Why Orem Might Be Utah’s Best Place to Buy a Home in 2025

Diane Albrechtsen
Aug 28
3 min read

Updated: Sep 2

Park scene with people walking and sitting near colorful flower beds. Brick buildings in the background, mountains under a clear blue sky.

When people think of Utah Valley, they often picture the bustling tech hub of Lehi, the college town vibes of Provo, or the mountain escapes of Sundance. But what if I told you there’s a city right in the middle of it all — a place with tree-lined neighborhoods, thriving schools, and the kind of community spirit you thought only existed in small towns?

Welcome to Orem, Utah — a city locals call “Family City USA,” where life feels balanced, convenient, and deeply rooted in community values.

Snowshoers on a path near a snowy mountain with a city skyline. Colorful mural and crowded venue. Pink sunset sky enhances the mood.

Orem: Truly the Family City

The first thing you’ll notice about Orem isn’t just its location — it’s the people. This is a place built around family life. Parks are always busy, school events fill the calendar, and neighbors know each other by name. Utah Valley University sits at the heart of Orem, giving the city youthful energy and steady growth, while still keeping that suburban calm families love.

Picture this:

Saturday soccer games at the local park.
Summer nights at SCERA Shell Outdoor Theatre under the stars.
Farmers markets where you always bump into a familiar face.

It’s not flashy — but that’s exactly what makes Orem feel like home.

People chatting in a bar with neon signs, skiers on snowy slopes with lifts, drinks on a table with scenic mountains, trio outside a drugstore.

Orem’s Mountain + Lake Lifestyle

Here’s the secret perk of living in Orem: you’re minutes away from both Utah Lake and the Wasatch Mountains.

Want a morning paddleboard session? Utah Lake is right there.
Need a weekend hike? Provo Canyon and Mount Timpanogos are basically in your backyard.

Orem offers the kind of lifestyle where outdoor adventure isn’t a road trip — it’s just another Saturday.

People stroll through a vibrant street with colorful buildings and murals. A park leads to a grand capitol building under a blue sky.

Orem’s Growth Without Losing Its Soul

Like the rest of Utah Valley, Orem has seen major growth in the last decade. But unlike some fast-growing cities, Orem has worked to keep its “family-first” identity. The expansion of Utah Valley University has brought in jobs and energy, and University Place Mall has reinvented itself into a hub for shopping, dining, and even outdoor events.

At the same time, neighborhoods stay safe, schools stay strong, and community traditions — from city parades to summer concerts — continue to thrive..

Bar scene with diners enjoying food and beer. A waiter holds a dish, tables have plates of food. Warm lighting, signs read "LoGawine," "FishE," "COPPER."

Is Orem a Smart Place to Buy a Home in 2025?

So here’s the big question: is Orem worth planting roots in right now?

Home prices are more affordable than Salt Lake, yet Orem still sees strong appreciation thanks to its prime location in Utah County.
Demand stays steady, driven by families, students, and professionals commuting to nearby tech jobs in Lehi.
With growth on the horizon, buying now means securing a spot in one of Utah’s most livable (and lovable) cities.

People dine outdoors in a lively market street with stalls and musicians. Mountain backdrop, colorful mural on brick building, vibrant mood.

So, Is Orem the Family-Friendly Heart of Utah Valley?

If you’re looking for a city that balances community, convenience, and long-term value, Orem just might be your perfect match. It’s not the trendiest city in Utah — but that’s the beauty of it. Orem is about roots, not flash. It’s about mountain views on your morning drive, Friday night football games, and neighbors who bring over cookies “just because.” And for many, that’s exactly the kind of place worth calling home.

Ready to explore Salt Lake City?

Ready to explore Orem neighborhoods or see what’s on the market right now? Let’s connect! Call me at 801-710-1411 and I’ll help you find the perfect home in the heart of Utah Valley.

Finding your next home is exciting — but knowing what your current one is worth can be just as powerful. Whether selling is on your horizon or you’re just curious, a free professional estimate can help you see the bigger picture. 👉 Get your free home valuation today here

Smiling woman in a plaid blazer stands with arms crossed. Text: Diane Albrechtsen, real estate details, contact info, logos below.