California Native Shares Top Tips for Moving to SLC
When people tell me they are thinking about moving to Utah, I always smile because I remember being in that exact same place. If you are coming from out of state, especially California, there are things about Utah that feel familiar and things that feel completely different. Before you make the move, here are some of the biggest things I wish someone had told me when we were relocating.
One of the first surprises is the weather. Utah really does give you all four seasons. Northern Utah has snowy winters that turn into a beautiful ski season. Southern Utah stays mild and sunny almost all year. Fall brings bright leaves in the canyons. Spring feels fresh and green. Summer is warm and dry, but without the heavy humidity that many states deal with. Utah gets more than two hundred sunny days a year, so even on cold days the sky often feels bright.
Utah is also an incredible place if you love being outdoors. You can ski in the winter, hike in the fall, kayak in the summer and explore one of the national parks any time of year. The amount of family friendly adventure here is one of the things that made us fall in love with Utah. The scenery changes from mountains to lakes to red rock and the variety of experiences is almost endless.
Another reason many families consider Utah is the financial side. Utah has a flat income tax rate and relatively low property taxes compared to many places in the country. Even with rising home prices, many people still find that their money goes further here than it did in major California cities. More space, larger yards and an overall slower pace often feel like a big upgrade in lifestyle.
People also notice how clean and safe Utah feels. Neighborhoods are well kept and parks are used by families all year long. There is a genuine friendliness here that you can feel right away. For families especially, that sense of community makes a huge difference.
Daily life also feels simpler. Traffic has increased as the population grows, but it is still nothing like Los Angeles or the Bay Area. When we lived in California, I spent hours in the car every day. Now my kids can get to school in minutes. That extra time in our day has been one of the best parts of living in Utah.
Of course, every place has its challenges. Utah has a slower rhythm than many major cities, so if you love a fast paced lifestyle, the adjustment might take time. The dry climate takes getting used to and a humidifier becomes your best friend. Housing prices continue to rise and popular areas can feel busy during peak seasons. And depending on where you come from, the cultural differences can feel new at first.
The best way to know if Utah is right for you is to spend time here. Explore Salt Lake City, Lehi, Park City, the Heber Valley and northern Utah County. Each area has its own personality, pace and lifestyle. I help families with scouting trips all the time and love guiding people through what to expect.
If you are thinking about moving to Utah and want help understanding neighborhoods, schools, pricing or what daily life really looks like, reach out any time by call, text or email. I would love to help make your transition smooth and stress free.
