely susceptible to natural disasters.
According to the U.S. Fire Administration, this area grows by 2 million acres a year as people fan out to the edges of wilderness in search of affordable houses, more space or simply a break from life in the city. And California holds more homes in this dangerous zone than any other state in the country.
And prices keep soaring. It doesn’t matter if a house sits on stilts on the side of a cliff, if it’s a landslide complex slowly sliding toward the sea, or if it’s predicted to be knee-deep in water in a couple of generations — there will always be a buyer.
As Californians flock to risky areas, disasters take a greater toll. Over the last decade, the state has experienced 20 disasters that each cost at least $1 billion in damage from flooding, wildfire and extreme heat. Those 20 alone combined for 783 deaths, according to National Centers for Environmental Information.
According to the real estate listing database Redfin, the trend is nationwide. Last year, the country’s most flood-prone, heat-prone and fire-prone counties all saw more people move in than out. Redfin researcher Sheharyar Bokhari blames one primary factor: the housing affordability crisis.
“L.A. and most other coastal cities are expensive. With remote work becoming more of an option, people are finding they can have more space and finally afford a home if they move to riskier areas,” he said.
Bokhari said another L.A.-specific factor is development — mainly that there’s not as much being built in the city compared to the more rural areas surrounding it.
He points to the Inland Empire, which is typically more affordable than L.A. County. In Riverside County, roughly 600,000 homes face a high risk of wildfire, the most of any of the 306 high-fire-risk counties in the country. Despite that, the county’s population grew by 40,000 over the last two years.
Even if experts — and common sense — say to stay away from certain areas, Bokhari said that won’t likely happen because local governments aren’t incentivized to push people out.
“These disaster-prone cities need revenue and people paying taxes,” he said. “They just claim that they’ll be more resilient and take more safety measures going forward,” he said.
Where else would I go?
Since moving onto the ancient landslide zone, Tenney and his wife founded Bluebird Canyon Farms, which offers workshops and grows food for local markets. His time is split between that and taming the erosion-prone land beneath the farm.
To combat sliding land, Tenney installed a gravity wall, 200 feet long and 9 feet tall, to retain the hillside. In addition to grading the terrain to make the slopes gentler, he added powerful drainage systems and timber-and-concrete cribbing to keep structures in place.
The work never stops, and Tenney keeps a monthly schedule to keep up with tasks. Clear brush in spring. Clean storm drains in September. Inspect terracing every few months.
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“You can run but you can’t hide,” he said, adding that urban centers such as L.A. have their own laundry lists of things to worry about: crime, homelessness, etc. “You won’t experience a wildfire in downtown L.A., but there are plenty of other things to be concerned with.”
Cribbing systems used by Tenney have become commonplace in Portuguese Bend, a small coastal community on the Palos Verdes Peninsula situated on a slow-moving landslide complex. Land moves up to 8 feet a year, and at that rate residents would rather ride the sliding earth toward the sea than sell and move somewhere else.
“I’ll be here until I can’t be here anymore. I’ll slide away with the land,” Claudia Gutierrez told The Times in July after a nearby landslide in Rolling Hills Estates sent a handful of homes careening down a canyon.
You’d think the real estate market in disaster-prone areas would eventually slow down, but there are no deals to be found for house hunters. Longtime residents often stay put post-disaster, and incoming residents consistently pay a premium to live in a scenic, though potentially dangerous, area.
In cities tucked among the foothills of the Verdugo and San Gabriel mountains such as Altadena and La Cañada Flintridge, buying in a high-fire-risk zone might be ever-so-slightly cheaper than buying in a safer place. And buyers pounce.
“My clients try to choose low-fire-risk zones, but if the house in the fire zone is the right price, that is more important,” said Brent Chang of Compass.
When Lisa and Michael McKean got home to Malibu Park from their honeymoon on Nov. 8, 2018, they were so exhausted that they went straight to sleep. The newlyweds didn’t even bother unpacking their suitcases of swimsuits still wet with Caribbean saltwater.
When they woke up, Lisa looked out her back window and saw a 10,000-foot cloud of billowing black smoke.
The Woolsey fire was ravaging the Malibu hills.
The pair grabbed their still-packed suitcases and fled to the Zuma Beach parking lot, where they spent the day surrounded by horses, dogs, cats and neighbors all wondering if their homes would survive.
Theirs, built a year earlier, did not.
“The entire neighborhood burned,” Lisa said. “Everything was black, scorched earth.”
Devastated, the pair spent six months crunching numbers on the cost of rebuilding versus moving. The home that was destroyed had taken four years to approve and three years to build. Their next one could take even longer.
Despite the damage, and despite the ceaseless, inescapable risk of a future fire, they ultimately decided to stay and rebuild.
Cheryl Calvert has lived in Malibu since 1985 and has adapted to a life of fire. To her, the flames are nearly routine.
“Once you make it through your first one, you realize it’s manageable. But you have to plan ahead,” Calvert said.
She keeps two bags packed at all times: one full of goggles and N95 masks and one with dog supplies.
Calvert has experienced plenty of fires during her time in the coastal community, but the worst was the Corral fire in 2007. She was in the driveway as the flames arrived, and she sprayed the corner of her wooden home with a hose as it ignited. Her guesthouse and garage burned down, but the house was saved.
She never considered leaving. Instead, she became more prepared, installing an extra water tank and leaving a pair of shoes by the front door at all times for quick escapes.
“We have to do crazy things, but it’s only crazy for an hour or two every five or 10 years,” she said.
She ran down the usual list of reasons why people move to Malibu: the beautiful landscape, the ocean breeze, the sweeping views. But she said the main reason her and so many of her neighbors stay is because of the community.
“We’re all living near like-minded people who are willing to risk themselves for each other,” she said. “It’s a bunch of hippies. Rich hippies.”
The psychology of staying
A life among the trees, coasts and cliffs is often what lures Californians to disaster-prone communities, but according to experts, the factors that make them stay after a disaster strikes are much more complicated.
Age, race and class can all indicate whether someone is more or less likely to move after experiencing a disaster. For example, Zhen Cong, professor of environmental health sciences at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, found that in the wake of tornados, the middle class might be the most inclined to move since the upper class has the resources to stay and rebuild, while the lower class is often trapped and has no other choice but to stay.
Other relocation factors include the level of damage to the home and whether the person owns the place or rents. But often the most important factor is one that can’t be easily quantified: “People who have a strong sense of place and a strong sense of community are less likely to move,” Cong said.
Ironically, some disasters can even encourage people who otherwise would have left to stay.
In studying post-tornado relocation decisions across the country, Cong found that after a disaster, people increase their disaster preparedness. Part of that includes gathering supplies, but it also includes social engagement: talking to neighbors, sharing information on social media and attending meetings. That engagement, which might not happen if a tornado doesn’t strike, brings a greater sense of community, leading people to stay in that community.
Anamaria Bukvic, an assistant professor at Virginia Tech who studies coastal hazards and population displacement, found that after Hurricane Sandy struck the East Coast in 2012, non-geophysical factors mattered the most in deciding whether to stay or leave. For example, confidence in adapting to future disasters was a more relevant indicator if someone would stay than how close they lived to the ocean.
“The experience of flooding can be emotionally disturbing and traumatic,” Bukvic said. “When facing problems, some people try to avoid them. Others try to resolve them.”
She added that confidence in government plays a major role as well. If a person believes the government responded well to the disaster and will keep them safe during the next disaster, they’re more likely to stay.
That’s something that Malibu Mayor Bruce Silverstein thinks about when overseeing the city’s disaster response plan. Although L.A. County is responsible for physically fighting the fires that plague the area, Malibu has instituted a free service in which residents can request a fire-hardening expert to inspect their property to better prepare them for the next blaze.
The city also outlaws certain types of vegetation susceptible to fire and tries to prevent excessive population growth in order to make evacuation from hills and canyons easier during emergencies. It’s the main reason accessory dwelling units (ADUs) are harder to build in Malibu than L.A.
“Unlike L.A., we don’t have standards that encourage growth,” Silverstein said. “We maintain the status quo and try to keep space between properties so if one catches on fire, it doesn’t extend to the neighbors.”
Michael Dyer, a former Santa Barbara County fire chief who now serves as public safety director for Calabasas, said safety became a top priority for the city after Woolsey, energizing the community into forming multiple volunteer commissions that plan for disaster preparedness.
“We have to provide that service as a government,” Dyer said while monitoring a brush fire in Topanga from his front porch. “No one has forgotten Woolsey yet. And as long as I’m here, we won’t.”
No simple fix
As the climate crisis worsens and the Wildland Urban Interface grows in size, experts are eyeing ways to mitigate the effects of natural disasters to save both the environment and human lives.
L.A. is currently considering an ordinance that would limit development in the Santa Monica Mountains. Using recent wildfires and the Rolling Hills Estates landslide as examples, supporters said the measure would make it harder to build mansions and large hillside homes as a way to limit damage caused by disasters, as well as protect open space and wildlife.
In addition, national insurers such as State Farm and Allstate are no longer selling insurance policies in wildfire-prone areas after a series of catastrophic fires raised premiums. Without insurance, people might be disincentivized from buying and building homes in risky areas.
Redfin is also tinkering with a way to warn people of a home’s potential dangers. The company conducted an experiment in which it showed a listing’s flood risk score to certain users but not others and found that those who were shown the scores were less likely to bid on the home.
The scores have since expanded to show risk for fire, heat, drought and storms.
In the meantime, Californians continue to build, and rebuild, in disaster-prone areas. Lisa and Michael McKean, whose home burned down in 2018, moved back into Malibu Park in 2021.
As neighbors slowly filter back into the neighborhood, they walk around to measure progress and congratulate those who have returned.
“We used to hate cement trucks and jackhammers, but now we celebrate them,” Michael said. “The cheery sound of construction.”
Michigan is a special state. It’s not too big and not too small, yet four great lakes touch it. You can get to Lake Superior, Lake Michigan, Lake Huron and Lake Erie all without crossing a state border. That spells out plenty of water-based, outdoor activity for sure, but that’s only one feature of this affordable state.
Michigan’s cost of living is relatively reasonable, with plenty of pockets geared toward those working with a smaller budget. Basically, you have options when eyeing Michigan as your next home, but to make sure everything adds up, let’s look at the data.
By examining the averages within a variety of cost of living categories, you can get an idea of the real dollars and cents you need to call Michigan home. Will your budget stand up? Let’s check these categories out:
Michigan housing prices
The cost of living in Michigan for housing hit every point on the grid. You’ll find areas that slightly exceed the national average, come in a bit under and hit way below. That means there’s housing for everyone, at an affordable price point.
Detroit
Still rebounding from the hit it took during the last recession, Detroit today is all about small, tight-knit communities that give the area a welcoming feel. Housing prices are 5.1 percent above the national average, but there are plenty of classy fixer-uppers waiting for someone who wants a project.
Steeped in music and art, it’s not known as Detroit Rock City for nothing. And, as the home of Motown, this rich component to an overall intricate city history makes Detroit a great place to live.
Apartments in Detroit are actually seeing a downturn in pricing. One-bedroom apartments are down 7 percent over last year, with an average monthly rent of $1,195. Two-bedroom apartments are down even more, 18 percent over last year, with an average monthly rent of $1,575.
Home prices, on the other hand, are up 28.4. percent over last year. However, the median sale price of $95,000 is very reasonable.
Grand Rapids
As Michigan’s second-largest city, Grand Rapids combines the best of the best. The city has affordable housing prices that are 19.1 percent below the national average but isn’t without fun and culture. A growing art scene, excellent food and beer and easy access to nature keep locals busy. Grand Rapids has plenty of amenities but hasn’t yet handed in that small-town feel. It’s a great spot.
Rental prices are rising in Grand Rapids. Two-bedroom apartments are seeing the highest level of growth, up 26 percent from last year, but one-bedrooms are only slightly behind at 21 percent growth. A one-bedroom apartment rents for an average monthly cost of $1,187, while two-bedrooms are $1,467.
Home prices in the area are also experiencing growth, up 10 percent over last year. The median home sale price in Grand Rapids is $275,000.
Kalamazoo
With an eclectic and fun vibe, Kalamazoo has a lot going for it. From parks and lakes to craft beer and concerts, there’s no shortage of fun. There are also plenty of job opportunities and affordable housing. Home prices are 52.5 percent below the national average, which seems like a steal for all you get in this Western Michigan city.
Even with rent prices slowly creeping up, you should still have a lot of housing options. One-bedroom apartments, up 6 percent over last year, have an average monthly rent of $987. Two-bedroom apartments, also up 6 percent over last year, have an average monthly rent of $1,150.
Sale prices for homes are also equally reasonable. Up 10 percent over last year, the median home price in Kalamazoo is $220,000.
Michigan food prices
There are quite a few staple food items in Michigan, but the most iconic is the state’s pizza and its pasty. The pizzas are deep dish, with cheese to the very edge and toppings under the sauce. Pasty fillings include hearty ingredients like pork and potatoes, all encased in a pastry shell.
The great thing about these signature dishes is you can go out for them, or make them at home. For all those aspiring chefs, the average Michigan resident spends between $233 and $267 per month on groceries. The total grocery bill, though, varies based on average food prices.
Kalamazoo is 22.1 percent below the national average
Grand Rapids is 9.6 percent below the national average
Detroit is 2.8 percent above the national average
What does this really mean? Well, at the grocery store in Kalamazoo, you’ll see ground beef for $3.52 a pound. In Detroit, that same beef will cost you $5.74, 39 percent more. Back in Kalamazoo, a loaf of bread will cost $1.55, while in Grand Rapids, that bread is $3.66, a difference of 58 percent.
Eating out in Michigan aligns the cities a little differently. In this case Detroit will give you your least expensive three-course meal for two, but only by a few dollars. This date night out in Detroit will cost $55, but in Grand Rapids and Kalamazoo, the same meal will run you $57.50. All things considered, you’re going out for about the same price. Not too bad for your cost of living in Michigan for food.
Michigan utility prices
Your utilities will work hard during a Michigan winter. The average daily temperature during this time is below 41 degrees Fahrenheit. The snow season is even longer, lasting almost five months. February is the snowiest month with an average accumulation of 5.7 inches. All of this to say, make sure you live in a place with a good heater.
As a result of this lengthy winter, average utility costs are high in all three cities. They actually cluster pretty close together.
Kalamazoo is 4 percent below the national average
Detroit is 2.7 percent below the national average
Grand Rapids is 1.2 percent above the national average
Hanging so close to the national average across the state can mean pricer monthly energy bills, too. Anywhere from $166 to $180 is possible based on the energy averages in our three cities.
Michigan transportation prices
Transportation prices in Michigan also run on the higher side, closer to the national average. Since the state is rather large, a car is probably a requirement. That and most cities aren’t considered walkable, though they do have walkable areas. Both Grand Rapids and Detroit have high walk scores at 63 and 59, respectively. The cities are also considered bike friendly, although this most likely isn’t the case all year round.
Looking at the combined transportation costs:
Kalamazoo is 8.2 percent below the national average
Grand Rapids is 6.3 percent below the national average
Detroit is 1.6 percent above the national average
If public transportation is your strategy for cutting down on the costs of owning a car, you’re in luck, Michigan has 82 local public transit agencies across the state to help get you where you need to go.
Detroit DDOT
The Detroit Department of Transportation, or DDOT, currently runs 37 bus routes. The entire system has additional routes, but as of now, a handful of direct and express lines are temporarily suspended. In addition to this thorough bus system, there’s also the QLINE streetcar, which runs from downtown to the city’s north end hitting key stops along the Woodward Corridor.
While the streetcar is currently free to ride, DDOT passes are $14 for a seven-day pass and $50 for a 31-day pass.
Grand Rapids The Rapid
Using their city name rather appropriately, The Rapid includes an extensive list of routes with bus stops at every major point in the city. There are also two BRT lines that help commuters get across town easier.
A one-way fare is $1.75, but you have the option to get a single-day or 31-day pass. The single-day pass is $3.50, and the 31-day pass is $47.
Kalamazoo KMetro
The KMetro bus system operates 21 routes, but not all run on the weekends, so make sure you keep a schedule handy. Routes crisscross the heart of Kalamazoo and fan out in every direction, providing an extensive, local system.
A one-way fare is $1.50, and Western University students can ride free with their student ID. A monthly pass is $60, and a nine-day pass is $20.
Michigan healthcare prices
Across Michigan, healthcare prices are pretty reasonable. Every city on our list is below the national average, the only key category where that’s the case.
Kalamazoo is 5.1 percent below the national average
Detroit is 2.9 percent below the national average
Grand Rapids is 1.1 percent below the national average
These rates should help keep out-of-pocket expenses low when it comes to visiting the doctor. Within our three cities, the average cost to the doc is between $110 and $120. The average cost of a trip to the dentist is between $100 and $110. And, the average eye doctor visit costs as little as $74.
Michigan goods and services prices
The cost of living in Michigan for goods and services can really make or break your budget. These are the items that you include every month, but if you had to make cuts you could. Think of them as non-essentials. Doing so makes it easier to let them go should you have a rough month.
Grand Rapids is 15.7 percent below the national average
Kalamazoo is 0.5 percent above the national average
Detroit is 5.1 percent above the national average
These averages can give you an overall impression of where total costs will lay, but individually, not everything is less expensive in the city with the lowest goods and services average. That’s why it’s best to look at the specific items you’d want to budget for yourself.
Grand Rapids may have the lowest average, but it’s only got the cheapest pizza based on this chart. Kalamazoo comes out consistently on the bottom with individual prices, even though its combined prices are above the national average.
Another service that debunks the combined ratings is childcare. This is an important one, whether you need it right now or not because it adds a hefty amount to your monthly costs. Interestingly enough, the highest monthly cost for a full-day, private preschool is in Grand Rapids at $1,150, and the lowest is in Detroit at $683.33. Kalamazoo leans closer to Grand Rapids, with a monthly cost that’s only $50 lower.
Taxes in Michigan
Michigan has a flat income tax rate of 4.25 percent per individual. When it comes to sales tax, the rate is 6 percent. Localities are not allowed to add any additional sales tax to the state rate. This keeps sales tax relatively low across Michigan.
So, if you’re shopping for furniture for your new apartment, for every $1,000 you spend only $60 goes to taxes. That should lead to lower overall prices since there’s less markup required to compensate.
How much do I need to earn to live in Michigan?
It’s easy to begin calculating how much you’d need to earn to live in Michigan. Start with rent. Keep this expense around 30 percent of your overall income, so if the average rent in Michigan is $1,178 per month, you’d need a minimum salary of $47,120.
This is a manageable number given that the average annual wage in Michigan is $59,234. With that salary, you’ll have plenty left over to upgrade to some higher-end amenities if you wanted.
If you want to make sure all your numbers match up, plug them into our rent calculator for a quick check.
Living in Michigan
With a relatively affordable cost of living, plenty of professional potential, lots of lakes to enjoy and more, Michigan is a great place to live. A vibrant culture and strong sense of community mean any city within the state will get you feeling right at home quickly. All you’ve got left to do before starting to pack is ensure what you can afford aligns with the costs of Michigan living. Grab a calculator.
Related links:
The Cost of Living Index comes from coli.org.
The rent information included in this summary is based on a calculation of multifamily rental property inventory on Rent. as of June 2022.
Rent prices are for illustrative purposes only. This information does not constitute a pricing guarantee or financial advice related to the rental market.
The cost of living in Minnesota sits within range of the national average, but just below. This affordable state is not only beautiful but an ideal spot for outdoor enthusiasts. From hiking and biking to every kind of water-based activity possible, you’re able to keep busy without setting a foot inside.
Add to that some great cities and small towns, friendly people and delicious food, and you’ve got a state that’s really the complete package.
The question, then, is can you afford to live in Minnesota? To figure that out, it’s best to break down all the elements that make up your total cost of living to see if everything fits into your budget. That means looking at:
Minnesota housing prices
Housing throughout Minnesota varies enough to give you plenty of options when needing to find your most affordable city. With numbers all below the national average, though, it’s not too much of a struggle to locate the perfect place to live in Minnesota.
Mankato
The great thing about Mankato is it feels like a small town, but has all the amenities of something a little bigger. The neighborhoods are cozy, but the city’s parks, rivers and hiking trails provide ample activities year-round. This means hitting your favorite lake to waterski in the summer and then, returning to ice fish in the winter. Home prices are also incredibly affordable at 25.2 percent below the national average.
Both apartment rent and home sale prices are on the more reasonable side in Mankato. The average rent in the city is $1,078, and the median sale price for a home in Mankato is $337,000. Home prices are rising though, up 38.8 percent over last year.
Minneapolis
Though the cost of living in Minneapolis is the highest in Minnesota, home prices here are still below the national average by 6.8 percent. This means there are so many great neighborhoods here to consider as your next home.
Situated right across the river from St. Paul, Minneapolis has amazing food, a great craft beer scene and a strong job market. The city shares many of its professional opportunities with its neighbor and combined, the two cities are home to a large number of Fortune 500 companies.
Rent prices here are also taking a downturn, with one-beds dropping 4 percent and two-beds down by 8 percent. Rent remains reasonable, although more expensive than any other Minnesota city on our list. Your average one-bedroom apartment costs $1,265 per month, and a two-bed apartment goes for an average of $1,595 per month.
Just as in St. Paul, home prices in Minneapolis are rising, but only barely. The median sale price in Minneapolis is $359,900, up 5.9 percent over last year.
St. Cloud
Considered a family-friendly community, St. Cloud offers up a stable economy, small-town comforts and popular events for every age, all year-round. Housing ranges from quaint bungalows to modern lofts with a few historic buildings tossed in there for good measure. What’s even better is that home prices are 17.9 percent below the national average.
This means low rent overall, even though certain units are seeing some serious growth when it comes to price. Although one-bedroom apartments are only up a single percent over last year, two-bedroom prices have increased by 17 percent. However, even with this growth, the average two-bedroom apartment rents for only $927 per month. One-bedroom apartments average out at $704 per month.
Home prices are almost the same, dropping in price only by 0.65 percent over last year. The median home price in St. Cloud is a reasonable $231,000.
St. Paul
As Minnesota’s capital city, St. Paul provides year-round outdoor fun alongside excellent job opportunities and affordable living. With water sports in the summer and skiing and snowboarding in the winter, you’ll always have a reason to get outside. To get a good dose of city life, stroll down Grand Avenue to wander into all the shops and restaurants along this historic strip. All of this is just the tip of the iceberg as to what makes St. Paul special, but even better, home prices are 8.2 percent below the national average.
When it comes to renting an apartment in this perfect town, rent prices are actually going down. Slipping at about the same rate, one-bedrooms saw a 14 percent drop over last year, and two-bedrooms went down by 13 percent. This keeps rent prices at a decent rate. The average one-bedroom apartment rents for $1,270 per month, and a two-bedroom is averaging out at $1,587 per month.
Home prices are going up, but just barely. Prices rose only 4.6 percent over last year. The median home price in St. Paul is $295,900.
Minnesota food prices
The cost of living in Minnesota is relatively reasonable, but food prices are actually on the higher end of the scale. Not every city is above the national average, but a few are.
St. Paul is 5 percent below the national average
Minneapolis is 2 percent below the national average
Mankato is 8.6 percent above the national average
St. Cloud is 13.9 percent above the national average
This aligns with shopping trends throughout the state, where the average Minnesotan’s monthly grocery bill is between $233 and $267. Now, what’s on that shopping list definitely impacts price. This can include ingredients to make your own Juicy Lucy or Tater Tot Hotdish. It could also mean splurging on a nice Walleye fillet. Regardless of what’s on your list, it’s good to know that ground beef is the most expensive in St. Cloud, but you’ll get the best deal on potatoes (for tots) in Minneapolis.
Minnesota utility prices
Winters in Minnesota are rough, which means your heater will work hard to keep your home warm and comfortable. The season is below-freezing temperatures and lots of snow. Heavy snowfall happens over a long season, from November to April, and the average number of annual blizzards is two.
Although winter is extreme, summer isn’t too bad. It’s hot and humid, but temperatures linger in the mid-80s. Your AC will run all summer long, but not to as big of an extreme as that winter heater.
As a result of this weather, utility prices can get high, however, overall, you’ll pay about the same as what’s average across the country.
Mankato is 3.7 percent below the national average
St. Cloud is 3.3 percent below the national average
St. Paul is 2.3 percent below the national average
Minneapolis is 1.1 percent below the national average
These close averages keep monthly energy bills in a very tight range. On average, expect to pay between $165 and $174 per month.
Minnesota transportation prices
Even with severely cold winters, certain cities in Minnesota are highly walkable. Minneapolis has a walk score of 75, and St. Paul’s is 61. Mankato and St. Cloud aren’t as walkable, but every city has a decent bike score, meaning Minnesota as a whole is pretty bike friendly.
This ability to get around by bike and on foot may positively impact transportation prices, making this particular expense in your cost of living in Minnesota below average. Of course, this isn’t the case everywhere.
Mankato is 7.7 percent below the national average
St. Cloud is 1.1 percent below the national average
St. Paul is 1.5 percent above the national average
Minneapolis is 4.8 percent above the national average
Public transportation, and owning your own vehicle, are most likely the two major contributors to your overall transportation expenses. Cars can cost a lot when you factor in maintenance, gas and paying for parking. Public transportation is a way to save a little money, even if you only use the service to commute back and forth to work during the week.
The METRO
Because the two cities are so close together, public transportation for Minneapolis and St. Paul combine through the METRO. The light rail, consisting of a blue line and green line, encompasses both cities. The blue line stays within Minneapolis, but the green line goes across the water.
The METRO also runs plenty of buses, a few rapid transit lines and a commuter rail. Fares vary based on time of day, so you’ll pay more during rush hour, which is from 6-9 a.m. and 3-6:30 p.m. Monday-Friday. Each fare is good for 2.5 hours. For local bus services, the non-rush hour fare is $2, and it’s $2.50 during rush hour. Six-hour passes are also available with a weekday rate of $4.50 and a weekend rate of $4.
The METRO bus also pops up in St. Cloud. Here there are 17 different routes that cross the city with a single-ride fare of $1.25. You can buy a variety of passes, as well from anywhere between $4.25 for a day pass to $47 for a monthly pass.
Mankato Transit
Operating its own transit system, the bus service in Mankato consists of eight routes that cover the entire city. This includes stops at Minnesota State University, Mankato. A single-ride fare is $1.50, but frequent rider passes are available in one-, 15- and 30-day passes. The monthly pass is $40 and is the best deal.
Minnesota healthcare prices
Healthcare prices in Minnesota can get high. Most cities are above the national average, and since this piece of your cost of living can include multiple doctors, there’s no way to know where the big bills will come in. Could it be a doctor’s visit, a trip to urgent care, the dentist or an eye doctor? What about those medications? Hopefully, your medical needs will stay affordable, but where you live could make the difference.
Minneapolis is 1.6 percent below the national average
St. Paul is 2.2 percent above the national average
Mankato is 2.9 percent above the national average
St. Cloud is 25.2 percent above the national average
As the most expensive when it comes to an average doctor’s visit, costs in St. Cloud reach $200.13. This is almost $50 more per visit than the least expensive city, Minneapolis. In fact, St. Cloud hits the top for an eye doctor visit and a dentist trip, although the price differentials aren’t as large.
Minnesota goods and services prices
Most cities in Minnesota hit above the national average when it comes to goods and services. These are all the items you put on the monthly budget that you could do without in a pinch. They include social activities, like grabbing a burger with friends, and maintenance tasks, like getting your hair cut.
The more items you have in this category, the higher your cost of living in Minnesota goes. Can you do without any if you had to?
Mankato is 4.8 percent below the national average
St. Paul is 5.3 percent above the national average
Minneapolis is 5.9 percent above the national average
St. Cloud is 6.5 percent about the national average
To decide if some budget cuts are necessary, based on these averages, it’s best to look at how much individual goods or services cost in each city. These are a few popular ones.
Although St. Cloud has the highest average when it comes to goods and services, it’s rarely the highest priced individually. Instead, that honor shifts based on what specifically you’re looking for. Minneapolis is the most expensive place to take a yoga class, and St. Paul has the highest haircut prices. When it comes to a burger, you’re going to pay the most in Mankato. Every city has its own pluses and minuses when it comes to pricing out all your bonus activities.
Taxes in Minnesota
Minnesota has a graduated income tax that hits four specific rates based on your income. You’ll either get taxed at 5.35 percent, 7.05 percent, 7.85 percent or 9.85 percent.
Sales tax in the state is a little less complex. Minnesota has a statewide rate of 6.875 percent. Localities are able to add an additional 2 percent to that total. At the maximum, for every $1,000 you spend shopping, $88.75 goes toward taxes.
Most cities don’t max out their sale tax.
St. Cloud is 7.625 percent
St. Paul and Mankato is 7.875 percent
Minneapolis is 8.025 percent
These rates align pretty closely with the average throughout Minnesota. Across the entire state, the combined average sales tax is 7.49 percent.
How much do I need to earn to live in Minnesota?
When analyzing the cost of living in Minnesota, being able to afford rent is at the top of your list. It will most likely be your biggest expense, and one that’s ongoing, at least until you decide to buy a property and pay a mortgage.
To calculate how much you’d need to earn to afford rent, you can refer to the experts. They suggest that 30 percent of your household income goes to this cost. With the average rent in Minnesota being $1,304, you’d need to make at least $52,160 for all the numbers to align.
The good news is the average household income in Minnesota is $74,593, so you’re well on your way to affording an average apartment, or even one with a few extras. To be sure, though, you can plug your specific information into our rent calculator.
Living in Minnesota
With all those lakes and the Mall of Americas, there’s really nothing that isn’t contained within Minnesota. As a great place for business, you can work hard, shop hard and hit nature hard all without going too far from home. What’s even better is that all this is pretty affordable.
The cost of living in Minnesota makes it accessible to most, but in order to figure out if it will work for you, make sure to take a close look at your own budget and must-haves. You may even find your ideal Minnesota city in the process.
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The Cost of Living Index comes from coli.org.
The rent information included in this summary is based on a calculation of multifamily rental property inventory on Rent. as of August 2022.
Rent prices are for illustrative purposes only. This information does not constitute a pricing guarantee or financial advice related to the rental market.
With interest rates climbing, a new form of one-upmanship is making the rounds: the mortgage-rate humble brag.
Credit…Jonathan Carlson
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Aug. 4, 2023
At a rooftop party on a steamy July night in Philadelphia, the margarita machine was churning, the seafood boil was hearty, and the conversation turned to the default of the upwardly mobile: real estate.
Almost anyone shopping for a home in the 2020s knows the script by now: Someone mentions their recent home purchase, a tale undoubtedly rich with drama, stress and suspense. Guests, well schooled in the volatility of the housing market, lean in for the follow-up: When did you buy?
The response to that key question “is normally followed by an ‘Oooh,’” said Evan Barker, 36, a lawyer who attended the party and has participated in enough of these exchanges to know that the “Oooh” means one of two things: You either got the interest rate of a lifetime, or you squarely did not.
the 30-year mortgage rate bottomed out at 2.65 percent, a few months before Mr. Barker and Ms. Gallagher refinanced, besting the national average with a rate of 2.375 percent.
smug, shocked or hopeless, depending on where you fall on the spectrum.
“There is almost a cross-generational envy,” said Övül Sezer, an assistant professor of management and organizations at Cornell University, who studies humble bragging.
Flaunting wealth and good fortune is nothing new. But Americans, for the most part, avoid sharing specifics about money. Sure, you’ll plaster news about your promotion on Facebook and on the platform formerly known as Twitter, but you’ll probably keep mum about the salary package that comes with it. When it comes to real estate, the attitude is no different. A gleeful homeowner may gloat about vanquishing the competition in a bidding war, but they won’t mention the sale price, or their monthly payments.
Federal Reserve’s continued efforts to wrestle inflation under control. So timing, not skill, dictates the rate — and timing is a byproduct of luck.
The pandemic exacerbated inequalities that existed before 2020. For many wealthier Americans, the pandemic was a financial boon. They kept their jobs, were able to work remotely, enjoyed bonuses and raises, and had cash on hand when interest rates plummeted to keep the economy afloat. They were the ones best positioned to pluck up homes, driving up prices. The people who spent 2020 and 2021 struggling through job losses, illnesses or other financial hardships likely missed out on the moment, and are now the ones enduring the hard consequences of rampant inflation.
The interest rate cut “was this free handout to people who didn’t really need it,” said Daryl Fairweather, the chief economist at Redfin. For everyone else, “that door closed as soon as people started to get back on their feet.”
Or as Sharon Reshef, who last month bought a $400,000 one-bedroom apartment in Washington D.C., put it: “It’s really hard to plan your life around macroeconomics.”
That hasn’t stopped some of her slightly older colleagues in Senator Kirsten Gillibrand’s office from teasing her about her 6.625 percent interest rate.
“It’s just a gentle ribbing,” said Ms. Reshef, 30, the research director for the senator from New York, who now spends half of her take-home pay on her mortgage. “But as long as we’re here, I will say that not a lot of people in my cohort own property, especially as a single person. Regardless of the interest rate, I have that one up on them. I can definitely brag.”
the experience miserable. But buyers today face similar, if not tougher, conditions. Inventory is anemic, partly because homeowners do not want to part with their low interest rates. So far, a scant 1 percent of American homes have traded hands this year, the lowest rate in a decade, according to a July report from Redfin.
Of course, things could be worse. In 1981, mortgage rates peaked at a jaw-dropping 18.53 percent. Still, the average home price in the second quarter of 1981 was $84,300 — even adjusted for inflation, that’s about $287,020, which is far less than the average price of $495,100 in the second quarter of 2023.
But people who remember the days of double-digit interest rates are often quick to remind younger generations that they, too, walked to school uphill both ways in the snow.
“The fate, the gods, determine when you enter that phase of your life and what is happening in the market,” said Allen J. Palmer, 85, who is retired from IBM and bought his house in what is now Silicon Valley, in California, in 1977 for $95,000 (or $480,686 in today’s dollars), with an 8.5 percent mortgage interest rate. The first year he and his wife spent in that house, they couldn’t afford to fly home to Milwaukee for the holidays.
Young buyers “don’t understand that this is the way it is,” he said. “They probably don’t remember that their parents struggled to pay” the mortgage, too.
recent TikTok video, Barbara Corcoran, the 74-year-old real estate mogul, arranged fresh flowers as she chided hesitant buyers for their reluctance to get back into the market — a common refrain among real estate agents, who insist that there is no time like the present to buy a house.
“Pick your poison: high interest rates now, which aren’t so high, or super-high prices once they come down,” Ms. Corcoran said, her hand grazing a fern frond. “Your choice.”
Mr. Decker, in Montclair, knows which choice he thinks buyers should make. Recently, he was standing at the bar of a local barbecue restaurant and overheard another patron who seemed overconfident about a recent lowball offer he had made on a house in town. Mr. Decker had lost enough bidding wars to know how this story would end, and considered schooling him on his grim prospects. Maybe he would lean across the bar, he thought, and say, “Don’t even bother, man, cool your heels somewhere else.” But he hesitated.
“It did make me feel a little good,” he said, “and certainly thankful that I have a place to live and I’m not dealing with that right now.”
Instead of offering unsolicited advice, he ordered a Pabst Blue Ribbon and a shot of Jameson, and walked back to the patio to sit down and enjoy the evening with his family in their new town.
For weekly email updates on residential real estate news, sign up here.
Ronda Kaysen is a real estate reporter, based in New York. She is the co-author of “The New York Times Right at Home: How to Buy, Decorate, Organize and Maintain Your Space.” More about Ronda Kaysen
A version of this article appears in print on , Section RE, Page 8 of the New York edition with the headline: Mortgage-Rate Envy? You’re Not Alone.. Order Reprints | Today’s Paper | Subscribe
If you love birds, you’re not alone. Birds bring us joy with their bright colors and sweet melodies—and our friends on Reddit seem to agree. In fact, a recent survey found that these 12 magnificent feathered friends consistently topped the list as the most lovable birds around! From stunning parrots to majestic eagles, let’s take a look at what made these birds some of our favorites!
1. Cardinals
One user said, “Have you guys ever stopped to look at a cardinal? They’re incredible. That pointed crest is adorable.”
Another user replied, “Just saw my first male. He was absolutely stunning.”
“I find both sexes to be mesmerizing. The female’s mottled plumage and blood-orange beak are so pretty. The males are definitely more eye-catching, though. I see them occasionally in the peach tree outside my window in early springtime. Always gets a smile out of me,” a third Redditor responded.
One commenter added, “Ever see a cardinal in the winter? The bright red stands out in a field of white snow. Truly beautiful.”
2. Pelicans
One of the Redditors added, “I enjoy a good pelican.”
Another user shared his story, “When I first got married, my Mom bought me this weird pelican statue as a wedding present. It’s way outside her norm for gift-giving, so I thought she was joking. Ever since then, my late husband and I would buy her something pelican related every year since she suddenly seemed to like them so much.”
“They look nearly prehistoric. I surf, and they skim the waves in formation, flowing around the lineup of people. Really crazy beings… if you’re able to let go of your familiarity with seeing them for a moment, they look like g-dd-mn dinosaurs,” one replied.
3. Penguins
One Redditor said simply, “Penguins.”
Another user replied, “You just instantly reminded me of this penguin named Lala I saw on YouTube recently. What a nice bird.”
“Penguins are my favorite all-time animal to the point where, upon seeing the favorite bird question, I simply skipped penguins because, in my mind, they don’t count as birds; they’re just penguins-my-favorite-animal. Anyways, seconded,” one user agreed.
4. Ravens
One Redditor commented, “Raven.”
Another user replied, “Seconded.”
“There’s a cute young raven that visits my alleyway sometimes. He took a Dorito from us once,” one commenter shared.
5. Chickadees
“Chickadee,” exclaimed one Redditor.
Another user added, “They have a lot more personality than many songbirds and are quite intelligent. Their warning call even says something about the type of danger. And they’ll stick around through winter while most of the other birds migrate. And I love how they grab one sunflower seed and fly off to a nearby tree to eat it, while other birds are more boring and just sit at the feeder shelling them.”
“Not only just grabbing a single seed, but they’ll take turns and even kinda line up, each one flying one spot closer as the bird at the head grabs a seed and flies off,” replied one user.
One user concluded, “I love chickadees! They are so small and round, and their call is super identifiable.”
6. Hummingbirds
One Redditor shared, “Hummingbirds.”
A second replied, “So cool. Like there is the only thing that has adapted to move in all dimensions in the blink of an eye, no other fish or land animal can move anywhere near as precise or quickly. They’re the second fastest animal of any kind next to a falcon, even if they can only go that fast for like 2-3 seconds, but then they can also just stop on a dime. From a movement standpoint, by far the coolest animal.”
One user also agreed, “They’re magical!”
7. Crows
“Personally, I love Crows. They’re underrated,” one user posted.
Another user also commented, “I’m not sure I would say they are underrated. They have huge followings and fans.”
One user also commented, “Compared to most other bird species, not really [underrated]. Long-tailed tit is underrated, as are hooded mergansers, pied-billed grebes, and Wilson’s phalaropes—amazing birds that aren’t likely to be known by the average non-birder. Crows are super rad, and I love them, but they are a pretty popular bird.”
8. Cedar Waxwings
Another bird enthusiast user commented, “Cedar waxwing.”
One user also shared a story about them, “We have a serviceberry tree in our yard, and every year when the berries ripen, the migrating cedar waxwings stop for a few days. They will clean the tree of berries. I absolutely love watching them from my kitchen window. Such beautiful birds!”
One user concluded, “So very dapper.”
9. Blue Jays
An ornithologist posted, “Ornithologist (bird scientist) here! I like Blue Jays (Cyanocitta cristata); their plumage is beautiful, they are intelligent songbirds (all of the Corvidae are smart birds), and they love peanuts! They are a bit loud but mimic other birds (sometimes mincing hawks to scare small birds away from feeders).”
Another user confirmed, “We have a bird feeder. The Blue Jays will mimic a hawk cry to scare off the other birds from the feeder before flying in.”
10. Ospreys
“Osprey. One dived into the water less than 20 feet away from me; very, very cool,” one user commented.
Another user shared, “There are wetlands near where I work, and at the moment, Ospreys are nesting. They predict the eggs will hatch in the next 3 weeks or so.”
One Redditor exclaimed, “Ospreys are one of my favorites too!”
11. Grackles
One user posted, “The grackle. The male is pretty in the sun, and they remind me of the zoo.”
Another user commented, “Oh, but have you been amidst a flock of grackles? They are LOUD.”
A third replied, “I like seeing the absolute hordes of them at dusk each night. In my area, you can usually find hundreds/thousands of bedding down for the night in some places (esp., grocery store parking lots with decent numbers of trees). It’s a nightly spectacle.”
12. Vultures
A Redditor shared, “I love vultures. Especially turkey vultures, since they’re common in my area. They are seen as ugly and gross because they eat dead things, but I find them to be really beautiful when I see them soaring in the sky because their wings can look iridescent black in the sunlight. They live in huge family groups, so when it’s breeding season, there are tons of them. And to top it off, they do a very important job in the environment by taking care of the dead carcasses.”
Another user exclaimed, “I was looking for this answer. Vultures do their part AND look cool doing it.”
One user also shared the same sentiments and commented, “Oh boy, I love buzzards. I find them imposing and beautiful. They don’t like to be stared at, and they will either fly off or make their wings into long fingers and shake them at you. They are so fantastic, soaring in circles in the sky; I always think, ‘I wish I could do that.’
Do you agree with all the birds listed above? Share your thoughts in the comments!
Source: Reddit.
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Utah is home to amazing natural wonders and national parks like Zion, Bryce Canyon, and the Arches, showcasing stunning red rock formations and vistas. For outdoor enthusiasts, Utah offers hiking, mountain biking, skiing, and more, that blend alongside city-life. If Utah sounds like the state for you, then you may also be curious what cities fit into your budget. For example, the median home sale price in Utah is $529,600 as of July.
If that price is out of your budget, don’t worry, we’ve got options to help you find a home. Redfin has collected a list of the 8 of the most affordable places to live in Utah. And they all have a median home sale price under the state’s average. From Ogden to Provo, read on to see what cities you may want to consider moving to this year.
#1: Ogden
Median home price: $367,625 Average sale price per square foot: $231 Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment: $1,350 Median household income: $55,974 Nearest major metro: Salt Lake City (40 miles) Ogden, UT homes for sale Ogden, UT apartments for rent
With a median home sale price of $367,625, Ogden lands the number one spot on our list as the most affordable place to live in Utah. There are about 87,300 residents living in this mid-sized city. Living in Ogden, you can take a trip to one of the nearby ski resorts like Snowbasin, Powder Mountain, or Nordic Valley, visit the historic Union Station, and enjoy the outdoors at the beautiful Ogden Botanical Gardens or Ogden Nature Center.
#2: Logan
Median home price: $379,000 Average sale price per square foot: $229 Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment: $450 Median household income: $43,056 Nearest major metro: Ogden (48 miles) Logan, UT homes for sale Logan, UT apartments for rent
Taking the second spot on our list of affordable cities to live in Utah is Logan. When living in this city of 52,800 people, you can explore the charming downtown area, see the animals at Zootah, or visit the natural areas outside town like Providence Cave.
#3: Provo
Median home price: $427,500 Average sale price per square foot: $277 Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment: $1,484 Median household income: $50,072 Nearest major metro: Salt Lake City (45 miles) Provo, UT homes for sale Provo, UT apartments for rent
Next is the city of Provo, which has about 115,200 residents. The median home sale price is $427,500 which is about $100K less than the median home sale price in Utah. If you find yourself moving to the third most affordable city in Utah, spend the day at Utah Lake State Park, hike up Provo Peak or Y Mountain, and check out the Saturday Provo Farmers Market during the summer season.
#4: West Valley City
Median home price: $442,500 Average sale price per square foot: $226 Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment: $1,315 Median household income: $43,056 Nearest major metro: Salt Lake City (12 miles) West Valley City, UT homes for sale West Valley City, UT apartments for rent
Only slightly more expensive than Provo is West Valley City, the next city on our list. About 140,200 people live in West Valley City, where there are plenty of unique activities to do. Be sure to check out a show at USANA Amphitheatre, see a Utah Grizzlies game at Maverik Center, or watch a movie during the summer at Redwood Drive-in Theatre.
#5: Layton
Median home price: $470,000 Average sale price per square foot: $227 Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment: $1,337 Median household income: $43,056 Nearest major metro: Ogden (16 miles) Layton, UT homes for sale Layton, UT apartments for rent
Another great affordable place to consider moving to is Layton. With 81,800 residents, moving to this city gives you the perks of city-life without living in a major metropolitan area. Living in Layton, you can explore nature at Great Salt Lake Shorelands Preserve, hike the Adams Canyon Trail, and check out the downtown area.
#6: Orem
Median home price: $472,500 Average sale price per square foot: $222 Median household income: $65,622 Nearest major metro: Provo (7 miles) Orem, UT homes for sale Orem, UT apartments for rent
Another noteworthy city is Orem, where the median home sale price is about $50K less than the state’s average. With roughly 98,100 people calling Orem home, it’s a great area to consider living in. There are also plenty of activities to do in Orem. For example, you can check out the waterfall, historic railroad, and canyon at Provo Canyon, visit the downtown area, and explore the wetlands habitat at Powell Slough Waterfowl Management Area, among many other local favorites.
#7: West Jordan
Median home price: $506,000 Average sale price per square foot: $237 Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment: $1,407 Median household income: $84,722 Nearest major metro: Salt Lake City (15 miles) West Jordan, UT homes for sale West Jordan, UT apartments for rent
Seventh on our list of affordable places to live in Utah is West Jordan. With a population of nearly 116,900, living in West Jordan is a great option for those looking for a mid-sized city to live in. Don’t miss out on checking out one of the many parks in town, bike, run, or stroll along the Jordan River Parkway Trail, and see the beautiful flowers at Conservation Garden Park.
#8: St. George
Median home price: $509,000 Average sale price per square foot: $272 Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment: $1,803 Median household income: $59,989 Nearest major metro: Las Vegas (120 miles) St. George, UT homes for sale St. George, UT apartments for rent
Last but not least on our list of most affordable places to live in Utah is St. George. This affordable area is home to about 95,300 residents. Be sure to enjoy nature at Snow Canyon State Park and Red Cliffs National Conservation Area, bike along the New Bearclaw Poppy Navajo Trailhead, and visit the St. George Narrows once you move to St. George.
Methodology: All cities must have over 50,000 residents per the US Census and have a median home sale price under the average median home sale price in Utah. Median home sale price and median sale price per square foot from the Redfin Data Center during July 2023. Average rental data from Rent.com July 2023. Population and median household income data sourced from the United States Census Bureau.