Recent Research
Click on the links below to view the most recent research published by the Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute.
January 2026 Zions Bank Consumer Sentiment Survey
Utah’s consumer sentiment increased 0.9% in January, according to the Zions Bank Consumer Sentiment Survey. This increase (from 79.9 in December to 80.6 in January) is within the survey’s margin of error. A similar survey conducted by the University of Michigan reports that sentiment increased by 6.6% among Americans as a whole during January.
The Economic Contribution of the University of Utah
As Utah’s flagship public university, the University of Utah generates one of the largest economic and societal contributions to the state through education, research, health care, and statewide engagement.
The State of Utah’s Travel and Tourism Industry 2026 (2024/2025 Trifold)
The Gardner Institute produces leading travel and tourism research in Utah. We produce reports, profiles, research briefs, fact sheets, data sheets, and blogs on Utah’s visitor economy. Our research informs the Utah Office of Tourism, destination marketing organizations, policymakers, and the general public.
Northwest Valley Datapoints: Northwest Salt Lake County Health
The Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute has authored “Northwest Valley Datapoints,” a series of fact sheets designed to inform local decision-makers and community partners in Northwest Salt Lake County. This third installment explores health metrics for the region, including access to health care, health outcomes, and social drivers of health.
Utah Economic Council Forecast, December 2025
The Utah Economic Council, a collaborative endeavor of the David Eccles School of Business and the Governor’s Office of Planning and Budget, prepares its forecast quarterly for selected economic and business indicators.
Utah Informed: Visual Intellection for 2026
This edition of Utah Informed commemorates the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence and our journey to “create a more perfect union.” With an emphasis on the 45th state, each visual conveys a success or struggle, an idea to ponder, or an ideal worth pursuing.
2026 Economic Report to the Governor: Highlights
The 2026 Economic Report to the Governor represents the 38th publication in this series. The report serves as the preeminent source for data, research, and analysis about the Utah economy.
2026 Economic Report to the Governor
The 2026 Economic Report to the Governor represents the 38th publication in this series. The report serves as the preeminent source for data, research, and analysis about the Utah economy.
Great Salt Lake Data and Insights Summary, January 2026
In 2025, Utah continued to make progress on the health and long-term future of Great Salt Lake. The lake remains below healthy levels, but conditions have stabilized. Actions to ensure a healthy Great Salt Lake remain necessary, urgent, and possible. This report synthesizes essential data and insights to inform the recovery of Great Salt Lake.
December 2025 Zions Bank Consumer Sentiment Survey
Utah’s consumer sentiment rose 5.4% in December, according to the Zions Bank Consumer Sentiment Survey. This increase (from 75.8 in November to 79.9 in December) is not statistically significant.
