A view of downtown Provo, UT, nestled against the Wasatch Mountains. Beyond its picturesque setting (and ample skiing opportunities), Provo is becoming quite the tech powerhouse and is part of the greater Silicon Slopes area.
iStock/DenisTangneyJr

Provo, UTBest Places To Live in the U.S. in 2023

Provo’s natural beauty and sweeping mountain views are unparalleled. With several renowned universities, diverse outdoor activities and a strong economy, Provo offers a high quality of life at an affordable price.

Provo, UT, Is One of the Best Cities To Live in America

If you’re dreaming of moving to the mountains, you might want to head to Provo, UT, before everyone else does. It’s no mystery as to why Provo has landed a title as one of the best places to live in the U.S. — just look at a picture of the city, which is nestled in the Wasatch Mountains and near Utah Lake. 

Beyond its picturesque setting (and ample skiing opportunities), Provo is becoming quite the tech powerhouse and is part of the greater Silicon Slopes area.

Provo is also incredibly safe for a city of its size. In fact, it’s one of the safest metropolitan areas in the country. It also lives up to its nickname as the “Happy Valley,” and residents have a high overall state of well-being. They can participate in a laundry list of recreational activities, including hiking, biking, climbing, rafting, fishing and skiing. Additionally, the third-largest city in Utah is incredibly family-oriented and is an excellent spot for young families to put down roots. 

Provo, UT Quality of Life LivScore

0 1000 1000 694

Provo, UT Top Categories

  • Housing & Cost of Living

  • Transportation

  • Health

Provo ranks highest for housing, transportation and health.

Weather and Outdoor Activities in Provo, UT

What is the weather like in Provo?

Summers are hot and dry, while winters are snowy and cold. The average highs and lows are 91°F and 58°F (summer) and 42°F and 24°F (winter).

Does Provo get a lot of snow?

The average annual snowfall in Provo is around 45 inches a year, which provides plenty of fresh powder for those looking to hit the slopes.

Does Provo get a lot of rain? 

The average annual rainfall in Provo is 16 inches, and the city has a relatively low number of rainy days, averaging just 84 per year.

How many sunny days does Provo get?

Provo averages 222 sunny days a year.

What are some things to do outside in Provo?

What isn’t there to do outside in Provo? There’s hiking in the Wasatch Mountains, skiing at the nearby Sundance Mountain Resort, and cycling in one of the most bike-friendly cities in the country.

Provo Weather

22 days

Average Annual Sun

16 inches

Average Annual Rain

45 inches

Average Annual Snow

Things To Do in Provo, UT

What are some free things to do in Provo?

Though Provo has abundant free outdoor activities, Bridal Veil Falls takes the cake as the most picture-perfect hike thanks to its stunning waterfalls. 

What are some fun things to do with kids in Provo?

Stomp over to the Museum of Paleontology at BYU, which features dinosaur fossils from digs in Utah and surrounding states. 

Where should you have dinner with friends in Provo?

Communal offers the perfect dining experience for friends: All of its Utah-inspired cuisines are served family-style, which is ideal for ordering for a crowd.

What is the best coffee shop in Provo?

Looking like a shop straight from a Wes Anderson film, Rugged Grounds is the perfect place to relax and order an espresso on a snowy Provo day.  

An aerial view of downtown Provo, UT, set against the Wasatch Mountains. While outdoor activities are a huge draw, downtown offers plenty of things to do, including museums, performances and local cuisine.
iStock/Davel5957
Picturesque Provo, UT, is set against the Wasatch Mountains. While outdoor activities are a huge draw, downtown also offers plenty of attractions, including museums, performances and local cuisine.

The Local and State Economy in Provo, UT

What are the three largest industries in Provo?

Provo is home to a diverse range of job industries, including technology and software development, education and health care.

What is the sales tax rate in Provo?

In 2023, the sales tax rate in Provo is 7.25%. 

Does Utah have a state income tax?

Yes, Utah has a state income tax.

Who are the major health care providers in Provo?

Provo has several hospitals, including Intermountain Utah Valley Hospital and Utah State Hospital.

What colleges and universities are in Provo?

There are several colleges and universities in Provo, UT, including Brigham Young University, Provo College and AmeriTech College.

Quick Facts About Provo, UT

Median Household Income
$54,664
iStock/Davel59
Median Home Value
$460,929
iStock/Davel59
Average State Property Tax
$1,967
iStock/Davel59
Total Population
120,909
iStock/Davel59
Median Rent/Mo.
$1,056
iStock/Davel59
Average Commute
15.35 minutes
iStock/Davel59

Safe neighborhoods, affordable housing and a low cost of living all contribute to ranking Provo as one of the best places to live in the U.S. Learn more about living in Provo, or consider other affordable cities in Utah. Another moving resource: The Ultimate Guide To Finding Your Best Place To Live

Continue Reading Best Places To Live in the US in 2023

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