Moving to Utah from the Midwest or East Coast: A Guide for Newcomers
Utah is a beautiful state with a lot to offer, but it can be a big change for people moving from the Midwest or East Coast. The climate, culture, and lifestyle are all different, so it's important to do your research before making the move.
In this blog post, we will discuss five things you need to know about moving to Utah from the Midwest or East Coast. We will cover topics such as the climate, culture, cost of living, job market, and education system.
Climate
One of the biggest differences between Utah and the Midwest or East Coast is the climate. Utah has a high desert climate, which means that the summers are hot and dry, and the winters are cold and snowy. If you're not used to extreme temperatures, this can be a big adjustment.
The average temperature in Salt Lake City, Utah in January is 32°F (0°C), and the average temperature in July is 85°F (30°C). The humidity is also very low in Utah, which can make the heat feel even more intense.
If you're not sure if you can handle the climate in Utah, it's a good idea to visit the state during different times of the year to get a feel for it.
Culture
Another difference between Utah and the Midwest or East Coast is the culture. Utah is a predominantly Mormon state, so the culture is influenced by Mormon beliefs. This can be a big change for people who are not familiar with Mormonism.
Some of the things you might notice about Mormon culture include:
A strong emphasis on family and community
A conservative lifestyle
A focus on traditional values
If you're not sure how you feel about Mormon culture, it's a good idea to do some research before you move to Utah.
Cost of Living
The cost of living in Utah is lower than in many parts of the Midwest or East Coast. However, the cost of housing is rising, so it's important to factor this into your budget.
According to Numbeo, the cost of living in Salt Lake City is 10% lower than in Chicago, Illinois. The cost of housing is 25% lower, and the cost of groceries is 12% lower.
Job Market
The job market in Utah is strong, and there are many opportunities in a variety of industries. However, the tech industry is particularly strong, so if you have skills in this area, you'll be in high demand.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the unemployment rate in Utah is 3.2%, which is lower than the national average of 3.6%.
Education System
The education system in Utah is highly rated, and there are many great schools in the state. If you have children, you'll be happy to know that they'll receive a quality education.
Utah consistently ranks among the top states in the country for education. In 2022, U.S. News & World Report ranked Utah's public schools 3rd in the nation.
Conclusion
Moving to Utah from the Midwest or East Coast can be a great decision. The state has a lot to offer, and the quality of life is excellent. However, it's important to be prepared for the differences in climate, culture, and lifestyle. By doing your research and planning ahead, you can make the transition to Utah as smooth as possible.
I hope this blog post was helpful. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me.
