You may have viewed magnificent rugged rock structures in photos and been amazed. But when you see them in person, you may wonder if you are on another planet. The Beehive State has a reputation for its outdoor recreation. It’s a sliver of Eden, even if you don’t hike or ski. When the sun sinks behind a canyon, stargazers drink in the spectacular night sky extravaganza. Utah is home to the “Mighty Five” national parks—Zion, Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef, Arches, and Canyonlands. Each one proudly displays arches, plateaus and canyons.
In 2020, Utah’s population was 2.7 million. In December 2019, the Census Bureau released estimates stating it has grown 16% to 3.2 million. Learn why it is on the radar of so many people who are looking to relocate, including retirees. We are providing a snapshot of the 10 safest cities to help you narrow down your selection.
1. Lone Peak
- Population: 29,969
- Violent Crimes Per Capita: 23
- Non-Violent Crimes Per Capita: 503
- Most Common Crime: Property and Larceny
96% Below National Crime Rate
The crown jewel of Utah is Lone Peak. It’s a small city nestled in the mountains that’s not too far southeast of Salt Lake City. Families feel safe here, and their school system gets high marks. It’s a community where residents keep an eye on each other, which helps keep crime down.
2. Mapleton
- Population: 10,041
- Violent Crimes Per Capita: 10.0
- Non-Violent Crimes Per Capita: 557.7
- Most Common Crime: Property and Larceny
78% Below National Crime Rate
Only 11 miles from Provo, the second top rated city for safety is Mapleton. Early settlers found this to be an idyllic oasis for livestock-grazing. Hundreds of years later, the land is still only 40% developed; measured by square miles, it is the 10th largest city in the state. Residents offer an inviting atmosphere and polychromic views. Homes here are expensive; the median home sells for about $475,000.
3. Salem
- Population: 8,496
- Violent Crimes Per Capita: 11.8
- Non-Violent Crimes Per Capita: 812.1
- Most Common Crime: Property
68% Below National Crime Rate
This suburb of Provo has just the right blend of rural mixed in with the urban lifestyle to keep residents extremely content with their hidden jewel. The median home price in Salem is almost $400,000 and in the past decade, they have appreciated 10.6%. The school system’s report card confirms that students receive a top-notch education.
4. Santaquin/Genola
- Population: 13,584
- Violent Crimes Per Capita: 29
- Non-Violent Crimes Per Capita: 839
- Most Common Crime: Property and Larceny
62% Below National Crime Rate
Located 70 miles south of Salt Lake City, Santaquin/Genola offers residents spectacular views of Utah Lake. Casting their eyes northward, they can enjoy the majestic peaks of the Wasatch Range that encircle the valley. Back in the mid-1800s, settlers used the land for farming, and later built sawmills, flour mills and even a furniture shop. While technology has simplified many things in the city, residents still cling to treating each other like family.
5. Spanish Fork
- Population: 40,095
- Violent Crimes Per Capita: 29.9
- Non-Violent Crimes Per Capita: 877.9
- Most Common Crime: Property and Larceny
65% Below National Crime Rate
Spanish Fork residents are proud of their heritage – and they love to host festivals; in fact, they host five large ones annually: Fiesta Days, Icelandic Days, the Harvest Moon Hurrah, the Festival of Lights, and the Festival of Colors. At Fiesta Day in July, you can watch a rodeo and fireworks display as well as attend a craft fair and parade. Residents strive to create an outstanding environment for working and recreation. They are also proud of their stellar educational system.
6. Santa Clara/Ivins
- Population: 16,671
- Violent Crimes Per Capita: 53
- Non-Violent Crimes Per Capita: 755
- Most Common Crime: Property and Larceny
69% Below National Crime Rate
The city of Santa Clara is one that is naturally inviting. The median home price is $349,000 and homes have appreciated about 11.2% in the past 10 years. Children – and their parents – will enjoy the St. George Children’s Museum, or Pioneer Park. Residents say they never tire of viewing the Red Hills Desert Garden.
7. North Ogden
- Population: 19,771
- Violent Crimes Per Capita: 30.3
- Non-Violent Crimes Per Capita: 1,173.4
- Most Common Crime: Property
53% Below National Crime Rate
This suburb of Salt Lake City proved to be fertile land for growing fruit orchards. In 1924, the harvest was so abundant that townspeople created the North Ogden Fruit Exchange. Once the Union Railroad was in place, this allowed people across the nation to enjoy the fruit – and also provided residents with a healthy economy. Homes today have a median price tag of more than $200,000. North Ogden has been ranked #22 of 74 as Best Suburb to Buy a House in Utah, so don’t wait too long to make your move!
8. North Park
- Population: 15,713
- Violent Crimes Per Capita: 38
- Non-Violent Crimes Per Capita: 1,075
- Most Common Crime: Property and Larceny
52% Below National Crime Rate
This is one of those towns lodged right next to another, making it difficult to see the boundary line. Living in the shadows of Provo is the upscale city of North Park. Since North Park is in such a highly desirable location, homes are sold at a premium. The median home price is $276,000, but you can enjoy the dazzling backdrop of rock formations and mountains at no extra charge.
9. Kaysville
- Population: 32,404
- Violent Crimes Per Capita: 74.1
- Non-Violent Crimes Per Capita: 759.2
- Most Common Crime: Property and Larceny
68% Below National Crime Rate
Kaysville, a suburb of Salt Lake City, is home to several parks and amenities for families to enjoy. Perhaps this is why it has earned the top spot in The Best Place to Raise a Family in Utah! Schools in Kaysville – from elementary to high school – have been awarded an “A”. The median home price is a little steep – $313,700 – but residents say it’s a great tradeoff in terms of a safe place to live.
10. Syracuse
- Population: 30,301
- Violent Crimes Per Capita: 75.9
- Non-Violent Crimes Per Capita: 775.6
- Most Common Crime: Property
67% Below National Crime Rate
If you love to live near a city but can do without its daily hustle and bustle – and traffic – then consider buying a new home in Syracuse. It’s a vibrant community where residents keep an eye on one another. They also enjoy taking the family to nearby Antelope Island State Park for wildlife viewing. Those looking to get their cardio going can go cycling or hiking. Syracuse is just far enough away from the bright lights of Salt Lake City to be a true escape into a beautiful setting. The median home price is over $250,000, but some cost nearly $450,000.
All data taken from FBI crime statistics.
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Heather Allen is a freelance writer who began her career 20 years ago at a small Texas NBC affiliate, while attending SFASU. She’s written blogs on a diverse range of topics.
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