What Homes Under $500K Really Look Like
Intro:
Under $500,000, buyers in Salt Lake County face two distinct choices: Midvale’s mid-century neighborhoods andSandy’s suburban sprawl.
Here’s how the numbers — and lifestyles — compare, based on active MLS data from October 2025.
Under $500,000, buyers in Salt Lake County face two distinct choices: Midvale’s mid-century neighborhoods andSandy’s suburban sprawl.
Here’s how the numbers — and lifestyles — compare, based on active MLS data from October 2025.
Midvale: Affordable Charm and Central Access
Median price: $469,995
Median year built: 1956
Median size: 1,612 sq ft
Median year built: 1956
Median size: 1,612 sq ft
Midvale homes carry 1950s character — brick exteriors, hardwood floors, and compact lots.
They appeal to buyers who value proximity to downtown and commuter routes over square footage.
They appeal to buyers who value proximity to downtown and commuter routes over square footage.
Pro insight: Many buyers renovate these homes to blend classic design with modern convenience while staying under $500K.
Sandy: Space and Suburban Serenity
Median price: $457,000
Median year built: 1970
Median size: 1,710 sq ft
Median year built: 1970
Median size: 1,710 sq ft
Sandy offers larger homes and yards, built during the 1970s boom.
Expect split-levels, ramblers, and tree-lined streets with mountain views.
Expect split-levels, ramblers, and tree-lined streets with mountain views.
Pro insight: Sandy suits buyers seeking elbow room and long-term stability without breaking the $500K threshold.
Side-by-Side Snapshot (MLS Data – October 2025)
|
Category
|
Midvale
|
Sandy
|
|---|---|---|
|
Median Price
|
$469,995
|
$457,000
|
|
Median Year Built
|
1956
|
1970
|
|
Median Size
|
1,612 sq ft
|
1,710 sq ft
|
|
Style
|
Brick ramblers & bungalows
|
Split-levels & ramblers
|
|
Lot Size
|
Smaller urban lots
|
≈ 0.20–0.25 acre
|
|
Vibe
|
Central & efficient
|
Spacious & suburban
|
Takeaway
Though priced similarly, Midvale and Sandy serve different priorities:
-
Midvale: Closer to the city, smaller footprints, classic charm.
-
Sandy: More space indoors and out, quiet streets, mountain backdrop.
Both give buyers solid options below Salt Lake County’s median price — it all depends on your lifestyle goals.
