Looking to move to Utah (Provo, Orem: real estate, crime, neighborhoods)

[edrn]

My wife and I are looking to move from Southern California to Utah. We have become tired of the congestion, crime and crowding of the area we live in, not to mention the high costs of living. We are interested in either the Salt Lake or Provo area, or some place in between. We hope that we can have feed back on good areas to live and raise a family. A place with good schools and a nice community. I am an RN and can basically work or live any place. Though sugestions on good hospitals would help a lot too. Thank You.

[dreameyes]

Hi edrn,
Utah is a wonderful choice. There is so much to offer in this state. If you're an outdoursy type you will find endless activities!! I find the geography here quite diverse and very beautiful from the red rock canyons in the south the the forested areas up north to the calmness and serenity of anetelope island out on the great salt lake.
Goin on what you are trying to escape Utah is a great choice. The real estate and cost of living is getting a little high but I'm sure you'll laugh at that statement being from SoCa. If you wanna be in the SL Valley there are many great hospitals. IHC (InterMountain Healthcare) is one of the largest organizations (for lack of a better word) in Utah. I'm sure they would be a good place to work for. St. Marks in SL is also a wonderful hospital. IMO the valley is getting somewhat congested though. Being from SoCa again you may have a very different opinion. Personally for me and my husband, we most likely will be moving to Utah Valley. If you want a smaller area there are some very nice areas just south of the Orem/Provo area and most likely you could drive into Provo for work. The best way to check it out would probably be just to plan a trip here. There's also some nice areas west of Utah lake. Tooele is another area you might wanna check out. It is kinda west of the SL valley. As far as schools I've heard that Logan and Murray have the best school districts in Utah although I'm sure anywhere you choose to live will have good schools. Personally I would stay away from Magna and West Valley though. Good luck in your decision!!! Utah is a wonderful place.

[coolcats]

Originally Posted by dreameyes

I would stay away from Magna and West Valley though.

There are some hidden gem new neighborhoods separated from the traditional run down parts of these towns that are great commutes to SLC. Lots of new construction going up. They are fine areas.

[dreameyes]

Hope you didn't take offense coolcats. None was meant. I'm sure there are nice neighborhoods as they are anywhere. I just haven't been to those areas in a while.

[NYtoVT]

My wife and I are packing as we speak. Going to that gem called Cedar City. Can't wait for the Shakespearina Festival, Utah summer games, Bryce, Zion Cedar Breaks, Brian Head, Kolob and least we forget:

LAS VEGAS !!

[coolcats]

Originally Posted by dreameyes

Hope you didn't take offense coolcats. None was meant. I'm sure there are nice neighborhoods as they are anywhere. I just haven't been to those areas in a while.

No it's fine ... just have to give my perspective on things. I WOULD NOT live in the parts of WVC near Valley Fair mall, but someone else might say the same thing about that area to.

[edrn]

Thank You dream eyes for the information. We have looked at Lehi, Alpine, Highland and Lindon. How are these areas?

[chazcrew]

edrn, pretty much all of northern Utah County is nice. Alpine School district has good schools (although some are overcrowded thanks to the massive amounts of kids), and the area is generally safe and family-friendly. All four cities you mentioned are good choices. Lehi has the most variety in housing (low-end to high-end) and the most commerce. Alpine, Highland, and Lindon are all more residential and more expensive in general. Alpine is generally considered the most exclusive of the cities.

I live near Highland (in Cedar Hills), and I find the entire area to be pretty, quiet, safe, and a good place for raising children.

[Dadof2]

Hi All-

I have enjoyed reading the posts here about Utah. My question is: I am not LDS, but have friends who are and respect their faith. I have considered a move to Utah with my young family (2 boys, 4 & 2 and a lovely wife). Will it be difficult to make friends, business contacts not being LDS? Will the boys be ignored/picked on b/c of the lack of LDS, etc.? Please be honest, as that is what I need. I have heard great things about Utah and we are considering a trip to St. George here shortly, but if one is not LDS and it will be hard to be accepted b/c of this, I will have to take that into serious consideration. Your responses are thoroughly appreciated!

[alexei27]

HI there!!

Best of luck with your decision...

The Wasatch Front north of SLC is a wonderful place to live (however there is a bit of congestion as it fills up). With a nursing profession...you may want to look in the Odgen or Weber area. There are a few large medical centers...and a friend of mine who works int he health care service is always talking about the lack of good nurses int he area.

Feel free to PM me if you want any other info.

Brandon