Utah Economy
The Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute provides analysis and data-driven, context-specific insights about the Utah economy. We prepare in-depth studies on key Utah issues in partnership with stakeholders in the private sector and in state and local government. Our research provides vital information that decision-makers and the public use to help Utah prosper.
Utah’s Consumer Sentiment Steady in April
May 3, 2023 (Salt Lake City) – Utah’s consumer sentiment held steady in April, according to the Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute’s Survey of Utah Consumer Sentiment. A similar survey by The University of Michigan found sentiment rose slightly from March (62.0) to April (63.5) among Americans as a whole. “The index was relatively unchanged for the second straight month, reflecting continued uncertainty among Utahns about the economy as they face mixed economic signals,” said Gardner Institute chief economist Phil Dean. “Negative economic signals include moderating economic growth in the U.S., higher interest rates, and the ongoing banking crisis that[...]
May 2023 Utah Consumer Sentiment
Utah’s consumer sentiment was essentially unchanged in May (71.0) compared to April (70.5), according to the Kem C. Gardner Institute’s Survey of Utah Consumer Sentiment. A similar survey by the University of Michigan found sentiment fell from April (63.5) to May (59.2) among Americans as a whole
April 2023 Newsmaker Breakfast: 2030 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games in Utah
Utah’s demographic, social, and environmental factors favorably position the state to host another successful Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games, according to a report released today by the Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute. This new study supplements a previously released report that found hosting another Winter Games would make a significant economic impact to the state, generating jobs, income, and economic output.
2030 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games in Utah: Demographic, Social, and Environmental Factors
Utah’s demographic, social, and environmental factors favorably position the state to host another successful Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games.
A Comparison of State-Funded Affordable Housing Programs
Utah policymakers have significantly expanded affordable housing programs in response to the housing crisis. As this effort continues, a comparison of state housing programs provides valuable policy insight.
Insight: A New American Spirit
By: Dr. Timothy Shriver Note: The opinions expressed are those of the author alone and do not reflect an institutional position of the Gardner Institute. We hope the opinions shared contribute to the marketplace of ideas and help people as they formulate their own INFORMED DECISIONS™. Apr 19, 2023 – Earlier this month, the Pew Charitable Trust released its report tracking America’s mood. “Americans have highly negative views of both parties’ leaders,” the headline reads. 60% disapprove of the president, 68% disapprove of Republican leaders in Congress, and 65% disapprove of Democratic leaders in Congress too. […]
A Visual Guide to Tax Modernization: Individual Income Tax in Utah
Utahns share a common interest in a state and local tax system that provides for our needs, keeps the economy strong, and remains viable over the long term. This visual guide, which is the fourth in a series, illustrates key components of Utah’s income tax – the fastest growing and most volatile major tax.
An Economic Summary of Salt Lake County’s Cultural Industry, 2023
In 2021, Salt Lake County’s cultural industry, including the design, education, entertainment, fashion, film, humanities, and traditional arts sectors, generated $6.2 billion in output (direct spending).
Utah’s Consumer Sentiment Steady in March
April 10, 2023 (Salt Lake City) – Utah’s consumer sentiment was essentially unchanged in March (70.2) compared to February (70.4), according to the Kem C. Gardner Institute’s Survey of Utah Consumer Sentiment. A similar survey by The University of Michigan found sentiment fell from February (67.0) to March (62.0) among Americans as a whole. […]
Storytelling through Data: Utah’s Rental Market Presentation
Utah’s renters, like much of the renters across the country, faced dramatic increases in housing costs throughout the pandemic. For the renters across the four Wasatch Front counties, average asking rents increased more in the two-year period between 2020 and 2022 then they increased between 2010 and 2020.