Most Liberal Cities in Utah
Utah is often stereotyped as a traditional conservative stronghold, but it’s important to note that not every part of the state leans this way. There are communities and cities that trend more liberal in nature, giving some balance to a conservative landscape.
Whether you’re a homeowner or renter looking for a place where progressive values align better than most places in the Beehive State, then this article is for you. We’ll look at voting patterns, social policies, and community activism in this state. Let’s get started at number 14 on our list of the most liberal cities in Utah.
If you want to also know the most conservative cities in Utah, take a look at this post.
14. Tooele
First on our list of the most liberal cities in Utah is Tooele, a city within Tooele County. Even though the county leans conservative, it has shown signs of shifting to the liberal side in recent years. The younger population has certainly influenced local politics and social policies.
One instance is that citizens have started several community-led efforts around environmental conservation that promote sustainability. If you’d like to be in a city going through some political transition right now, this may be quite an intriguing option for you.
13. Cedar City
In southwestern Utah, Cedar City is the home of Southern Utah University and naturally attracts a younger population with slightly liberal-leaning tendencies. The city has been proactive in addressing social issues like affordable housing and public transit.
Further, it has developed policies to help low-income families find affordable rental apartments. People who believe in social good and long for a place that is welcoming to all and open-minded to most issues are likely to fall in love with Cedar City. It’s definitely one of the most liberal cities in Utah.
12. Logan
Another city is Logan, where Utah State University is located. In this community, the presence of higher education contributed to its further liberalization. It was those belonging to the LGBTQ+ community who spearheaded more inclusive efforts.
All manner of organizations dedicated to serving all kinds of social justice causes call the city home, and several community centers offer resources and support to members of the LGBTQ+ community as well. If you’re a homeowner in search of a small quaint town with solid civic pride, take a look at the city of Logan.
11. Midvale
Midvale is a city in the county of Salt Lake. The shifting demographics have produced a new cultural landscape, one that is more liberal as a result. A place that has always been quite open when it comes to promoting diversity through community events and educational programs alike regarding issues such as LGBTQ equality.
This city is one of the places where cultural festivals celebrating the residents’ backgrounds are held. If you want a place that celebrates diversity and inclusion, then Midvale should be one of your primary considerations.
10. Ogden
Ogden is a transforming city, both economically and politically. Through the years, it gave emphasis to programs focusing on social welfare. It also has a well-funded public school system.
For example, it offers free student meals to those on low incomes through its public schools. Such an emphasis on upholding welfare makes it an attractive choice for people who prefer a place with community support and public services.
9. Taylorsville
Taylorsville is another city in Salt Lake County that leans liberal, particularly on education and local governance. The city has a strong public school system and encourages public participation in governance. It holds regular town hall meetings where residents are free to air their views regarding various issues. This openness in governance makes Taylorsville an attractive option for homeowners who value civic engagement and educational excellence.
8. Holladay
Salt Lake County also has the city of Holladay, which is also liberal on many issues, especially when it comes to environmental sustainability and community well-being. The city has a number of community gardens and local policies that encourage mass transit by having several bus routes and bike lanes to decrease car usage.
If you’re one of those homeowners who cares about how much green your housing development smashes into nature, then Holladay definitely sounds like an appealing choice.
7. South Salt Lake
South Salt Lake is a city that has fostered rich liberalism, especially in matters to do with renewable energy and sustainability. The city possesses several electric vehicle charging stations and has been very active in encouraging the use of renewable sources of energy.
For example, South Salt Lake also boasts some programs to urge people to have solar panels installed on their homesteads. As a home-buyer appreciative of environmental stewardship as well as technological advancement, you might want to place this location high on your list.
6. Murray
Murray is a liberal-leaning city in the healthcare and social services sectors. The city has more clinics providing free or low-cost health care than some other cities do. This makes the place quite attractive to those looking for medical access.
For instance, in Murray, you can find one community health center that provides dental and mental health support. If you are a homeowner looking for a city that genuinely appreciates healthcare accessibility, then this city needs heavy consideration.
5. Millcreek
Millcreek is also in Salt Lake County and extremely diverse, offering a great deal of academics and activists. With its population, this community is politically liberal, advocating social justice and equality. There are plenty of non-profit groups within the city that work on issues like homelessness and LGBTQ+ rights. For those who want to get involved in their sense of community activism, Millcreek is the ideal place.
4. Cottonwood Heights
Next as one of the most blue cities in Utah is Cottonwood Heights. The city of Cottonwood Heights has been a refuge for all progressive ideals, and one of those is the commitment to environmental sustainability. Bike lanes, parks, and green spaces dot the whole expanse of this place.
This progressive city actually boasts an extensive public transportation system, complete with buses geared towards lessening the carbon footprint found in this climate-friendly area. If you are on the hunt for a city that is progressive as well as environmentally friendly to live in as a homeowner, then Cottonwood Heights would be an ideal choice.
3. West Jordan
West Jordan, in Salt Lake County, is a city that has been getting quite the attention for its liberal tendencies. The city places an emphasis on community involvement with many neighborhood associations as well as events throughout the year.
For example, once a month, ‘First Fridays’ feature local business owners and artists alike. So, if you want to find yourself a place where you can still live out your progressive ideals while enjoying a strong sense of community, then West Jordan might be just the place for you to go.
2. Salt Lake City
Salt Lake City, the capital of Utah, is famous for its vibrant arts scene and progressive politics. The city has been a leader in protecting the environment, and it has taken many steps to reduce its carbon footprint. There are developed networks of bike lanes, and residents are encouraged to use electric vehicles.
If there’s one place that epitomizes liberal values within Utah, almost nothing comes close to what Salt Lake City provides. Salt Lake City is one of the least Mormon cities in Utah.
1. Park City – Most Liberal City in Utah
Park City, the city that is known to follow liberal ideals, topped our list. Known for world-class ski slope resorts and film festivals, Park City has a group of citizens who are connected communally and very involved with social and political affairs. This city began following LGBTQ+ rights, women’s rights and environmental sustainability.
For instance, Park City was among the first cities in Utah to pass comprehensive non-discrimination ordinances. If you’re a homeowner or tenant looking for the most liberal city in Utah, then Park City stands as the beacon of progressive living in the state.
Conclusion
From the bustling urban center that is Salt Lake City to smaller communities like West Jordan, there are a few places for everyone who wants progressive ideals. However, Utah is a strongly leaning right wing state, so this could be one of the reasons why you wouldn’t want to move there.
Each city on this list offers its own set of advantages making it much easier for you to find a community that lines up with your personal and political preferences.
