Utah Best Cities for Veterans 2025: Housing Costs, Benefits & Quality of Life
Where to live in Utah as a veteran: best cities ranked by benefits, housing costs, veteran population, employment opportunities, and quality of life for 2025.
Utah Best Cities for Veterans 2025: Housing Costs, Benefits & Quality of Life
Utah ranks among the most desirable states for military retirees thanks to outstanding outdoor recreation, strong economy, low veteran unemployment (0.9%), generous property tax exemptions (up to $521,620), and full military retirement income tax exemption. With approximately 150,000 veterans calling Utah home, the state offers diverse living options from mountain resort towns to urban centers to desert communities.
But where should you actually live? Utah's cities vary dramatically in housing costs (Lehi/Park City are expensive), altitude (4,000-7,000 feet—respiratory concerns), veteran population density, job opportunities, and access to VA healthcare.
This guide ranks Utah's best cities for veterans with real data on home prices, veteran populations, and quality of life factors.
Bottom Line Up Front
Best overall for veterans: Ogden (affordability + Hill AFB employment + VA clinic) Best for jobs: Clearfield/Layton (Hill Air Force Base + defense contractors) Best for affordability: Ogden, Provo, Logan Best for healthcare access: Salt Lake City/Murray (George E. Wahlen VAMC) Best for education benefits: Salt Lake City (University of Utah), Logan (Utah State), Provo (BYU)
Median home price range: $378,000 (Ogden) to $717,000 (Salt Lake City) State average: ~$500,000
Critical consideration: Altitude ranges 4,200-7,000 feet. Veterans with respiratory or cardiovascular conditions should consult doctors before moving to Utah.
Top 10 Best Cities for Veterans in Utah
1. Ogden - "Junction City"
Overall Grade: A+
Why it's #1: Ogden combines exceptional affordability ($378,000-$387,000 median home price—lowest among major Utah cities), immediate access to Hill Air Force Base employment (15 minutes), VA clinic on-site, and world-class outdoor recreation. It's 6-7% cheaper than the state average while offering all the benefits of the Wasatch Front.
Veteran Population
- Weber County veterans: 12,000+
- Concentration: Approximately 8-10% of adult population
- Military connection: Hill Air Force Base (15 miles north), historical railroad and military logistics hub
Ogden has a strong veteran community anchored by Hill AFB proximity and historical military ties. The city is reinventing itself as an outdoor recreation and tech hub while maintaining affordability.
Housing Market
- Median home price: $378,000-$387,000 (most affordable major Utah city)
- Range: $250,000-$600,000 depending on neighborhood
- Affordable areas: East Central ($280K-350K), West Ogden ($250K-320K)
- Expensive areas: Ogden Valley/Huntsville ($500K-1M+)
- Property tax with exemption: ~$2,509 annual (100% disabled gets full exemption)
Rental market: $1,350 (1-bedroom), $1,640 (2-bedroom)
Cost of Living
- Overall index: 93.8 (6.1% below state average, 7.2% above national average)
- Housing: 40% more affordable than Salt Lake City
- Utilities: Similar to state average
- Groceries: Near national average
- Living wage for single adult: $45,000/year
- Median household income: $68,000
Ogden's low cost of living is its superpower—you get Wasatch Front benefits (jobs, recreation, culture) at prices 30-40% cheaper than Salt Lake City.
Employment Opportunities
Hill Air Force Base (15 miles north in Clearfield):
- 24,000+ civilian employees
- 6,200+ contractors
- Ogden Air Logistics Complex (depot maintenance)
- 15-minute commute from Ogden
Defense Contractors (Clearfield/Roy area):
- Northrop Grumman - $3.5 billion in contracts (2023), thousands of employees
- L3Harris Technologies - Communications, electronic warfare
- BAE Systems - Engineering, IT
- General Dynamics - Mission support
- Raytheon, Lockheed Martin, SAIC, CACI - Multiple locations
Other major employers:
- McKay-Dee Hospital (Intermountain Healthcare)
- Weber State University (8,000+ employees)
- Autoliv (automotive safety systems)
- Procter & Gamble (distribution center)
- Fresenius Medical Care
Average salaries: $55,000-$110,000 (defense contractors pay $75,000-$130,000)
Why employment is exceptional:
- 15 minutes to Hill AFB (largest employer in Utah)
- Direct access to 250+ defense contractors
- Veterans with clearances highly valued
- Growing tech sector (Silicon Slopes expansion)
VA Healthcare Access
- Ogden VA Clinic: 3945 South Washington Boulevard, South Ogden | (801) 479-4105
- Services: Primary care, internal medicine, family medicine, mental health, telehealth
- George E. Wahlen VAMC (Salt Lake City): 40 miles south, 40-minute drive for complex care
Excellent access for primary care and mental health. Complex specialty care requires Salt Lake City trip, but most needs met locally.
Quality of Life
- Climate: Four seasons—cold winters (20-35°F), hot summers (90-100°F), 225 days of sunshine
- Altitude: 4,300 feet - lower than Salt Lake City (4,226 ft), easier on respiratory system
- Outdoor recreation: Snowbasin Ski Resort (15 min), Powder Mountain (30 min), Pineview Reservoir, 27th Street bike trails, Ogden River Parkway
- Culture: Historic 25th Street (restaurants, breweries, galleries), Eccles Theater, Union Station museums
- Education: Weber State University (GI Bill-approved, Yellow Ribbon), Ogden-Weber Technical College
- Crime: Moderate—varies by neighborhood (east Ogden safer than west)
Outdoor recreation highlights:
- Snowbasin Ski Resort: 15 minutes (hosted 2002 Olympics)
- Pineview Reservoir: Boating, fishing, paddleboarding
- Mount Ogden: Hiking, mountain biking
- Ogden River Parkway: 9-mile paved trail system
Pros:
- Most affordable major Utah city ($378K-387K median)
- 15 minutes to Hill Air Force Base (best defense employment in state)
- VA clinic on-site for primary care
- World-class skiing within 15-30 minutes
- 6% cheaper than state average
- Lower altitude (4,300 ft) than Salt Lake City
- Growing downtown culture (25th Street revitalization)
- Weber State University (GI Bill, Yellow Ribbon)
Cons:
- Higher summer temperatures (90-100°F)
- Some high-crime areas (west Ogden)
- Smaller job market than Salt Lake City (though Hill AFB compensates)
- 40 minutes to VA medical center for specialty care
- Less vibrant nightlife/culture than Salt Lake City
- Conservative culture (may not suit all veterans)
Bottom line: If you want maximum affordability with immediate access to Hill AFB defense jobs, world-class skiing, and VA care, Ogden is the clear winner. It's the best value in Utah for veterans—30-40% cheaper than Salt Lake City with nearly identical benefits.
2. Salt Lake City - "Crossroads of the West"
Overall Grade: A
Why it ranks #2: Utah's capital and largest city offers maximum job diversity, cultural amenities, and the George E. Wahlen VA Medical Center (one of only five VA heart transplant centers nationally). However, high cost of living ($585,000-$717,000 median home price) and urban challenges lower its ranking compared to Ogden's affordability.
Veteran Population
- Salt Lake County: 60,000+ veterans
- Salt Lake City proper: 15,000-20,000 veterans
- Concentration: Moderate—diverse population
Housing Market
- Median home price: $585,000-$717,000 (highest in Utah)
- Range: $400,000-$1,500,000+
- Affordable neighborhoods: West Salt Lake ($400K-500K), Glendale, Rose Park
- Expensive neighborhoods: Avenues ($700K-1.5M), Sugar House ($650K-950K), Capitol Hill ($600K-900K)
- Rental market: $1,603 (average), $1,200-$1,600 (1-bedroom), $1,400-$1,800 (2-bedroom)
Cost of Living
- Overall index: 109 (9% above national average)
- Housing: 29% more expensive than U.S. average
- Utilities: Near average
- Groceries: 2% below national average
- Transportation: Higher (parking costs, traffic)
Salt Lake City is Utah's most expensive major city—significantly pricier than Ogden or Provo.
Employment Opportunities
Industries: Technology, healthcare, financial services, education, defense, tourism
Major employers:
- Intermountain Healthcare - 38,000+ employees (largest employer)
- University of Utah Health - 14,000+
- Delta Air Lines - 10,000+ (hub at Salt Lake City International)
- Intermountain Medical Center - Major hospital
- Zions Bancorporation - Regional bank headquarters
- Goldman Sachs - Salt Lake City operations center
- Northrop Grumman, L3Harris, BAE Systems - Defense contractors (30-40 min to Hill AFB)
- Extra Space Storage - Headquarters
- Adobe (Lehi, 30 min south) - 2,000+ employees
- Qualtrics (Provo, 45 min south) - 2,500+ employees
Average salaries: $60,000-$120,000+ (highest in Utah)
Why Salt Lake City employment is strong: Most diverse job market in Utah—healthcare, tech, finance, defense, education. Not dependent on a single industry.
VA Healthcare Access
- George E. Wahlen VA Medical Center: 500 Foothill Boulevard, Salt Lake City | (801) 582-1565
- 24/7 emergency department
- Full surgical capabilities, specialty care
- Heart transplant center (one of only five in VA system)
- This is Utah's flagship VA facility
Salt Lake Vet Center: 84 West 4800 South, Suite 100, Murray | (801) 266-1499
Best VA access in Utah—critical for veterans with complex medical needs or requiring specialty care.
Quality of Life
- Climate: Four seasons—cold winters (20-35°F), hot summers (90-100°F), 222 days sunshine
- Altitude: 4,226 feet
- Outdoor recreation: Big Cottonwood Canyon (30 min to world-class skiing), Little Cottonwood Canyon, City Creek Canyon, Jordan River Parkway
- Sports: Utah Jazz (NBA), Real Salt Lake (MLS), Utah Grizzlies (hockey)
- Culture: Natural History Museum of Utah, Utah Museum of Fine Arts, Temple Square, Capitol Theatre, Eccles Theater
- Food/drink: Diverse dining scene, growing brewery culture
- Education: University of Utah (Yellow Ribbon, GI Bill), Salt Lake Community College
- Crime: Moderate to high in some areas—downtown has homeless population visibility
Outdoor recreation highlights:
- 30 minutes to Big Cottonwood/Little Cottonwood ski resorts (Solitude, Brighton, Snowbird, Alta)
- 5 national parks within 3-5 hours (Zion, Bryce, Arches, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef)
- Wasatch Mountain trails
Pros:
- Best VA healthcare access (on-site medical center, 24/7 emergency, heart transplant center)
- Most diverse job market in Utah (healthcare, tech, finance, defense)
- Highest salaries
- World-class outdoor recreation (30 min to skiing)
- University of Utah (Yellow Ribbon, strong veteran support)
- Cultural amenities (museums, sports, dining)
- International airport (major hub)
- Public transit (TRAX light rail, FrontRunner commuter rail)
Cons:
- Highest cost of living in Utah ($585K-717K median home)
- Traffic congestion
- Urban crime concerns
- Homeless population visible in downtown
- Air quality issues (winter inversions)
- Altitude concerns (4,226 feet)
- Limited veteran-specific community (less concentrated than Hill AFB area)
Bottom line: Salt Lake City is ideal for veterans seeking maximum career opportunities, urban amenities, and the best VA healthcare access who can afford high housing costs. Not ideal for veterans on fixed income or seeking strong military community.
3. Provo - "Garden City"
Overall Grade: A-
Why it ranks #3: College town atmosphere (BYU and Utah Valley University), affordable housing ($408,700 median—40% cheaper than Salt Lake City), strong economy, and beautiful mountain setting. However, LDS (Mormon) cultural dominance and lack of VA clinic lower its ranking.
Veteran Population
- Utah County: 18,000+ veterans
- Provo/Orem metro: 8,000-10,000 veterans
- Student veterans: 500+ at BYU, 1,200+ at UVU (highest in Utah)
Housing Market
- Median home price: $408,700
- Range: $350,000-$700,000
- Rental market: $1,435 (1-bedroom), $1,840 (2-bedroom)
Cost of Living
- Overall index: 104 (4% above national average)
- Housing: Below Salt Lake City but higher than Ogden
- Quality of life attracts families, driving prices
Employment Opportunities
Major employers:
- Brigham Young University - 6,000+ employees
- Utah Valley University - 4,000+ employees
- Qualtrics - 2,500+ (Provo headquarters)
- Vivint Smart Home - 2,000+
- Adobe (Lehi) - 30 minutes north, 2,000+ employees
- Nu Skin Enterprises - 1,000+
- Pluralsight - Technology/education
- Utah Valley Hospital - Intermountain Healthcare
"Silicon Slopes": Provo/Lehi area is Utah's tech hub—hundreds of startups and established companies.
Industries: Technology, education, healthcare, manufacturing
VA Healthcare Access
- Provo Vet Center: 1807 North 1120 West | (801) 377-1117 (counseling only, no medical)
- Orem VA Clinic: 1338 South Sandhill Road, Orem | (801) 434-1550 (primary care, 10 minutes)
- George E. Wahlen VAMC (Salt Lake City): 45 miles north, 45-60 minutes for specialty care
Quality of Life
- Climate: Four seasons—cold winters (20-35°F), hot summers (90-100°F), 226 days sunshine
- Altitude: 4,549 feet
- Outdoor recreation: Provo Canyon, Bridal Veil Falls, Sundance Resort, Utah Lake, Provo River
- College town: BYU sports (football, basketball), cultural events
- Education: BYU (GI Bill, extremely affordable for LDS members), Utah Valley University (GI Bill)
- Crime: Very low—one of safest cities in Utah
- LDS influence: 90%+ LDS population, dry culture (limited alcohol availability), conservative values
Pros:
- Affordable housing ($408K vs. $717K in Salt Lake City—43% cheaper)
- Excellent education opportunities (BYU $6,496/year for LDS members, UVU)
- Large student veteran population (1,700+ between BYU and UVU)
- Very safe (low crime)
- Strong economy (Silicon Slopes tech sector)
- Outstanding outdoor recreation (Provo Canyon, skiing, Utah Lake)
- Provo Canyon scenic beauty
- Family-friendly
Cons:
- Dominant LDS culture (90%+ Mormon population may not suit all veterans)
- Limited alcohol availability (state liquor stores, 5% beer in grocery stores)
- No VA medical clinic in Provo (Orem clinic 10 minutes)
- 45 minutes to VA medical center for specialty care
- Smaller veteran community outside universities
- Conservative social culture
- Cold, snowy winters
- Limited nightlife
Bottom line: Provo is perfect for student veterans attending BYU or UVU, or veterans seeking safety, affordability, and family-friendly environment who are comfortable with LDS-dominated culture. Not ideal if you need regular VA specialty care or prefer diverse cultural environment.
4. Clearfield/Layton - "Hill Air Force Base Gateway"
Overall Grade: A-
Why it ranks #4: Maximum defense employment opportunities (Hill Air Force Base on-site), strong veteran community, and moderate housing costs. However, suburban sprawl and limited cultural amenities lower its ranking.
Veteran Population
- Davis County: 18,000+ veterans
- Clearfield/Layton area: 8,000-10,000 veterans
- Concentration: Very high—Hill AFB creates concentrated military population
Housing Market
- Median home price: $450,000-$525,000 (Davis County)
- Range: $350,000-$700,000
Employment Opportunities
Hill Air Force Base (on-site in Clearfield):
- 24,000+ civilian employees
- 6,200+ contractors
- Largest single employer in Utah
- Ogden Air Logistics Complex
Defense Contractors (immediate vicinity):
- Northrop Grumman (Clearfield, Promontory) - $3.5 billion contracts
- L3Harris Technologies
- BAE Systems
- General Dynamics
- CACI, SAIC, Leidos, Raytheon
This is the defense employment capital of Utah.
VA Healthcare Access
- Ogden VA Clinic: 15 minutes south in South Ogden
- George E. Wahlen VAMC: 30 miles south, 35 minutes
Quality of Life
- Climate: Four seasons
- Altitude: 4,400-4,500 feet
- Outdoor recreation: Antelope Island State Park, Great Salt Lake, nearby ski resorts
- Culture: Limited—primarily suburban/residential
- Crime: Low to moderate
Pros:
- Maximum defense employment (Hill AFB on-site)
- Strong veteran community
- Security clearance jobs abundant
- Moderate housing costs (cheaper than Salt Lake City)
- Safe neighborhoods
- Family-friendly
- 15 minutes to Ogden VA Clinic
- Close to ski resorts
Cons:
- Suburban sprawl (requires vehicle)
- Limited cultural amenities
- 35 minutes to VA medical center
- Less walkable than Ogden or Salt Lake City
- Economy heavily dependent on Hill AFB
Bottom line: Clearfield/Layton is ideal for veterans seeking defense contractor employment and strong military community. Best for those transitioning from Hill AFB who want to stay near the base.
5. St. George - "Utah's Dixie"
Overall Grade: B+
Why it ranks #5: Warmest climate in Utah (high desert), beautiful red rock scenery, expanded VA clinic (2024), and retirement-friendly atmosphere. However, high housing costs ($530,000 median), distance from major employment centers, and remote location lower its ranking.
Veteran Population
- Washington County: 12,000+ veterans
- St. George: 6,000-8,000 veterans
- Concentration: High—retirement destination
Housing Market
- Median home price: $530,000 (expensive for smaller city)
- Rental market: $1,890 (1-bedroom)
Employment Opportunities
- Limited compared to Wasatch Front
- Healthcare, education, tourism, retail dominate
- SkyWest Airlines (regional headquarters)
- Intermountain Healthcare - Dixie Regional Medical Center
Not ideal for working veterans—better for retirees.
VA Healthcare Access
- St. George VA Clinic (Expanded 2024): 585 East Riverside Drive | (435) 634-7608
- Services: Primary care, walk-in lab, sleep clinic, optometry, nutrition, weight management, expanded physical therapy
- Grand opening March 2024 with significantly enhanced services
- George E. Wahlen VAMC: 300 miles north, 4+ hours (long drive for specialty care)
Good local access, but specialty care requires major travel.
St. George Vet Center: 1664 South Dixie Drive, Suite C-103 | (435) 673-4494
Quality of Life
- Climate: Warmest in Utah—mild winters (45-60°F), very hot summers (100-110°F), 300+ days sunshine
- Altitude: 2,860 feet - lowest in Utah, best for respiratory issues
- Outdoor recreation: Zion National Park (45 min), Snow Canyon State Park, red rock hiking, golf
- Culture: Growing arts scene, retirement community vibe
- Crime: Low
- Fast growth: Rapid development, traffic increasing
Pros:
- Warmest climate in Utah (mild winters, great for retirees)
- Lowest altitude (2,860 feet—best for COPD, heart conditions)
- Expanded VA clinic (2024) with enhanced services
- Zion National Park 45 minutes
- Beautiful red rock scenery
- Safe community
- Growing arts/culture scene
- Golf courses
Cons:
- Expensive housing ($530K median—high for smaller city)
- Very hot summers (100-110°F)
- Limited job opportunities
- 300 miles from Salt Lake City (4+ hours)
- Specialty VA care requires 4-hour drive or Community Care
- Rapid growth causing traffic, sprawl
- Remote location
Bottom line: St. George is ideal for retirees seeking warm climate, low altitude, and outdoor recreation who can afford high housing costs. Not ideal for working veterans or those needing frequent VA specialty care.
6. Logan - "Utah's Hidden Gem"
Overall Grade: B+
Why it ranks #6: College town (Utah State University), affordable housing, beautiful Cache Valley setting, and safe community. However, remote location (90 miles from Salt Lake City), no VA clinic, and cold winters lower its ranking.
Veteran Population
- Cache County: 8,000+ veterans
- Logan: 3,000-4,000 veterans
- USU student veterans: 800+
Housing Market
- Median home price: $380,000-$420,000 (affordable)
Employment Opportunities
- Utah State University (8,000+ employees)
- Space Dynamics Laboratory (aerospace research)
- ICON Health & Fitness
- Campbell Scientific
- Cache Valley Electric
VA Healthcare Access
- No VA clinic in Logan
- Brigham City VA Clinic: 30 miles south
- Ogden VA Clinic: 50 miles south, 50 minutes
- George E. Wahlen VAMC: 90 miles south, 90 minutes
Biggest weakness: No local VA care.
Quality of Life
- Climate: Four seasons—very cold winters (10-30°F), warm summers (85-95°F)
- Altitude: 4,534 feet
- Outdoor recreation: Logan Canyon, Bear Lake (45 min), Beaver Mountain Ski Resort
- College town: USU sports, cultural events
- Crime: Very low
- Small-city feel
Pros:
- Affordable housing ($380K-420K)
- Utah State University (GI Bill, Yellow Ribbon)
- Large student veteran community (800+)
- Very safe
- Beautiful Cache Valley
- Excellent outdoor recreation (Logan Canyon, Bear Lake)
- Small-city feel
- Lower cost of living
Cons:
- No VA clinic (50-90 min to Ogden/Salt Lake City)
- Remote (90 miles from Salt Lake City)
- Very cold, snowy winters
- Limited job opportunities outside USU
- Small veteran community outside USU
- Long drive for specialty services
Bottom line: Logan is ideal for student veterans attending Utah State University or retirees seeking affordability, safety, and small-town atmosphere who have reliable transportation for VA care. Not ideal if you need regular VA healthcare.
7. Lehi - "Silicon Slopes Capital"
Overall Grade: B
Why it ranks #7: Tech hub with high salaries, strong economy, and proximity to Salt Lake City. However, very high housing costs ($603,000 median—second highest in Utah) and rapid growth lower its ranking.
Housing Market
- Median home price: $603,000 (second most expensive in Utah)
- Rental market: $1,720 average
Employment Opportunities
- Adobe (2,000+ employees)
- Vivint Smart Home
- Xactware
- Pluralsight
- Hundreds of tech startups
Highest salaries in Utah—tech sector pays $80,000-$150,000.
VA Healthcare Access
- American Fork VA Clinic: 10 minutes, (801) 492-2200
- George E. Wahlen VAMC: 35 miles, 35 minutes
Pros:
- Highest salaries (tech sector)
- Strong economy
- Close to Salt Lake City (30 min)
- Good schools
- Safe community
Cons:
- Very expensive housing ($603K median)
- Rapid growth, traffic
- Suburban sprawl
- Not veteran-specific community
Bottom line: Lehi is ideal for veterans with tech skills seeking high salaries who can afford expensive housing. Not ideal for veterans on fixed income.
8. Park City - "Ski Town USA"
Overall Grade: C+
Why it ranks #8: World-class skiing, resort town atmosphere, and high quality of life. However, extremely expensive housing ($1.2M+ median), high altitude (7,000 feet), and limited veteran community make it impractical for most veterans.
Housing Market
- Median home price: $1,200,000+ (most expensive in Utah)
- Rental market: $2,500-$5,000+ (very expensive)
Only viable for high-income veterans or those with significant wealth.
9. Orem - "Family City USA"
Overall Grade: B-
Why it ranks #9: Family-friendly, safe, adjacent to Provo, and has VA clinic. However, similar LDS cultural dominance, higher housing costs than Provo, and less distinct identity lower its ranking.
Housing Market
- Median home price: $450,000-$500,000
VA Healthcare Access
- Orem VA Clinic: 1338 South Sandhill Road | (801) 434-1550
10. Sandy/Draper - "South Valley Suburbs"
Overall Grade: B-
Why it ranks #10: Safe, good schools, proximity to Salt Lake City and ski resorts. However, expensive housing ($550,000-$650,000), suburban sprawl, and no distinct veteran community lower its ranking.
Housing Market Analysis
Median Home Prices by City (2025)
| City | Median Price | Property Tax (100% Disabled Exemption) |
|---|---|---|
| Park City | $1,200,000+ | ~$0 (full exemption up to $948K market value) |
| Salt Lake City | $585,000-$717,000 | ~$0 (full exemption) |
| Lehi | $603,000 | ~$0 (full exemption) |
| Sandy/Draper | $550,000-$650,000 | ~$0 (full exemption) |
| St. George | $530,000 | ~$0 (full exemption) |
| Davis County (Clearfield/Layton) | $450,000-$525,000 | ~$0 (full exemption) |
| Orem | $450,000-$500,000 | ~$0 (full exemption) |
| Logan | $380,000-$420,000 | ~$0 (full exemption) |
| Provo | $408,700 | ~$0 (full exemption) |
| Ogden | $378,000-$387,000 | ~$0 (full exemption) |
Note: Utah's $521,620 property tax exemption (for 100% disabled veterans) covers homes with market values up to ~$948,400. Most Utah homes fall under this threshold, resulting in full or near-full exemption.
Rental Market (2-bedroom apartment)
- Salt Lake City: $1,400-$1,800
- Lehi: $1,700+
- Park City: $2,500-$5,000
- St. George: $1,890
- Provo: $1,840
- Orem: $1,600-$1,800
- Ogden: $1,640
- Logan: $1,200-$1,500
Affordability Analysis
Most affordable:
- Ogden ($378K-387K—40% cheaper than Salt Lake City)
- Logan ($380K-420K)
- Provo ($408K)
Best value (price vs. job market/quality of life):
- Ogden ($378K with Hill AFB access, VA clinic, skiing)
- Provo ($408K with tech sector, universities)
- Clearfield/Layton ($450K-525K with Hill AFB employment)
Least affordable:
- Park City ($1.2M+—prohibitive for most veterans)
- Salt Lake City ($585K-717K)
- Lehi ($603K)
Cost of Living Breakdown by City
Wasatch Front Cities
Salt Lake City:
- Overall: 109 (9% above national average)
- Housing: 129 (29% above national average)
- Most expensive
Lehi:
- Overall: 127 (27% above national average)
- Housing: Very high
- Median household income: $128,653 (offsets high costs)
Ogden:
- Overall: 93.8 (6% below state average, 7% above national)
- Housing: 40% cheaper than Salt Lake City
- Best value in Utah
Provo:
- Overall: 104 (4% above national average)
- Housing: Moderate
Southern Utah
St. George:
- Overall: Moderate to high
- Housing: Expensive ($530K) relative to local wages
Northern Utah
Logan:
- Overall: Below state average
- Housing: Affordable ($380K-420K)
Climate and Altitude Considerations
Wasatch Front Cities (4,200-4,600 feet)
Salt Lake City (4,226 feet), Ogden (4,300 feet), Provo (4,549 feet), Clearfield/Layton (4,400-4,500 feet)
- Summers: Hot (90-100°F), low humidity
- Winters: Cold (20-35°F), snow, dry
- Sunshine: 220-230 days/year
- Altitude concerns: Moderate—veterans with respiratory/cardiovascular conditions should consult doctors
Southern Utah (Lower Altitude)
St. George (2,860 feet)
- Summers: Very hot (100-110°F)
- Winters: Mild (45-60°F)
- Lowest altitude in Utah—best for respiratory issues
Northern Utah
Logan (4,534 feet)
- Summers: Warm (85-95°F)
- Winters: Very cold (10-30°F), heavy snow
Mountain Towns (High Altitude—CAUTION)
Park City (7,000 feet)
- High altitude dangerous for veterans with COPD, heart disease, or pulmonary issues
- Consult VA provider before moving
Veteran Health Considerations
Altitude concerns for:
- COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease)
- Cardiovascular disease
- Pulmonary hypertension
- Heart failure
- Sleep apnea
- Asthma
Recommendation: If you have respiratory or cardiovascular conditions, choose:
- St. George (2,860 feet—lowest altitude)
- Ogden (4,300 feet—moderate)
- Consider Arizona or Nevada (lower elevations)
VA pulmonary medicine: George E. Wahlen VAMC has specialized team for altitude-related complications.
Veteran Community Strength
Cities with Strongest Military Community
- Clearfield/Layton: 8,000-10,000 veterans—highest concentration due to Hill AFB
- Ogden: 12,000+ veterans (Weber County)—Hill AFB proximity
- Salt Lake City metro: 60,000+ veterans (largest total)
- St. George: 12,000+ veterans—retirement destination
VFW and American Legion Posts
Most posts: Salt Lake City (10+ posts), Ogden (6+ posts), Provo (4+ posts)
Veterans Day events: Major parades in Salt Lake City, Ogden, Provo
Military Installations
Hill Air Force Base (Clearfield):
- 24,000+ civilian employees
- 6,200+ contractors
- Largest employer in Utah
Camp Williams (Bluffdale):
- Utah National Guard training site
- Adjacent to Utah Veterans Cemetery
Dugway Proving Ground (Dugway):
- Army chemical/biological defense testing
- Remote (80 miles southwest of Salt Lake City)
Quality of Life Factors
Outdoor Recreation
Best outdoor recreation:
- Ogden: Snowbasin, Powder Mountain ski resorts (15-30 min), Pineview Reservoir
- Salt Lake City: Big/Little Cottonwood ski resorts (30 min), 5 national parks within 3-5 hours
- Provo: Provo Canyon, Sundance Resort, Utah Lake
- St. George: Zion National Park (45 min), Snow Canyon State Park
Best for skiing: Ogden (closest to Snowbasin/Powder Mountain), Salt Lake City (30 min to Big/Little Cottonwood)
Best for national parks: St. George (Zion 45 min), Salt Lake City (all 5 parks within 3-5 hours)
Culture and Entertainment
Best food scenes: Salt Lake City (most diverse), Ogden (25th Street revitalization), Park City (resort dining) Best breweries: Salt Lake City (Wasatch, Red Rock, Proper), Ogden (Talisman, Ogden Own, Roosters) Best arts/culture: Salt Lake City (museums, symphony, ballet), Park City (Sundance Film Festival) Best sports: Salt Lake City (Utah Jazz NBA, Real Salt Lake MLS)
Education (for families)
Best school districts:
- Granite School District (Salt Lake County)
- Davis School District
- Alpine School District (Utah County)
- Park City School District
Best universities for veterans:
- University of Utah (Yellow Ribbon, 250 slots $15K/year)
- Utah State University (GI Bill, 800+ veterans)
- BYU (extremely affordable for LDS members, $6,496/year)
- Utah Valley University (GI Bill, 1,200+ veterans—highest in Utah)
Healthcare Access
Best VA access:
- Salt Lake City (on-site VA medical center, 24/7 emergency, heart transplant center)
- Ogden (VA clinic, 40 min to medical center)
- St. George (expanded VA clinic as of 2024)
Best overall healthcare:
- Salt Lake City (University of Utah Health, Intermountain Healthcare)
- Ogden (McKay-Dee Hospital, Intermountain)
- Provo (Utah Valley Hospital, Intermountain)
Decision Matrix: Which City is Right for You?
Choose Ogden if:
- Affordability is critical ($378K-387K—lowest major city)
- You need Hill AFB defense jobs (15 minutes)
- You want VA clinic access
- You want world-class skiing within 15-30 minutes
- You want 40% savings vs. Salt Lake City
- You prefer moderate altitude (4,300 feet)
Choose Salt Lake City if:
- VA healthcare access is critical (on-site medical center)
- You want maximum job diversity (tech, healthcare, finance, defense)
- You need urban amenities and culture
- You can afford $585K-$717K housing
- You prioritize career advancement over affordability
Choose Provo if:
- You're a student veteran attending BYU or UVU
- You want affordability ($408K) with tech sector access
- You're comfortable with LDS-dominated culture
- You want safety and family-friendly environment
- You prefer college town atmosphere
Choose Clearfield/Layton if:
- You work at Hill AFB or defense contractor
- You want strongest military community
- You're transitioning from Hill AFB and want to stay near base
- You prefer suburban family-friendly environment
Choose St. George if:
- Climate is priority #1 (warmest in Utah, mild winters)
- You have respiratory issues (lowest altitude: 2,860 feet)
- You're retired on good income (housing is expensive: $530K)
- You want Zion National Park access (45 min)
- You don't need frequent VA specialty care (4 hours to Salt Lake City)
Choose Logan if:
- You're attending Utah State University
- You want small-town atmosphere
- You want affordability ($380K-420K)
- You have reliable transportation for VA care (50-90 min)
Key Takeaways
- Ogden offers best overall value - $378K-387K housing (40% cheaper than Salt Lake City), Hill AFB access, VA clinic, world-class skiing
- Salt Lake City offers best VA access - On-site medical center, 24/7 emergency, heart transplant center
- Provo offers best education value - BYU ($6,496/year for LDS), UVU, tech sector, $408K housing
- Clearfield/Layton offers best defense employment - Hill AFB on-site, 250+ contractors, strongest military community
- St. George offers best climate - Warmest winters, lowest altitude (2,860 feet—best for respiratory issues)
- Utah's $521,620 property tax exemption covers most homes (market values up to $948K)
Utah's real value:
- Outstanding outdoor recreation (5 national parks, world-class skiing)
- Exceptional veteran tax benefits ($521,620 property tax exemption, full military retirement exemption)
- Very low veteran unemployment (0.9%)
- Strong defense industry (Hill AFB, 173,000 jobs, $22.2B GDP)
- Growing tech sector (Silicon Slopes)
Utah's challenges:
- High housing costs (except Ogden, Logan, Provo)
- Altitude health concerns (4,000-7,000 feet)
- LDS cultural dominance (may not suit all veterans)
- Air quality issues (winter inversions along Wasatch Front)
- Limited VA medical centers (only one in Salt Lake City)
Choose Utah for: Outdoor recreation, skiing, tax benefits, defense employment, tech sector, low unemployment
Don't choose Utah for: Beach lifestyle, warm winters, low altitude living, diverse cultural environment (LDS dominance)
The best city for you depends on your priorities: affordability + employment (Ogden), VA access (Salt Lake City), education (Provo/Logan), defense jobs (Clearfield/Layton), or climate (St. George).
Additional Resources
- Utah Department of Veterans and Military Affairs: (801) 326-2372 | Toll-free (800) 894-9497 | veterans@utah.gov | veterans.utah.gov
- Housing market data: Zillow.com/UT, Redfin.com/state/Utah
- Cost of living calculators: BestPlaces.net
- VA facility locator: VA.gov/find-locations
- Hill Air Force Base jobs: usajobs.gov, Hill AFB civilian personnel
- Utah Workforce Services: jobs.utah.gov
Information current as of 2025. Housing prices and market conditions change frequently—verify current prices before making decisions. Consult your VA provider about altitude concerns before relocating to Utah.