These days, everyone talks about living in California. And considering the warm weather, nearby beaches, and everyone’s favorite amusement parks, what’s not to like? Well, as it turns out, there are actually quite a few downsides to living in the Golden State that you wouldn’t think of at first. So, for those thinking of a move to the coast, we’ve compiled a list of why people are actually moving from California to the mountains of Utah. Let’s take a look!
Taxes
Taxes aren’t at the top of everyone’s list when considering a move, but when you look at California rates, you might have to second guess yourself! California has the nation’s highest state income tax of about 13.3%. That might not sound like much at first, but a rate this high will end up costing you thousands of dollars come tax season. Utah, by contrast, only has a 5% state income tax rate. So, if you are looking to pocket a bit of extra cash each year, a move to Utah might be a good choice!
Bad for Business
Living in California can also be difficult for business owners. In a survey conducted by Chief Executive Magazine, 513 CEOs rated California as the worst state for business. With high tax rates and difficult legislation, businesses are fleeing California for the friendlier environments of neighboring states. If you are a small business owner, it might be a good idea to avoid the hassle and consider another option.
Traffic
Famous for its gridlock, California has some of the worst traffic in the world. Los Angeles, San Francisco, and San Diego suffer from overcrowded freeways and commutes to work can end up taking hours. But, with a newly upgraded highway system, Utah is interconnected and easily traversable. A trip up from Provo to Salt Lake can be measured in minutes instead of hours!
Housing Prices
Like New York, California suffers from some of the highest housing prices in the nation. Owning a home can take decades of paying off loans and even smaller apartments in the city can cost up to thousands of dollars in rent each month. But, in Utah, buying a home doesn’t have to break the bank. For a fraction of the price, you can have a beautiful home in a thriving community.
Skiing
California may have the beach, but they have nothing on Utah’s slopes. World famous, Utah’s resorts attract thousands of skiers from all over the world. You can shred pow at Sundance or take things up a notch at Park City. For skiers and snowboard enthusiasts, a move to Utah means world class skiing each and every year!
Community
Utah is one of the fastest growing states in the nation but it manages to avoid a lot of the downsides that come with living in a bigger city. The Salt Lake Valley has a beautiful combination of urban amenities and countryside living that has made it the destination of many who are looking for the simple things. If you are looking for a place to really call home, Utah can’t be beat.
Scenery
California has its scenic coasts, but they just don’t compare what Utah has to offer. With 5 national parks and more hiking destinations than you could ever dream of, Utah is the place to be for outdoor fun. Enjoy a weekend out camping in Zion or watch a beautiful sunset over the mirror like surfaces of the salt flats. Whatever your outdoor tastes, you are sure to find it in a move to Utah.
Well-Being
In a 2013 Gallup Poll, it was found that Provo, Utah has the highest level of well being of any city in the nation. This is the second time that Provo has topped the list in the last six years and is only another indication of what it’s like to live in Utah. Big enough for anything you need but small enough to avoid the drawbacks of urban living, Utah has everything you and your family would ever want.
At J Thomas Homes, we believe in building the homes and communities that people want to live in. There is no better place for us to do business than right here in Utah. See for yourself why so many people are considering a move to Utah.
Got any questions? Call 801-383-1909 or visit https://jthomashomes.com/communities/ for more information.
