An idyllic mountain hub has just been crowned the best-run city in America and the mayor says the secret is simple.
Provo, Utah, has earned a spot at the top of a new ranking from financial services company WalletHub.
WalletHub evaluated 148 cities across the US based on 36 key metrics grouped into six main categories: financial stability, education, health, safety, economy, and infrastructure/pollution.
These were then measured against each city’s per capita budget to determine efficiency.
San Francisco, which had a high crime rate, ranked last.
Provo was praised for the city’s strong local leadership, low crime, economic growth, and infrastructure.
Its focus on safety, community involvement, and smart spending led it straight to the top.
Local real estate expert Joel Carson wasn’t surprised by the recognition. ‘I’m not surprised to see Provo recognized as the best-run city in America – it’s well-deserved,’ Carson told Daily Mail.
Downtown Provo, Utah, is seen above in an aerial view with the Provo City Center Temple on the right (also the former Provo Tabernacle) and One Nu Skin Plaza on the left, with the snow capped Wasatch Mountain Range in the background
Mayor Michelle Kaufusi (pictured) said she wasn’t surprised by the news because her administration has spent years focusing on what really matters – the basics
Center Street in downtown Provo is seen above
He continued: ‘The city’s leadership, infrastructure investments, and focus on public safety have created a stable, thriving environment that continues to attract buyers from all over.’
Mayor Michelle Kaufusi told Fox News Digital she wasn’t surprised by the news because her administration has spent years focusing on what really matters – the basics.
‘We’ve always believed in getting the basics right first, Kaufusi told the outlet.
‘And that’s quality schools, safe neighborhoods, well-maintained roads and responsible budgeting.’
The statistics prove her style of leadership might be working.
Provo has many perks including boasting the fourth-lowest violent crime rate and the seventh-lowest property crime rate in the entire nation.
Just two years ago, the city was voted the safest large city in the US.
The national recognition already means increased interest from potential residents.
Local real estate expert Joel Carson (pictured) told Daily Mail: ‘The city’s leadership, infrastructure investments, and focus on public safety have created a stable, thriving environment that continues to attract buyers from all over’
Downtown Provo is seen above. It has been seeing a shifting demographic with its increased popularity
‘We’ve definitely seen an uptick in out-of-state interest, particularly from buyers relocating for tech jobs, education opportunities, and the overall quality of life,’ Carson explained.
‘Demand has remained strong in recent years, and in many ways, the market is performing above average, even as other areas have cooled.’
Provo is seeing a shifting demographic with its increased popularity.
‘We’re seeing more relocation buyers from California, Texas, and the Pacific Northwest, often drawn by job opportunities in tech, education, or remote work flexibility,’ Carson said.
‘There’s also been a noticeable increase in younger families and first-time buyers who are looking for long-term value and quality of life,’ he added.
The real estate market in Provo has diverse inventory, appealing to all types of preferences.
‘People are often surprised at how diverse the inventory is,’ he said.
‘From charming historic homes near downtown to modern developments on the east bench, there’s a broad range of options, and at prices that are still more accessible than many other growing cities, even with recent increases.’
Public safety is a number one priority for the mayor. Pictured: Provo Towne Center Mall
There are many perks to living in Provo from its strong local leadership, low crime, economic growth, and infrastructure
But it’s the small own feel that really attracts residents.
‘Provo has a small-town feel with big-city resources, whether it’s the support for local businesses, the events downtown, or the pride residents take in their neighborhoods, there’s a genuine connection here that’s hard to find elsewhere,’ Carson said.
But this booming popularity comes with a cost and current residents might feel it.
Carson warns that Provo’s newfound fame is driving up housing costs and making it more difficult for locals to find affordable homes.
‘With increased recognition comes increased demand, which can put pressure on housing affordability and availability,’ he said.
‘Longtime residents may find it more competitive to move within the area, and first-time buyers can face challenges breaking into the market.’
‘That said, Provo’s leadership has been proactive in balancing growth with smart development, which helps ease those concerns.’
‘This kind of national recognition only reinforces what we already know locally: Provo is a standout city with a bright future, and the real estate market is reflecting that momentum,’ Carson added.
Provo is 43 miles south of Salt Lake City along the Wasatch Front
Provo boasts the fourth-lowest violent crime rate and the seventh-lowest property crime rate in the entire nation. Pictured: Provo with Utah Lake in foreground and Mt. Timpanogos behind it
‘So all of those factors come into play. It seems to put the spotlight on us and that’s what brings people to Provo.’
‘And we love it and [it] brings business and we’re open for business. So we are really honored and really humbled that we got to be called out for this [honor] today.’
While inventory might be ‘tighter than usual’ and prices have risen, still compared to other fast-growing markets, Provo still offers solid value, he said.
‘The good news is that new developments are helping to meet demand, and interest remains strong so while it’s competitive, it’s also an exciting time to be involved in the market.’
