Best Counties to Buy Land in Utah in 2025
If you’re thinking about buying land in Utah, you’re not alone. With its stunning landscapes, strong property rights, and low property taxes, Utah is one of the most desirable states for land buyers. But which Utah counties are best for buying land in 2025? Whether you're looking to build a cabin, live off-grid, farm, or invest long-term, this guide breaks down the top counties to buy land in Utah, what they offer, and how to get started.
Top Counties for Land Buyers
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Duchesne
*Avg Price per Acre: $15,980
Zoning Flexibility: A5 (Agricultural, 5-acre min) – allows cabins, RVs, livestock, off-grid living
Off-Grid Friendly?: Yes
Accessibility: Year-round roads on most properties
Best For: Homesteading, cabins, off-grid, rec use
*Mountains West Ranches prices
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Uintah
Avg Price per Acre: $2,000 - $5,000
Zoning Flexibility: A-1, MG-1 (Agriculture, Mining/Industrial) – mostly large-acre use
Off-Grid Friendly?: Yes
Accessibility: Limited road access, more remote
Best For: Seasonal camping, hunting land, large remote acreage
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Emery
Avg Price per Acre: $2,000 - $4,000
Zoning Flexibility?: MG-1, GRA-1 (Mining & Grazing, Agriculture) – very open zoning
Off-Grid Friendly?: Yes
Accessibility: Very limited access, minimal infrastructure
Best For: Off-grid isolation, occasional camping
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Wasatch/Summit
Avg Price per Acre: $30,000 - $100,000+
Zoning Flexibility: PUD, RA-1, HOA-regulated – strict zoning/building restrictions
Off-Grid Friendly?: No
Accessibility: Fully developed infrastructure
Best For: Luxury builds and future resale
Own Property in Utah’s #1 County!
What to Consider Before Buying Land in Utah
Not all land is created equal — here’s what to keep in mind before you choose a county.
Before you buy land in Utah, it's important to look past just the price per acre. What truly matters is how the land fits your goals — whether you're planning to build a cabin, camp on weekends, start a homestead, or hold as an investment. Each county offers different benefits, challenges, and levels of flexibility.
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Is the zoning flexible?
Can you build a cabin, park an RV, raise animals, or live off-grid without jumping through hoops?
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Is the land accessible?
Will you have year-round road access, or will it require 4WD and dry weather to reach your property?
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How close is it to amenities?
Consider how far you are from gas stations, grocery stores, medical care, and highways.
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What are the taxes and long-term costs?
Some counties offer greenbelt tax benefits or lower rates for agricultural use.
It’s Time to Stop Looking and Start Owning Land in Utah
Whether you're buying land to build your dream cabin, escape on weekends, live off-grid, or make a long-term investment, Duchesne County is where it all comes together. Unlike many parts of Utah where land is either too expensive or too restricted, Duchesne offers a balance of affordability, flexibility, and real usability.
At Mountains West Ranches, we make the process simple — no banks, no pressure, and no complicated red tape. You’ll get land you can actually use, backed by a team that walks the property with you and answers every question.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best county to buy land in Utah right now?
We believe Duchesne County is the top choice in 2025. It offers a rare combination of flexible A5 zoning, year-round access, owner financing, and proximity to Salt Lake City. Whether you're looking to build, camp, live off-grid, or invest, Duchesne provides the most freedom with the fewest restrictions.
Is it cheaper to buy land in places like Uintah or Emery?
Yes — some parcels in Uintah or Emery counties can be found at lower per-acre prices. However, these areas often lack road access, utilities, and usable zoning. For most buyers, value is more important than just price — and that’s where Duchesne County wins.
How far is Duchesne County from Salt Lake City?
Most of our properties in Duchesne County are 90 to 120 minutes from Salt Lake City via Highway 40. It’s close enough for weekend use and far enough for peace, privacy, and clear skies.
Can I finance land purchases in these counties?
Many rural parcels are cash-only or through bank loans that ding your credit — but Mountains West Ranches offers in-house financing for our properties in Duchesne County. No banks, no credit checks, and down payments as low as $1,000.
What’s the difference between buying land in a rural county vs. a more developed area like Wasatch or Summit?
Counties like Wasatch or Summit often have strict zoning, HOA restrictions, minimum square footage rules, and high building costs. In contrast, rural counties like Duchesne offer more flexibility, lower property taxes, and the ability to use your land how you want — with fewer limitations.
Is water available on these properties?
Many rural properties require you to drill a private well or haul water in, which is common in Utah. In Duchesne County, most buyers either drill wells or use water hauling stations nearby. Some parcels may already have a well or access to a shared water system — we go over that during the land tour.
What Our Buyers Say – Real Stories From Land Owners
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If you want a piece of heaven then this company is a good start. We got our lot so that we can get away and just be a family.
★★★★★
James M.
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The loan terms make it affordable to own a piece of land. We are looking forward to start building and moving on to the property as soon as possible
★★★★★
Stephanie E. -
This is such an amazing team to work with! Hands down the easiest way to buy land. They really listen and took care of our family!
★★★★★
Megan W