Cheapest Cities to Rent in Utah (2026)
The cheapest rent in Utah is in Provo, UT, where a 2-bedroom averages $1,460/mo and a 1-bedroom $1,265/mo (2026 HUD Fair Market Rent) — $144/mo below the Utah average 2BR of $1,604. The table below ranks all 2 of the cheapest cities to rent in Utah.
Top 2 Cheapest Cities in Utah
Ranked by 2-bedroom rent price (lowest first)
| Rank | City | Studio | 1 Bed | 2 Bed | 3 Bed | Income Needed |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
#1 | Provo, UT | $1,257 | $1,265 | $1,460 | $2,031 | $58,400/yr |
#2 | Salt Lake City, UT | $1,259 | $1,456 | $1,747 | $2,333 | $69,880/yr |
Why These Utah Cities Are Affordable
Utah's affordability has decreased as demand outpaced supply. Salt Lake City has become moderately expensive, though still cheaper than coastal tech hubs. Smaller cities offer better value.
- Below-average housing costs: These cities have housing indices lower than the state average of 110
- Lower demand: Smaller populations and less competitive markets keep prices reasonable
- Diverse housing stock: Mix of older and newer buildings provides options at various price points
- Regional economies: Local job markets support working populations without coastal-city premiums
Income Requirements
Using the standard 30% of income guideline, here's what you need to earn to afford rent in Utah's cheapest cities:
How Utah's Cheapest Cities Compare
What to Consider Before Moving
Best For
- ✓Outdoor enthusiasts
- ✓Tech professionals
- ✓Ski enthusiasts
- ✓Families
Considerations
- •Rapidly rising costs
- •Air quality issues (inversions)
- •Growing pains
Cheapest Rent in Utah: FAQ
Where is the cheapest rent in Utah?
The cheapest rent in Utah is in Provo, UT, where a 2-bedroom averages $1,460/month and a 1-bedroom $1,265/month in 2026 (HUD Fair Market Rent). Next cheapest: Salt Lake City ($1,747).
How much can I save renting in Utah's cheapest cities?
By choosing Utah's cheapest city over the state average 2BR of $1,604, you could save $144/month or $1,728/year on rent.
Is rent in Utah's cheapest city below the US average?
Yes. A 2-bedroom in Provo costs $1,460/month, which is $113/month below the US median 2BR Fair Market Rent of $1,573 (HUD, 2026).
What income do I need to rent in Utah's cheapest cities?
To afford the cheapest 2BR in Utah at $1,460/month, you need approximately $58,400/year based on the 30% of income guideline.