Ogden, Utah, is home to nearly 84,000 people, according to data from the U.S. Census Bureau. The thriving and attractive city continues to see its population climb, as more people discover the hidden West Coast treasure. Odgen is located less than a day's drive from 11 national parks and sits at the edge of 170,000 acres of national forest, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers. This outdoorsman's paradise is located about 35 miles north of Salt Lake City, but considers itself an independent and standalone metro area.
The city was originally settled in 1846 as Fort Buenaventura, and was later purchased by Mormon settlers who renamed it Brownsville. Finally, Peter Skene Ogden purchased the city and made it his namesake. Because of its location along the Transcontinental Railroad, Ogden was long considered a gateway to the West. The city grew around both the rail industry and the military, which opened Defense Depot Ogden. Eventually, the military operation was closed and the railroad fell out of fashion, so the city reinvented itself as a business destination. Ogden's most recent bit of notoriety was its hosting of the downhill and slalom skiing events during the 2002 Winter Olympic Games.
Ogden touts many accolades: It was listed in Rock and Ice Magazine's Top 10 Climbing Towns, Outside Magazine's 20 Best Towns in America, and Forbes' Best Places to Raise a Family. Indeed, Ogden is at once both an exciting and family-friendly town. The city's median age is just 30.2 years, making it a very young city, with more than 10 percent of the population younger than 5.
Ogden residents should have some love for nature, as this recreational gem offers opportunities for boating, climbing, hiking, skiing, camping and more. Those who'd prefer more urban activities will prefer the city's Historic 25th Street, whose utter charms, numerous entertainment venues and plentiful restaurants give Ogden a big-city vibe.
Ogden is home to numerous colleges and universities, including Weber State University and Ogden-Weber Applied Technical College. Outside of these colleges, the closest institutes of higher learning are located 30 miles away in Salt Lake City. University of Utah is 33 miles from downtown Ogden.
Because it is the largest city in the area, Ogden serves as an employment hub for the surrounding region. The city's population grows about 25 percent on workdays due to commuting. A few of the top employers in the area are Hills Air Force Base, the Internal Revenue Service, the US Forest Service, Weber County, Ogden City, Autoliv, McKay Dee Hospital, Ogden Regional Medical Center, Parker Hannifin and Marketstar.
Those searching for Ogden rentals will be happy to note that the city's cost of living index is just 86.4, which is 13.6 percent lower than the U.S. average. About 44 percent of the city's homes are renter-occupied units, so individuals and families in search of a quality Ogden apartment may be able to find a worthwhile option. The median gross rent in the city is $675 per month.
Ogden's main attraction is its variety of recreational and outdoors activities. Beyond the area's plentiful skiing, snowboarding, climbing, boating, swimming and fishing, Ogden offers numerous sports-related events throughout the year. Local favorites include the Winter Dew Tour, Ogden Marathon, Xterra US National Championships, Archery World Cup and Golden Spike Event.
If you are looking for an apartment for rent or a house rental in Ogden, Utah, search for rental properties at Rent.com®.