Your Ultimate Guide to the Neighborhoods of St. George, Utah
Insider Insights from a Local Expert
St. George, Utah, and the broader Washington County area are among the fastest-growing regions in the United States. With its stunning desert landscapes and booming economy, it's no wonder that more and more people are choosing to call this place home. Whether you're considering a move or just curious about the area, this guide offers insider information on the various regions from someone with 30 years of experience visiting, living, and growing up here.
Each neighborhood in St. George and its surrounding areas has its own unique character and demographic "micro-climate." To help you navigate the options, I've categorized them into four groups:
The OGs,
The Tweeners,
New and New New, and
The Outliers. Let’s dive in.
The OG's:
Original Town Centers
Downtown St. George
Downtown St. George is the heart of the city, steeped in history and education. It’s a hub for retirees and Utah Tech students alike, creating a vibrant, yet grounded community. Looking for a home in this area offers solid opportunities as the older generation passes the torch to the youth. Saint George isn’t that big, but if you’re staying a while and like easy access to any area of town, this is a great place to find a spot that will hold its value.
Washington
While the education center might have begun downtown, Washington is an original working-class, farmland area. These days Washington has seen significant growth as the region expands. It's now a place with rising property values and excellent opportunities for those willing to put in some work. This is a neighborhood where you can rise with the tide of growth.
Santa Clara
Santa Clara, the third of the original trio, has successfully preserved its historic charm. It’s a picturesque town and has grown a lot on the business front as well, offering a full plate of amenities without needing to go downtown. While looking for homes, good deals and investment opportunities are more limited here compared to Washington. It remains a desirable place to live however, especially for those who appreciate its quaint atmosphere.
The Tweeners:
Somewhere Between the OG City Centers
Middleton
Middleton is one of the first neighborhoods developed with a focus on housing. Located near the mall, it's a popular area for off-campus college housing. The homes here can be cost-effective, though typically not as diverse for home style. Just as the tide raises all ships, homes in this area continue to increase in value while maintaining the initial price point that appeals to younger families and starter homes.
Dixie Downs
Dixie Downs started as a lower-income housing district but has evolved into a lively area with a growing youth population. The business growth that has hit this area over the years has turned sunset blvd into a secondary center of action in Saint George. With all the excitement raising home values plus the history and age of the homes here there are several opportunities for home buyers to be rewarded for putting in work on a property.
Shadow Mountain
Located on the backside of the iconic D Hill, where the old airport once stood, Shadow Mountain is a mixed-level neighborhood. It features a blend of upscale homes and older townhome complexes, and housing of every kind in between offering a variety of living options. There's a lot of potential here for those looking to find a hidden gem. Tucked between Sunset BLVD and Dixie Drive, Shadow Mountain has easy access to the new business growth the opposite side of the hill.
New and New New:
The Suburb Breakouts
Ivins
Ivins is a bit of an outlier in the "new" category because it still has many older homes. However, its location at the mouth of Snow Canyon, proximity to Tuacahn Amphitheatre, and new Rocky Vista medical school campus have made it a hot spot for new development, particularly catering to tourists and medical students. The scenic backdrop here is nothing short of breathtaking! It’s off the beaten path a bit, but there has been enough business development to supply all the basic consumer needs. The opportunities here vary from older homes for fixing, to those close to the medical school, or those catering to vacationers.
Bloomington Hills
Bloomington Hills was the first neighborhood to break out as a wealthier community in the 90s. Known for its hillside homes, it boasts well-maintained properties and a middle-aged demographic. The local schools are a popular choice for families adding to the appeal. There are several pockets of aging homes in Bloomington as well, some of the first to build there I imagine, that are ready for some elbow grease from a new owner. Since there are also much newer homes here, an updated older home can really be valuable.
Washington Fields
Washington Fields is the most recent area to experience a surge in development. True to its name, it has managed to retain some of its original farmland, giving the neighborhood a more open, spacious feel. Like Little Valley, it’s popular among young families who are drawn to suburban living with lots of new development. The business landscape is also growing at rapid pace as the area continues to expand toward highway 7 and the new airport. The opportunities in the fields have a price tag since most of the homes are so new.
The Outliers:
Hidden Gems Beyond the City
Hurricane
Hurricane is a fascinating crossroads. In terms of business, Hurricane relies heavily on visitors to nearby Zion National Park. It’s also experiencing tremendous housing growth as St. George and Washington fill up. Lastly, property prices here are more affordable, making it an attractive option for those looking to escape the higher costs of living in town. This has created a demographic of adventure seekers, retirees, and young families taking advantage of the reduced prices and the incredible outdoor experience.
Leeds and Toquerville
Leeds and Toquerville are small towns slightly off the beaten path from St. George. While they lack in-town services, they more than make up for it with charming homes on larger plots of land. These towns are growing steadily, attracting those who prefer a quieter, more rural lifestyle.
Diamond Valley
Diamond Valley is unique among the outliers. Nestled in a secluded mountain valley at the top of Snow Canyon State Park, this area is perfect for those seeking space and tranquility. Many homes here come with substantial land, ideal for horse owners or anyone who values privacy. The slower pace of growth, due in part to state land and conservation efforts, only adds to its appeal.
Something for Everyone!
St. George and its surrounding areas offer a diverse range of neighborhoods, each with its own unique character and appeal. Whether you're drawn to the historic charm of the OGs, the vibrant communities of the Tweeners, the modern luxury of the New and New New, or the secluded beauty of the Outliers, there's something here for everyone. As the area continues to grow, now is the perfect time to find your place in this desert paradise.
