Population
~100,000
Elevation
2,860 ft
Founded
1861
County
Washington County
Climate
300+ sunny days
Area
~80 sq miles
Regional Airport
SGU
Time Zone
Mountain (MST/MDT)
Where Is St. George?
St. George, Utah is located in the southwestern corner of the state at the junction of Interstate 15 and Utah Highway 9. The city sits approximately 120 miles northeast of Las Vegas, Nevada, and 300 miles south of Salt Lake City, Utah. This strategic location makes St. George a natural gateway to Zion National Park and a hub for exploring the spectacular red rock landscapes of Southern Utah.
Surrounded by iconic red sandstone cliffs and desert landscape, St. George occupies a unique geographic position that blends desert beauty with accessibility to major highways and regional centers. The city's elevation of 2,860 feet above sea level and location within Washington County make it one of Southern Utah's most important business and cultural centers.
St. George Zip Codes
84770
Central / Downtown St. George
Historic Ancestor Square and downtown business district
84790
South St. George / SunRiver / Little Valley
Residential and resort development areas
84780
Washington Area
Northern neighboring city in greater St. George area
84737
Hurricane
Nearby city east of St. George
84738
Ivins & Snow Canyon
Southern residential area near Snow Canyon State Park
84765
Santa Clara
Historic community northwest of St. George
Climate & Weather
St. George is known for its hot, dry summers with average highs reaching 100-105°F, while winters are mild with temperatures typically ranging from 50-60°F. The area receives very low rainfall, making it one of Utah's driest regions. What makes St. George truly exceptional is its abundance of sunshine – the city enjoys over 300 sunny days annually, earning it a reputation as a year-round destination.
The best times to visit or plan outdoor activities in St. George are March through May (spring) and September through November (fall), when temperatures are comfortable for exploring the region's stunning natural attractions. Winter months attract visitors escaping colder climates in the north, while the mild winters also make St. George an increasingly popular retirement destination.
Why People Move to St. George
- Growing Economy: St. George is one of the fastest-growing cities in the United States, with a thriving business community and job opportunities across healthcare, technology, and service industries.
- Outdoor Recreation: The city is a paradise for hikers, climbers, mountain bikers, and outdoor enthusiasts with direct access to Zion National Park, Snow Canyon State Park, and countless trails and canyons.
- Retirement Destination: Mild winters, excellent healthcare facilities, and a strong retirement community make St. George increasingly popular with retirees seeking an active, vibrant lifestyle.
- Affordable Cost of Living: Compared to many parts of the western United States, St. George offers reasonable housing costs and a lower overall cost of living while maintaining quality services and amenities.
- Quality of Life: The city combines small-town charm with modern amenities, excellent schools, cultural events, and a strong community spirit that appeals to families and professionals alike.
- Proximity to Nature: With five major national parks within a few hours' drive (Zion, Bryce Canyon, Grand Canyon, Cedar Breaks, and Snow Canyon State Park), St. George is the gateway to some of America's most spectacular landscapes.
Getting Around
Most residents and visitors find a personal vehicle necessary for getting around St. George, as public transportation is limited. The city's layout and surrounding attractions make car travel the primary mode of transportation.
Public Transit
SunTran provides limited bus service for local transportation, with routes connecting major areas of the city.
Regional Airport
St. George Regional Airport (SGU) offers commercial flights for regional and national travel.
Las Vegas Connection
Las Vegas (LAS) is approximately 2 hours away via I-15, providing additional flight options and entertainment access.
Highway Access
Interstate 15 and Highway 9 provide excellent regional connectivity and direct access to attractions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is St. George Utah on a map?
St. George is located in southwestern Utah at the junction of I-15 and UT-9, about 120 miles northeast of Las Vegas and 300 miles south of Salt Lake City. It serves as the gateway to Zion National Park and is surrounded by red sandstone cliffs.
What are the zip codes for St. George?
St. George's main zip codes are 84770 (central/downtown), 84790 (south/SunRiver), and 84780 (Washington area). Nearby communities include Hurricane (84737), Ivins (84738), Santa Clara (84765), and LaVerkin (84745).
How big is St. George Utah?
St. George has a population of approximately 100,000 residents, with the greater metro area home to about 190,000 people. The city covers roughly 80 square miles.
What is the elevation of St. George?
St. George sits at an elevation of 2,860 feet above sea level, contributing to its mild winter climate and hot, dry summers with 300+ sunny days annually.
How far is St. George from Las Vegas?
St. George is approximately 120 miles northeast of Las Vegas, about a 2-hour drive via I-15. This proximity makes it convenient for Las Vegas connections while maintaining Southern Utah's unique character.
What is St. George known for?
St. George is known as the gateway to Zion National Park and the "Sunrise Capital of the World." It's recognized as a thriving retirement destination, outdoor recreation hub, and growing business center with stunning red rock landscapes.