The Story
By 2050, Utahns live in a variety of types of housing. Utah supplies a wider range of housing options that match what Utahns want and can afford. However, apartments, condos, townhomes, and small lot homes are often separated from communities with homes on larger lots. In addition, much of the housing is not close to walkable “centers,” where jobs, shopping, recreation, and access to public transportation are located. As a result:
- Utahns spend less on housing and more on other needs.
- Fewer people require public assistance for housing and other needs.
- People with low incomes cannot afford to live in mixed-income communities, limiting their access to opportunities like good schools.
- Transportation costs are high for many Utahns because people must drive long distances to reach destinations and public transportation is somewhat limited.
Results
- Almost half of households along the Wasatch Front are within a half-mile of high-frequency public transportation.
- Housing supply mostly matches what people can afford.
- The average household spends $19,549 per year for transportation.
- Local infrastructure (roads, water, sewer, etc.) costs $27,593 per household.
- 29% of households are within one mile of a center with daily services.
Background
Reasonably priced housing and an affordable cost of living are vital for maintaining a high quality of life and improving Utah’s economy. Utahns spend a significant portion of their monthly budgets on housing and transportation. The less we spend on these needs, the more we have left to spend on other goods and services. As housing and transportation costs rise, more Utahns have difficulty finding a decent place to live and meeting monthly expenses without public assistance. However, if the cost of living is affordable, Utahns are more likely to stay and workers and employers are more likely to come to the state, improving Utah’s economy.
Housing Costs
To maintain affordable housing, the supply of housing types must match Utahns’ wants and incomes. If Utahns desire to live in a housing type (such as townhomes or apartments) that is in short supply, housing costs will increase for many. Providing a variety of housing options helps ensure that everyone has a good, affordable place to call home. Supplying the right mix of housing is challenging, however, because people’s housing needs evolve as their family size, income, job locations, or other circumstances change. In addition, Utahns’ demand for housing is changing as Baby Boomers age, average family size decreases, land for housing near job centers becomes less available, and market preferences change.
Increased costs for local infrastructure like roads and pipes can also increase the price of housing, because these expenses are typically passed on to homebuyers and renters, or included in tax bills.
Transportation Costs
Transportation costs are also a large part of a typical family’s budget. These costs are determined by how close housing is to jobs and daily needs and by the availability of good public transportation. If Utahns can drive less and own fewer or no vehicles, transportation costs will lower.
* Lowest 20% of Utah households
