Best place to retire in Utah

We’re all looking forward to a great retirement. Utah offers some wonderful views, plenty to see and do, and even has a growing cultural scene. It's moderately tax-friendly for retirees, too. If you are considering retirement in Utah, there will be plenty of things to keep you active in your golden years.

Some of the best places to retire in Utah include St.George, Salt Lake City, Park City, Moab, Logan, and Cedar City. St. George offers a sunny retreat with a low cost of living and great golfing. Salt Lake City is great for those looking for an urban retirement without sacrificing ease of access to nature. Park City is a mountain paradise, while Moab brings adventure activities and a small-town feel to the table. Logan is great for those who love their academic pursuits, while Cedar City is a hidden gem just waiting to be discovered.

Why Retire in Utah?

For many people, the stunning landscapes in Utah are a major draw for a happy retirement. From the red rock canyons of southern Utah to the peaks of the Wasatch Mountains, retirees can enjoy themselves in nature almost year-round. Hiking, skiing, and exploring national parks could become part of your daily life!

Utah also has world-class medical facilities and is currently ranked the second-best state in the United States for medical care. Crime rates are low, the population is generous and welcoming (if lacking in diversity), and the cost of living is low to moderate, depending on where you settle. Property taxes are exceedingly low, and the sales taxes aren’t burdensome. There are some sin taxes to watch out for, however.

It isn’t the best for retirement income, since Social Security and other income are subject to state income taxes. There are some tax credits you can use to reduce the tax impact. There is no inheritance or estate tax here.

Best Places to Retire in Utah

Now you know more about retirement in Utah, let’s look at some of the best places for retirees to consider in the state.

St. George

St. George is a thriving city located in the southwestern corner of Utah. It's a fantastic choice for retirees who enjoy sunny weather, an active lifestyle, and plenty of access to national parks. With over 300 sunny days each year, it's a veritable paradise for those who appreciate a warm and dry climate. St. George also offers a lower cost of living compared to the national average, which will appeal to retirees on a fixed income.

Its proximity to Zion National Park and Snow Canyon State Park means hiking, biking, and breathtaking views are easy to find. St. George is known for its golf courses, too. The city has excellent healthcare facilities, and with a growing population, there's a steady influx of events and entertainment options. Plus, it's only a couple of hours' drive to Las Vegas if you might crave the excitement of the Strip.

Salt Lake City

If you’re hoping to balance city living in retirement with keeping easy access to the outdoors, Salt Lake City might be a perfect place for you. The city has the biggest arts and culture scene in the state, and you'll find theaters, museums, and music shows. Plus, this is the home of the Sundance Film Festival, and there’s the Utah Symphony Orchestra to enjoy, too.

Both the University of Utah Hospital and Intermountain Healthcare are stand-outs in the medical field. Of course, this is offset by one of the highest costs of living in the state, but the city has a strong public transport system and low state taxes.

Ringed by the Wasatch Mountain Range, there’s plenty of skiing in winter, and you can fish, bike, or hike in the warmer months. There are a ton of trails to enjoy!

Park City

Take your dream of mountain living up a notch in Park City. The town is best known for its world-class ski resorts like Park City Mountain and Deer Valley, making it a winter wonderland for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts. That doesn’t mean summer will be boring, however, with many of the same outdoor activities on offer. Plus, it has something of a developing arts scene to enjoy.

If you’re hoping to stay busy in retirement, it also has a strong job market. Plus, the nearby Salt Lake City International Airport makes it easy to travel and visit family and friends.

Cedar City

Nestled in the beautiful landscapes of southern Utah, Cedar City is a hidden gem for retirees. Consider this town if you’re looking for a serene and affordable retirement destination. The city's cost of living is notably lower than the national average, and it offers a welcoming community with a relaxed pace of life.

Cedar City is famous for its Utah Shakespeare Festival, an annual event that attracts theater enthusiasts from all over the country. The city is surrounded by national parks like Bryce Canyon and Zion, providing endless opportunities for outdoor adventures. For healthcare, Cedar City boasts a hospital and medical facilities that cater to retirees' needs.

Logan

Located in northern Utah, Logan is a charming college town known for its picturesque setting. Utah State University brings a youthful energy to the town, along with cultural events, lectures, and performances. The cost of living in Logan is also pretty low, making it an attractive option for retirees on a budget.

Logan's mountainous surroundings offer year-round recreational activities, including Utah’s ubiquitous hiking, camping, and fishing in the summer, and skiing in the winter. The city's healthcare system is top-notch, with easy access to Logan Regional Hospital and a variety of medical specialists. If you prefer a quieter, academic, and smaller town, Logan might be the perfect place for you.

Moab

Southeastern Moab is another great destination for retirees looking for adventure and outdoor thrills set in a near-desert landscape of red rocks and canyons. There’s even rock climbing at nearby national parks like Canyonlands and Arches. The city's cost of living is slightly higher than the national average, but it's a small price to pay for a retirement packed with adventure.

Moab is a tiny town, though, but the close-knit community could appeal to the right senior. The Moab Regional Hospital will keep you fit through retirement.

Whether you're drawn to the sunny climate of St. George, the cultural vibrancy of Salt Lake City, the mountain paradise of Park City, the affordability of Cedar City, the academic charm of Logan, or the adventure oasis of Moab, Utah offers a wide range of retirement options to suit almost every retiree.