Wayne County sits in Central Utah with a 2024 population of 2,614 residents across 2461.02 square miles. The county seat is Loa, and the region is defined by its government economy, 46.0-year median age, and median household income of $70,074. Real estate values have moved 3.0% over the past year, with a median home price of $364,800 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 Wayne County — economy, schools, market, and lifestyle — before they engage an agent.
Wayne County at a Glance
| Population (2024) | 2,614 | 5-Year Growth | 5.2% |
| Median Age | 46.0 | Median Household Income | $70,074 |
| Median Home Price | $364,800 | Home Price YoY | 3.0% |
| Median Rent | $1,018 | Days on Market | 90 |
| Active Listings | 30 | Unemployment | 5.3% |
| College Degree | 25.2% | Poverty Rate | 11.4% |
| Area | 2461.02 sq mi | County Seat | Loa |
Real Estate Market in Wayne County
Wayne County’s real estate market is extremely thin but showing strong median values near $364,800, elevated by vacation property purchases near Capitol Reef National Park. Properties in Torrey command premiums, while traditional rural homes in Loa remain modest.
Current Market Snapshot
Compared with the Utah statewide median of roughly $540,000, Wayne County sits below the state average, shaping affordability for first-time buyers, relocators, and investors. Connect with a licensed Wayne County directory agent for MLS-verified inventory.
Economy and Employment in Wayne County
Wayne County supports 159 employers with 1,138 total workers. The three dominant industry sectors:
Government
Government jobs in Wayne County →
Accommodation and Food Services
Accommodation and Food Services jobs in Wayne County →
Retail Trade
Retail Trade jobs in Wayne County →
This employment mix drives job stability, commute patterns, and long-term appreciation across Wayne County — a leading indicator for buyers evaluating relocation to Wayne County.
Schools in Wayne County
School quality is a top-three driver of home value across Wayne County. Buyers should weigh Wayne County school district boundaries before selecting a neighborhood.
Notable Schools in Wayne County
Wayne High School
Homes near Wayne High School →
Loa Elementary
Homes near Loa Elementary →
Bicknell Elementary
Homes near Bicknell Elementary →
Geography and Climate
Wayne County covers 2461.02 square miles in Central Utah. Elevation ranges from 4,500 ft to 11,320 ft. Wayne County has a high desert climate at elevations ranging from Canyonlands terrain to the Aquarius Plateau at 11,320 feet. The county contains Capitol Reef National Park and portions of Grand Staircase-Escalante. Warm, dry summers and cold winters characterize the Fremont River Valley around Loa and Torrey.
History and Character
Founded: 1892. Name origin: Named for Wayne Robinson, son of state legislator Willis E. Robinson; alternatively cited as honoring Revolutionary War General Anthony Wayne.
Capitol Reef National Park, established in 1971, anchors Wayne County’s growing tourism economy. The Fremont people inhabited the area from approximately 700-1300 CE, leaving petroglyphs throughout the county. Torrey has become a gateway community for Capitol Reef with a growing arts and tourism scene.
Utilities and Infrastructure in Wayne County
Cities and Towns in Wayne County
Explore every city and town in Wayne County — click any card for a full local guide, listings, and directory-verified agents.
Loa
Explore Loa →
Bicknell
Explore Bicknell →
Torrey
Explore Torrey →
Hanksville
Explore Hanksville →
Lyman
Explore Lyman →
Frequently Asked Questions About Wayne County
What is the median home price in Wayne County?
As of the latest available data, the median home price in Wayne County is $364,800, with year-over-year appreciation of 3.0%. Median monthly rent is $1,018. Prices vary significantly by city and neighborhood within the county — contact a directory agent for MLS-verified current listings.
Is Wayne County a good place to live?
Wayne County offers a 46.0-year median age, $70,074 median household income, and 5.3% unemployment. The county’s economy is anchored by government and accommodation and food services, 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 Wayne County from Salt Lake City?
Wayne County is approximately 240 minutes from Salt Lake City by car via UT-24. The nearest commercial airport is Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC).
What industries drive the Wayne County economy?
The top three sectors in Wayne County are Government, Accommodation and Food Services, and Retail Trade. Together they support 1,138 workers across 159 employers, with a current unemployment rate of 5.3%.
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 Wayne County directory agent.