Salt Lake City, Utah, sits between the Wasatch and Oquirrh Mountains in the heart of the Salt Lake Valley, covering an area of around 110 square miles. Famous for the Great Salt Lake, the city continues to grow and is home to more than 200,000 residents. It’s a prime location with easy access to the great outdoors, where you can explore over 20 national parks and monuments within a few hours’ drive. Besides beautiful natural surroundings, Salt Lake City also offers much more for those planning to live here.
The city’s expansion has made it a hub for businesses and professionals, families, and retirees. It’s home to multiple neighborhoods, each with its own residential appeal. Discover 10 of the best neighborhoods in Salt Lake City, which we’ve selected for this guide according to factors including safety, affordability, amenities, proximity to downtown, outdoor recreation, schools, and community engagement.
1. Downtown Salt Lake City
Downtown Salt Lake City is the vibrant heart of the area and offers a mix of urban living, entertainment, and cultural attractions. This community is home to a diverse population, including young professionals, growing families, and retirees. Residents enjoy easy access to dining, shopping, theaters, and nightlife. Besides the common grocery stores and shopping centers, Downtown also hosts various community events, including seasonal celebrations and family-friendly activities. The Downtown Farmers Market in Pioneer Park runs throughout the summer, making it the perfect Saturday afternoon activity for families and friends.
You’ll find a range of housing options in Downtown, from rental apartments and condos to renovated lofts and townhouses. If you’re considering this neighborhood, the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is around $1,295, up by 2% on the previous year. Rental costs for two-bedroom apartments have also increased slightly — by around 3% — averaging at $1,675. Even with these minimal increases, the housing market in Downtown Salt Lake City remains relatively stable.
2. The Avenues
The Avenues is Salt Lake’s largest historic neighborhood and sits northeast of downtown Salt Lake City. Notable for its charming tree-lined streets and diverse architectural style, this community offers a unique blend of Victorian houses, bungalows, and cottages. The neighborhood features a grid system with numbered avenues spanning from east to west, separating the Lower Avenues from the Greater Avenues.
This is a tight-knit district with a strong sense of pride and community engagement. This has helped The Avenues undergo several revitalizations, with residents of all backgrounds coming together to enrich and maintain the picturesque appeal of the community. In 1978, The Avenues Historic District made the National Register of Historic Places, and this neighborhood continues to be one of the safest and most engaged in the city.
3. Sugar House
Sugar House is a vibrant and diverse neighborhood in southeast downtown Salt Lake City. The area has undergone significant revitalization in recent years, becoming a popular destination for singles, young professionals, and families. This charming district offers an ideal balance of contemporary appeal and family-friendly amenities. Take a stroll along picturesque tree-lined streets, and you’ll see the cozy bungalows that make Sugar House such an attractive location.
There’s plenty of green space to escape to here, including the community’s namesake Sugar House Park, which sits on a 110-acre site and hosts various events throughout the year. The community is also home to many local businesses that cater to children, making Sugar House a nurturing environment for families raising little ones. Education thrives in this neighborhood, with esteemed institutions like Dilworth Elementary School, Highland High School, and Westminster College providing exceptional learning opportunities for students of all ages.
4. Capitol Hill
Capitol Hill lies just north of Downtown Salt Lake City and is another of Salt Lake’s historic districts notable for stunning views and architectural charm. The neighborhood is close to the Utah State Capitol, making it a prime spot for history lovers and visitors touring the area. Capitol Hill residents enjoy easy access to cultural attractions, including museums, art galleries, and theaters. The neighborhood is also home to several parks and playgrounds, including Pugsley Park, Guadalupe Park, and Rosewood Park.
With a population of around 26,000 residents, Capitol Hill is a family-oriented community with proximity to highly rated schools and daycare centers. It offers plenty of options for dining in local eateries and cafes, and you can always hop on I-15 and get to Downtown Salt Lake City in a matter of minutes if you’re looking for more lively nightlife.
5. Yalecrest
Yalecrest is a picturesque and family-friendly neighborhood that lies east of the University of Utah. This district offers high-end housing, well-maintained homes, and a strong sense of community. Like many other Salt Lake City neighborhoods, Yalecrest Historic District is on the National Register of Historic Places and provides a mix of architectural styles, with bungalows, Tudor and Colonial Revival houses and Victorian properties. This neighborhood sits at the higher end of the price average, featuring luxury housing options for affluent buyers.
This is a quiet location that offers easy commuting to public schools and the University of Utah, making it a popular neighborhood for families. Renting here also gives you access to outdoor activities and relaxing green spaces, including the Sunnyside Park and the Miller Bird Refuge and Nature Park. Residents also visit Bonneville Glen to get out in nature, where you find mini waterfalls and picturesque hiking trails. With plenty to do indoors and out, Yalecrest tops the list of the best neighborhoods in Salt Lake City.
6. Federal Heights
Federal Heights is just a 10-minute drive from downtown and offers a vibrant blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. You can enjoy visiting various museums, including the Utah Museum of Fine Arts and the Fort Douglas Military Museum. For those seeking entertainment, the Energy Solutions Arena hosts live music and seasonal and sports events. The neighborhood’s proximity to the University of Utah and the stunning Wasatch Mountain Range adds to its appeal and provides a rich variety of educational and outdoor opportunities.
Federal Heights originally served as officers’ quarters for Fort Douglas, and this historical heritage is evident in the community’s charming homes, many of which date from the late 1800s and early 1900s. You can enjoy the serenity of nature at the nearby Red Butte Canyon Research Natural Area, Tomahawk Natural Area, City Creek, or the City Creek Natural Area. Families with children find the location ideal, with highly rated schools and a range of kid-friendly facilities, including playgrounds, entertainment centers, and parks.
7. Liberty Wells
Liberty Wells blends history with a mix of urban and suburban vibes. With a population of around 9,000 to 10,000 residents, this community offers a cozy, tight-knit atmosphere with plenty to do. The Liberty Wells housing market embraces various architectural styles, including charming bungalows and elegant Victorian homes. Alongside these historic dwellings, you’ll also discover newer homes that add a modern touch to the neighborhood.
This community lies close to popular areas such as Sugar House, the bustling 9th and 9th Business District, Downtown, and Liberty Park — which hosts the Liberty Park Market in summer. Residents also have easy access to public transportation and major freeways. Additionally, the National Register of Historic Places recognized the neighborhood’s historical significance by adding Liberty Wells to its list. Residents of Liberty Wells take pride in their community and hold events throughout the year, including Native American and art festivals.
8. East Bench
East Bench sits southeast of the city center, right at the foot of the Wasatch Mountains. The community is home to around 30,700 residents, making it one of Salt Lake City’s larger neighborhoods. Much like other areas of Salt Lake, East Bench has its roots in the Mormon pioneer movement of the 1800s. The housing market here offers different types of apartments and larger single-family homes, many featuring landscaped yards and extravagant charm.
The neighborhood sprawls along Emigration Creek, adding waterfront homes to the market’s options. Outdoor spaces abound for residents of East Bench, with Donner Park nearby and hiking and scenic trails along Emigration Creek in Killyons Canyon. You’ll also discover a vibrant dining scene, with cafes, diners, and relaxed family restaurants. Most dining options sit at the west end of the community. Downtown, Sugar House, and the University of Utah are just minutes away, making East Bench an ideal location for relaxed, quiet living close to the action.
9. 9th and 9th
The 9th and 9th neighborhood lies north of Sugar House, and many residents consider this a miniature version of its neighbor. This bustling area attracts young, active individuals, creating a diverse, vibrant atmosphere with plenty of rental options. There’s much to experience in 9th and 9th, from yoga studios, such as Centered City, to outdoor recreation in the surrounding parks and on the hiking and bike trails. Residents also enjoy a variety of eateries, diners, restaurants, and pubs. Pago is the community’s top farm-to-table restaurant, with a sustainable approach to dining if you’re in the mood for fresh fare.
Exploring the local boutiques in this neighborhood is a delightful experience. Fitness and cycling enthusiasts can find Contender Bicycles, a go-to destination for pro cyclists and a hub for community rides. This neighborhood also boasts a unique shopping experience in Trolley Square, a charmingly refurbished historic trolley barn that houses an array of shops and restaurants. 9th and 9th offers a variety of architectural styles, with many properties dating from the early 1900s. Residents also take great pride in the community, holding the annual 9th and 9th Street Festival that celebrates the area’s modern establishment.
10. Millcreek
Millcreek is a neighborhood at the base of the Wasatch Mountains, just south of Sugar House, offering a haven for those seeking an outdoor lifestyle. With a mix of older homes, modern apartments, and townhomes, you have your choice of single-family spaces and up-and-coming residences, including pet-friendly renting options. The community is one of Salt Lake’s top spots for accessing outdoor activities, with opportunities for hiking, biking, fly fishing, and relaxing in nature. In winter, it offers skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing in Millcreek Canyon.
The neighborhood is home to many restaurants, including Salt Lake City’s popular breakfast spot, Roots Café, with its locally sourced menu. Log Haven is another community favorite for more refined and romantic dining, offering breathtaking views of Millcreek Canyon and its nearby waterfall. With its combination of beautiful scenery and exciting social activities, Millcreek makes a top choice for those looking for a laid-back, nature-focused lifestyle.
Finding the best neighborhood in Salt Lake City
When it comes to finding the best neighborhood in Salt Lake City, there’s no one best option. You’ll want to consider your lifestyle and what you’re looking for in a community, including proximity to work, schools, parks, and other essential amenities. Evaluate the housing market for affordability and availability to understand what’s best for your requirements. By weighing up these factors, you can make an informed decision and find the perfect neighborhood for your lifestyle and preferences.
Ultimately, though, Salt Lake City is a treasure trove of diverse and vibrant neighborhoods, each with its unique charm and particular lifestyle. Whether you’re seeking a lively urban experience, a family-friendly environment, or a peaceful retreat, there are rental options for real estate in Salt Lake City to suit every preference. From the fashionable streets of 9th and 9th to the historic allure of The Avenues, these 10 neighborhoods in Salt Lake City are worth considering if you’re searching for a place to live here.
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