Welcome to Salt Lake City! Where there are incredible views, a friendly atmosphere, and a diverse real estate market. You can find everything here, from condos to Gothic and Victorian homes to small ranch houses perfect for first-time buyers.
With the Wasatch Mountains providing a stunning backdrop, Salt Lake City, one of the fastest growing cities in Utah, blends urban amenities, high-paying jobs, and an outdoor lifestyle.
Those seeking to discover the hidden gems of this city, you can start your explorations using this comprehensive guide to Salt Lake City’s neighborhoods.
Your Guide to the Best Salt Lake City Neighborhoods
Salt Lake City neighborhoods have lots of charm and character. In this article, we explore some of the best neighborhoods in Salt Lake City, considering factors like average housing prices, amenities, schools, outdoor lifestyle, and more. So let’s dive in to find out what’s on our list of Salt Lake City’s best neighborhoods.
Downtown
Of course, we had to start with bustling and beautiful downtown Salt Lake City. Nestled in Salt Lake Valley, this city features stunning mountain views, vibrant nightlife, and an array of restaurants serving everything from gourmet cuisine to comfort food classics.
Average Housing Prices
So what are home prices like in Salt Lake City? Well, the median price is about $600K, which is higher than the national average, reflecting the area’s popularity and central location. What’s more, downtown Salt Lake City’s vibrant housing market features many housing options, from modern highrises to townhomes.
Amenities, Arts, Museums, and Sports
Downtown is Salt Lake City’s cultural hub, teeming with art museums, theaters, and sports arenas. Here you can enjoy an eclectic collection of craft beers in local breweries or dine in the city’s many restaurants. For history buffs, Church History Museums and Temple Square are a must-visit.
Schools
Salt Lake’s downtown area is known for its top-ranking public and private schools. Among the most prestigious is Bonneville Elementary School, which has an impressive school ranking and a focus on holistic development.
Outdoor Lifestyle
Though it is an urban center, outdoor enthusiasts will find much to do in Downtown Salt Lake City. Bonneville Shoreline Trail features miles of hiking and biking trails for outdoor recreation. While City Creek Park is a beautiful green oasis in the middle of town.
Other
The Downtown area is a convenient hub for work and leisure, thanks to its efficient public transportation system. Unlike many cities, the safety here is above the national average.
Central City
This 19th-century neighborhood is one of the oldest and most historic in Salt Lake City. It has a rich cultural heritage and a diverse population. Though it is rich in history, Central City is among the trendiest neighborhoods in Salt Lake City. If you love art galleries, museums, and the indie music scene, this trendy town is the perfect place to find a home.
Average Housing Prices
What’s great about Central City is there are quite a few affordable housing options for those who want to live near the heart of downtown. The average price of a home in Central City is about $400K. Even better, Victorian houses are competitive here, which is a good value for prospective homeowners.
Amenities, Arts, Museums, and Sports
If you move to Central City, you’ll never want things to do. From Trolley Square, a shopping plaza with an artisan flair, to the variety of coffee shops like the popular Publik Coffee Roasters, vegan restaurants, and retro arcades.
Schools
Homebuyers with families will find the perfect school here for their kids. Central City is part of the Salt Lake City Public School District, with several highly rated elementary schools.
Outdoor Lifestyle
Besides the beautiful houses, bars, shops, and music venues, Central City residents have several fun parks, bike trails, green spaces, and the Wasatch Hollow Preserve to choose from when they want a bit of the outdoors.
Other
As the name suggests, Central City is located in the middle of things, making a drive to downtown quick and easy. Despite its central location, this is a tranquil neighborhood with streets made for meandering, making it a favorite among locals.
Sugar House
Fun, modern Sugar House is a vibrant neighborhood of bars, breweries, shops, parks, and, yes, plenty of cute bungalows and bright Victorian homes. Named for the sugar beets planted here by settlers in the 1850s, Sugar House has everything you want in a small town.
Average Housing Prices
Though it’s known for its historic homes, Sugar House has a mix of renovated properties and newly built residences. A robust housing market keeps prices at about $675K in this neighborhood, which is slightly above Salt Lake City’s average.
Amenities, Arts, Museums, and Sports
Sugar House is teeming with eclectic shops, restaurants, and local coffee houses like Sugar House Coffee, where you can shop locally. Additionally, Sugar House Park has plenty of outdoor amenities and community spaces.
Schools
Sugar House schools are part of the Salt Lake City School District, with several public and private schools that are well-regarded for their academic programs. Some of the top-rated are Salt Lake Arts Academy and Peruvian Park School.
Outdoor Lifestyle
With its majestic mountains, stunning lakes, and incredible skiing, Salt Lake City is made for lovers of the outdoors, and Sugar House is no exception. Sugar House Park and Wasatch Hollow Park provide a range of activities, from walking trails to sporting facilities.
Other
Chic and cool Sugar House is a favorite among young professionals and families. It’s close to downtown and is known for its lower crime rate compared to the national average.
Capitol Hill
A chic neighborhood located between Downtown and Central City is Capitol Hill. This residential neighborhood sits atop a hill that boasts incredible views of Salt Lake City.
Average Housing Prices
Capitol Hill offers a mix of beautiful homes with prices typically around the mid $500Ks. Its unique location contributes to its slightly higher property values.
Amenities, Arts, Museums, and Sports
Capitol Hill provides residents with a blend of urban amenities and historical sites, including Temple Square and the Church History Museums, offering a unique blend of attractions for history buffs.
Schools
Capitol Hill has several top-ranking schools, making it a great place for families seeking quality education.
Outdoor Lifestyle
Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy Ensign Peak’s hiking trails and the wide range of recreational activities within city limits.
Other
Capitol Hill’s central location offers quick access to downtown, making it perfect for those who want city life at their doorstep.
University
As the name implies, the University neighborhood surrounds the University of Utah and attracts a lively mix of students, professionals, and families.
Average Housing Prices
Homes in the University area tend to be more affordable, with median prices around $400K, making it an ideal location for first-time home buyers.
Amenities, Arts, Museums, and Sports
The neighborhood provides a variety of amenities like coffee houses, eclectic shops, and cultural attractions, including several campus museums.
Schools
Several good public schools serve the University area and are near the University of Utah, adding to the appeal for families and academics.
Outdoor Lifestyle
The University area is a haven for outdoor activity lovers, offering access to outdoor recreation facilities, sports venues, and trails.
Other
A short drive to downtown and easy access to public transportation make the University neighborhood a conveniently located residential hub.
The Avenues
Victorian homes and tree-lined streets make The Avenues a sought-after destination in the Salt Lake City area. Established in the mid-19th century, this is Salt Lake City’s biggest historic neighborhood. Locals call it ‘The Aves’, and this eclectic spot has it all, from quaint bed and breakfasts to craft brewhouses.
Average Housing Prices
But what about the housing prices in The Avenues? They vary, with median home prices hovering around the $650K mark. The area is notable for its range of stunning, Victorian houses contributing to its distinct historic charm.
Amenities, Arts, Museums, and Sports
The Avenues boasts a vibrant arts scene with many art museums and galleries scattered across the neighborhood. Additionally, shopping plazas and a wide range of restaurants add to this community’s urban amenities.
Schools
The neighborhood has several excellent public and private schools, making it an appealing choice for families. The school rankings in The Avenues are above the national average, highlighting the neighborhood’s commitment to education.
Outdoor Lifestyle
There’s plenty for outdoor enthusiasts in The Avenues, with lots of bike and hiking trails. Moreover, it’s close to Memory Grove Park and the Bonneville Shoreline Trail, adding to the neighborhood’s appeal for those who adore the outdoors.
Other
The Avenues is perfect for homebuyers looking for a place with a serene atmosphere convenient to Downtown. Residents of this neighborhood are only minutes from the city.
Wasatch Hollow
Rugged and scenic Wasatch Hollow is a neighborhood known for its spectacular views and outdoor recreation opportunities.
Average Housing Prices
Yes, Wasatch Hollow is upscale, with median home prices around the $900K mark. Homes here can be quaint little bungalows or modern and contemporary houses, but they are always beautiful. Moreover, many homes in the area boast gorgeous views of the Wasatch Mountains.
Amenities, Arts, Museums, and Sports
Wasatch Hollow has plenty of shopping centers, artisan coffee shops, and restaurants serving casual American fare. Moreover, there are lots of resorts and museums, making it a popular neighborhood for families.
Schools
Wasatch Hollow is served by some excellent public and private schools, including Bonneville School making it a top choice for families with children.
Outdoor Lifestyle
With scenic mountain views and tons of preserves and parks to explore, hiking and biking are popular pastimes in the area. Additionally, its proximity to the Wasatch Mountains makes Wasatch Hollow a dream location for outdoor enthusiasts.
Other
With its convenient location, easy access to downtown, and family-friendly atmosphere, Wasatch Hollow is one of the most desirable neighborhoods in Salt Lake City.
Granary/Ballpark
The Granary/Ballpark neighborhood is an eclectic and up-and-coming area with a mix of residential, commercial, and industrial spaces.
Average Housing Prices
The housing prices in Granary/Ballpark are diverse, with average prices ranging from $300K to $500K, making it more affordable for those seeking city living on a budget.
Amenities, Arts, Museums, and Sports
The neighborhood boasts numerous local breweries, restaurants, and music venues, and ballparks. There are just so many things to do here.
Schools
Granary/Ballpark has many good public schools. What’s more, its central location means children can attend some of the private schools within the Salt Lake City area.
Outdoor Lifestyle
While it’s more urban, residents can still enjoy outdoor amenities with a selection of local parks and the proximity of the Jordan River Parkway Trail.
Other
The Granary/Ballpark area is known for its art scene, with various murals and art installations adding a unique flavor to the community.
Airport/Fairgrounds
The Airport/Fairgrounds neighborhood, located close to the Salt Lake City International Airport, offers a blend of residential and commercial areas.
Average Housing Prices
Housing prices in this area tend to be more affordable, with an average price hovering around $300K, making it a viable option for first-time buyers or those seeking budget-friendly homes.
Amenities, Arts, Museums, and Sports
The neighborhood is home to the Utah State Fairpark, which hosts the annual Utah State Fair, several concerts, and cultural events, providing a lively atmosphere.
Schools
The Airport/Fairgrounds neighborhood offers a variety of public school options, while the proximity to the city center allows easy access to several private schools.
Outdoor Lifestyle
Despite being a primarily urban area, the neighborhood has several parks, and the proximity to the Great Salt Lake provides opportunities for bird watching and other outdoor activities.
Other
Those who commute or travel for work will like living in the Airport/Fairgrounds. Its proximity to the airport and major highways make it easy to get around here.
FAQs: Salt Lake City Neighborhoods
Want to know more about living in Salt Lake City? Below we answer some common questions about this vibrant region.
What is the nicest area in Salt Lake City?
The definition of “nicest” can be subjective and depends on individual preferences. However, Sugar House, The Avenues, and Capitol Hill are praised for their combination of beautiful homes, amenities, green spaces, and a strong sense of community.
Where do singles live in Salt Lake City?
Downtown Salt Lake City and surrounding neighborhoods, like Sugar House and the University area, are popular amongst singles. These areas offer vibrant nightlife, various dining and entertainment options, and proximity to workplaces and the University of Utah.
What is the prettiest area in Utah?
Utah is known for its natural beauty and has many scenic areas. In Salt Lake City, neighborhoods like The Avenues and Wasatch Hollow are known for their charming streets and stunning views of the mountains. Beyond the city, places like Moab, Park City, and around the five national parks are considered exceptionally beautiful.
Are Salt Lake City property taxes high?
Salt Lake City property taxes are relatively moderate compared to other major U.S. cities. The exact amount varies depending on the assessed value of the property and the current tax rate. However, it’s always important to research current tax rates when considering buying property in any location.
Parting Thoughts on Salt Lake City Neighborhoods
Salt Lake City offers a wide variety of neighborhoods, each with unique character, housing market, and amenities to suit different lifestyles.
If you’re considering moving to any of these wonderful Salt Lake City neighborhoods, search for properties at eXp Realty and sign up to get alerts of new property listings as they come onto the market.
And remember, a local eXp agent can provide assistance navigating Salt Lake City real estate. We can help you find your dream home in Salt Lake City. Happy house hunting!
