If you’re looking to live in Salt Lake County, Draper and Sandy are two south valley standouts. They’re next-door neighbors, but the vibe — and the costs — can feel different.
Here’s a breakdown of housing, expenses, and the coolest local things to do so you can pick the one that’s best for your budget and your lifestyle.
1. Housing Costs
Draper:
- Single-family homes: $750K–$1.2M+
- Townhomes/condos: $500K–$650K
- Luxury hillside homes in SunCrest & South Mountain: $1.5M+
- Known for newer construction, planned communities, and stunning valley views.
Sandy:
- Single-family homes: $650K–$950K
- Townhomes/condos: $450K–$600K
- Foothill properties near Little Cottonwood Canyon: $1.2M+
- Offers older but spacious homes with mature landscaping.
2. Property Taxes
Salt Lake County’s average rate is ~0.63% of home value:
- Draper: $900K home = ~$5,670/year
- Sandy: $750K home = ~$4,725/year
3. Everyday Costs
Utilities in both cities are similar:
- Electricity: $100–$150/month
- Gas: $60–$90/month (more in winter)
- Water/Sewer/Trash: $80–$120/month
HOA fees:
- Draper: Many master-planned communities charge $80–$150/month.
- Sandy: Most neighborhoods don’t have HOAs.
4. Cool Local Things to Do in Draper
Outdoor Adventures
- Love hiking or biking? Explore the Corner Canyon Trail System — over 50 miles of multi-use trails, including:
- Hike Ann’s Trail here — 6.5 miles with panoramic views.
- Take the family to Ghost Falls Trail — 2.3 miles to a small waterfall.
- Ride the Rush Trail — a downhill mountain biking favorite.
- Want to try hang gliding? Head to Flight Park State Recreation Area — $8 daily parking and a view worth every penny.
- Wanna golf with a view? Book a tee time at South Mountain Golf Course — resident rates start at $28.
Family & Indoor Fun
- Love animals? Visit the Loveland Living Planet Aquarium — $29.95 for adults, $22.95 for kids.
- Ready for summer fun? Splash into Cowabunga Bay Water Park — around $32 for adults.
- Wanna ride? Check out the Draper Cycle Park — it’s free!
5. Cool Local Things to Do in Sandy
Outdoor Recreation
- Craving powder? Ski Alta or Snowbird — just 20–25 minutes away, with lift tickets starting at $159/day.
- Prefer a peaceful walk? Explore Dimple Dell Regional Park — 630 acres of free trails.
Sports & Entertainment
- Love soccer? Catch a Real Salt Lake game at America First Field — ticket prices vary.
- Into live music? See a show at Sandy Amphitheater — tickets usually $20–$60.
6. Lifestyle Takeaways
- Draper offers newer homes, a master-planned feel, and a mix of mountain biking, hang gliding, and family attractions. It’s also minutes from the tech hubs in Lehi and Bluffdale.
- Sandy is the skier’s paradise with quick canyon access, pro sports, and more established neighborhoods.
Bottom Line:
If your weekends involve trail running, mountain biking, or hanging out at the aquarium, Draper’s higher housing costs might feel worth it. If you’d rather hit the slopes and enjoy a slightly lower cost of living, Sandy might be your better fit.