Top neighborhoods to find apartments for rent in Salt Lake City

There’s a place for every lifestyle in and around Utah’s state’s capitol.

Living in Salt Lake City comes with many different vibes and a charming variety of apartments for rent in Salt Lake City. Some neighborhoods have Victorian-era (and definitely not haunted) rentals, some rentals are new and sleek. If you’re looking for an urban lifestyle, choose something closer to downtown. If you’re a trail hound, there are neighborhoods nestled right next to the Wasatch Front foothills. KSL Homes curated this list to help you choose a Salt Lake City neighborhood that fits your needs. 

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Urban life in downtown Salt Lake City

This may seem like a given, but downtown is a highly walkable neighborhood, with ample public transit to get you around quickly. Rent tends to be higher here due to its central location, with employment opportunities and entertainment around every corner. 

You'll always get your steps in living downtown. And if you don't want to walk? Public transport it is!

Downtown living is perfect for those who love to go to Jazz games at the drop of a hat, and those who prefer some hustle and bustle. No car? No problem. You can walk 10 minutes, ride the TRAX or take the bus to theaters, sports centers, restaurants, shopping centers or work. Young professionals, tech workers and students would do well here. Downtown tends to be fairly pet-friendly, so long as your pet is leashed and you find a pet-friendly apartment. 

Mountain urbanites in The Avenues Salt Lake City

Go five minutes north of downtown and you’re in the foothills and The Avenues neighborhood. Rent will be more moderately priced than downtown, yet still close to urban amenities — plus a trailhead or two at your backdoor. It’s a popular neighborhood for students, with bus routes directly to the University of Utah. 

Many historic homes have been converted to charming apartments and it’s walkable, with cute shops and cafes throughout the neighborhood. Be warned, you’ll definitely be getting a workout when walking around — the roads are steep! 

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Overlooks at Capitol Hill Salt Lake City

Would you pay a little more for stunning views of the city and trails surrounding your apartment? Yes? You’re not the only one. Rent can be a little higher on Capitol Hill, but it pays to shop around. It’s safe and quiet with less-busy roads, making it a popular choice for families.

Some rentals on Capitol Hill are nestled in the foothills.

Barely outside of downtown, you’ll be a hop, skip and a jog to Memory Grove Park and the City Creek trail system. Perfect for you and your dog to romp in the mountains. You’ll probably want a car if you rent on Capitol Hill, as it’s a little further away from grocery stores and other shopping.

Walkability in Sugar House Salt Lake City

Sugar House has a mix of modern luxury and historic apartments. Rent trends higher here due to its accessibility and proximity to mountains. But folks seem to be willing to pay a bit extra to live in one of the most walkable neighborhoods in Salt Lake City. Enjoy high-end shopping options and almost too many restaurants to choose from.

Young professionals and families will thrive here. Bring your pets and your desire to be outside because your pet-friendly apartment will be just 10 minutes from nearby trailheads and Sugar House Park. 

Quirky 9th & 9th Salt Lake City

Walk to the nearest brewery, stop at a quirky shop, run a marathon around a statue chanting “All Hail the Whale!” If this piqued your interest, 9th & 9th may be for you. It’s trendy, eclectic, highly walkable with lots of fun spaces to socialize. Rent can be moderate or high depending on the apartment style, but generally young adults and students thrive in this area. 

Go for a speed walk at nearby Liberty Park.

Apartments could be modern and industrial complexes or Tudor and Colonial style homes, all within the same block. It’s a cultural pocket with tons of restaurants, yoga studios, local art and music. It’s also pet friendly and right next to Liberty Park.  

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Laid back in Liberty Wells Salt Lake City

This is like the little sibling of Sugar House and 9th & 9th. It’s a bit smaller, a bit more affordable, but just as quirky and exciting with enchanting older homes. Walkability and accessible public transportation make this a great area for young professionals and students. 

There are plenty of third spaces to enjoy coffee, local brews or social events at Liberty Park. This area is very pet-friendly. In fact, there is an annual dog walking event at Liberty Park called Strut Your Mutt sponsored by KSL. If you rent in Liberty Wells, come say hi! 

Outdoor life in East Bench Salt Lake City

This neighborhood is far less walkable than the rest. It sits on the east side of the Salt Lake Valley near Foothill Drive, the Hogle Zoo, I-80 and the Wasatch Front trails and canyons. Rent can be less affordable for students and young adults here as it may be more common to find single-family homes for rent versus apartment complexes. 

There is never a shortage of outdoor activities when living in Salt Lake City.

The East Bench has a huge lifestyle pull when people choose to live in this area. The proximity to mountains along with quiet neighborhoods make it a great option for growing families. This will also be a great area to raise your pets. Most trails are dog-friendly, and there are several off-leash dog parks in the neighborhood. 

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Finding a place to rent in a neighborhood you love can be exciting. Read other KSL Homes articles to find more resources for housing near you.