Utah ranks fourth in CNBC’s 2024 list of America’s top states for infrastructure, which evaluates factors like roads, bridges, airports, utilities, and internet connectivity.
The Utah Department of Transportation’s mission to “enhance quality of life through transportation” appears successful, with the state boasting well-maintained roads and bridges. The average commute time in Utah is 21.6 minutes, indicating efficient traffic flow.
A significant project underway is the proposed 17-mile expansion of Interstate 15 from Salt Lake City to Farmington, estimated at $3.7 billion, aimed at accommodating a projected 40% population growth by 2050.
Utah’s power grid reliability and excellent broadband connectivity contribute to its strong infrastructure rating. The state offers 10 shovel-ready “mega sites” with over 28,000 acres available for development.
In CNBC’s 2024 Infrastructure Score, Utah received 272 out of 425 points, earning a top grade of A. Key statistics include:
- U.S. population within 500 miles: 31,975,255
- Roads in unacceptable condition: 6.8%
- Bridges in poor condition: 2.4%
- Affordable broadband access: 35%
- Power outages per year: 1.9 hours
- Site readiness program: Yes
Overall, Utah ranks 13th in CNBC’s Top States for Business 2024. The state’s rankings in individual categories include:
- Workforce: 16th
- Economy: 6th
- Quality of Life: 30th
- Cost of Doing Business: 26th
- Technology and Innovation: 32nd
- Business Friendliness: 12th
- Education: 43rd
- Access to Capital: 28th
- Cost of Living: 41st
In comparison, Idaho ranks 36th overall in CNBC’s Top States for Business 2024, with specific rankings as follows:
- Infrastructure: 34th
- Workforce: 31st
- Economy: 9th
- Quality of Life: 37th
- Cost of Doing Business: 28th
- Technology and Innovation: 24th
- Business Friendliness: 23rd
- Education: 48th
- Access to Capital: 47th
- Cost of Living: 34th