Driving Utah's Economy

UTA is more than just buses and trains; it's a powerful economic engine for the entire state of Utah. From job creation to business development, UTA strengthens our communities, connects people to opportunities — whether work, errands, healthcare, or school — and supports growth across the state.

The best part? All Utahns benefit whether they ride transit or not.

Watch to learn more.


In 2023, Metro Analytics conducted an Economic Value Impact Study to highlight the impacts and economic value generated by UTA.

Key Findings:
 

 

Investing in UTA benefits Utah’s economy.

The economic return of UTA services impacts spending, travel efficiency, transportation savings, job creation, market access, workforce participation, and tax outcomes.

• Every $1 invested in UTA generates $5.11 — exceeding the national average of $5 (APTA).
• 79,000 jobs are directly and indirectly created.
• $377 million is generated in local, state, and federal tax revenue.
• Utah generates $9.6 billion more in goods and services because of time and mileage savings.
• Transit investment creates a higher impact on development value around transit. A prime example is the fantastic growth around the S-Line in Sugar House.

UTA’s economic impact benefits all Utahns, whether they ride or not.

UTA services reduce road traffic congestion on freeways and in town, benefitting everyone on the road through fewer miles traveled, fewer hours on the road, fewer car expenses, less tax dollars to road repairs, quicker travel times, less stress, access to more employers, and cleaner air.

Economic impact is one part of the transit decision-making.

Economic impact is not the only factor in choosing to invest in UTA public transit according to the 2023-2050 Utah Unified Plan, but factoring it in can help prioritize and plan future investment for maximum benefits to Utah’s economy.

Then & Now: 20 Years of Transformation With UTA

Aerial images tell a powerful story. Over the past two decades, transit investments have helped transform underutilized spaces into vibrant, walkable, and connected communities.

A walkable, transit-friendly Utah means less congestion, more opportunity, and a better quality of life for everyone.

From housing developments to retail hubs, these side-by-side photos highlight how each new transit line, route, and stop drives business growth, housing expansion, and long-term community prosperity. Click below to check out the transformation.