Cost of living

Increasing economic stability and opportunity for Utahns at every stage of life.

The courage of "&" in confronting economic uncertainty

The rising cost of living is one of the most immediate pressures facing Utahns today. Housing, healthcare, childcare, food, and utilities are consuming a growing share of household income, leaving families with less room to absorb emergencies, plan for the future, or move up economically. These pressures are not the result of individual failure; they reflect structural shifts in housing markets, wages, and public policy that require thoughtful, state-level solutions. The courage of "&" means moving beyond the common framing of economic support as either personal responsibility or government intervention. Instead, we recognize that effective solutions require a blend of both, fostering collaboration between individuals, families, businesses, and policymakers to create a sustainable future where all can thrive.

Financial security

As cost of living expenses continue to rise and impact household income, both renters and homebuyers alike are increasingly finding themselves struggling to get by. President Trump has overtly said he wants to keep housing prices high to protect homeowners’ equity rather than reducing prices to improve affordability, a stance that can further strain accessibility for first-time buyers and younger residents already priced out of the market.  

Utah has seen rapid population growth and housing demand alongside wage stagnation in key sectors, pushing families closer to the edge each month. High costs reduce savings, increase household debt, and make it harder for workers to stay rooted in their communities. Addressing cost-of-living pressures is essential not only for individual stability, but for workforce retention, small-business health, and long-term economic resilience across the state.

Human dignity

Human dignity rests on the ability to meet basic needs without constant fear of falling behind. When families must choose between rent and medical care, or when seniors and people with disabilities are priced out of their own communities, dignity erodes. Rising costs disproportionately affect low-income workers, single parents, caregivers, and young adults just starting out, often forcing people into overcrowded housing, longer commutes, or unsafe living conditions. A dignified society ensures that economic participation does not require personal exhaustion or constant sacrifice of health and well-being.

Real solutions

• Expand housing supply at multiple income levels: Support zoning reform, missing-middle housing, and targeted incentives that increase the supply of affordable and attainable homes without displacing existing communities.
  

• Reduce cost pressures through smart state policy: Identify and reform policies that unintentionally drive up costs—such as excessive fees, administrative delays, or barriers to entry for childcare, healthcare, and housing providers.
  

• Support wages and workforce stability: Promote policies that strengthen wages, protect workers from exploitation, and support career pathways—particularly in high-demand sectors critical to Utah’s economy.
  

• Lower household cost burdens directly: Expand access to property tax relief, childcare assistance, utility support, and healthcare affordability programs that help families stay financially stable during periods of high inflation.
  

• Coordinate growth with infrastructure investment: Align housing development with transportation, water, and public services so growth lowers per-household costs instead of shifting them onto families and local governments.