Best Neighborhoods in Salt Lake City, Utah

Salt Lake City's mountains are never far from the conversation, but the neighborhoods decide how close you live to the action. Downtown has the apartments, restaurants and entertainment you would expect of an urban core. Capitol Hill sits above it, with older cottages and Victorian houses that make the skyline feel close without putting it on your doorstep. The Marmalade District brings its own small-scale character along the northern edge of Downtown.

For a different daily rhythm, East Bench trades some urban convenience for residential streets and quicker access to the Wasatch foothills. That sounds like an easy choice until you compare how often you'll drive for dinner, errands or a night out. Downtown may suit someone who wants fewer car trips; Capitol Hill and Marmalade offer older-home character, which can also mean older-home repairs. In Salt Lake City, the mountain view is the easy part of the decision.

Downtown

Young Professionals

If you’re young and/or interested in nightlife, Downtown and the Sugar House area (eclectic and vintage vibes) are okay for that although it’s a cliquey social town but start your search in these two spots. The University neighborhood is, just like it sounds, and lively. Apartments and apartment complexes house the young and single but it’s not all that walkable (with the exception of 9th and 9th and Canyon Rim) -- streets are wide, blocks are long, nightlife is more casual bars, less clubs and it’s not exactly a culinary hot spot, they tend to focus on comfort foods (like burgers.) but mostly right on for the young professional.

  • Downtown
  • Sugar House Area
  • University Neighborhood

Capitol Hill

DINKs/SINKs

Capitol Hill is a beautiful neighborhood overlooking the downtown area that is perfect for singles or couples that want the action within view but not right at your doorstep. That’s not to say there isn’t plenty going on here as there are bars and restaurants in the area. The housing though tends to be less condo/apartment-centric and more interesting mix of funky cottages and Victorian homes.

  • Capitol Hill

Marmalade District

LGBTQ+

The Marmalade District is the center of the city for the LGBTQ+ community. Located in the northeast part of the city bordering Downtown, it is the home to a variety of LGBTQ+ owned and friendly restaurants, bars, shops and businesses. The neighborhood has a mix of housing options including homes, condos, new lofts and apartment buildings.

  • Marmalade District

East Bench

Families

Families gravitate towards neighborhoods like East Bench, Greater Avenues and Yalecrest (quiet, family friendly tudors, colonials and parks.). East Bench in particular is a gem for any family that craves the great outdoors. It’s nestled up against the Wasatch Mountains so you’re going to be hiking, climbing and biking in your own backyard.
These are all quiet, safe areas with beautiful homes - often tudors and colonials, and tons of parks (in addition to the Mountains) for playing with the kiddos. These neighborhoods are also served by excellent public schools.

  • East Bench
  • Greater Avenues
  • Yalecrest