Weather | | How much crime? | | What are the neighborhoods like? | | What are the people like? |
Salt Lake City's weather is widely varied, hitting both ends of the temperature spectrum. Summers are hot and very dry, while winters are quite cold and snowy. Summer temperatures are generally in the 90's, with a handful of days over 100. The area receives around a foot or so of rain per year, much of that falls during summer thunderstorms. Winter temperatures can feel bitterly cold at times, with highs only in the 20's to 30's. Snow piles up high, usually 10 to 12 inches each winter month. The Great Salt Lake contributes to snow totals with a phenomenon known as "lake effect snow." | | Though the city is beloved by its residents, Salt Lake still has a good deal of crime. Thefts and burglaries are highest in number, followed closely by assaults and armed robberies. Arson is also reported in small numbers. As with many cities with large populations, the downtown inner city area can be rundown in places, and doesn't feel like the safest place to be at night. Police presence is strong, with frequent nightly patrols circling the streets. | | Salt Lake City has a wide variety of neighborhoods. Some of the most desirable are the Foothill and University areas, 900 South and 900 East ("9th and 9th"), and 1300 South. These neighborhoods are all well established and property values are driven up by demand from The University of Utah student population. Sugarhouse is also an expensive highly sought-after area, with historical properties and trendy boutiques. West Valley is one of the worst neighborhoods in the city. Having some of the lowest property values in the area and poorly maintained homes, it is known for being a popular "riff-raff" hangout. | | Salt Lake City is a melting pot of backgrounds, ethnicities, cultures, and characters. The city is home to a great number of artists, designers, and free-thinkers, as well as workers in math and computer sciences. People tend to be well-educated and cultured. There is a large population of young people, both single and married professionals, many with young families. A good portion of these are part of the active student community of The University of Utah, which dominates the city with red colors and school spirit. |
Downtown Area | | Restaurants | | Schools | | Single life |
The downtown area shopping in Salt Lake City is world class. Known as City Creek Center, the district has recently been completely renovated, and features upscale department stores and high end boutiques. The area has a park-like feel, with fountains and walkways. | | The Roof Restaurant is an upscale, classy place with an extensive menu and fine furnishings. The Naked Fish is a trendy and popular sushi restaurant with amazing rolls and unique dishes. | | There are a large number of public schools in Salt Lake City, as well as private. The schools are high performing, with students testing in the top third of US schools. | | There are good opportunities for singles in Salt Lake City. The University of Utah provides a large population of young people. There are nightly events and concerts, as well as many bars and cafes. |
Noise | | town comparison vs. | | Best hospital | | Tourist attractions |
Most noise pollution is from Interstate 15, which runs on the western side of the city. The University of Utah also provides a good amount of noise, especially from Lavell Edwards Stadium during home football games. | | One could present the argument that Salt Lake City is a superior place to live than Herriman. Salt Lake City is a large urban area with a great selection of shopping areas, and public entertainment. Herriman, however, is entirely a suburban community filled with fenced backyards and elementary schools. There is very little shopping or entertainment opportunity.
Salt Lake City could also be considered a better place to live than Bountiful. Although the cost of living is lower in Bountiful, it is a more rural area and a longer and more difficult commute. Salt Lake City has excellent public transportation with high speed trains and light rail, making commuting a very simple daily endeavor. | | The University of Utah Medical Center is an award winning hospital providing excellent emergency services and critical care. Next door is Primary Children's Medical Center, a premier children's hospital providing care to kids from four surrounding states. | | Salt Lake City has something for everyone. City Creek Center and Trolley Square provide shopping and dining as well as theaters. The Clark Planetarium, Museum of Fine Arts and Natural History, and The Gateway are all popular attractions. The LDS temple also draws many visitors. There are endless outdoor hiking and recreational activities. |
General comments | | | | | | |
Salt Lake City feels independent and free. Folks are unique and interesting, everyone with a goal to achieve or story to tell. There is the feeling of freedom from scrutiny, a general acceptance of all-comers to the city. Gay or straight, old or young, successful or penniless: Salt Lake just feels like a place you can leave narrow-mindedness behind. Music, art, debate, protests, coffee shop banter, or neighborhood rallies- it all finds a home in this diverse valley. | | | | | | |