The Ultimate Guide to Living in Orem, Utah
If you’re considering a move to Orem, or just curious about what it’s like to live here, I’m going to walk you through some of the pros and cons of calling Orem home. Located about 30 minutes south of Salt Lake City, this city has a lot to offer, so let’s dive in!
Pros of Living in Orem, Utah
1. Amazing Facilities and Family-Friendly Atmosphere
Orem is known for its strong sense of community and excellent recreational facilities. The Lakeside Sports Complex, where I’m filming today, is a fantastic place for families, offering fields for soccer, baseball, and softball. If you’re raising kids and looking for a family-friendly environment, Orem is a great place to be.
2. Excellent Education Opportunities
Orem is home to Utah Valley University (UVU), making it an excellent option for families with college-age students. In addition, Orem is part of the Alpine School District, one of the largest and most well-regarded school districts in Utah. With strong educational opportunities from K-12 and beyond, Orem is a great choice for families prioritizing academics.
3. Affordable Housing and Cost of Living
Compared to other areas in Utah, Orem offers a more affordable cost of living. As of the time of this video, the median price of a single-family home in Orem is $480,000. While home prices are rising across Utah, Orem remains relatively more budget-friendly than some of its neighboring cities.
4. Proximity to Outdoor Recreation
If you love the outdoors, you’ll love Orem! Whether it’s hiking, biking, skiing, snowboarding, or fishing, there are plenty of opportunities nearby. The Provo Canyon and Sundance Ski Resort are just a short drive away, and Utah Lake offers beautiful scenery, walking trails, and recreational activities. Golf lovers will also appreciate the fantastic golf course just minutes away from the west side of Orem.
5. Low Crime Rate
Safety is a priority for many when choosing a place to live, and Orem delivers. With a low crime rate, it’s a popular choice for families looking for a secure, community-oriented environment.
Cons of Living in Orem, Utah
1. Bugs and Water Quality at Utah Lake
While Utah Lake is a beautiful sight, living too close to it comes with some downsides. The lake has struggled with water quality issues in the past, and because of the water, bugs and insects can be a nuisance in certain areas.
2. Industrial Areas Mixed with Residential Neighborhoods
Orem has a mix of residential and industrial areas, sometimes very close to each other. While there are plenty of beautiful neighborhoods, some people might not love having industrial zones nearby.
3. Limited Nightlife and Entertainment
Orem is more of a suburban, family-friendly city, so if you’re looking for a bustling nightlife scene, you might be disappointed. While there are plenty of restaurants and dining options, the nightlife is relatively quiet compared to nearby cities like Salt Lake City or even Provo.
4. Utah’s Unpredictable Weather
Living in Utah means experiencing all four seasons—and sometimes, all in one day! Winters can be cold and snowy, and the area can get quite windy at times. However, if you enjoy seasonal changes, this might not be a dealbreaker.
5. Traffic Congestion
Because Orem is home to a large university and a growing population, traffic can get congested—especially during the school year. Freeway entrances and exits can back up, so it’s essential to plan for extra time when commuting.
Final Thoughts
Orem, Utah, is a fantastic place to live if you’re looking for a family-friendly city with great schools, affordable housing, and plenty of outdoor activities. However, if nightlife, urban excitement, or avoiding traffic are top priorities for you, you may want to consider other options.
If you’re thinking about making a move to Orem or anywhere in the Utah area, my team and I help people just like you every day, and we’d love to assist you. Whether you’re relocating in a week, a month, or even a year from now, feel free to give us a call, shoot us a text, or send us an email—we’d love to connect with you and help make your transition as smooth as possible.
Wishing you a wonderful day—take care, and talk soon!
