Hailed as "Family City USA," Orem maintains a close-knit community with deep-rooted values. In fact, Forbes named Orem as the United States' 5th best place to raise a family in 2010. With just less than 91,000 residents, people of all ages are welcomed into the community and enjoy a comfortable living experience on the shores of Utah Lake. Surrounded by some of the most beautiful natural landscapes found in the western states, Orem residents enjoy the best of mountainside attractions, stunning fall foliage and cultural events in the surrounding cities. Look for Orem apartments for rent, and experience the highly acclaimed Utah lifestyle.
Orem was named after Walter Orem, the owner of the railroad that ran between Salt Lake City and Provo in the early 20th century. Prior to its incorporation in 1919, Orem was known as the "Provo bench" because of its fertile orchards and farmlands. Residents recognized a need to create a regulated water system because Orem did not have an abundant natural water source, and issued more than $100,000 in bonds to fund the construction. The city was not laid out in the manner consistent with nearby towns, and instead consisted of homesteads and farmlands interspersed along crisscrossing rural roads.
Orem has undergone three major evolutions since its creation. In the early 1940s, the federal government built Geneva Steel Works along the eastern shore of Utah Lake, which opened many jobs for local residents and generated significant revenue for the city. Concerns about environmental damage led to the sale and ceased operations of the plant. The second evolution came later in the century when many local farms were converted to shopping malls and other commerce centers. The final phase commenced with the city's new identity as a center of technology and development. Today, Orem still holds that distinction, and has become a family-friendly community with strong local business opportunities.
Orem is home to a number of educational opportunities. Utah Valley University and a Stevens-Henager College campus bring thousands of students into town each year and create an ideal learning environment in the western states. Utah State University at Orem, Mountainland Applied Technical College and the Utah College of Dentistry join a number of other schools located in the greater Provo-Orem metropolitan area.
Orem is home to some of the most lucrative business ventures in the state of Utah. The city places a strong emphasis on the importance of education, with Utah Valley University and the Alpine School District employing the largest number of Orem residents. Nearly 3,000 people work in various teaching, administrative and support positions to fuel local education. Other top employers in town include Convergys, a customer management solution company; the Timpanogos Regional Hospital, City of Orem offices, Adobe Omniture, Wal-Mart, US Synthetic, which that develops diamond technology for oil and gas exploration; iMergent, which that provides e-Commerce solutions; and Target. Sixty-seven percent of Orem residents work in management, sales and office positions for these businesses as well as others in the greater Salt Lake City area.
With the scenic landscape found near Utah Lake, Orem residents enjoy beautiful living conditions without paying high rent prices. United States Census Bureau statistics indicate that the average apartment here costs $809 a month, which is $46 less than the national average. Everyday living expenses are also very affordable in Orem. The city received a cost of living index of 87 from city-data.com, which is well below the national average of 100.
Orem is located in one of the most picturesque regions in the country, and many of the local attractions are centered on enjoying the view. Fall in the Utah Valley is indescribable, leading many residents and visitors to take scenic drives, take hikes, or go on a lift ride at Sundance Resort. The Sundance Farmers Market is another local favorite, featuring musical entertainment, delectable food and hand-crafted art pieces.
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