A Complete Guide to Living in Sandy

Sandy is an amazing city of nearly 90,000 residents found approximately 20 miles south of downtown Salt Lake City. The market for Sandy real estate is consistently sought-after, thanks to the area’s high level of appeal. Home to fantastic hiking spots, skiing trails, shops, and restaurants, Sandy draws in home buyers looking for adventure, luxury, and amenities.

Perhaps you’ve thought about looking for a Sandy home, and you’re curious about what your life might be like in the area. This comprehensive guide will tell you more about what it’s like to live in the community and why so many people enjoy calling Sandy home.

Pioneers first settled in Sandy in the 1860s, when the town started out as a farming community. There weren’t many residents at the time, and most properties were spaced far apart. That all changed when the railroad was installed through town in 1877 — the area expanded with the growth of the mining industry in the nearby canyons. As Sandy grew into a thriving community, many businesses began to set up shop in the area. Sandy passed its first city ordinances in 1893, when the population reached 1,000 people. Today, the city is known for its gorgeous scenery, ranch- and Colonial-style homes, and plenty of character.

Downtown Sandy went through a significant renovation in 2015. It’s easy to walk through the area, and there are plenty of dining and shopping options to explore. Travel further outside of downtown, and you’ll find many large housing developments that offer beautiful views of the nearby Wasatch Mountains.

Sandy’s cost of living is higher than what you might expect from other areas. The economy is in a great position, and the proximity to Salt Lake City makes Sandy a highly desirable area. Sandy’s cost of living is around 19 percent higher than the national average. Housing is the main contributor to the higher cost. According to the 2020 census, the median property value of Sandy homes was nearly $420,000.

Sandy schools receive high ratings for their teachers and administration, and they are regarded well for their ability to effectively prepare students for collegiate studies. The Canyons School District ranks as one of the best in the entire state of Utah, complete with nearly 30 elementary schools, eight middle schools, and six high schools. Many students go on to attend higher education, such as the University of Utah and Utah State University.

The temperatures can vary quite a bit through different seasons. The summers are hot, with average high temperatures often exceeding 90 degrees during July and August. The good news is that there isn’t much rain during these months. January is the coldest month of the year. Average high temperatures in January rarely exceed 40 degrees, and daily lows typically drop below freezing. You’ll enjoy the spring and the fall when temperatures are milder and you can enjoy the beautiful outdoor spaces in the area.

Tiburon Fine Dining grows their own herbs and vegetables in-house, creating a delectable menu you don’t want to miss out on. Menu standouts here include the char-grilled New Zealand elk, filet mignon with roasted shallot, pan-seared Atlantic salmon, and 14-ounce C.A.B. ribeye with garlic mashed potatoes. Don’t miss dessert, either! Choose from the chocolate mousse with fresh berries, the salted honey ice cream with lemon meringue, or the white chocolate cheesecake with a salted pretzel crust. Many guests proclaim that Tiburon has the best steaks they have eaten in years. Tiburon has served guests in Sandy for over 20 years from their dining room, which was once a fruit stand. They work hard to create an atmosphere where guests feel welcome and cared for. You can dine inside or on their outdoor patio, surrounded by stunning scenery.

Another must-visit dining spot is La Caille, which has been creating exceptional dishes for 45 years. La Caille offers a dining experience unlike any other, with pristine grounds and a vineyard surrounded by gorgeous flowers and blossoming trees. Start off with carmelized Mediterranean mussels, lobster bisque, or Fuji apple salad before moving to a main course of spiced duck with marble potato confit, dry-aged cowboy ribeye, or Snake River Farms Wagyu striploin. Carvers Steak & Seafood is another popular eatery with a focus on excellent service and delightful dishes. With fresh seafood, steaks, desserts, and more, head to Carvers if you’re hungry.

Many residents enjoy heading north to Salt Lake City, but there’s also plenty to do without traveling far from home. You can check out the Shops at South Town, where you’ll find trendy items at great prices. Make sure you mark the second week of August on your calendar as well, as you don’t want to miss the annual Sandy Balloon Festival at Storm Mountain Park. In addition to the balloon launch, you’ll enjoy live musical performances, a footrace, and plenty of onsite crafts and games. Fans of live music and theatrical performances can also witness incredible shows at Hale Centre Theatre, while adventure seekers will find their thrills on the slopes at the nearby Snowbird Ski Resort and the Alta Ski Area.

If you decide you’re ready to start shopping for Sandy homes for sale, reach out to Myan Burton of the Burton Realty Group for expert guidance. Myan has over 10 years of experience buying and selling homes in the Salt Lake City area. He is passionate about helping families shop for their dream homes, and he has received many accolades for the high-quality service and dedication that he provides. He would be honored to help you look for a home that meets your needs and enhances your quality of life.

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