Discover the Largest Cities in Utah (By Population, Total Area, and Economic Impact)
Utah is famous for its stunning natural landscapes and outdoor recreational opportunities. It is also home to a collection of vibrant cities. These urban centers are essential hubs of culture, commerce as well as community life. In this article, we will take an in-depth look at the ten largest cities in Utah. We’ll explore their population dynamics, geographical features, economic impact as well as what makes them unique. Whether you’re a resident, a traveler or simply curious about the Beehive State, understanding these cities can help you have a deeper appreciation of Utah’s diversity and vitality.
Population
Utah’s largest cities are diverse in terms of population size and demographics. Below is a table ranking the ten largest cities in the state by population.
| Rank | City | Population (2023) | Population Density (people/sq mi) | Notable Demographic Trends |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Salt Lake City | 200,591 | 1,750 | Growing tech and healthcare sectors |
| 2 | West Valley City | 139,665 | 3,067 | Diverse immigrant communities, vibrant culture |
| 3 | Provo | 119,866 | 4,019 | Home to Brigham Young University, youthful energy |
| 4 | West Jordan | 118,807 | 2,952 | Rapid suburban growth, family-friendly atmosphere |
| 5 | Orem | 101,880 | 5,315 | Education hub, young and educated population |
| 6 | Sandy | 96,084 | 2,704 | Thriving business community, excellent schools |
| 7 | Ogden | 90,562 | 2,791 | Historic downtown revitalization, outdoor recreation |
| 8 | St. George | 91,446 | 1,837 | Retirement destination, outdoor recreation paradise |
| 9 | Layton | 82,946 | 2,258 | Military presence, growing tech sector |
| 10 | South Jordan | 76,598 | 2,410 | Planned communities, family-oriented lifestyle |
Salt Lake City
©Sean Pavone/iStock via Getty Images
As the state’s capital and largest city, Salt Lake City is a thriving urban center known for its tech and healthcare sectors. It is also a cultural and economic hub with a diverse population.
West Valley City
This city is notable for its rich cultural diversity, as well as its vibrant immigrant communities that contribute to its unique character. It is also home to a wide range of businesses and cultural offerings.
Provo
©dallasgolden/iStock via Getty Images
Provo is recognized as the home of Brigham Young University (BYU). Thus, the presence of a college community infuses city with youthful energy and a strong educational focus.
West Jordan
This city has experienced rapid growth, thus becoming a popular choice for families seeking a suburban lifestyle within close proximity to Salt Lake City.
Orem
©Fotoneurotic/iStock via Getty Images
Orem is another educational hub, with Utah Valley University (UVU) situated here. Its population is also relatively young and well-educated.
Sandy
Sandy has a thriving business community and excellent schools, thus making it an attractive place for families and professionals.
Ogden
©PinnacleMarketing/iStock via Getty Images
Ogden has undergone a downtown revitalization, thus making it a destination for history buffs and outdoor lovers. This is because there are several nearby skiing and hiking opportunities.
St. George
Known for its sunny climate and outdoor recreational opportunities, St. George has also become a popular retirement destination.
Layton
©Bethany White/iStock via Getty Images
Layton is home to a significant military presence, also including Hill Air Force Base. It is also experiencing growth in the tech sector.
South Jordan
This city is known for its well-planned communities and a family-oriented lifestyle. Thus, it is a great place to live.
Total Area
Utah’s cities are situated in diverse geographic settings, from the valleys of the Wasatch Front to the red rock landscapes of southern Utah.
| Rank | City | Geographic Features | Climate | Notable Natural Attractions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Salt Lake City | Valley surrounded by the Wasatch and Oquirrh Mountains | Semi-arid, four distinct seasons | Nearby skiing resorts, Great Salt Lake |
| 2 | West Jordan | Suburban community with parks and neighborhoods | Semi-arid, four distinct seasons | Oquirrh Mountains, Jordan River Parkway |
| 3 | South Jordan | Planned communities and parks | Semi-arid, four distinct seasons | South Jordan Parkway, Oquirrh Lake |
| 4 | West Valley City | Residential neighborhoods, cultural centers | Semi-arid, four distinct seasons | Cultural events at the Maverik Center |
| 5 | Ogden | Historic downtown, mountain backdrop | Semi-arid, four distinct seasons | Snowbasin Resort, Ogden River Parkway |
| 6 | Orem | Education hub with residential areas | Semi-arid, four distinct seasons | Provo Canyon, Mount Timpanogos |
| 7 | Provo | Brigham Young University, residential neighborhoods | Semi-arid, four distinct seasons | Bridal Veil Falls, Rock Canyon |
| 8 | St. George | Red rock landscapes, outdoor recreation | Desert, hot summers | Snow Canyon State Park, Red Cliffs Recreation Area |
| 9 | Layton | Military presence, suburban neighborhoods | Semi-arid, four distinct seasons | Layton Commons Park, Davis Park Golf Course |
Salt Lake City
Nestled in a valley surrounded by mountains, Salt Lake City provides residents and visitors easy access to outdoor recreation and cultural attractions.
West Jordan
As a suburban community, West Jordan has a mix of residential neighborhoods and recreational spaces.
South Jordan
©Jeremy Christensen/iStock via Getty Images
Planned communities and parks characterize South Jordan, offering a family-friendly environment.
West Valley City
West Valley City is a bustling urban area with cultural centers and venues like the Maverik Center.
Ogden
With a historic downtown and a mountain backdrop, Ogden is also a gateway to outdoor adventure.
Orem
Orem’s focus on education is complemented by its proximity to natural attractions like Provo Canyon and Mount Timpanogos.
Provo
Also home to Brigham Young University, Provo is surrounded by lots of scenic beauty, including Bridal Veil Falls and Rock Canyon.
St. George
©Rosie Osuna/iStock via Getty Images
The red rock landscapes of southern Utah are on full display in St. George, making it a mecca for outdoor lovers.
Layton
Layton combines suburban living with easy access to parks and golf courses, which add to its allure.
Economic Impact
Utah’s largest cities are not only centers of culture and population but also significant contributors to the state’s economy.
| Rank | City | Economic Output (GDP) | Key Industries | Major Employers | Notable Economic Trends |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Salt Lake City | $54.3 billion | Technology, healthcare, finance, tourism | University of Utah, Intermountain Healthcare, Goldman Sachs | Thriving tech sector, growing healthcare industry, tourism |
| 2 | West Valley City | $11.2 billion | Manufacturing, logistics, healthcare | Smith’s Food and Drug, UPS, FedEx | Expanding manufacturing sector, logistics hub |
| 3 | Provo | $10.6 billion | Education, technology, healthcare | Brigham Young University, Nu Skin | Strong educational and tech sectors, healthcare growth |
| 4 | West Jordan | $7.7 billion | Manufacturing, retail, healthcare | Merit Medical Systems, Black Diamond | Manufacturing growth, diverse retail landscape |
| 5 | Orem | $6.6 billion | Education, healthcare, technology | Utah Valley University, Adobe | Booming tech sector, expanding educational institutions |
| 6 | Sandy | $6.1 billion | Finance, technology, healthcare | Wells Fargo, eBay, Lone Peak Hospital | Financial sector growth, tech innovations |
| 7 | Ogden | $5.4 billion | Manufacturing, transportation, aerospace | Autoliv, Weber State University | Revitalized downtown, aerospace industry expansion |
| 8 | St. George | $5.0 billion | Tourism, healthcare, construction | Dixie State University, Intermountain Healthcare | Growing tourism, real estate development |
| 9 | Layton | $4.6 billion | Defense, manufacturing, retail | Hill Air Force Base, Davis Hospital | Strong defense industry, retail growth |
| 10 | South Jordan | $4.2 billion | Technology, manufacturing, healthcare | Ivanti, Merit Medical Systems | Tech sector expansion, diversified economy |
Salt Lake City
The state capital leads the state in economic output, driven by its diverse economy, including technology, healthcare, finance, and tourism.
West Valley City
This city has a strong manufacturing sector and serves as a logistics hub for the region.
Provo
Home to Brigham Young University (BYU), Provo’s economy benefits from education, technology, and healthcare.
West Jordan
Manufacturing, retail, and healthcare are key economic drivers in West Jordan.
Orem
Orem’s economy is influenced by its educational institutions, tech sector, and healthcare industry.
Sandy
©Cavan Images/iStock via Getty Images
Sandy’s financial sector, technology companies, and healthcare institutions contribute significantly to its economy.
Ogden
Ogden’s economy is on the rise, with manufacturing, transportation, and aerospace industries playing significant roles.
St. George
St. George’s economy benefits greatly by tourism, healthcare, and construction.
Layton
Layton’s strong defense industry and a growing retail sector are key contributors to its economy.
South Jordan
Finally, in South Jordan, the tech sector, manufacturing, and healthcare industries are thriving and contribute to the state’s and city’s economy.
