Bonneville Elementary School

Welcome to our comprehensive guide to Orem, Utah, brought to you by Denise Martin and Jessica Rowley, Orem's nicest realtors. This guide aims to provide valuable insights and resources for visitors and residents alike, showcasing the very best of this vibrant and friendly city.

Founded in 1919, Orem was named after Walter C. Orem, President of the Salt Lake and Utah Railroad, in an attempt to curry his favor and attract future investments. Initially referred to as the "Provo Bench, " Orem has grown to become the commercial and technological center of Utah Valley. Today, the city spans 18,241 square miles, with a day-time population of 135,000, making it a bustling hub of activity and opportunity.

The Formation of Orem: Water and Incorporation

Orem's incorporation in 1919 was primarily driven by the need for water in the area, as residents believed Provo City was unlikely to provide the necessary public financing for a new water system. Consequently, Orem bonded $110,000 to build its own water system, drawing water from Provo Canyon and digging deep wells. Since then, the city has experienced significant growth, evolving into a thriving and self-sustaining community.

Orem's Geographic and Demographic Overview

Orem is characterized by its unique geography, with an altitude of 4,771 feet above sea level, a high point at Mt. Timp of 11,749 feet, and 92% developed land. It boasts a population of 98,624, with 60.991 residents aged 18 or older and a median age of 26.5. The city is home to 31,029 households, with an average family size of 3.71, and features a balanced gender ratio of 50.41% male and 49.59% female.

Economic Evolution: Geneva Steel and Beyond

Orem's economic landscape has undergone significant transformations. The construction of the Geneva Steel Works in 1942 provided employment for thousands, while the subsequent closure of the mill in 1987 led to the emergence of dozens of technology companies, manufacturers, and service companies. As a result, the economic legacy of Geneva Steel has become a fading memory, replaced by a new era of growth and prosperity.

Retail and Commercial Development

Orem's commercial and retail landscape has evolved significantly, transitioning from a collection of farms and orchards to a thriving center of business and commerce. The arrival of University Mall and subsequent development of strip malls, big box stores, and car dealers along State Street and University Parkway have contributed to the city's retail sprawl. A series of recent updates and improvements, such as the creation of "The Village" in 2008 and the rebranding of University Mall as University Place, have further elevated the city's retail and commercial offerings.

Orem's Strong Economic Performance

Orem's pro-business environment has consistently earned it recognition as a top-performing metropolitan area on various lists and analyses, including the Milken Institute's 2021 ranking of the best performing metropolitan areas for job creation and economic growth. Today, hundreds of technology companies, manufacturers, and service companies employ thousands of Orem residents, making it a thriving hub for innovation and opportunity.

State Street: A Retail Corridor in Transition

Notably, minimum central planning in Orem has contributed to retail sprawl and signage along Orem's State Street, often referred to as "America's Ugliest Street." However, recent efforts have been made to improve the overall appearance and functionality of this busy corridor. The City rolled back the State Street Master Plan in February 2022, implementing new ordinances to beautify and revitalize the area while protecting Orem's neighborhoods from high-density housing and unlimited building heights.

Orem Sales Tax Rates

The following sales tax rates apply within Orem, Utah:

• Orem City General Sales Tax Rate: 7.25%
• Orem City Restaurant Sales Tax Rate: 8.25%
• Orem City Unprepared Sales Tax Rate: 3.00%
• Hotel Room Sales Tax Rate: 12.82%
• Short-term Leasing: 16.75%