Ever wonder how much your city really costs you? The Utah Taxpayers Association’s 2025 Cost of City Government Report breaks it down using the latest data from Utah’s 50 largest cities. It shows how much cities collect in taxes and fees compared to what their residents earn—giving you a clear picture of what you’re paying for local government.
At the top of the list? Salt Lake City, where the average cost per resident is $1,940. South Salt Lake and St. George follow behind, while Clinton comes in lowest at just $513. The report also looks at how much cities collect for every $1,000 residents earn, giving another way to see how affordable your city really is.
What makes one city more expensive than another? It could be big projects, how police and fire services are funded, or how much a city relies on visitors to help cover the bill. Some cities may seem low-cost but shift expenses to special service districts, making it harder to see the true cost.
The report also highlights which cities are holding truth-in-taxation hearings in 2025—so you can get involved before your property taxes go up.
Whether you’re a homeowner, business owner, elected official, or just curious about your city’s budget, this short, visual report is a must-read. It’s packed with easy-to-read charts, rankings, and insights to help you understand how your city stacks up—and where your money is going.
You can read this year’s report here.