Almost two years ago, the U.S. lost more than 22 million jobs in March and April of 2020. At the end of 2021, there were still 3.6 million fewer positions than in February 2020, before the COVID-19 pandemic hit. On the flip side, as of November, 2021, the latest available state-level data, Utah had 61,000 more jobs than in February. Texas had about 28,000 more jobs, Idaho had 14,500 more, and Arizona had nearly 5,000 more.
Utah and Idaho have benefited from demographic shifts before and during the pandemic. Both have seen substantial payroll growth in technology, retail, transportation, and warehousing industries. Several prominent companies have also moved operations to the U.S., and workers have moved as well. Utah implemented relatively relaxed Covid-19 restrictions during the pandemic; economists report that this move alone has softened the blow to the state’s local economy.
Utah has experienced persistently strong population growth, which really wasn’t dented by the pandemic, according to Moody’s Analytics. Moody’s provides financial intelligence and analytical tools for businesses. The firm reported more people keep coming from expensive coastal cities to markets like Utah, that have a relatively lower cost of living and higher quality of life. And, according to recent Census Bureau estimates, Idaho, Utah, Montana and Arizona were the four states that saw the largest percentage growth in their populations from July 2020 to July 2021. Data from the 2020 Census and the number of building permits for new homes indicate Layton City has tripled its percentage of average annual population growth from about 1.5% per year between 2010 and 2019, to 4.5% (2020) and 4.6% (2021).
Utah residents enjoy a thriving economy with consistent growth in business and career opportunities. With a vibrant culture and consistent economic growth, it’s no wonder Utah has consistently earned top rankings as one of the best states to live.