Salt Lake City

Its majestic canyons and the world-famous snow have long attracted adventure seekers all over the country, but Salt Lake City — aptly named the Crossroads of the West — offers a multifaceted lifestyle that appeals to everyone. Let’s explore what makes Salt Lake City an exceptional place to lay down roots.

WELCOME TO SALT LAKE CITY, UT

Salt Lake City, Utah’s bustling capital, is an urban-suburban town framed by the striking Wasatch Mountains. As the state’s most populous city, it serves as the hub of Salt Lake County and stretches nearly 111 square miles. It’s home to over 201,000 individuals and comprises 22 major districts, along with a handful of smaller locales.

What Salt Lake City is known for

Locals fondly call this city just Salt Lake or SLC, but for non-residents, it’s best known as a major hub for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Salt Lake Temple, the largest Latter-day Saint temple in the world, makes its home here and attracts thousands of religious tourists across the globe. In fact, Salt Lake City’s Mormon roots date all the way back to the mid-19th century, when church leader Brigham Young established the city to provide a safe haven for the Mormon community.

Beyond its religious significance, Salt Lake City is famous for its exceptional skiing and other outdoor winter activities. Both locals and tourists flock to the nearby Wasatch Mountains, where several top-rated resorts lie within a convenient one-hour drive from SLC. Avid skiers and snowboarders can take advantage of the incredible slopes with some of the best snow in the country. Winter sports gained such widespread popularity that it brought the 2002 Winter Olympics to Salt Lake City, leading to the construction of several hotels and establishments to accommodate tourists.

Of course, Salt Lake City is more than a tourist destination. Its large population is evidence that people have found a welcoming community and exceptional quality of life here.

HOMES FOR SALE IN SALT LAKE CITY, UT

The Salt Lake City housing market is predominantly single-family homes, with apartments taking up the second-largest chunk of the total housing stock. Interestingly, the population is almost evenly split between those who rent and those who own their homes, with a slight majority of 53% opting to rent.

Also noteworthy is the age of homes in SLC. A significant portion of the housing stock was developed during the 1940s through 1960s. In some neighborhoods, such as Yalecrest, you’ll find beautiful architectural styles from bygone eras, including English Tudor and Mid-century Modern. SLC also has a sizable collection of historic homes that date back to the 1930s and early 20th century.

Luxury homes in Salt Lake City, Utah

Many high-end properties are perched on the foothills of the surrounding mountains, offering not just privacy and expansive grounds, but also incredible views of the Salt Lake Valley below. Expect to find distinct architecture heavily influenced by English and, more broadly, European styles.

The following neighborhoods in SLC have become synonymous with luxury real estate options:

• Sugar House: Dubbed one of the hippest neighborhoods in Salt Lake City, Sugar House is a lively neighborhood covering 1300 South to 3000 South. Anyone looking for a tight-knit and welcoming community will fit right in, and those in search of the best dining and entertainment in the area will enjoy making their way through the neighborhood’s tapestry of restaurants and cafes. Housing options in this area are also diverse, ranging from large single-family homes to condos. Luxury homes in this part of Salt Lake City, Utah have an average value of over $650,000, while list prices can go over $2.5 million. View homes for sale in Sugar House here.

• The Avenues: If proximity to nature is your number one priority, The Avenues should rank high on your list. This family-friendly community boasts lush green spaces and urban parks like Memory Grove Park, as well as several walking and hiking trails that connect to Avenues Twin Peaks and City Creek Canyon. Nearby schools include the top-ranking Salt Lake Arts Academy and Skyline High School. As for property types, it’s a near-equal mix of single-family homes and condos, so potential buyers have options. In The Avenues, homes have an average value of over $1 million and can sell for as much as $3.5 million or more. Browse homes for sale in The Avenues here.

• Capitol Hill: Known for its sloping hills and well-preserved history, Capitol Hill is a unique cross-section of old and new. It’s home to the Utah State Capitol, a prominent historic landmark and perhaps the most recognizable facet of the Salt Lake City skyline. As one of the oldest neighborhoods in the city, it’s also architecturally diverse, with properties ranging from Victorian Gothic mansions to simple Adobe houses. Its enviable location and renown has helped result in an average home value of over $820,000 and list prices that can reach upwards of $3.6 million. Explore homes for sale in Capitol Hill here.

• Federal Heights: Federal Heights has a bit of everything: green spaces, cultural attractions, highly-rated schools, and proximity to bustling commercial corridors. Located in northeast SLC, the Federal Heights district is just a convenient 10-minute drive from Downtown. Its universal appeal means homeowners of all types can easily put down roots here. This neighborhood is largely residential, offering mostly single-family properties. See homes for sale in Federal Heights here.

• Yalecrest: Boasting a large concentration of turn-of-the-century homes, Yalecrest is an affluent neighborhood located along Salt Lake City’s East Bench. This historic residential area spans only a six-block radius, but is well-known for its premium properties that showcase historic architectural styles, including, most commonly, English Tudor and English Cottage. In Yalecrest, homes have an average value of over $1 million, while list prices are known to go over $3 million.

• Arcadia Heights: An outdoor recreationist’s playground, Arcadia Heights lies on the sloping foothills of the Wasatch Mountains and even attracts people from outside the neighborhood for its fantastic outdoor spaces. Due to its high perch, the luxury homes in this part of Salt Lake City also not only panoramic views of the city, but what are reputedly the best sunset views in SLC. In terms of architecture, Arcadia Heights features an eclectic mix of Ranch and Modern styles. Home values in this neighborhood average around the $1 million mark and command even higher prices upon sale.

LIVING IN SALT LAKE CITY, UT

The view from Downtown Salt Lake City

The Crossroads of the West

Salt Lake City is one of the few areas in the US where commercially owned industrial banks are chartered. This has resulted in the largest concentration of industrial banking in the country, with companies like UBS, BMW, and Merrill headquartered here. The finance and banking sector can be considered the powerhouse of the Salt Lake City economy, and contributes the most to the city’s GDP.

The Salt Lake City metropolitan area also has a growing reputation as a tech hub, earning it the nickname “Silicon Slopes.” Over the past 10 years, Utah added more than 47,000 jobs in tech. Companies like Quickbase, Atomic, and Overstock.com have built offices in SLC.

Outdoor recreation is another thriving industry, and you’ll find many major snowboard manufacturers based in Utah.

Education

Salt Lake City is well-known for its quality education, from K-12 all the way through college. It’s served by the Salt Lake City School District, which enrolls an estimated 24,000 students, and the Granite School District, which operates 80 schools across Salt Lake Valley. Among the top-rated public schools are:

Students can also opt to study in private schools, including Rowland Hall (PK-12), The McGillis School (K-8), and Intermountain Christian School (PK-12).

University of Utah, the state’s pioneering higher education institution, is located in northeast Salt Lake City. The acclaimed research university includes 150 academic departments, with notable programs in medicine, law, ballet, biology, and computer science.

Dining

Whether you’re a foodie or simply love to explore new flavors, Salt Lake City offers a diverse array of cuisines to sample.

• For some of the finest Italian food in town, head to Valter’s Osteria. This fine-dining establishment led by Chef Valter Nassi brings a taste of Tuscany to Salt Lake City, and is well-known for its impeccable service and upscale atmosphere.

• For something more casual, Pizza Nono is a cozy gem in the 9th and 9th district. The restaurant serves up some of the best wood-fired pizzas in SLC, including their signature Beehive pizza that incorporates locally-sourced honey.

• If you’re craving Japanese food, head to Takashi. This popular contemporary restaurant on Market Street offers a delightful selection of sashimi and nigiri, as well as an extensive selection of sake. Be prepared for a wait, though, as reservations aren’t accepted here.

• Red Iguana is the go-to for authentic Mexican cuisine. A Salt Lake City staple since its inception in 1985, Red Iguana is famous for its wide variety of mole sauces. Their star is the must-try Mole Coloradito, featuring Mexican chocolate and fresh poblano peppers. Don’t forget to explore their selection of refreshing cocktails, too.

• Finally, those on the hunt for contemporary American food will love Wildwood. Located in The Avenues neighborhood in northeast SLC, Wildwood is a hidden gem known for its exceptional home-style dishes and seasonal fare. Whether you’re craving kebabs or pork belly, Wildwood delivers an exceptional dining experience and generous portions, ensuring everyone leaves with a satisfied stomach.

Shopping

On the shopping front, Salt Lake City’s offerings range from sprawling retail centers to niche stores and antique shops.

• One of the latest additions to the retail scene is City Creek Center, a mixed-use development that features a unique indoor-outdoor design, complete with a retractable ceiling (in case the weather dampens your shopping spree). The place spans a massive 23 acres and three blocks in total. Over 100 shops and restaurants are anchored here, including clothing stores like Anthropologie, COACH, Macy’s, and Louis Vuitton.

• The Gateway in Downtown SLC is perfect if you want to go shopping after catching a movie at the nearby Megaplex 12, or exploring the adjacent Clark Planetarium. It’s also home to the Urban Flea Market, a monthly gathering of community vendors selling vintage gems, antique furniture, and handicrafts.

• Still in Downtown is the renovated <u>Trolley Square, a historic trolley-barn-turned-mall at the heart of the city. The upscale shopping center anchors more than 80 retailers, from jewelry stores and chain brands to a Whole Foods Market.

Attractions

Exploring all of Salt Lake City’s myriad attractions can take more than a few days, so we’ve narrowed it down to these three major points of interest: the Natural History Museum, Red Butte Botanical Garden, and the Utah State Capitol.

• Natural History Museum of Utah: The Natural History Museum of Utah (NHMU), explores the state’s unique geology, ecosystems, and cultural heritage. It is housed inside the Rio Tinto Center, a 163,000-square-foot facility tucked along the foothills of the Wasatch Mountains.

  The NHMU boasts 12 permanent exhibitions spread across four levels, each meticulously crafted to engage and educate visitors of all ages. It’s open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with extended hours until 9:00 p.m. on Wednesdays.

  Other museums of note include the Utah Museum of Fine Arts and the Utah Museum of Contemporary Art.

• Red Butte Botanical Garden: Managed by the University of Utah, the Red Butte Botanical Garden offers more than a stroll among flowers. Visitors can explore scenic nature trails, participate in workshops, and even watch outdoor concerts. The garden also serves as an education center, offering a plethora of programs dedicated to the appreciation of local flora and fauna.

  The Garden operates from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on concert days and extends its hours to 7:00 p.m. on non-concert days.

• Utah State Capitol: Those interested in Salt Lake’s history and architecture can visit the Utah State Capitol on Capitol Hill. Built in 1916, the historic building features Neoclassical Revival architecture and was designed by Richard K. A. Kletting, one of Utah’s pioneering architects. Visitors can catch a glimpse of Utah’s fascinating past through the mural in the Capitol’s rotunda.

  Guided tours are available from Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Outdoor recreation

Salt Lake City is surrounded by the great outdoors: the Wasatch Mountains to the east, the beautiful Oquirrh Range to the west, and the Great Salt Lake is only approximately 21 minutes away. It’s a prime spot for connecting with nature, whether through a long hike or a stroll through neighborhood parks like Liberty Park and the Tracy Aviary.

If you’re up for an out-of-town excursion, a trip to Alta Ski Area is highly recommended. Situated along the Wasatch Mountains, the renowned ski resort is approximately 35 minutes from Salt Lake City. During the summer, visitors can witness the famous alpine wildflowers in full bloom. Come ski season, which typically runs from November through May, guests can try their hand at downhill skiing. Several slopes available for both beginner and advanced skiers.

Those who are more drawn to hiking can explore the Bonneville Shoreline Trail in Farmington, a sprawling network of interconnected trails that measure a total of 100 miles. The route follows the shoreline of the Bonneville bench, a geographical formation left behind by the ancient Bonneville Lake. The trail has several access points within Salt Lake City, including trailheads in the Avenues, City Creek, and Terrace Hills.

DISCOVER THE FINEST LUXURY HOMES IN SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH

Moving to a new home in Salt Lake City requires the expert hand of a real estate agent. Clint Womack is the founder of Vintage Realty Group and the agent who can help you realize your real estate goals in the city. Clint’s local market expertise and negotiation prowess have made him a strong and reliable presence in the Utah real estate industry, assisting countless sellers and buyers in Salt Lake City and beyond.

If you’re searching for luxury homes in Salt Lake City, Utah, you’ll need someone like Clint Womack on your side. Get in touch with Clint at 801.674.9995, or send us an email.