Utah

State Mortgage Guides

Utah Mortgage Guides

State-specific mortgage resources for Utah home buyers and homeowners. FHA, VA, USDA, and conventional loan requirements as they apply in Utah — plus first-time buyer programs, closing cost estimates, and local market context.

Salt Lake City Provo / Orem St. George Ogden Park City
UT
Utah Housing Market Context

Key Utah Mortgage Numbers (2026)

$541,287FHA loan limit (standard)
0.58%Effective property tax rate
2–3%Typical closing costs
UHCDown payment assistance
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Utah Mortgage Resources

Buying a Home in Utah: What You Need to Know

Utah has one of the most dynamic housing markets in the country. The Wasatch Front — Salt Lake City, Provo/Orem, and Ogden — has experienced significant price appreciation over the past decade, driven by strong job growth in the tech sector, in-migration from higher-cost states, and limited housing inventory relative to demand.

For buyers, this means qualifying for the right loan program and understanding local market conditions is more important than ever. FHA loan limits have kept pace with home values in most Utah counties, though Park City and Summit County buyers often need jumbo financing. VA loans remain the strongest option for eligible veterans — zero down payment and no PMI in any Utah market.

Utah Housing Corporation (UHC)

The Utah Housing Corporation is the state’s housing finance agency and offers several programs specifically for Utah home buyers:

  • FirstHome Loan: Below-market rate financing for first-time buyers who meet income and purchase price limits
  • HomeAgain Loan: Available to repeat buyers in addition to first-time buyers
  • Score Loan: For borrowers with lower credit scores who need additional flexibility
  • Down Payment Assistance: A second mortgage covering 3.5%–6% of the purchase price to help with down payment and closing costs

UHC programs require working with a participating lender. Income and purchase price limits vary by county and household size.

Utah Property Taxes

Utah has one of the lower property tax rates in the western United States. The effective tax rate is approximately 0.58% of assessed value — significantly lower than national average. A $500,000 home in Salt Lake County carries roughly $2,900 in annual property taxes, compared to $4,500+ for the same value home in many other states. This affects affordability calculations and PITI payment estimates.

Utah Market Snapshot by Area

AreaMedian Home Price (Est.)FHA EligibleNotes
Salt Lake City / SLC County$500,000–$600,000Yes (standard limit)Strong appreciation, competitive market
Provo / Utah County$450,000–$550,000YesLarge BYU community, growing tech corridor
Ogden / Weber County$350,000–$450,000YesMore affordable, near Hill AFB
St. George / Washington County$450,000–$600,000YesFast-growing, retiree migration destination
Park City / Summit County$800,000+High-cost limit appliesResort market, often requires jumbo

Questions About Buying in Utah?

A licensed Utah mortgage advisor can review your situation, compare loan programs, and help you understand UHC programs and local market conditions.

Speak with a Utah Mortgage Advisor