It’s nice to know we have an unemployment rate in Utah that is less than our bordering states.  According to the “Insight, Economic News of Utah and the Nation”, Vol 12 No 4/Autumn 2009/Jeff Thredgold, Zions Bank Economic Consultant, Utah has an average unemployment rate of 6.0% compared to the five states sharing a border with Utah with an average unemployment rate of 9.0%.  

This report correlates with sales in Utah County.  According to the Utah County Stats, sales of this year are 12% higher than last year – 529 Aug 2009 sales  to 473 of 2008 sales.  Sales are up 147% since January.  Utah County’s active listings are up as well.  In Utah County, the housing market is now holding steady.  Homes are more affordable and currently we have attractive mortgage rates.  It is a time for sellers and buyers to have confidence in the housing market locally. 

According to Thredgold, “The state’s longer term economic potential, tied to strong population growth, a solid work ethic, reasonable business and living costs, high-quality universities, and world-class recreational opportunities for its residents and visitors, will rival any in the country.”