A Salt Lake City Local Expert’s Guide To 10 Budget-Friendly Neighborhoods to Rent
An expert's guide to Salt Lake City's 10 most affordable neighborhoods for renters
Salt Lake City, the capital of the gorgeous state of Utah — where I was born and raised — has gone gangbusters boom-bang-boom ever since the Winter Olympics were held here in 2002. And I know why: There's the stunning natural beauty -- lots of movies and TV shows are filmed here -- and the vibrant urban life. There are tons of enjoyable things to do outdoors (skiing, hiking, camping, boating, fishing, etc.) plus a fantastic food scene with loads of awesome new restaurants, bars, and food halls. Plenty of people have discovered Salt Lake City, from all corners of the country, and decided to move here, mostly from the West Coast. The construction has become crazier since SLC was awarded host city for the 2034 Winter Olympics. All of this means it's not exactly cheap to live here, as it once was 20 years ago. However, we're here to help you find affordable housing for rent and an excellent quality of life. Whether you're a student looking for a convenient spot near the University of Utah (from where I graduated many moons ago), a young professional seeking vibrant community vibes, or a family in need of spacious homes and green spaces, Salt Lake City's diverse neighborhoods have something for everyone. The following areas provide budget-friendly living options without compromising on amenities or quality of life. In this article, I'll explore the 10 of my favorite affordable neighborhoods in Salt Lake City, highlighting their unique features and advantages. Stay tuned!
West Valley City offers affordable housing options for renters, with average rent prices much lower than the national average. The city boasts over 20,000 affordable housing units and a high concentration of Section 8 vouchers. With a cost of living index of 111, West Valley City provides a balance of affordability and urban amenities for budget-conscious renters. Oh, and there are also a ton of great Thai, Mexican, Vietnamese and other ethnic restaurants. Plus, an excellent, chair-rattling, sound-of-mind-blowing IMAX movie theater and a wildly fun outdoor concert venue (Utah First Credit Union Amphitheater) that puts on rowdy shows.
Located 20 minutes west of Salt Lake City, Magna stands out as a cost-effective suburb. With a median home price of $408,098, it's notably more affordable than downtown. Residents can enjoy local attractions like The Great Saltair (an all-ages concert and events venue that offers all the ambiance and accommodations promoters look for), as well as the scenic Great Salt Lake State Park.
Murray offers affordable living just 10 miles south of Salt Lake City. With a median rent of $1,162, it's 22.4% higher than the national average but still reasonable for the area. The city boasts seven affordable housing complexes with 851 low-income units available. Murray's cost of living index is 119, making it pricier than average but with good amenities and a short 19-minute average commute. It's a charming neighborhood — my parents met at Murray High and my brother and I spent our early years there. And now, there's a massive Costco right across from the school, plus some excellent golf courses, movie theaters and restaurants nearby.
4. Millcreek I once lived in a Millcreek apartment — among many other neighborhoods in Salt Lake City — and absolutely loved it. Great coffee shops, breakfast joints, diners and then it's close to all sorts of parks (including a great dog one) and recreation. Trails galore and everything that you want if you're an outdoor enthusiast. It provides a balance of affordability and amenities for renters. With a median rent of $1,347 for a one-bedroom apartment, it's relatively budget-friendly compared to downtown Salt Lake City. The area boasts excellent air quality, a thriving community atmosphere and provides easy access to both urban amenities and natural attractions.
Kearns is recognized for its low housing costs, with a median home value of $152,300. The suburb hosts several large employers (McDonald's, Frito-Lay, Taco Bell and AutoZone among them, and community events like the Kearns Hometown Day Parade, fostering a lively atmosphere year-round. Kearns is also home to the Utah Olympic Oval, an indoor speed skating venue built for the 2002 Winter Olympics, and the neighborhood's population and growth will certainly increase in the coming years leading up to the next Olympic Games.
Rose Park offers affordable living just northwest of downtown Salt Lake City. It's significantly cheaper than the city average with a median rent of $1,093/month. The neighborhood boasts tree-lined streets, mountain views, and easy access to parks and golf courses. Commuters appreciate its proximity to I-15 and the airport. And, again, incredibly delicious Mexican joints all over the place. Also, check out lovely and quiet Rosewood Park. Great in the spring for bringing takeout and reading a book.
Fairpark offers a blend of affordability and urban living. With a median rent of $1,237, it's more budget-friendly than many Salt Lake City neighborhoods. Residents enjoy easy access to downtown, and diverse dining options — don't you dare skip on dining at Red Iguana (chef's kiss delish) — and the Utah State Fairpark. The area's mix of historic homes and newer developments provides various housing choices for renters.
East Central is a relatively quiet neighborhood favored by college students and young adults due to its proximity to the University of Utah and downtown Salt Lake City. The area offers affordable housing options, including modern apartments and various house styles, along with unique shops. There's also the grand Gilgal Gardens, and you're within walking distance to the perfect, always-packed breakfast diner The Park Cafe which is right across the street from the magnificent Liberty Park. Makes for an amazing Saturday or Sunday. I've done it many times and it's never disappointed.
Glendale offers a diverse, family-friendly atmosphere with affordable housing options. The median rent is $1,258, significantly lower than Salt Lake City's average. With a population of 15,182, this sparse suburban neighborhood boasts numerous parks and coffee shops. Residents enjoy easy access to downtown and a strong sense of community, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious renters.
Poplar Grove is one of the most affordable neighborhoods in Salt Lake City, with a median home price of $385,002 and a median rent of $1,165. The area offers a variety of housing options and is known for its community-oriented atmosphere. Poplar Grove offers affordable living just west of downtown Salt Lake City. With an average rent of $1,292 for a one-bedroom apartment, it's a budget-friendly option for renters. The neighborhood provides easy access to downtown amenities and outdoor recreation along the 9 Line Trail. Poplar Grove Park offers sports facilities and community events, making it an attractive choice for families and young professionals
Other neighborhoods (the runners-up) that are worth a look:
Central City offers a vibrant urban lifestyle with affordable rental options. The average rent for a studio apartment is around $1,000, while one-bedrooms range from $1,100 to $1,500. This walk-friendly neighborhood boasts tree-lined streets, eclectic shops, and easy access to Liberty Park. Recent developments like 144 South apartments have added more affordable housing units to the area.
Jordan Meadows offers a suburban feel with urban convenience. Located west of downtown, it boasts affordable rentals averaging $1,189 for one-bedroom and $1,457 for two-bedroom apartments. The neighborhood features spacious parks, good schools, and easy access to public transportation. Young families appreciate the community's family-friendly atmosphere and proximity to downtown amenities.
Liberty Wells offers a blend of affordability and charm in Salt Lake City. With an average rent of $1,658, it's relatively budget-friendly. The neighborhood boasts historic homes, walkable streets, and easy access to Liberty Park. Young professionals are drawn to its eclectic mix of local businesses, including cafes, shops, and restaurants in the Maven District.
South Salt Lake offers affordable housing options with a median listing home price of $445,000. This diverse neighborhood provides easy access to downtown Salt Lake City while maintaining a suburban feel. With a mix of single-family homes and apartments, renters can find budget-friendly options in this up-and-coming area that's experiencing growth and development.
In closing, exploring these diverse and affordable neighborhoods in and around Salt Lake City reveals that finding budget-friendly housing doesn't mean sacrificing comfort or convenience. With options ranging from vibrant urban districts to serene suburban areas, renters have the opportunity to discover a place that meets both their financial needs and lifestyle preferences. Whether it's the artistic vibe of the Ballpark area or the family-friendly atmosphere of Glendale, each neighborhood brings unique characteristics that enhance the living experience in this dynamic region.
