Orem is a city located in Utah County, Utah, United States. As of the 2020 census, Orem had a population of 99,037, making it the fifth-largest city in Utah. Orem is known for its rapid growth and is located next to Provo, which is home to Brigham Young University.
Population
According to the Wikipedia page for Orem, Utah, the city’s population was 88,328 at the 2010 census and estimated to be 97,894 in 2018. The 2020 census put Orem’s population at 99,037. Orem is currently the fifth-largest city in Utah after Salt Lake City, West Valley City, Provo, and West Jordan.
Orem has experienced rapid population growth since it was incorporated in 1919. In 1940, Orem’s population was just over 5,000 people. By 1980, the population had grown to 33,000. Growth accelerated in the 1990s and 2000s as Orem became part of the Provo-Orem metropolitan area, which is one of the fastest growing metro areas in the United States.
Orem is expected to continue growing rapidly in the coming decades. Projections estimate Orem’s population could exceed 150,000 by 2040 as the Provo-Orem area attracts new residents and businesses.
Economy and Major Employers
Orem has a diverse economy made up of companies in industries such as technology, manufacturing, and retail. Some of the major employers in Orem include:
- Adobe – The software company has a large campus in Orem.
- Nestlé Health Science – Operates a factory in Orem manufacturing nutritional products.
- Beam Dental – A network of dental offices headquartered in Orem.
- Orem City – The local government and public services employ over 500 people.
- Utah Valley University – The university’s main campus is located in Orem.
Orem’s central location near major transportation routes and its proximity to a strong labor pool coming out of BYU and UVU have made it attractive for companies looking to expand or relocate. The city’s economy is expected to continue growing and diversifying in the future.
Landmarks
Some of the most notable landmarks and points of interest in Orem include:
- Utah Valley University – UVU’s main campus covers over 500 acres in Orem.
- SCERA Center for the Arts – This nonprofit community theater has been operating since 1933.
- University Mall – A large shopping mall located off Interstate 15.
- Orem City Center Park – This 30-acre park includes gardens, a pond, and a playground.
- Ortega Museum of History and Art – Features exhibits on Utah history and culture.
Sports
Orem is home to the Orem Owlz, a minor league baseball team that plays at the UCCU Ballpark. The Owlz are an affiliate of the Los Angeles Angels and play in the Pioneer League. The team was previously known as the Orem Owlz but changed their name to the Orem Owlz in 2005.
College sports are also popular in Orem. Utah Valley University competes in NCAA Division I athletics in the Western Athletic Conference. Major UVU teams include basketball, baseball, cross country, golf, soccer, softball, track and field, volleyball, and wrestling.
The Orem High School sports teams are known as the Orem Tigers. The school competes in football, volleyball, basketball, baseball, softball, soccer, tennis, swimming, cross country, golf, and track and field.
Orem Today
Today, Orem is a thriving and growing city that combines a strong economy, affordable housing, good schools, and a great location near mountains and recreation. Orem offers the convenience and opportunities of a larger metropolitan area while maintaining a comfortable small-town feel in many of its neighborhoods.
With its centralized location, proximity to tech hubs like Silicon Slopes, excellent parks and recreation programs, and family-friendly vibe, Orem is likely to continue growing in population and opportunities for years to come.