Moving to St. George Utah

Considering a move to Southern Utah? Let's explore the key differences between St. George and Hurricane Utah, helping you make an informed decision about which city aligns best with your lifestyle and needs. From amenities and schools to weather and outdoor activities, we cover everything you need to know.

Related Articles: Pros and Cons of St. George Utah
Pros and Cons of Hurricane Utah

Table of Contents

Introduction to St. George and Hurricane

St. George and Hurricane are two vibrant cities located in Southern Utah, each offering unique lifestyles and opportunities. While they are only about 12 miles apart, their differences in size, amenities, and community feel can significantly impact your living experience.

St. George, with a population of approximately 103,000, serves as a hub of activity and convenience in Washington County. Its larger size supports a variety of amenities, making it an attractive option for those who value accessibility and a bustling atmosphere.

Hurricane, on the other hand, is a smaller community with about 23,000 residents. Known for its close-knit community feel, it appeals to those seeking tranquility and proximity to nature without the hustle and bustle of a larger city.

City Sizes and Accessibility

One of the primary distinctions between St. George and Hurricane is their size and accessibility. St. George spans 72 square miles, offering a range of neighborhoods and a well-developed infrastructure that supports easy navigation by car. Most destinations within the city are just a short drive away.

Costco St George Utah

In contrast, Hurricane covers 52 square miles, making it a more compact city where getting across town takes no more than five minutes. However, this smaller size means that many amenities and services are not within walking distance, necessitating the use of a vehicle for most errands.

Shopping and Amenities Comparison

St. George boasts a comprehensive selection of shopping and dining options, from big-box retailers like Walmart, Costco, and Target to a variety of grocery stores, including Albertson's and Smith's. Health-conscious shoppers will appreciate stores like Natural Grocers and Harmons, which offer a range of organic and locally sourced products.

Costco St George Utah

Hurricane offers a more limited selection, with a Walmart, a couple of smaller grocery stores, and some local eateries. Residents often find themselves traveling to St. George or nearby Washington for a broader range of shopping and dining experiences.

Walmart St George Utah

School Options and Educational Resources

Education is a crucial factor for families, and both St. George and Hurricane provide access to the Washington County School District. However, St. George offers a wider array of educational institutions, with 14 elementary schools, seven intermediate and middle schools, and five high schools.

Hurricane, being smaller, has two elementary schools, two middle schools, and one high school. While the quality of education is commendable in both cities, the variety and number of schools in St. George may offer more choices for families with specific educational preferences.

After-School Activities for Families

After-school activities are abundant in St. George, thanks to its larger population and more extensive resources. The city offers a wide range of programs, from sports leagues to arts and music classes, catering to diverse interests.

Hurricane, while offering some after-school programs, has fewer options due to its smaller size. Many families in Hurricane opt to travel to St. George for additional activities, ensuring their children have access to a broader range of extracurricular opportunities.

Gym and Fitness Facilities

Staying fit is a priority for many residents, and St. George provides a variety of gym and fitness options. From commercial gyms like VASA Fitness to more specialized venues like Summit Fitness and Fitness Culture, there are facilities to suit every workout preference.

In Hurricane, gym options are more limited, with Performance Fitness and Anytime Fitness being the major players. While these gyms cater to most fitness needs, some residents prefer to travel to St. George for a more diverse gym experience.

Utility Costs and Comparisons

When considering a move, utility costs often weigh heavily on the decision-making process. St. George and Hurricane, despite their proximity, offer different utility pricing structures worth noting.

In St. George, water, sewer, and trash services are bundled into a monthly bill averaging around $90. Electricity costs vary depending on your provider, with Dixie Power offering rates as low as 6 cents per kilowatt-hour, making it one of the most affordable in the nation. Alternatively, the City of St. George charges approximately 8 cents per kilowatt-hour.

Hurricane's utility costs are comparable, with water, sewer, trash, and power services typically managed by the city. However, the city charges about 9 cents per kilowatt-hour for electricity. Some subdivisions near Dixie Springs fall under Dixie Power's coverage, offering a slight cost advantage.

Weather Differences: St. George vs Hurricane

The weather can significantly impact your daily life, and both St. George and Hurricane have distinct climates. St. George, at a lower elevation of 2,800 feet, tends to be warmer by about 5 degrees during the summer months. This makes it ideal for those who enjoy a hotter climate.

In contrast, Hurricane, situated at 3,200 feet, experiences cooler winters with additional wind chill, making it feel up to 10 degrees colder than St. George. The constant winds in Hurricane are a notable characteristic, lending to its name.

Real Estate Market Insights

The real estate market in Southern Utah has seen fluctuations, particularly with the recent changes in mortgage rates. Historically, Hurricane offered more value for money, allowing buyers to secure larger properties for the same price as smaller homes in St. George.

As of 2024, the median home price in St. George appears lower in MLS statistics, but a direct comparison often reveals more spacious homes available in Hurricane for similar price points. This makes Hurricane an attractive option for those prioritizing space over location.

Outdoor Recreation Opportunities

Both cities offer unique outdoor experiences, catering to a variety of interests. St. George is known as Utah's golf capital, with several top-rated courses. It also boasts numerous hiking and biking trails, easily accessible from most neighborhoods. The Arizona Strip provides extensive off-road trails for adventure enthusiasts.

Hurricane, on the other hand, is a haven for off-road recreation. Sand Hollow State Park is a popular destination for sand dunes and rock crawling. The proximity to Quail Creek Reservoir offers additional activities like boating and fishing.

Final Thoughts: Which City is Right for You?

Choosing between St. George and Hurricane depends on your priorities. St. George offers convenience, with amenities and schools nearby, making it ideal for families and those valuing accessibility. Its warmer climate and urban feel appeal to those seeking a vibrant lifestyle.

Hurricane provides a quieter environment, ideal for nature lovers and those seeking more space for their money. Despite longer drives for amenities, its proximity to outdoor adventures makes it a compelling choice for active individuals.

Sand Hollow St George Utah

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Is Hurricane more affordable than St. George? Generally, Hurricane offers larger properties for similar prices, making it more affordable in terms of real estate.
  • What are the main differences in weather? St. George is warmer and less windy, while Hurricane experiences cooler temperatures and more wind, especially in winter.
  • Which city has better recreational opportunities? Both cities excel in different areas; St. George is great for golf and hiking, while Hurricane is ideal for off-road and water activities.

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