Sandy, UTBest Places To Live in the U.S. in 2023
Nestled at the foot of the Wasatch Mountains, Sandy’s natural beauty is unparalleled. With top-rated schools, a tight-knit community and endless opportunities for outdoor activities (especially hiking and skiing), residents maintain an active lifestyle here.
Sandy, UT, Is One of the Best Cities To Live in America
Exciting things are happening in Sandy, UT, with projects like The Cairns creating an energetic hub where residents can live, shop, work and play. The development strikes a unique urban feel within a suburb. How many ‘burbs can boast they’re home to a major league soccer stadium and a theater that stages Broadway shows?
The strong economy is one of the many reasons Sandy is among the best places to live in the U.S. A whopping 6,000 jobs have been created in The Cairns alone, with major employers like InContact Software choosing the district for their headquarters.
Sandy gets geographic bonus points for being on the front porch of Big and Little Cottonwood Canyons, which are a significant draw for skiers, hikers and leaf peepers (seriously, the fall foliage is so good here, it looks as though it was the muse for Bob Ross’ paint palette).
Given this Utah suburb’s superb location, Sandy residents tend to be outdoors lovers, evidenced by the REI store in town, helping weekend warriors gear up for an adventure. Both Snowbird and Alta resorts are close by, making weekend ski trips a breeze. Climbers can hone their skills at Momentum Indoor Climbing, which has 20,000 feet of climbing terrain, plus fitness and yoga space.
Sandy, UT Quality of Life LivScore
Sandy, UT Top Categories
Economy
Transportation
Housing & Cost of Living
Sandy ranks highest for economy, transportation and housing.
Weather and Outdoor Activities in Sandy, UT
Residents enjoy lots of bluebird days thanks to the sunshine, snow and proximity to ski resorts. Sandy gets four distinct seasons, and the average highs and lows are 89°F and 64°F (summer) and 43°F and 25°F (winter).
The average annual snowfall in Sandy is around 45 inches of snow each winter, perfect for powderhounds looking to hit the slopes.
The average annual rainfall in Sandy is just under 20 inches due to the city’s semi-arid climate.
Sandy averages 222 sunny days a year.
A 2-mile hike up Bells Canyon trail will lead you to a reservoir. But venture 3.3 miles further and you’ll spot a pair of cascading waterfalls.
Sandy Weather
222 days
Average Annual Sun
20 inches
Average Annual Rain
45 inches
Average Annual Snow
Things To Do in Sandy, UT
Stroll through the Sego Lily Gardens, an educational garden designed for the public to observe and learn about water conservation principles and practices. The Garden is one of the first demonstration gardens along the Wasatch Front that utilizes low-water-use plants and landscaping.
Cheer on Salt Lake’s Major League Soccer team, Real Salt Lake, at America First Field.
Chow down on Mexican street food like pambazo and huarache at House of Corn.
Honeysuckle Coffee Co. serves craft coffee and homemade treats like lavender shortbread cookies and red velvet cinnamon rolls.
The Local and State Economy in Sandy, UT
Information technology, financial services and manufacturing are three of the largest industries in Sandy. In addition, Intermountain Health Care, E*TRADE and Cabela’s are among the largest employers in the area.
In 2023, the sales tax rate in Sandy is 7.25%.
Yes, Utah has a state income tax.
Intermountain health care is one of the leading providers in Utah and has several hospitals, clinics and specialty services throughout the state, including in Sandy.
Although there aren’t any major colleges or universities in Sandy, UT, there are many in nearby Salt Lake City.
Quick Facts About Sandy, UT
- Median Household Income
- $97,678
- Median Home Value
- $477,230
- Average State Property Tax
- $1,967
- Total Population
- 97,754
- Median Rent/Mo.
- $1,317
- Average Commute
- 19.97 minutes
A strong economy and great health and education rankings placed Sandy among the best places to live in the U.S. — and it scored highest among Utah cities. Learn more about Sandy and other affordable places to live in Utah. Broaden your search with the 25 best places to live in the West.