Utah isn’t just a great place to work — it’s leading the way.

With a booming economy, low unemployment and unmatched quality of life, it’s become a magnet for top talent and innovative businesses.

From startups to global companies, more organizations are choosing Utah as the place to be.

That momentum isn’t going unnoticed. In WalletHub’s 2025 ranking of happiest states, Utah placed fourth overall and earned the top spot for best work environment.

Several metrics played into the rankings, but here’s what makes the Beehive State stand out — and how businesses and professionals alike can help keep it that way.

Low unemployment rate

Utah’s job market remains strong. The May 2025 Roadmap to Prosperity Economic Dashboard, published by the Salt Lake Chamber and the University of Utah’s Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute, shows an unemployment rate of 3.1%.

While slightly higher than the previous record lows, it’s still lower than the national average of 4.2%.

Most job seekers are finding opportunities, and steady hiring across industries continues to drive economic growth.

Fewer work hours

Utah has one of the best work-life balances in the country. On average, Utahns work just 37.1 hours per week — the lowest in the nation, according to the U.S. Census Bureau’s American Community Survey data.

Less time at work means more time for family, hobbies and rest, which helps reduce stress and improve overall well-being.

As a bonus, Utah has one of the shortest average commutes in the U.S., at just 22 minutes.

Those shorter travel times go a long way toward making the workday feel more manageable.

High level of job satisfaction

On the whole, Utahns appear to really enjoy their jobs. A recent Deseret News/Hinckley Institute of Politics poll shows that Utahns are highly satisfied with their jobs.

Approximately 90% of those surveyed reported being happy with their current work, and over half said that they are very satisfied.

Only 10% reported being somewhat unsatisfied, and just 1% said they are very unhappy with their jobs.

Safer workplaces

A positive work environment starts with safety, and Utah appears to be doing very well in this category.

WalletHub recently ranked Utah as the No. 1 state for workplace safety and the fifth safest state overall.

That means employees in Utah are less likely to face workplace injuries or safety concerns.

When people feel safe at work, they’re more focused, productive and confident — key ingredients for a strong and supportive work culture.

Young and educated workforce

Utah has the youngest population in the country, and it’s putting that energy to work.

According to the U.S. Census, 36.9% of Utahns hold a bachelor’s degree, which is higher than the national average of 35%.

Even more impressive, 93.3% have a high school diploma, compared to 89.4% nationwide.

This strong foundation in education means Utah’s workforce is not only young, but also well-prepared to meet the needs of today’s economy.

Great for entrepreneurs

Driving down I-15 from Salt Lake City to Provo, it’s easy to see why this area is known as Silicon Slopes.

The region is home to numerous growing startups and innovative companies, making Utah a thriving hub for entrepreneurs.

WalletHub recently ranked Utah No. 3 in the nation for starting a business, thanks to its strong economy, low startup costs and business-friendly policies.

With easy access to funding, a talented workforce and a strong support network for small businesses, Utah gives entrepreneurs the tools they need to turn great ideas into thriving companies.

High quality of life

Utah is not only a great place to work, but also a wonderful place to live.