Recent Research
Recently Published
The most recent research published by the Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute
November 2019 Economic Summary
Utah’s nonagricultural employment increased an estimated 3.3%, or 51,200 jobs, between October 2018 and October 2019. Nationally, employment increased 1.4%, or 2.1 million jobs, between October 2018 and October 2019.
The State of Utah’s Travel and Tourism Industry, 2018
Utah’s diverse travel and tourism industry provides jobs and income for Utah residents and contributes state and local tax revenue. Utah’s natural, cultural, and historical assets draw domestic and international visitors year-round. Since 2014, visitor spending in Utah’s economy increased by an average 3.4% annually when adjusted for inflation. In 2018, travelers directly spent a record $9.75 billion in Utah, generating an estimated 136,000 total Utah jobs, and $1.28 billion in state and local tax revenue. Utah’s national parks, state parks, and ski resorts experienced record visitation in 2018 as well.
Demographic County Profiles by Age, Sex, Race and Ethnicity, 2010–2018
The Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute produces an annual suite of detailed population estimates. These control to official numbers published by the Utah Population Committee. The Census Bureau produces similar population estimates that are used for federal purposes. Our estimates incorporate local data sources and knowledge to account for unique Utah characteristics, and also add additional detail. They are generated using statistical models including the Utah Demographic and Economic Model (UDEM).
Demographic Profile: State of Utah Population by Age, Sex, Race and Ethnicity, 2010–2018
Utah’s 2018 population was estimated at 3,116,647. Between 2010 and 2018, it grew by 394,274, representing an average annual percentage growth rate of 1.7 percent. The state remains relatively young with 29.7 percent of the population being preschool or school age (under 18), compared to 10.9 percent of retirement age (65 and older).
A Qualitative Study of Utah’s State Turnaround Program: Cohort One
The first cohort of schools that successfully exited the Utah State Turnaround Program experienced similar factors of success and share similar concerns. A concerted focus on data, positive reinforcement, collaboration, and strong leadership were chief among the factors they attributed to their success. These schools are very proud and empowered by their success, yet have concerns about sustaining the gains made without the additional resources or school leadership that adopts turnaround practices.
October 2019 Economic Summary
The Utah economy exceeded expectations in 2018, adding a total of 48,500 new jobs over the year. An annual employment growth rate of 3.3% is on par with the state’s long-term average and is among the strongest in the nation. A tightening labor market (3.1 percent unemployment) applied upward pressure on personal income. Annual income per capita increased to $45,174, a 3.9 percent increase from last year.
Fact Sheet: Utah State and County Annual Population Estimates by Single-Year of Age, Sex, and Race/Ethnicity: 2010-2018
Utah’s population continues to diversify. Between 2010 and 2018, the share of the population identifying as minority (something other than non-Hispanic White alone) increased from 19.5 to 22.0 percent. But, these patterns differ by geography. In 2018, the minority share of each county ranged from 5.4 percent in Morgan County to 56.1 percent in San Juan County.
September 2019 Economic Summary
The consensus forecast predicts moderating–but still healthy–job and wage growth, and low unemployment. Internal risks to the Utah economy include the supply of workers, increasing interest rates, housing affordability, and air quality. The nation is entering a late business cycle which may also present challenges. Demographic advantages, an appealing business climate, and increasing labor force participation will continue to be an advantage for the economy. All going well, Utah will once again be one of the top-performing economies in the nation in 2019.
