What to know when moving to Provo, UT
Provo at a Glance
- The Vibe:
- A community with a median household income of $64,758 and a renter percentage of 54.2%.
- The Major Draw:
- Access to Brigham Young University, a significant local institution.
- The Reality Check:
- 14% of residents live below the poverty line.
- Commute:
- Only 3.1% of residents use public transit.
- Top Tip:
- Budget for $1,173 in median rent.
The 'Vibe' Check: Who Thrives Here?
Provo has a population of 32,871 and a significant portion of residents, 33.5%, hold a bachelor's degree or higher, showing a focus on education. The median gross rent is $1,173, indicating a moderately priced rental market. Additionally, with 54.2% of the population renting, it suggests a blend of young professionals and families seeking housing. However, with a poverty rate of 14%, there are challenges for some residents.
Probably not your spot if you are looking for a robust public transit system, as only 3.1% of the population commutes via public transport.
Your Money: Housing & Cost Snapshot
- Median rent is $1,173, which is accessible compared to other urban areas.
- Median home value stands at $370,300, reflecting a moderate housing market.
- 33.5% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher, indicating a focus on education.
- 14% of the population lives below the poverty line, highlighting some economic challenges.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 5-Year Data Profiles.
Crime & Safety: What the Numbers Say
In Utah, the crime rates reflect a relatively safe environment compared to national averages. The violent crime rate is 223.7 per 100,000 residents, significantly lower than the national rate of 325.3. Property crime stands at 1,313.8 per 100,000, also below the national average of 1,546.9.
- Violent crime: 223.7 per 100k vs. 325.3 nationally, with a decrease of 8.7% since 2022.
- Property crime: 1,313.8 per 100k vs. 1,546.9 nationally, down 32% since 2022.
- Notable trend: Homicide rates are significantly lower at 2.5 per 100k compared to a national rate of 4.3.
Source: FBI Crime Data Explorer (state-level summarized data for Utah).
Schools & Higher Ed
Provo has a rich educational landscape with a total of 12 postsecondary institutions in the area.
- Notable institutions include Brigham Young University and Provo College.
Source: NCES Postsecondary School Locations, U.S. Dept. of Education College Scorecard.
Weather & Getting Outside
Utah County experiences an average annual precipitation of 8.9 inches, with about 48 rainy days each year. Summers can reach highs of 89°F, while winter temperatures can drop to lows of 28°F.
- Parks & outdoor spots worth checking out:
- Dreamwalk Park - 4.9 stars, 1,997 reviews
- Bean Life Science Museum - 4.8 stars, 2,013 reviews
- Utah Lake State Park - 4.3 stars, 1,992 reviews
- Brigham Young University Museum of Art - 4.8 stars, 1,901 reviews
Sources: NOAA Climate Data Online, Google Places.