A Financial Tech Study Recognizes St. George’s Rapid Population Growth

Salt Lake City, Utah –

Utah has long been known for its stunning landscapes and outdoor activities, but it’s also becoming renowned for its rapid population growth. A recent study by financial tech company SmartAsset has revealed that St. George, a charming city in southern Utah, is among the top 10 fastest-growing cities in the United States.

St. George Boasts Impressive Growth Rate

According to the study, St. George experienced a remarkable 18% population increase over a span of five years. This growth aligns with a larger trend observed in the report, which analyzed the population difference reported by the U.S. Census for the 344 largest cities between 2017 and 2022.

St. George Mayor Michele Randall attributes the city’s appeal to its economic opportunities, scenic beauty, a mild winter climate, and its friendly and optimistic residents. Despite the challenges that come with rapid growth, such as water, housing, and infrastructure demands, the city remains committed to addressing these issues head-on.

Southwestern Cities Take the Lead

The study also highlighted the dominance of southwestern U.S. cities, particularly the desert suburbs, at the top of the growth list. Joining St. George in the top 10 were Arizona cities Buckeye and Goodyear, along with Enterprise, Nevada, and Menifee, California.

SmartAsset’s Managing Editor of Economic Analysis, Jaclyn DeJohn, emphasized the positive growth indicators in the southwest. She noted that Texas and Arizona were ranked second and fourth, respectively, as destinations where high earners are moving. The region’s relative tax-friendliness and lower cost of living compared to coastal California and major cities may be drawing people to these areas.

The Unexpected Shift in Population Patterns

Surprisingly, some of the cities that would typically be considered among the fastest-growing, such as New York City and Los Angeles, experienced a decline in population over the same five-year period. New York City ranked 270th and Los Angeles ranked 309th on the list. Meanwhile, Utah’s metro hubs of Salt Lake City and Provo saw a small decrease in population, while West Jordan and West Valley City experienced modest growth.

The Changing Cityscape

SmartAsset’s study provides a comprehensive list showcasing the cities that experienced the most significant population growth and decline since 2017. Paradise, Nevada, adjacent to Las Vegas, saw the largest decline of 21%, while Jackson, Mississippi (-10.4%), Aurora, Illinois (-9.4%), and Highlands Ranch, Colorado (-8.4%) were among the cities at the bottom of the list.

Utah’s St. George stands out as a thriving city that exemplifies the state’s growth and attractiveness. As the population continues to boom, Utah remains an exciting place to live, work, and explore.