Merced vs Salt Lake City
Fair Market Rent Comparison — HUD 2025 Data
Quick Answer
Merced is 7% cheaper for renters. A 2-bedroom rents for $1,055/mo vs $1,127/mo in Salt Lake City — saving $864/year.
Rent by Unit Size
| Unit Size | Merced | Salt Lake City | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $696 | $754 | $58 |
| 1 Bedroom | $865 | $912 | $47 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,055 | $1,127 | $72 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,328 | $1,352 | $24 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,460 | $1,632 | $172 |
| Median Income | $60,958 | $77,224 | $16,266 |
Merced
- Studio
- $696/mo
- 1 BR
- $865/mo
- 2 BR
- $1,055/mo
- 3 BR
- $1,328/mo
- 4 BR
- $1,460/mo
- Median Income
- $60,958/yr
Salt Lake City
- Studio
- $754/mo
- 1 BR
- $912/mo
- 2 BR
- $1,127/mo
- 3 BR
- $1,352/mo
- 4 BR
- $1,632/mo
- Median Income
- $77,224/yr
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Merced or Salt Lake City cheaper to rent in?
Merced is cheaper — a 2-bedroom Fair Market Rent is $1,055/mo vs $1,127/mo in Salt Lake City. That's $72/mo or $864/year more expensive in Salt Lake City (7% higher).
What is the 2-bedroom rent in Merced vs Salt Lake City?
The HUD Fair Market Rent for a 2-bedroom in Merced is $1,055/month. In Salt Lake City, a 2-bedroom FMR is $1,127/month.
How do incomes compare between Merced and Salt Lake City?
The median household income in Merced is $60,958/year. In Salt Lake City it is $77,224/year. Salt Lake City has the higher median income.
What is the studio rent in Merced vs Salt Lake City?
A studio apartment Fair Market Rent in Merced is $696/mo. In Salt Lake City it is $754/mo.