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 Economic Council Forecast, June 2025
The Utah Economic Council prepares quarterly economic forecasts and is a collaborative endeavor of the David Eccles School of Business and the Governor’s Office of Planning and Budget.
The Economic Contribution of Southern Utah University
Southern Utah University strengthens Utah's Southwest Economic Region and statewide economies through high-quality education; institutional, student, and visitor spending; and broad societal benefits.
Tax System Design: Utah’s Tax Portfolio Highlights Tradeoffs Among Different Tax Choices
Taxes generate revenue to pay for public services demanded by citizens. These services, such as transportation, public safety, corrections, courts, health care, water, air quality, parks, and education provide economic and societal benefits.
The Economic Contribution of Utah State University
Utah State University strengthens Utah’s economy through high-quality education; research and innovation; institutional, student, and visitor spending; and broad societal benefits.
May 2025 Utah Consumer Sentiment
Utah’s consumer sentiment rose 1.4% in May, according to the Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute’s Survey of Utah Consumer Sentiment. This modest monthly change (from 80.0 in April to 81.1 in May) falls well within the survey’s margin of error.
Utah/Federal Government Nexus Data Summary: Federal Student Aid in Utah
Students enrolled at Utah postsecondary institutions received about 350,000 federal student aid awards totaling $1.6 billion in the 2022-23 school year.
