Gardner study: More than half of Utahns reside in cities with populations over 50,000

Utah is becoming less and less a rural state as population patterns shift, according to a new study from the Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute at the University of Utah. 

More than half the state’s residents now live in cities with more than 50,000 residents. 

The Gardner Institute has released its first-ever statewide subcounty population estimates for Utah. The data offer a comprehensive look at population change from 2024 to 2025 for all 255 incorporated cities and towns across the state, in addition to 29 unincorporated county areas.

“These inaugural statewide subcounty estimates give Utah its first comprehensive, place-level view using a consistent housing-unit approach,” said Mallory Bateman, director of demographic research at Gardner. “Findings indicate continued rapid growth in many communities, a rising share of residents living in larger cities, and important variation across places — information that is essential for planning local services, infrastructure and housing.”

Estimates from the study show Saratoga Springs, Eagle Mountain, Washington, West Haven and Spanish Fork as Utah’s fastest-growing cities with a population of 20,000 or higher. Five other communities — Magna, Heber City, Tooele, Hurricane and Cedar City — round out the top 10. Saratoga Springs and Eagle Mountain led the state in both absolute and percentage growth between 2024 and 2025.

Between 2024 and 2025, populations in 172 communities in Utah grew, led by those in Utah, Salt Lake, Washington and Tooele counties. Utah County took a prominent position, accounting for half of the top 10 communities for growth.

Salt Lake City continues to grow, adding over 3,000 residents between 2024 and 2025, the third-largest absolute growth in the state. This growth occurs while many older, well-established cities both in Utah and the U.S. experience declines.

Mid-sized cities (5,000-19,999 residents) recorded the fastest average growth rate of 1.5 percent between 2024 and 2025, led by Salem (9.1 percent), Mapleton (8.9 percent) and Nibley (8.1 percent).

One hundred Utah communities — primarily smaller towns — experienced population declines, highlighting demographic shifts and economic challenges in various regions.

“A complete, consistent set of subcounty estimates fills a critical data gap for Utah,” said Natalie Gochnour, director of the Gardner Institute. “These estimates strengthen local and state decision-making by revealing where growth is concentrated and where population is declining, providing leaders with a foundation for better regional planning and investment.”

The full study, including population for all the state’s towns and cities, can be accessed through the Gardner Institute’s website at gardner.utah.edu.