West Jordan is a city in Salt Lake County, Utah, United States. It is part of the Salt Lake City metropolitan area. The city lies approximately 15 miles (24 km) southwest of downtown Salt Lake City. As of the 2020 census, the city had a population of 116,480, making it the fourth-largest city in Utah.
Population
According to the Wikipedia page for West Jordan, the city has experienced rapid growth since the 1970s. In 1970, the population was just over 4,000 people. By 2000, it had grown to 68,336 and in 2010 it was 103,712. The latest census in 2020 counted 116,480 residents.
West Jordan was one of the fastest-growing U.S. cities between 1990-2003. Much of this growth can be attributed to its proximity to Salt Lake City and its location along the booming Wasatch Front region.
Economy and Major Employers
Historically West Jordan’s economy was primarily agricultural. However, since the 1970s it has diversified into other industries including manufacturing, technology, finance, insurance, healthcare, and retail.
According to the West Jordan Economic Development website, some of the major employers in the city include:
- Intermountain Healthcare
- Mountain America Credit Union
- Western Governors University
- Merit Medical
- Larsen Baker, LLC
- Ultradent Products
- Instructure
In 2019, the unemployment rate in West Jordan was approximately 2.5%, lower than both the national and statewide averages. Job growth over the past decade has been over 20% and is projected to continue increasing over the next 10 years as the city expands.
Local Sites and Attractions
As one of Utah’s largest cities, West Jordan has plenty to see and do for residents and visitors. Some popular local attractions include:
- Gardner Village – An outdoor shopping center with over 200 shops, restaurants and boutiques.
- The Amphitheater at West Jordan City Park – An 8,500 seat amphitheater that hosts concerts and events.
- Jordan Elbridge – A pedestrian footbridge over the Jordan River that connects trails.
- Utah Warriors – A professional soccer team in the USL Championship league.
The city also operates over 60 parks that provide recreation opportunities for residents. Several major highways including I-15, I-215, SR-68, SR-154, SR-111, SR-48 run through the city, connecting it to the greater Salt Lake region.
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