Utah State Facts & Information

Utah's population reached 3,506,838 on July 1, 2024, according to estimates by the Utah Population Committee. This represents an increase of 50,392 residents since July 1, 2023. Population growth slowed slightly to 1.5% in 2024, down from 1.6% in 2023, but Utah continues to be one of the fastest-growing states in the nation.

Spencer Cox is Utah's 18th governor, serving since 2021. He was re-elected to a second term in November 2024, defeating Democratic nominee Brian King. Cox, a Republican, previously served as lieutenant governor from 2013 to 2021. A sixth-generation Utahn from Fairview, he has stated that his second term will be his last, even though Utah has no term limits on governorships.

Utah led the nation in GDP growth in 2024 with a 4.5% increase, compared to the national average of 2.8%. The state's nominal GDP surpassed $300 billion for the first time, averaging $301 billion for the year and ending at $308 billion. GDP per capita reached $67,278, up 2.7% from 2023, ranking 19th among all states. This strong economic performance demonstrates Utah's position as a national leader in economic growth.

Utah's 2024 population growth was driven equally by net migration (52%) and natural increase (48%). The state continues to attract new residents through both domestic and international migration, while also maintaining one of the highest birth rates in the nation. This balanced growth pattern has helped Utah sustain its position as one of America's fastest-growing states.

Salt Lake City is the capital and largest city of Utah. As the state's political, cultural, and economic hub, Salt Lake City is home to approximately 1.18 million residents in the greater metropolitan area, making it by far the largest population center in the state. The city serves as a major center for business, technology, and outdoor recreation industries.

Utah County added the most population in 2024 with 21,853 new residents, accounting for over 43% of the state's total growth. Among counties with more than 5,000 residents, Tooele County had the fastest growth rate at 3.1%. Other rapidly growing counties include Iron, Piute, Rich, Wasatch, and Washington counties, each growing by around 2%. Salt Lake County came in second for total growth with 12,113 new residents.

Utah's economy is highly diversified with particular strength in technology, finance, tourism, and mining. The information industry has shown exceptional growth, with 2024 GDP 2.8 times higher than 2014. Personal income statewide grew 6.1% from 2023 to 2024, ranking Utah 4th highest among states. The state's job growth ranked seventh nationally as of August 2024, demonstrating sustained economic momentum across multiple sectors.

Utah leads the nation in GDP growth at 4.5% in 2024, far exceeding the national average of 2.8%. The state's real GDP per capita ranks 19th nationally, with a standard of living similar to Minnesota and Georgia. Utah also ranks 4th in personal income growth, and the state economy was described as strong but moderating in 2024. With the highest median income in the nation relative to cost of living, Utah offers exceptional economic opportunity for residents.