St. George, Utah
SperlingViews

random sample of ACTUAL July temps - 3/20/2011

I have NEVER been to St George but was curious about temps after reading all the "very hot here" comments. Having lived in midwest and west I know all to well that humidity and elevation can make HUGE affect on how hot it feels. Saint George is a dry climate although not an extreme. The hottest month is July and just for example here are 6 daily highs from throughout month of 2009 (you can get every single day from every year at almanac.com - I just happened to have '09 July handy on a comparison sheet I made) 1st - 93, 6th - 92, 13th - 94, 17th - 101, 21st - 85, 28th - 91. I would gladly take 101 in dry climate over 91 in a humid midwest summer, but personally would prefer less of either. Hope that helps someone.[more...]

i - 3/1/2011

i[more...]

Crime - 8/21/2010

Low crime in St. George.[more...]

Miss it, hope to go back someday. - 6/28/2010

I grew up in St. George. I watched it grow into the city it is today. I was a non-LDS growing up in a prevelant LDS area. Today the prejudices are not so bad, outsiders and new commers are welcomed readily. The people are great and it is a clean city compared to most. However, recently the jobs have dried up average saleries are behind and lagging. And of course the cost of living is way too high. In order for myself to go to college, My husband and I had to move away from St. George so that we could afford for me to work part time. If you are lucky enough to have two steady incomes into one household, St. George would be to the place to be. It would be a great place to raise a family. Keep in mind the weather there is HOT! Reaching triple digits by May is not uncommon, and for most new commers it takes about a year to climatize and get used to the heat. You will learn quickly that yard work should begin early in the morning and water should be consumed in copious amounts if you plan on spending the day outside. St. George is really a great place to live no matter what stage of life you are in as long as you are prepared and can financially support living there.[more...]

Beautiful Countryside - 6/15/2010

If you have ever wanted to move or vacation in the most beautiful place on earth, than you must come to Utah (St. George) especially. We have Zion national park just 30 miles away. Bryce Canyon just about 70 miles away. Then if you want to have a little fun, Las Vegas is only 90 miles away.[more...]

St George us a great place to raise a family! - 1/29/2010

I am troubled by any review about St. George that bashes those of the LDS faith and their beliefs. The LDS of St George are not all secretive, close-minded, cult-like people. Most are simply dedicated to their faith and choose to live a very family-oriented, wholesome lifestyle. Anyone who is more liberal, drinks, smokes, etc. of course will not become best friends with their LDS neighbors, as they do not share the same values. This is true no matter where you live or what your faith for goodness sakes! One tends to gather friends that share the same values as them. And what parent of a non-drinking home would want their children playing next door at little Johnny's house where it's perfectly acceptable to chug down a 6-pack of beer in front of the kids? I am not LDS, but am not a drinker, and therefore do not allow my kids to go to a friend's house if I know a parent in the home drinks in front of the kids. It's just not something I'm okay with my children being around. And as with every religion, race, or way of thinking, there will always be those who are more extreme than others - that's just plain ol' human nature. The point is - I don't care where you go in this country, you will always find something in the culture of a place that dominates. Anyone who would disagree with that is just plain ignorant. My husband (who is not LDS, but from an LDS family) and I both grew up in Southern California, and first moved to Utah County where his parents had moved in 1999. The change of culture definitely took some getting used to for me, but being a person who is very tolerant of others beliefs, it wasn't too hard. Our kids were allowed to play with their LDS classmates - that was never an issue. By the time we moved to St. George for work reasons 2 years later, we had come to find the value in raising our 3 kids in a place that put their families and their children first. We found St. George to be less LDS dominated than Utah County (duh) and our non-LDS kids thrived there, making lots of new friends who all seemed to be LDS. All of our LDS neighbors were extremely friendly to us - really nice, down to earth, regular people who just happened to have a religious faith that was not the same as mine. We left St. George at the height of the real-estate boom in 2007 for no reason other than we just wanted a change of scenery. We did a LOT of research on about 5 places in a few different Western states and chose Bend, OR. While we love many things about Bend, we quickly came to realize that the culture here is far too liberal for us. Our 2 oldest children started Middle School here and my daughter came home from school in tears almost every day with reports of lunch table talk of sex, drugs and alcohol, as if they were discussing the weather outside. We have found that there is much less parental supervision here (speaking mostly of pre-teens and teens) and we've had kids come over to our house on several occasions without nary a call from a parent wanting to know more about us and what goes on in our home. You just won't find that to be the case in St. George. With one child now in high school here, he knows of many kids who use drugs regularly, pot being most common. While I know that you will find teen drug use everywhere you go, it is without a doubt far more prevalent and accepted here. YES, we knew before we moved here that it was going to be more liberal than St. George. What we didn't realize until we actually lived here was the importance (for us) of raising our kids in a more family-oriented, conservative city such as St. George. While we have every intention of moving from Bend as soon as the economy allows (and St. George is where we will probably return to), I would never bash the many more-liberal-than-I people that live here. I may not share the same values, but since it's a far more liberal culture here, it's my obligation to leave graciously if it's not for me - same as those who find St. George, it's people and conservative culture doesn't work for them![more...]

St George us a great place to raise a family! - 1/29/2010

I am troubled by any review about St. George that bashes those of the LDS faith and their beliefs. The LDS of St George are not all secretive, close-minded, cult-like people. Most are simply dedicated to their faith and choose to live a very family-oriented, wholesome lifestyle. Anyone who is more liberal, drinks, smokes, etc. of course will not become best friends with their LDS neighbors, as they do not share the same values. This is true no matter where you live or what your faith for goodness sakes! One tends to gather friends that share the same values as them. And what parent of a non-drinking home would want their children playing next door at little Johnny's house where it's perfectly acceptable to chug down a 6-pack of beer in front of the kids? I am not LDS, but am not a drinker, and therefore do not allow my kids to go to a friend's house if I know a parent in the home drinks in front of the kids. It's just not something I'm okay with my children being around. And as with every religion, race, or way of thinking, there will always be those who are more extreme than others - that's just plain ol' human nature. The point is - I don't care where you go in this country, you will always find something in the culture of a place that dominates. Anyone who would disagree with that is just plain ignorant. My husband (who is not LDS, but from an LDS family) and I both grew up in Southern California, and first moved to Utah County where his parents had moved in 1999. The change of culture definitely took some getting used to for me, but being a person who is very tolerant of others beliefs, it wasn't too hard. Our kids were allowed to play with their LDS classmates - that was never an issue. By the time we moved to St. George for work reasons 2 years later, we had come to find the value in raising our 3 kids in a place that put their families and their children first. We found St. George to be less LDS dominated than Utah County (duh) and our non-LDS kids thrived there, making lots of new friends who all seemed to be LDS. All of our LDS neighbors were extremely friendly to us - really nice, down to earth, regular people who just happened to have a religious faith that was not the same as mine. We left St. George at the height of the real-estate boom in 2007 for no reason other than we just wanted a change of scenery. We did a LOT of research on about 5 places in a few different Western states and chose Bend, OR. While we love many things about Bend, we quickly came to realize that the culture here is far too liberal for us. Our 2 oldest children started Middle School here and my daughter came home from school in tears almost every day with reports of lunch table talk of sex, drugs and alcohol, as if they were discussing the weather outside. We have found that there is much less parental supervision here (speaking mostly of pre-teens and teens) and we've had kids come over to our house on several occasions without nary a call from a parent wanting to know more about us and what goes on in our home. You just won't find that to be the case in St. George. With one child now in high school here, he knows of many kids who use drugs regularly, pot being most common. While I know that you will find teen drug use everywhere you go, it is without a doubt far more prevalent and accepted here. YES, we knew before we moved here that it was going to be more liberal than St. George. What we didn't realize until we actually lived here was the importance (for us) of raising our kids in a more family-oriented, conservative city such as St. George. While we have every intention of moving from Bend as soon as the economy allows (and St. George is where we will probably return to), I would never bash the many more-liberal-than-I people that live here. I may not share the same values, but since it's a far more liberal culture here, it's my obligation to leave graciously if it's not for me - same as those who find St. George, it's people and conservative culture doesn't work for them![more...]

laid back living - 1/7/2010

I have lived across the US, I have to say st george has been my favorite place to live. there is a reason so many people from northern UT come down to vacation here. Good family values, high quality entertainment, great food, recreation galore, up and coming economy. there is a little bit of an "old boys club: attitude form the old time locals, but once you get past taht... it is a GREAT place to live.... as I always say, if you don;t like it... too bad for you and PLEASE leave the rest of us here in peace![more...]

Red Rock and Heat - 8/23/2008

St. george is definetly a beautiful place to live. There is red rock close forests and recreational lakes that make St. George active and fun. All that is missing is a comfortable temperature during the summer months. The winters are nice but the summer recquires an Air conditioner.[more...]

High Desert Hot Six Months of Year - 8/5/2008

St. George is a growing community with plenty to do, if you're not crazy about the out-of-doors. Oh, the opportunities for exploring, hiking, off-roading, and biking are here, but the climate is so brutal that, for six months out of the year (with days often topping 110 degrees F), it's virtually impossible to take advantage of them. All in all, after 10 years here, we can't wait to escape to somewhere where the evenings are cool and the four seasons beckon! If you absolutely don't mind the heat, winter is great, with nearly no snow and lows barely dipping down below freezing. And a short spring and fall are nice. But the heat of summer, in our opinion, is just too much to bear.[more...]

It's fine, but... - 5/20/2008

I have lived here for 6 years, from LV, NV. It was a nice change because it is quite beautiful in comparison to the grey desert of Nevada. The mountains are red, white and black. The desert is green and full of flowering cactus in the spring after the early spring rains. It is hot in the summer (100-110 degrees) and we do get about 2-3 days of snow in the winter (usually one last one in March). It's kind of a nice change, really. The plants start to come alive in March. If you want to be outside, you really only have from March until May- then it is far too hot. The winter is cold (to my standards). The reason I am looking to leave is because my son has allergies, asthma, and eczema. I am wondering if there is a place that would help him in those areas of health. The air is so dry, the temperature fluctuates from quite cold to blazing hot, which isn't good for him. He does clear up within a few days of being in San Diego, but I can't afford it. So, off to researching![more...]

Greedy Developers - 5/17/2008

I moved here in the 1970s. My mom was born and raised in Utah, but my dad had a job in California. We drove through St. George at least once a year to visit relatives up north and I can remember since I was quite young that I wanted to live in St. George. It had beautiful red hills, blue skies and had virtually no crime. I grew up in Los Angeles County, but when I was old enough to go to college I went to Dixie College. This is NOT the town I fell in love with. The City Planners and Developers have been inviting EVERYONE to move in, but gave no thought to roads, traffic,schools, water, and crime. I can't tell you how many jobs now say "bilingual preferred." They change River Road and every main road about once a year and when one "round a bout" was built they thought that was a great idea. Look at the Bloomington exit! They went to year round schools for a while and then tried to double bunk or split days. Now there is even one school just catering to Spanish speaking kids! I have had my taxes raised about $600 in the past two years. I didn't invite all these people. The City of St. George, Washington County and the developers are responsible for turning this city into a mess. They should foot the bill.[more...]

Greedy Developers - 5/17/2008

I moved here in the 1970s. My mom was born and raised in Utah, but my dad had a job in California. We drove through St. George at least once a year to visit relatives up north and I can remember since I was quite young that I wanted to live in St. George. It had beautiful red hills, blue skies and had virtually no crime. I grew up in Los Angeles County, but when I was old enough to go to college I went to Dixie College. This is NOT the town I fell in love with. The City Planners and Developers have been inviting EVERYONE to move in, but gave no thought to roads, traffic,schools, water, and crime. I can't tell you how many jobs now say "bilingual preferred." They change River Road and every main road about once a year and when one "round a bout" was built they thought that was a great idea. Look at the Bloomington exit! They went to year round schools for a while and then tried to double bunk or split days. Now there is even one school just catering to Spanish speaking kids! I have had my taxes raised about $600 in the past two years. I didn't invite all these people. The City of St. George, Washington County and the developers are responsible for turning this city into a mess. They should foot the bill.[more...]

Be Careful - 4/13/2008

There are at least two caveats to be aware of before settling in St. George or Utah in general: (1) The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (LDS) has a very strong presence in small, Utah cities and towns--the entire state, in fact, is a virtual theocracy, the small cities even more so; (2)As as happened in so many other western cities, Californians, fleeing the debacles they created in their own state, have driven up the cost of housing and the cost of living. If you have no children you will be picking up the tax tab for large families who pay virtually no federal or state income tax because of their numerous exemptions. The schools are some of the poorest in the nation. The state is extremely conservative and hawkish especially on political and social questions and is very stingy when it comes to social programs. Nothing is free in Utah so be prepared to pay through the nose. Near St. George are a number of polygamist communities which are truly ghastly. On the negative side, the upshot is this: If you're very wealthy, retired, and LDS, this is Mecca; all others beware! On the up side: There is hardly a city more perfectly situated to the most beautiful state and federal parks. This is the ideal location for discovering the natural world and for visiting various Native American communities. If your primary focus in life is the Great Outdoors, then, This Is the Place! (Words uttered by Brigham Young when he viewed the valley in the 19th century).[more...]

Love St George - 3/9/2008

We are not LDS. We bought our home in St George in 2001, but only moved here full time last October. The country is beautiful and the climate moderate. The people who live here are the friendliest and most helpful we have ever encountered; they are truly neighborly and there if you need them.[more...]

A Dead End to Nowhere - 2/20/2008

The scenery is breathtaking, that's a given. However, unless you are retired with some money or independently wealthy, this is not the place to live if you have to make a living. The jobs that are available are at best, crappy retail or restaurant jobs. The average job here pays $8-10.00 hr...and that is if you can get lucky enough for them to hire you. If you're not the right sex, or non LDS, good luck. Crime is also on the rise here in St. George. It's no longer "Pleasantville"...although city officials don't like to acknowledge that their town of Stepford is not as innocent as they would like the public to believe.[more...]

Wonderful Place For Active Boomers and Retirees! - 2/20/2008

Four years ago, my husband and I bought a Split Rock home in the Ivins/St. George area. We live here only part-time as we have a business and home in California. The Utah home is beautiful and we have views of the red rock and are walking distance to Snow Canyon.We love the clean air, wonderful scenery and terrific people. Many (not all) of our neighbors are LDS and they are warm and wonderful people. We have yet to feel any hostility or negative attitudes about our being non-Mormon and from California. What we love, too, is that unlike California, you can count on the service people to show up.One of my neighbors had a heart attack within 6 months of moving here from California. She raved about the health care that she received from one of the local hospital staff. At the area grows, so does the shopping and restaurant choices. The Mall is adequate and has JC Penney and Dillars. And there is a feeling of safety and well-being. We look forward to retiring here in So Utah. There is only one down side - the Summer heat. It does get very hot from June - September.[more...]

St. George is a Wonderful Place to Live - 1/13/2008

If you are a family looking to move to St. George you cannot ask for a better lifestyle for your family. St. George is sunny and sporty, besides being in the most beautiful, colorful country in the nation. I have lived in NYC for 4 years and I wish everyday that I could go back to St. George. News Flash: Utah is not 100% Mormon. Likewise, Mormons do not only live within Utah state boundaries. Why are they discussed as if they are some exotic ethnic tribe? Suspend your perceptions and assumptions about Utah and Mormons and you will find an incredible place to live with good people. Didn't the 2002 Winter Olympics teach us anything? There is not a "mystery" to Mormons. You have to understand that devout Mormons are deeply committed to their Christian values. Active Mormons do not drink, smoke, or even cuss. They are family oriented and very hardworking. They are taught to be honest and friendly with everyone. Who would not want this environment for their family? I do not understand why this would not be appealing to people. If you are not LDS, it is possible you may have very different views on things, but that is ok. All it takes is an open and honest dialog. You can agree to disagree and they will respect your for it. Simply treat them how you want to be treated and you will make many very loyal, lifelong friends. If your values happen to be the opposite of LDS values, you may want to consider Las Vegas (an hour to the southwest of St. George) as the place for you.[more...]

Mormons keep close - 12/25/2007

Like most religious and ethnic groups, Mormons act kindly but aloof and keep non-Mormons at a safe distance, especially if you bring ideas with you that conflict with their belief system. I spent 6 years among them and they were usually polite, but 99% treated me and my family with great disinterest. However, it is simple to live among them if you just learn not to give a darn. No matter how you are treated, be polite ANYWAY. No matter how aloof they remain, give your kindest greeting ANYWAY. And, of course, the most important thing I've learned, don't give a hoot what they say, what they think, or what they do to exclude you. Just live your own life the best way you know how. That's a good rule of thumb ALL the time, everywhere, no matter with WHOM you interact! There are always going to be people with biases, Mormons don't have a corner on that market. But we made good friends with many LDS because we met on common ground rather than what was different about us. The Mormons I know are good, quality folks who are honest and respectful. They care about their families and their children. So if you go to St. George or anywhere, just walk your own walk, and don't worry you are considerably outnumbered. Doesn't matter. Just enjoy the town and nature and everyone gets along. :)[more...]

What are you worried about? - 10/30/2007

St. George is a great place to live. There are TONS of things to do, if you're into recreation and what not. The religion "issue" seems to worry many who are interested in moving to St. George. I don't know about you, but in every city, there is some kind of "issue" going on. Moving to St. George would be like moving to any other city, making new friends, doing new things, and experiencing one of the most beautiful places on earth! (Check out Zion's, it's amAziNg!)[more...]