SALT LAKE CITY — The latest subcounty estimates released by the Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute and the Utah Population Committee highlight that communities in the four Wasatch Front counties—Salt Lake, Utah, Davis, and Weber—experienced an impressive increase of 36,730 new residents between 2023 and 2024.
This surge accounts for a remarkable 72.9% of Utah’s overall population growth during this period.
According to Eric Albers, a senior policy analyst at the Gardner Institute, ten specific communities along the Wasatch Front were pivotal in this expansion, welcoming half of all new Utahns.
Even with such considerable growth, 29 communities reported a loss in population for 2024, although these declines were typically minimal.
Key findings from the estimates suggest a pattern of both population and housing unit growth that is noteworthy.
Among the high-growth areas, Salt Lake City stands out as a leader, having led the state in population growth for three consecutive years.
Between 2023 and 2024, the city alone added 4,450 residents, reinforcing its position as a significant urban center in the state.
Meanwhile, Utah County dominates the fast-growth rankings, with eight out of ten of the quickest growing areas located within its boundaries.
The title of the fastest-growing community, however, goes to Magna, which saw an impressive 8.0% increase in population.
This rapid growth was closely followed by Saratoga Springs at 7.9% and Highland at 7.8%, both also situated in Utah County.
In terms of housing, the Wasatch Front added a total of 17,970 new housing units between 2023 and 2024.
This figure shows a decline from the peak of 28,068 new units added in 2022, indicating a shift in housing development trends.
Salt Lake City contributed significantly to this growth, providing one in five of the new housing units in the region.
With a total of 3,696 new housing units, Salt Lake City accounted for 20.6% of the overall housing growth along the Wasatch Front.
Salt Lake County emerged as a major driver in housing development, adding 9,675 units.
In comparison, Utah County followed with 5,992 units, while Davis County contributed 1,175 units, and Weber County added 1,128 units.
These estimates are produced under the guidance of the Utah Population Committee, which is chaired by the Gardner Institute.
Looking forward, with the introduction of a new amendment (HB379) during the 2025 Utah General Legislative Session, locally produced population estimates will become the primary source for various applications as mandated by state code.
This development marks a significant step in how population data is utilized within the state and ensures that accurate and timely estimates are made available for wider applications.
For further details regarding the 2025 population data amendments, individuals are encouraged to visit the Gardner Institute’s landing page.
The Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute’s mission revolves around supporting Utah’s growth through extensive research in economic, demographic, and public policy areas.
Emphasizing informed research, the institute plays a crucial role in guiding discussions and leading to meaningful decisions that affect the state’s future.
For additional inquiries, they can be contacted directly at 801-587-3717.
Meanwhile, the David Eccles School of Business at the University of Utah stands out as a key educational institution that provides a robust business education experience.
Founded in 1917, the school focuses on practical learning that prepares students for real-world challenges long before they graduate, offering a plethora of undergraduate and graduate programs.
Prospective students can explore more about what the Eccles School has to offer through their website or by calling 801-581-7676.
As the Utah population continues to grow, these developments reflect ongoing trends and set the stage for future economic and social changes within the state.
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