Moving to Orem Utah. Real Pros, Cons and What You Should Know!

Dec 10

If you are thinking about moving to Orem Utah, you are not alone. Orem is one of the most popular places people search when they look into living in Utah County. Families, students and professionals all want to know what life is really like here. They want to understand the pros and cons of Orem, what the cost of living feels like and whether this city is the right place to call home.

I help many families move to Orem and the surrounding areas and I see the same questions come up again and again. Some people fall in love with Orem right away. Others want to understand the trade offs. Here is an honest and simple guide to help you get a clear picture of what it feels like to live here.

What People Love About Living in Orem

A True College Town Feel

Orem has a young and energetic vibe because of Utah Valley University. Just next door in Provo you also have Brigham Young University. These two large schools bring events, sports, energy and growth. If you like being near education and community activity, Orem has plenty of it.

Endless Educational Opportunities

If education matters to you or someone in your family, Orem is a great location. UVU and BYU are right here. The University of Utah and Westminster College in Salt Lake City are less than an hour away. Weber State is another option a little farther north. Whether you are starting school or returning to finish a degree, there is no shortage of opportunities.

Close to Silicon Slopes

One of the biggest reasons people move to Orem is its location near Lehi. This area is known as Silicon Slopes and it is filled with tech companies, startups and new career options. Many people work in Lehi or Draper but choose to live in Orem because it has a quieter and family friendly feel.

Amazing Outdoor Access

If you love the outdoors, Orem is an incredible place to live. Here are a few local favorites.

Utah Lake for boating and paddle boarding
Provo Canyon for hiking, biking and river fun
Sundance Resort for skiing, snowboarding and summer concerts
Miles of walking and biking trails throughout Orem and Provo

Nature is a huge part of everyday life here. Many families choose Orem because they want mountains, lakes and outdoor space close to home.

Convenient Airports and Transportation

You are close to two airports. The Provo Airport is only ten to fifteen minutes away and continues to grow. The Salt Lake City Airport is about thirty five to forty minutes from Orem. Public transportation is also strong in this area, especially for UVU students who commute.

Things You Should Know Before Moving to Orem

Traffic Can Get Busy During the School Year

With two large universities nearby, you can expect heavier traffic during mornings and afternoons. The areas around University Parkway and the freeway tend to slow down the most. It is manageable, but it is something to be aware of, especially if you commute.

Housing Costs Have Increased

Orem has grown quickly and housing prices have followed that trend. You will see a mix of older homes and new construction. Some neighborhoods do not have homeowners associations. For some people this feels flexible and relaxed. For others it may feel less structured.

Nightlife Is Quiet

Orem is a family centered and conservative city. If you want big nightlife or a fast paced entertainment scene, Orem may feel calmer than you expect. Many people love that peaceful feel. It really just depends on your lifestyle.

So Is Orem Utah a Good Place to Live

For many people, the answer is yes. Orem offers strong schools, a friendly community, incredible access to the outdoors and a great location for anyone working in Utah County or Silicon Slopes. Like any place, it has a few challenges, but overall Orem is a very livable city that continues to grow.

Thinking About Moving to Orem Utah

If you are looking into Orem or anywhere in Utah County and want help deciding where to live, I would love to support you. My team and I help families make smooth and confident moves every single day. Whether you are relocating next week or just starting to explore the idea, you can always reach out.

Call, text or email any time. I am here to help you feel excited and prepared for your move to Orem.

Mariah Koehle