STEM Workers Are Moving to Utah – Here Are 6 Reasons Why

Utah keeps pulling STEM talent. The job market runs hot, the outdoors sit minutes away, and the region continues to invest in transit and research. Below are six 2025 reasons people in tech and science choose Salt Lake County—and why Daybreak’s 5‑Minute Life fits that lifestyle.

1) Strong job market with real momentum

First, Utah’s labor market remains healthy. As of August 2025, statewide unemployment sits at 3.3%, with the economy adding ~33,600 jobs year‑over‑year. Source: Utah Dept. of Workforce Services. Meanwhile, the CompTIA State of the Tech Workforce 2025 shows continued demand for tech skills across industries, from software and data to cybersecurity.

2) Competitive housing—and a manageable cost of living

Next, housing costs remain competitive versus coastal hubs. In Salt Lake County, Zillow reports a ~$552K median sale price (July 2025) and a ~$591K median list price (Aug 2025). Zillow market dashboard. Statewide, Utah’s 2025 cost‑of‑living index is roughly 105 vs. a U.S. baseline of 100—well below many tech hubs. Index overview.

On taxes, Utah now levies a flat 4.50% income tax (HB 106, effective 2025), and Salt Lake County’s combined sales tax generally ranges from ~7.25–7.45% depending on district. HB 106 • Utah Tax Commission rates.

3) Commutes and transit keep improving

Then, getting around stays practical. Countywide, the mean one‑way commute hovers around 22 minutes (ACS). Even better, the FrontRunner 2X project will add double‑tracking, a new station, and 10 new trainsets—designed to boost frequency and reliability along the Wasatch Front. FrontRunner 2X. Daybreak residents can also connect to UTA rail and bus via nearby TRAX lines.

 

4) A world‑class, still‑growing airport

Moreover, Salt Lake City International Airport continues its multiyear expansion. Phase 3 opened in fall 2024 with the Central “River” Tunnel to Concourse B, and Phase 4 adds 16 more gates through 2026, with the next set opening in fall 2025. SLC Airport – Future Phases • Condé Nast Traveler.

5) Universities and research fuel innovation

Also, Utah’s research engine keeps humming. The University of Utah reported $691M in FY24 research funding, while Utah as a whole received $4.4B in federal R&D funding in FY23—about 80% flowing to private companies. U of U research funding • Gardner Policy Institute brief.

6) Lifestyle that prioritizes the outdoors

Finally, Utah’s outdoor access remains a daily perk. From the Wasatch ski resorts to red‑rock weekend trips, adventure lives close. Inside Daybreak, you can paddle Oquirrh Lake, bike miles of trails, and walk to parks, shops, and cafés.

Pro tip: Want the STEM lifestyle without the long car commute? Start your search in Daybreak’s walkable villages and browse Move‑In Ready homes.

Honorable mentions

• Population momentum: Utah reached 3.51M residents by July 1, 2024; net migration remained a key growth driver into 2025. Gardner Institute
• AI and tech skills demand: Employers in Utah posted rising AI‑related openings in 2025, especially in Salt Lake County. Axios

Why Daybreak works for STEM pros

• Walkability: The 5‑Minute Life puts schools, shops, parks, and transit close by.
• Choice: From 55+ to lake‑adjacent townhomes and right‑sized single‑family homes.
• Future‑ready: Downtown Daybreak and the planned ballpark district bring even more jobs, dining, and entertainment.

Data sources linked inline: Utah Workforce Services (Aug 2025 labor market), CompTIA State of the Tech Workforce 2025, Zillow (Salt Lake County housing), WorldPopulationReview (cost of living index), Utah Legislature HB 106 (income tax), Utah Tax Commission (sales tax rates), UTA FrontRunner 2X, SLC Airport expansion, University of Utah research, and Gardner Policy Institute population brief.