What do I need to understand about moving from Long Island to Salt Lake City?

Moving from Long Island to Salt Lake City means trading coastal suburbia for mountain views, open spaces, and a family-friendly city with a growing economy. You’ll gain more home for your money, enjoy a strong sense of community, and have endless opportunities for outdoor adventure — all while adjusting to a completely different pace and landscape.

Q: What do I need to understand about moving from Long Island to Salt Lake City?
A: Relocating from Long Island to Salt Lake City means embracing a new lifestyle centered around affordability, nature, and rapid growth. Here’s what you need to understand — and how Eric Berman with Compass Real Estate can help make your move effortless.

Cost of Living & Lifestyle Comparison

Salt Lake City’s cost of living is significantly lower than Long Island’s, especially in housing. You can expect to pay far less for a larger home with mountain views, and Utah’s property taxes are lower than New York’s. There’s no state tax on Social Security income, which benefits retirees, though Utah does have a state income tax of 4.65%.

Lifestyle-wise, Salt Lake City is slower-paced, outdoorsy, and family-oriented. You’ll find a cleaner environment, a strong sense of community, and year-round access to hiking, skiing, and national parks. Compared to Long Island’s dense suburbs and coastal living, Salt Lake City offers more open space and breathtaking natural beauty.

Employment & Opportunities

Salt Lake City’s economy is booming thanks to the “Silicon Slopes” — Utah’s rapidly growing tech corridor. Major employers include Adobe, eBay, and Intermountain Health. The region’s job market spans tech, healthcare, finance, and logistics.

Unlike Long Island, where many professionals commute to Manhattan, Salt Lake City residents typically work locally. Remote work is also common, as Utah has positioned itself as a destination for professionals seeking work-life balance and affordability.

Education & Schools

Salt Lake City offers strong public and private education options. Top districts include Canyons School District, Jordan School District, and Granite School District. Families relocating from Long Island’s competitive schools will find smaller class sizes and a strong emphasis on extracurricular and outdoor programs.

For higher education, the University of Utah is one of the state’s top institutions, known for business, medicine, and research.

Real Estate Practices: What’s Different?

The Salt Lake City real estate market features a wide variety of options — from suburban developments in Draper and Sandy to urban lofts downtown. Buyers can expect newer homes, open layouts, and larger lots for far less than what they’d pay on Long Island.

Real estate closings in Utah differ from New York’s. They are typically handled by title companies, and the process is often faster and less attorney-driven. Eric Berman with Compass Real Estate can connect you with experienced Salt Lake agents to guide you through every step.

Logistics of the Move

Relocating from Long Island to Salt Lake City is a cross-country move of about 2,200 miles, requiring professional movers or a full-service relocation company.

The climate is much drier than Long Island’s. You’ll experience four distinct seasons, with snowy winters and hot, dry summers. Be prepared for higher elevation — Salt Lake City sits about 4,200 feet above sea level — which may take a few days to adjust to.

Community & Quality of Life

Salt Lake City offers safe neighborhoods, outdoor recreation, and a family-focused lifestyle. Popular areas include:

  • Sugar House: Walkable, trendy, and full of local shops.

  • Millcreek: Suburban, with easy access to trails.

  • Draper: Upscale family community with new development.

  • Park City: A nearby resort town for skiing and luxury living.

  • Downtown Salt Lake City: Urban living with mountain views.

Compared to Long Island’s crowded suburbs, Salt Lake City provides space, tranquility, and a balance of city life and natural wonder.

Tips for a Smooth Transition

  1. Prepare for high altitude and dry air — stay hydrated.

  2. Embrace outdoor living — Utah’s national parks are world-class.

  3. Take advantage of lower property taxes and housing costs.

  4. Research neighborhoods based on commute and lifestyle.

  5. Work with Eric Berman with Compass Real Estate for relocation guidance and Utah connections.

Your Move to Salt Lake City

Relocating from Long Island to Salt Lake City offers affordability, natural beauty, and a strong economy in one of America’s fastest-growing cities. With Eric Berman with Compass Real Estate as your trusted advisor, you’ll gain expert insight, reliable local partnerships, and peace of mind throughout your move.

People also ask

  1. How does Salt Lake City’s housing market compare to Long Island’s?

  2. What are the best family-friendly neighborhoods in the Salt Lake City area?

  3. How does Utah’s property tax system differ from New York’s?

  4. What’s it like adjusting to the climate and altitude in Salt Lake City?

  5. Is Salt Lake City a good place to move for remote workers or tech professionals?