The Pros and Cons of Living in West Valley, Utah
West Valley City continues to attract new residents thanks to its location, diversity, and steady development across the area. This fast growing community sits in the heart of Salt Lake County, which makes it appealing for families, young professionals, and anyone who wants easy access to Salt Lake City without living downtown. The city has seen more restaurants, more retail, and more housing options in the last decade, which is why many newcomers start by learning about what moving to West Valley City actually involves.
Life in West Valley tends to come with a steady stream of sports gear, outdoor equipment, seasonal items, and everything else that defines Utah living. Locals know this well, which is why the Town Storage facility on Glen Eagle Drive has become a go to spot for staying organized and keeping homes comfortable.
Now let’s break down what makes West Valley City a standout place to live, along with the challenges that come with it.
Pros of Living in West Valley City
1. Strong Location Near Salt Lake City
West Valley sits only a short drive from downtown Salt Lake City. Residents enjoy suburban neighborhoods while staying close to major employers, universities, and entertainment. The light rail system, interstate access, and nearby commercial centers make commuting simple and convenient for most people.
2. More Affordable Housing than Surrounding Cities
Housing costs in Utah have been rising, but West Valley City still offers more attainable pricing compared to much of Salt Lake County. According to recent data from Zillow, the typical home value in West Valley City sits around $380,000, while Salt Lake City’s average is closer to 564,000 dollars. Rents follow the same pattern, with West Valley’s median rent generally lower than central Salt Lake. These differences make the area one of the more accessible places for first time buyers or students looking for reasonable rent.
3. One of the Most Diverse Cities in Utah
West Valley stands out for its cultural diversity. You can find a wide mix of food, languages, celebrations, and community programs throughout the city. Many residents appreciate the welcoming atmosphere and the range of backgrounds represented in local schools and neighborhoods. The city hosts events throughout the year that bring people together and highlight the cultural mix that makes the community unique.
This sense of community is something residents often talk about, and it is reflected in the experience people have with local businesses and services. The People Make the Difference piece captures the type of customer focused care many locals value, especially when settling into a new routine or neighborhood.
4. Plenty of Local Entertainment and Recreation
There is no shortage of things to do in West Valley. The Maverik Center brings concerts, hockey games, and major events. The Utah Cultural Celebration Center offers performances, art shows, and community programs. You also have parks like Centennial Park, movie theaters, shopping centers, and restaurants close by. It is easy to stay busy without driving across the valley.
5. Convenient Access to Major Job Hubs
Job access is one of West Valley’s strongest advantages. Large employers like Discover Financial Services, Teleperformance, the Jordan School District, and multiple healthcare facilities operate in or near the city. With major highways running through the area, residents can reach central Salt Lake City, the airport, and west side industrial parks in a short amount of time. This convenience is a major draw for people who want fewer complications in their daily commute.
Cons of Living in West Valley City
1. Higher Crime Rates Compared to Nearby Suburbs
Crime is one of the most commonly discussed concerns in West Valley City. According to the FBI Crime Data Explorer, West Valley City reports roughly 4,300 property crimes per 100,000 residents, which is noticeably higher than the national average of about 1,954 per 100,000.
Nearby cities such as West Jordan and Taylorsville report lower property crime levels, which is why many people take the time to compare neighborhoods before making a decision. These numbers can vary within the city, so checking local crime maps and researching specific areas can give you a clearer picture of what to expect.
2. Congestion During Peak Commute Hours
Traffic can be heavy in parts of West Valley, especially around Redwood Road, 3500 South, and key freeway access points. As the valley continues to grow, these routes carry more daily traffic than they were originally designed for. According to the U.S. Census American Community Survey, the average commute time for West Valley residents is about 26.3 minutes, slightly higher than the national average of 25.6 minutes. The experience can feel slower during peak hours, and bottlenecks are common near major commercial corridors and freeway interchanges.
3. Older Neighborhoods in Some Parts of the City
Some areas of West Valley were developed decades ago. You may find older homes, aging roads, and limited walkability in certain neighborhoods. The city continues to improve infrastructure, but updates happen at different speeds depending on the area.
4. Limited Nightlife Options
West Valley offers plenty of family friendly entertainment, but nightlife is more limited compared to downtown Salt Lake City. People who want bars, late night dining, or more entertainment variety often head into the city for those experiences.
5. Seasonal Air Quality Issues
During winter, the Salt Lake Valley experiences inversion, which traps cold air and pollution. This affects visibility and air quality for several days at a time. Residents with respiratory sensitivities usually keep an eye on local air reports during those months.
Is West Valley City the Right Fit for You?
West Valley City offers strong advantages. You get affordability, location, diversity, and convenient access to the entire Salt Lake Valley. At the same time, crime rates, traffic, and older infrastructure may influence your decision depending on your lifestyle and priorities. Taking the time to explore neighborhoods, learn about the community, and compare commuting distances will help you determine if it is the right place for you.
If you are preparing for a move or need extra storage space while getting settled, our West Valley City storage facility is here to help. You can also explore additional blogs on life in the area to get a deeper understanding of the community.