Recent Research
Recently Published
The most recent research published by the Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute
Utah State and County Annual Population Estimates by Single Year of Age and Sex: 2010-2019
Utah’s population grew by nearly 450 thousand people (about 16 percent) between 2010 and 2019. Cumulative natural increase (births minus deaths) accounts for 70 percent of the growth and net migration for 30 percent. Birth rates are falling, Utah’s population is aging, and Baby Boomers are retiring. The retirement age population (65 and older) grew by nearly 45 percent, while the youth population (under 18) grew by less than 10 percent.
The Economic Impacts of Utah’s Manufacturing Industry, 2018
Manufacturing is one of Utah’s largest industries, making significant contributions to the state’s economy. In 2018, the industry provided 7.0% of total employment, paid 9.6% of total earnings, and produced 11.0% of gross domestic product. Utah’s manufacturing industry continues to grow despite a nationwide slowdown; however, this growth is exceeded by growth in other industries. Within production occupations, there is an underrepresentation of women and an over-representation of minorities compared with other occupations. Overall, Utah’s manufacturing industry is a crucial component of the state’s economic health and prosperity.
May 2020 Economic Summary
Utah’s nonagricultural employment has experienced a major decrease at an estimated 7.1%, or 110,900 jobs, between April 2019 and April 2020. Nationally, employment also decreased significantly, by 12.9% or 19.4 million jobs, between April 2019 and April 2020.
Salt Lake County Renter Demographics
Housing outcomes depend on local economic health, and they diverge for racial, ethnic, and other groups.
An Historic Overview of Office, Industrial, and Retail Development and Their Recent Demand Drivers in Salt Lake City
Over the past few decades, Salt Lake City has experienced not only major residential growth, but also a commercial boom. Utah’s economic success has translated into a vibrant commercial real estate market.
Fact Sheet: U.S. Census Bureau Estimates for Cities and Housing Units, Vintage 2019
The Census Bureau’s most recent release on May 21, 2020 provides population estimates for incorporated places (cities and towns) and housing unit estimates at the state and county level from Census 2010 to July 1, 2019. The city level estimates utilize locally submitted building permits as the basis to estimate population. They are then controlled to the county estimate totals, which were published in March 2020.
New Americans in Salt Lake County: A Qualitative Study of Service Providers to Immigrants and Refugees
Salt Lake County is home to over half of Utah’s new Americans. This population is ever-changing; the number of arrivals, major country or region of origin, and reason for moving to Utah can fluctuate in any given year. There is no monolithic population of new Americans in Salt Lake County – Salt Lake City’s foreign-born population has different characteristics and needs than that of West Valley, South Salt Lake, or Herriman. The diversity in these communities continues to grow, change, and impact the entire county as people place roots and grow their families.