Be Careful
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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).
Lana | Salt Lake City, UT