Utah (UT), the “Beehive State,” is known for its stunning natural landscapes, including five national parks, and its unique history as the site of the Mormon settlement and the first Transcontinental Railroad completion. It’s also the only state where four states meet in a single point, forming the “Four Corners” states, sharing a border with Arizona, Colorado, and New Mexico.

The primary interstates in Utah are I-15, I-70, and I-80. I-15 is the major north-south route, while I-70 and I-80 are east-west corridors. Other important highways include U.S. Route 89, U.S. Route 6, and U.S. Route 50.

Truck drivers in Utah must be aware of speed limits, which can reach 80 mph on interstates, and observe posted signs regarding U-turns and other road conditions. They also need to be mindful of larger blind spots and slower acceleration/braking capabilities, and must cover and secure loads properly. 

Facts About Utah

Salt Lake City is the capital and largest city in Utah, with a population of 215,548 (2025). Other major cities: West Valley City (134,470), West Jordan (114,908), Provo (113,343).

The median house price in Salt Lake City is $547,700 (February 2025), a 2.3% increase compared to the previous year. However, growth in housing costs has slowed since the pandemic-driven boom. 

Utah’s cost of living is slightly higher than the national average, but it’s not as expensive as some other states like California or Colorado. While housing costs are higher than average, other expenses like groceries, clothing, and utilities tend to be lower. For a family of four, an annual income of $83,000-$86,000 is generally needed to live comfortably in Utah.

Recreation & Activities

The most popular attraction in Utah is Arches National Park. It’s known for its stunning natural rock formations, including the iconic Delicate Arch, and offers a variety of hiking trails for outdoor enthusiasts. Other highly rated attractions include Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon National Park, and the Narrows. 

The Utah’s popular recreational activities:

• Off-Highway Vehicles
• Boating
• Camping
• Golf
• Rock climbing
• Fishing
• Hiking
• Mountain Biking

Live & Work

According to the U.S. News & World Report, Utah has once again been ranked the best state to live in for the third consecutive year in its prestigious 2025 Best States rankings. This recognition was based on an in-depth analysis of 71 metrics across eight key categories, including education, economy, infrastructure, healthcare, and public safety.

For truck drivers, Utah offers more than just scenic beauty—it delivers real advantages both on and off the road.

High Demand for CDL Drivers

Utah’s rapidly expanding economy and strategic location have created strong, consistent demand for commercial drivers, especially in major transportation corridors such as Salt Lake City, Ogden, and St. George. Whether you’re looking for long-haul, regional, or local routes, opportunities abound.

Solid Pay & Affordable Living

Drivers in Utah benefit from competitive wages combined with a relatively low cost of living, allowing for better financial stability. From affordable housing to lower taxes, Utah helps truckers stretch their earnings further.

Truck-Friendly Infrastructure

Utah is widely regarded as a truck-friendly state, offering:

• Well-maintained highways
• Ample truck stops and safe rest areas
• Readily available parking and fueling stations
• Year-round accessible roads, with the exception of some mountain areas during heavy snowfall

Strategic Logistics Hub

Utah sits at the crossroads of the western United States, with major interstate highways like I-15, I-80, and I-70 running through it. This makes it an ideal home base for regional, intermountain, and long-haul routes, offering direct access to key freight corridors and distribution centers.

Exceptional Quality of Life

When you’re off the clock, Utah offers unmatched access to the outdoors—national parks, ski resorts, hiking trails, and lakes are all within reach. Plus, the state is known for its safe communities, clean cities, and family-friendly atmosphere, making it a great place to settle down.

Whether you’re a seasoned road warrior or just getting started in your trucking career, Utah offers a strong job market, driver-first infrastructure, and an unbeatable lifestyle. It’s no wonder it’s ranked #1 – on and off the road.

Income, Sales & Fuel Taxes

As of June 2025, Utah’s individual income tax rate is 4.5%, following a recent reduction from the previous rate of 4.55%. Utah employs a flat income tax system, meaning all taxpayers, regardless of income level, are taxed at the same rate. Alongside the income tax rate reduction, Utah has introduced other tax relief measures, including the elimination of Social Security tax for individuals earning up to $90,000 and the expansion of the child tax credit .

The base state sales tax rate in Utah is 4.85%. Local tax rates in Utah range from 0% to 4%, making the sales tax range in Utah 4.7% to 8.7%.

The motor fuel tax rate for gasoline and diesel fuel is 38.5 cents per gallon, effective January 1, 2025.