Garfield County sits in Dixie / Southern Utah with a 2024 population of 5,400 residents across 5174.0 square miles. The county seat is Panguitch, and the region is defined by its accommodation and food services economy, 46.5-year median age, and median household income of $56,481. Real estate values have moved 4.0% over the past year, with a median home price of $380,000 and typical days on market at 90. This directory profile pulls verified data from the U.S. Census, Utah Department of Workforce Services, and MLS-adjacent public sources to give buyers, sellers, and relocation candidates a full picture of Garfield County — economy, schools, market, and lifestyle — before they engage an agent.
Garfield County at a Glance
| Population (2024) | 5,400 | 5-Year Growth | 6.2% |
| Median Age | 46.5 | Median Household Income | $56,481 |
| Median Home Price | $380,000 | Home Price YoY | 4.0% |
| Median Rent | $900 | Days on Market | 90 |
| Active Listings | 40 | Unemployment | 7.5% |
| College Degree | 30.3% | Poverty Rate | 9.3% |
| Area | 5174.0 sq mi | County Seat | Panguitch |
Real Estate Market in Garfield County
Garfield County’s market is driven by tourism proximity to Bryce Canyon and Grand Staircase-Escalante. Values have risen with vacation home demand; the high seasonal unemployment (7.5%) reflects the tourism-dependent economy. Short-term rental properties are a significant market segment.
Current Market Snapshot
Compared with the Utah statewide median of roughly $540,000, Garfield County sits below the state average, shaping affordability for first-time buyers, relocators, and investors. Connect with a licensed Garfield County directory agent for MLS-verified inventory.
Economy and Employment in Garfield County
Garfield County supports 289 employers with 2,054 total workers. The three dominant industry sectors:
Accommodation and Food Services
Accommodation and Food Services jobs in Garfield County →
Government
Government jobs in Garfield County →
Retail Trade
Retail Trade jobs in Garfield County →
This employment mix drives job stability, commute patterns, and long-term appreciation across Garfield County — a leading indicator for buyers evaluating relocation to Garfield County.
Schools in Garfield County
School quality is a top-three driver of home value across Garfield County. Buyers should weigh Garfield County school district boundaries before selecting a neighborhood.
Notable Schools in Garfield County
Panguitch High School
Homes near Panguitch High School →
Escalante High School
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Tropic School
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Geography and Climate
Garfield County covers 5174.0 square miles in Dixie / Southern Utah. Elevation ranges from 4,500 ft to 11,522 ft. Garfield County has a high desert climate with cold winters and mild summers, strongly influenced by its plateau terrain between 6,000 and 9,000 feet elevation. The county contains Bryce Canyon National Park and portions of Grand Staircase-Escalante, with annual precipitation of 12-16 inches at higher elevations.
History and Character
Founded: 1882. Name origin: Named in honor of President James A. Garfield, who was assassinated in 1881.
Bryce Canyon National Park, established in 1928, transformed Garfield County from a quiet ranching backwater into a major tourism destination. The Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, designated in 1996, spurred ecotourism growth. Historic cattle drives through the Paunsaugunt Plateau defined the 19th-century economy.
Utilities and Infrastructure in Garfield County
Cities and Towns in Garfield County
Explore every city and town in Garfield County — click any card for a full local guide, listings, and directory-verified agents.
Panguitch
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Escalante
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Bryce Canyon City
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Boulder
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Cannonville
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Tropic
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Henrieville
Explore Henrieville →
Antimony
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Hatch
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Escalante area
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Frequently Asked Questions About Garfield County
What is the median home price in Garfield County?
As of the latest available data, the median home price in Garfield County is $380,000, with year-over-year appreciation of 4.0%. Median monthly rent is $900. Prices vary significantly by city and neighborhood within the county — contact a directory agent for MLS-verified current listings.
Is Garfield County a good place to live?
Garfield County offers a 46.5-year median age, $56,481 median household income, and 7.5% unemployment. The county’s economy is anchored by accommodation and food services and government, with schools rated 5/10 on average. Whether it’s the right fit depends on your commute needs, school priorities, and lifestyle preferences.
How far is Garfield County from Salt Lake City?
Garfield County is approximately 240 minutes from Salt Lake City by car via US-89. The nearest commercial airport is Cedar City Regional Airport (CDC).
What industries drive the Garfield County economy?
The top three sectors in Garfield County are Accommodation and Food Services, Government, and Retail Trade. Together they support 2,054 workers across 289 employers, with a current unemployment rate of 7.5%.
Data last updated 2026-Q3. Real estate figures reflect the most recent MLS-adjacent aggregates compiled by Utah Real Estate Directory. For live inventory and MLS-verified comps, connect with a licensed Garfield County directory agent.