Payson, UT
Population 22,205 · Utah
About Payson, UT
Payson is a mid-sized city located in Utah with a population of 22,205 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $84,286 per year, which is 12% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 29.3 years is notably younger the US median age of 38.9 years, indicating a younger, often more dynamic population base.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Payson features a median home value of $388,200, which is 59% above the national median of $244,900. This places Payson in a higher-cost housing market, where property demand often outpaces supply. Median monthly rent is $1,393, 20% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 6,941 total housing units, 82% are owner-occupied (5,485 units) and 18% are renter-occupied (1,189 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Payson shows an unemployment rate of 4.8%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 6.5%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Payson have an average one-way commute time of 21.8 minutes.
Education & Demographics
26.6% of Payson residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This is in line with national trends in educational attainment. The community's demographic composition includes 14.5% White, 2.1% Hispanic or Latino, 0.2% Black or African American, and 3.1% Asian residents, with 7.7% of the population being foreign-born.
How Payson Ranks in Utah
Cost of Living in Payson, UT
Compared to national averages, Payson has a median household income of $84,286 (12% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $388,200, which is 59% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,393 is 20% above the US average of $1,163. Within Utah, Payson's income is 5% below the state average of $88,715, and home values are 9% below the state median of $426,386.
Why Live in Payson, UT?
Payson offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $84,286, well above the national average, and a low poverty rate of 6.5%, better than the national average, and short commute times averaging just 21.8 minutes.
Potential considerations include a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $388,200. However, Payson’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Payson has a population of 22,205 with a median age of 29.3 years. Compare Payson with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Utah.
Similar Cities Near Payson
Cities in Utah with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hurricane | 21,677 | $67,424 | $411,400 | Compare |
| North Ogden | 21,473 | $107,425 | $443,100 | Compare |
| North Salt Lake | 23,239 | $106,885 | $469,800 | Compare |
| Clinton | 23,492 | $109,915 | $412,200 | Compare |
| West Haven | 19,977 | $104,307 | $511,200 | Compare |
| Brigham City | 19,796 | $66,435 | $321,500 | Compare |
| Highland | 19,625 | $178,662 | $846,900 | Compare |
| Farmington | 24,934 | $120,432 | $618,400 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Utah
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare Payson With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Payson
What is the population of Payson, UT?
The population of Payson, UT is 22,205 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a mid-sized city in Utah.
What is the median household income in Payson?
The median household income in Payson, UT is $84,286 per year, which is 12% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Payson?
The median home value in Payson, UT is $388,200, which is 59% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Payson?
The median monthly rent in Payson, UT is $1,393, which is 20% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Payson?
The unemployment rate in Payson, UT is 4.8%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Payson, UT a good place to live?
Payson offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 22,205 and a median age of 29.3, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Payson, UT?
26.6% of residents in Payson aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The educational profile reflects the area's industry mix and employment landscape.
What is the cost of living in Payson?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Payson, UT: median home value is $388,200 (59% above national), median rent is $1,393/month, and median household income is $84,286. The home-value-to-income ratio is 4.6x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in Payson?
The poverty rate in Payson, UT is 6.5%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Payson, UT?
Payson's population is 14.5% White, 2.1% Hispanic or Latino, 0.2% Black or African American, 3.1% Asian, and 0.1% two or more races. 7.7% of residents are foreign-born.