That’s according to a survey just released by a Calif.-based Real Estate firm, which studied food, utilities, median home price, unemployment rates, adjusted median income and miscellaneous costs throughout Utah.

The results are in, and Movoto, a Real Estate company, says in the Beehive State, you’ll get the most bang for your buck in American Fork — and the city is proud.

The Home of the Cavemen ranked first among 53 communities in Utah with more than 10,000 residents, and 13 of the top 20 spots are in Utah County. The Citizen reported earlier this week that the unemployment rate in the county continues to be lower than Utah’s and way below the nation’s average.  

Payson and Eagle Mountain tied for second place. Spanish Fork, Springville, Lehi, Cedar Hills, Pleasant Grove, Saratoga Springs and Clinton followed. Highland, Lindon, Orem and Provo were also included in the second 10 of the rankings. Salt Lake City ranked No. 39.

American Fork Mayor J.H. Hadfield said there were many factors that went into the city’s top billing.

“I think it’s wonderful that somebody else recognizes what we try to do in the city,” Hadfield said. “There are many good things. The commercial base is exceptional. We no longer have to travel to do shopping. The cost of homes, cost of living, the cost of utilities make this a very nice community.

“What’s also important is the quality of life, library, recreation center, recreation programs, the arts. There are not many cities our size that have a symphony or a choral group. We even have a brass band.”

Councilman Brad Frost agreed.

“I have no idea who this group is and I know there will be some individuals who will immediately try and discredit this information,” Frost said. “As city leaders, I think we should shout it from the rooftops and shout it again.

“We have a lot to be proud of and we should not be shy in reminding our residents, because it’s all about them. They are what makes it great. Looks like there are some outside our city who have discovered something we already know.”

Val Hale, president of the Utah County Chamber of Commerce, was also pleased.

“Utah Valley continues to be the best place to live, work and play,” Hale said. “I have started calling this the valley of superlatives. It is obviously great news for residents of Utah Valley. Our salaries have tended to be rising in the past as well.”

According to the survey, American Fork has 27,147 residents, and residents’ adjusted household income ranked eighth in the state at $70,579. The survey singled out free concerts every Monday during the summer and numerous parks. One of those parks is Greenwood Skate Park, which is free to enjoy and sometimes hosts events and competitions.

Payson was noted for its 5.4 percent unemployment and the second-lowest median home price of the top 10 at $186,300. The survey noted its many festivals, celebrating everything from salmon to onions to Scots.

Tied for No. 2 with Payson was Eagle Mountain. It’s home to 42 parks, including a skate park and mountain bike park. The adjusted median income is $59,348. 

Spanish Fork was noted for its diversity, with cultural events including Icelandic Days, Fiesta Days and the Festival of Colors. The survey said food prices are very low, the median home price is still decent and the employment rank is No. 12. 

From folk dancing events to art walks, Springville focuses on culture and the creative way of life. Most of its events are free or have low costs. The median home price ranked No. 19 on the list, and 94.6 percent of the adults are employed.

Lehi and Cedar Hills tied for the No. 6 spot. Lehi had 30,621 residents at the time of the survey, with a 5.4 percent unemployment rate. The survey lauded the city’s Round Up Week and the associated rodeo. 

Cedar Hills has 10,063 residents and a 5.4 percent unemployment rate, with a median household income of $98,438, which was No. 1 on the list. The city is known for its Family Festival in June, with a focus on bringing the city together to celebrate families and the ties that bind them together.

Pleasant Grove scored 19th for its adjusted median income of $64,715. It boasts an unemployment rate of less than six percent. The Strawberry Days festival has been happening since 1921. 

Saratoga Springs also has a low unemployment rank, as well as a favorable cost of living. The Saratoga Splash in June offers food, music, games, a parade and numerous competitions for all ages. 

On its website, Movoto Real Estate writes, “For an affordable fun time, [American Fork] locals can … go to see free concerts every Monday during the summer, or just enjoy the many different parks that the city has to offer. Skaters will be happy to find that Greenwood Skate Park is free to enjoy and and occasionally hosts events and competitions.”

See full results here: http://cav.mn/1ksSzIQ

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