The Gardner Policy Institute provides data-driven, context-specific insights about Utah’s economy. We prepare in-depth studies on key Utah issues in partnership with stakeholders in the private sector and state and local government. The institute employs a diverse group of economists and analysts with specialties that include healthcare, energy and natural resources, tourism, and real estate and construction. Our research provides vital information decision makers and the public use to help Utah prosper.
Housing, Construction, & Real Estate
Utah/Federal Government Nexus Data Summary: Federal Housing Assistance
Federal housing assistance programs provided $482.6 million in financial support for Utah renters, developers, public housing authorities, and state and local governments in FY2022.
Utah’s Marriage Trends: Young, Married, and Changing
Utah has the nation’s youngest median marriage age and the highest marriage rate, but younger Utahns are waiting longer to marry.
Marriage Penalties in Utah
Though relatively few and limited in scope, marriage penalties exist in both Utah's tax structure (primarily through income tax credits) and benefit programs.
Utah 2025 Peer Support Specialist Workforce Survey
Peer support specialists play a foundational role in Utah’s mental and behavioral health systems. Survey results suggest ways to address challenges related to retention, burnout, and turnover.
How Income Measures Shape Policy
No standard definition for income exists, making it essential to use the appropriate definition for a particular application when conducting policy analysis.
Household Income in Utah
After adjusting for localized cost-of-living differences between states, Utah’s median household income of over $98,000 ranks highest in the country.