Is St. George Still Affordable? Real Costs of Living in 2025–2026

St. George continues to attract attention as one of the fastest-growing cities in the Intermountain West. Its sunny desert climate, outdoor recreation, and growing economy make it highly desirable for retirees, remote workers, and families seeking a slower pace of life. Some buyers, or people thinking about moving to St. George, are concerned with headlines highlighting rising home prices. It’s natural to wonder: is St. George still affordable in 2025–2026?

Housing Costs in St. George

Housing is the largest expense for most people moving to St. George. Over the past few years, home values have increased steadily due to high demand and limited inventory. As of late 2025, the median single-family home in St. George is roughly $525,000, while condos and townhomes are slightly lower at $380,000. Compared to major coastal metros, these prices remain affordable, but buyers must still plan carefully to stay within budget.

Utilities, Transportation, and Lifestyle Costs

Monthly utilities—including electricity, water, and gas—typically range from $200–$300, depending on household size and season. Heating and cooling costs are more variable in the desert climate, with summer cooling needs increasing energy bills.

Transportation is another consideration. St. George is largely car-dependent, so buyers need to account for insurance, fuel, and maintenance. Fortunately, traffic congestion is minimal compared to larger cities.

Daily living expenses such as groceries, dining, and healthcare are generally reasonable. Local grocery stores and regional chains keep prices competitive, while healthcare access is strong with multiple hospitals and clinics in the area.

Affordability Compared to Lifestyle

Despite rising prices, many people find that St. George offers excellent value when you factor in lifestyle benefits. Residents enjoy access to Red Cliffs Desert Reserve, nearby Zion National Park, golf courses, and a range of cultural events. For remote workers, a combination of lower housing costs and outdoor amenities can make St. George a very appealing place to live.

Residents of St. George tend to find that the lifestyle they're looking for is more affordable than it is in many other places, offsetting the increasing property values. Erika Rogers, St. George real estate expert, also highlights the financial benefits of rising home prices, saying: "For buyers who want to move to St. George long-term, rising property values should be considered a pro, not a con. Experts all seem to agree that investing in a home now is only going to pay off in the coming years. We're seeing continued increase in demand for homes even with higher interest rates. People simply want to live here, and the word is continually getting out about how great it is to own a home in St. George." 

Ultimately, affordability depends on your priorities. Those willing to consider different neighborhoods, commute slightly farther, or explore condos and townhomes can still find homes that fit a reasonable budget.

Curious which neighborhoods offer the best combination of affordability and lifestyle? Learn more in our guide: The Best St. George Neighborhoods for Affordability Without Compromising Lifestyle.

If you're ready to learn more about buying a home in St. George, contact us any time.