When considering where to spend the golden years, it’s crucial to pick a location that doesn’t age like milk.
Utah has its gems, but not all that glitters is good for the golden years.
Here’s a look at the 20 towns in Utah that might make you think twice before sending out those change-of-address cards.
1. Roosevelt, Utah
Roosevelt is a small town with a population of just over 7,000 people. It is known for its rural charm and quiet streets. The town has a few local amenities but lacks the variety found in larger cities.
However, its remote location might not suit everyone. Medical facilities are limited, and the nearest hospital is quite a distance away. This could be a concern for those with health issues.
Recreational activities are more geared towards the younger crowd which might not appeal to retirees seeking peace and leisure.
Reason for Ranking: Limited healthcare facilities and a lack of senior-friendly recreational activities.
2. Moab, Utah
Moab is famous for its stunning landscapes and outdoor activities, attracting tourists from all over. The town has a vibrant community and is known for its arts and culture scene.
However, the influx of tourists can make the town very crowded, especially during peak seasons. This can lead to noise and congestion, which might not be ideal for those looking for a quiet retirement.
Additionally, the cost of living in Moab is relatively high, driven up by its popularity with visitors.
Reason for Ranking: High cost of living and seasonal tourist crowds that disrupt local life.
3. Tooele, Utah
Tooele is located just outside Salt Lake City and has a population of around 35,000. It offers various amenities and has a more suburban feel compared to other towns listed.
However, its proximity to industrial areas can affect air quality, which might be a concern for retirees with respiratory issues. The town also lacks in cultural and recreational activities suited for retirees.
The healthcare services, while present, might require travel to nearby cities for more specialized care.
Reason for Ranking: Proximity to industrial areas affecting air quality and limited senior-friendly activities.
4. Grantsville, Utah
Grantsville is known for its quiet rural environment, with a population of about 11,000. It’s a place where community ties are strong and people know each other.
However, the town’s remote location makes it difficult for residents to access specialized medical care. This can be a major drawback for retirees who require regular healthcare services.
The amenities for leisure and entertainment are also limited, which could detract from the quality of life for active seniors.
Reason for Ranking: Limited access to specialized medical care and amenities for seniors.
5. Richfield, Utah
Richfield, with a population of just under 8,000, is centrally located in Utah. It offers basic amenities and has a small-town charm.
However, its central location doesn’t make up for the lack of healthcare facilities and entertainment options geared towards the elderly. The town also lacks diversity in dining and shopping options, which could be limiting for some.
Additionally, public transport is not well-developed, making it difficult for those who do not drive.
Reason for Ranking: Inadequate healthcare facilities and limited public transport.
6. Riverdale, Utah
Riverdale is a smaller town with a population of about 9,000. It is known for its retail centers and proximity to bigger cities.
However, this can also lead to increased traffic and noise, particularly near the shopping areas. For retirees seeking peace and quiet, this might be a downside.
Furthermore, the town lacks substantial healthcare facilities, requiring residents to travel for more comprehensive care.
Reason for Ranking: High traffic from shopping centers and lack of local healthcare facilities.
7. Ogden, Utah
Ogden is one of the larger towns in this list, with a population of over 87,000. It offers many amenities, including cultural attractions and healthcare facilities.
However, the town has a relatively high crime rate which can be a concern for residents, particularly retirees looking for a safe environment. The cost of living in Ogden is also higher than in many other Utah towns.
While it offers more activities, the busy nature of the town might not suit everyone’s retirement plans.
Reason for Ranking: Higher crime rates and busy environment.
8. West Valley City, Utah
West Valley City is one of the larger suburbs in the Salt Lake City area, with a population of over 135,000. It offers diverse cultural and recreational activities.
However, the city also experiences a higher crime rate compared to other suburban areas, which might concern retirees seeking a secure environment. The traffic can also be quite heavy, especially during peak hours.
Additionally, while healthcare services are available, the quality and availability can vary significantly across different parts of the city.
Reason for Ranking: Higher crime rates and traffic congestion.
9. Hurricane, Utah
Hurricane is known for its proximity to outdoor recreational areas, including several state parks and reservoirs. The town has a growing population and offers a more laid-back lifestyle.
However, Hurricane is also prone to natural weather extremes, including high winds and occasional flooding, which can be a challenge for retirees, especially those with mobility issues.
The town is still developing its healthcare infrastructure, which means limited medical services compared to more established areas.
Reason for Ranking: Weather extremes and developing healthcare infrastructure.
10. Roy, Utah
Roy is a smaller city with a population of nearly 40,000. It has a variety of local amenities and a community-oriented atmosphere.
However, Roy faces challenges with property crime rates higher than the state average, which can be a concern for residents. The town’s infrastructure, particularly in terms of roads and public transport, is in need of updates.
Additionally, while there are some healthcare services, the options are limited for specialized care.
Reason for Ranking: Higher property crime rates and aging infrastructure.
11. Murray, Utah
Murray is centrally located in the Salt Lake Valley and is known for its excellent healthcare facilities, including a major hospital. The town has a diverse population and robust public amenities.
However, the cost of living in Murray is higher than in many other parts of Utah, which can be a deterrent for retirees looking to stretch their pensions. The town also suffers from higher traffic volumes due to its central location.
While healthcare is a strong point, the overall expense and busyness of the town can detract from its appeal to retirees.
Reason for Ranking: High cost of living and significant traffic congestion.
12. Salt Lake City, Utah
Salt Lake City, known as the Crossroads of the West, is the vibrant capital of Utah and its most populous city. It’s renowned for its rich history, bustling downtown, and proximity to world-class ski resorts.
However, the city’s dynamic nature brings with it bustling streets and constant activity, which might not be ideal for retirees seeking a quieter lifestyle. The cost of living here is also significantly higher than in many other parts of the state, which can strain retirement budgets.
While the city offers extensive healthcare services and cultural activities, the winters can be harsh and the air quality problematic during certain times of the year, due to its geographic location in a valley.
Reason for Ranking: High cost of living, busy environment, and seasonal air quality issues.
13. Brigham City, Utah
This town sits at the foot of the Wellsville Range.
It’s famous for peaches, tree-lined streets, and a historic LDS temple.
But crime here is a real issue.
In 2012, Brigham City had the fourth highest violent crime rate in Utah.
It also had the fifth highest property crime rate.
That means residents had a 1 in 25 chance of being a victim.
Why it made the list: The crime stats make it risky for peaceful retirement.
14. Carbonville, Utah
This small town has only around 1,500 people.
It’s quiet, but not in a good way.
Jobs are scarce and poverty is high.
About 25 percent of the population lives in poverty.
The income per person is 23 percent lower than the state average.
That jumps to 33 percent lower than the national average.
Why it made the list: Low income and high unemployment are hard for retirees.
15. Cedar City, Utah
Cedar City hosts many festivals and theater events.
It also offers easy access to Zion National Park.
But the crime rate is a big concern.
In 2012, it had the fifth most murders per capita in the state.
It also ranked sixth for violent crime.
These stats don’t mix well with retirement peace of mind.
Why it made the list: A surprising amount of crime for such a cultural town.
16. Enoch, Utah
Enoch is quiet and has a few churches and a pizza place.
Not much happens here.
And that’s the problem.
The town has a very low cost of living.
But that’s because there’s nothing to spend money on.
Job opportunities and community services are limited.
Why it made the list: Too isolated with little to do or support retirees.
17. Payson, Utah
Payson sits in the scenic Utah Valley.
It has charming views and a quiet feel on the surface.
But crime data tells a different story.
In 2012, it had the second most murders per capita in the state.
It also ranked eighth for property crimes.
Overall, it had the ninth highest total crime rate in Utah.
Why it made the list: A high crime rate in a small town is a big risk for retirees.
18. Marysvale, Utah
Marysvale is home to around 500 people.
Most of them own their homes.
There are a few motels and lots of churches.
But the stats are terrible.
One reviewer said you’ll cry yourself to sleep here.
The cost of living is low, but that’s about it.
Why it made the list: It’s isolated and deeply lacking in livability for retirees.
19. Sandy, Utah
Sandy is a city in Salt Lake County.
It looks like a peaceful suburb.
But crime numbers paint a different picture.
In 2012, Sandy ranked eighth for murders and total crimes per capita.
It was ninth for property crimes and 11th for violent crimes.
Assaults were the most common, but there were also robberies, rapes, and two murders.
Residents had a 1 in 32 chance of being a crime victim.
Why it made the list: The crime rate is too high for retirees seeking a safe place to live.
20. Midvale, Utah
Midvale has over 33,000 residents.
It’s known for one thing: high crime.
Your odds of being robbed here are 1 in 13.
And violent crimes are more common than they should be.
For retirees, safety is key, and Midvale doesn’t offer that.
Why it made the list: High robbery and violent crime rates are red flags for retirees.