Pandemic Darlings The pandemic economy, in original documents
Home Source documents Mag Utah Recovery Resilience Appendix 2021

Mag Utah Recovery Resilience Appendix 2021

Summary

Appendix I – Detailed Data to the Mountainland Region COVID-19 Economic Recovery & Resilience Plan, prepared for the Mountainland Economic Development District by EY and dated June 15, 2021. It presents charts and commentary on employment, unemployment, labor force, unemployment claims and business establishments in the Mountainland region and in Utah, Summit and Wasatch Counties. It states that local employers shed more than 28,000 jobs between March and April of 2020 and that regional unemployment fell to 2.5% by March 2021. A section on the Paycheck Protection Program reports that nearly 12,000 Mountainland region companies received loans covering more than 125,000 jobs, broken down by industry. The appendix ends with City of Provo data on housing and sales tax revenues, which it reports totaled $22 million between May 2020 and April 2021.

Summary drafted by a model from the document's text below and checked by script against that text before publication. It is a navigation aid, not a reading of what the document proves. Where AI is used

Full text

Mountainland Region
COVID-19 Economic
Recovery & Resilience Plan
Appendix I – Detailed Data
Prepared for the Mountainland
Economic Development District by EY
June 15, 2021


1

Mountainland Region Data Trends

COVID-19 Economic Recovery & Resilience Plan


Total employment – Mountainland region
Like virtually every community in the US, the initial outbreak of the COVID pandemic resulted in immediate and substantial job
losses within the Mountainland region. Between March and April of 2020, local employers shed more than 28,000 jobs. On a yearover-year basis, the region lost more jobs in April than in any month during the preceding 20 years. Employment began to rise
during the summer and fully recovered lost jobs by September 2020 (the most recent month for which detailed industry
employment information is available).

Mountainland region year-over-year monthly employment change, 2001 to 2020
15,000
10,000
5,000
0
-5,000
-10,000
-15,000
-20,000
-25,000
02

03

04

05

06

07

08

09

10

11

12

13

14

15

16

17

18

19

20

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics

3

COVID-19 Economic Recovery & Resilience Plan


Total employment, continued
In April 2020, total employment in the Mountainland region fell 8% compared to a year earlier. The contraction in employment was
slightly greater than the statewide figure (7.3%) but significantly less than the national decline (13.8%). Fortunately, employment
in Mountain recovered at a relatively fast pace. By September 2020, employment in the Mountainland region was just 0.6% less
than September of 2019. Within Utah, employment was 1.0% less than in 2019. Nationally employment remained more than 6.8%
less than 2019 levels. This indicates the recovery has been stronger in the Mountainland region than even statewide – possibly due
to a high concentration of technology and other professional services jobs in Utah County.

Year-over-year monthly employment change, 2020
Mountainland
5%

0%

2.4%
2.3%

2.4%
2.0%

1.3%

1.3%

State of Utah

1.7%
0.9%
0.4%

-3.9%

-5%

-7.3%

-10%

-7.9%

-15%

-13.8%

-4.8%

-2.1%
-3.1%

-9.5%

US
0.6%

-0.8%

-0.3%

-2.0%

-1.5%

-1.0%

-8.3%

-7.6%

-6.8%

-12.1%

-20%
Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics

4

COVID-19 Economic Recovery & Resilience Plan


Total employment, continued
The impact of the pandemic on employment within the Mountainland region’s constituent counties has varied considerably.
Summit County, which is far more reliant on tourism and hospitality than Utah or Wasatch Counties, has been especially hard hit.
In April 2020, for example, Summit County had approximately 28% fewer jobs compared to April 2019. Though Summit County
has recouped some of these losses, the recovery has proven much stronger in Utah and Wasatch. In September 2020,
employment in Utah County had actually grown 1.8% compared to 2019 levels. In Wasatch County, employment was 0.9% less
than 2019 levels. In Summit County, September 2020 employment was still 10.1% below September 2019 figures.

Year-over-year monthly employment change, 2020
Utah County
5%
0%

2.8%
2.4%
1.4%

2.3%
2.0%
2.2%

-5%

Summit County

1.8%
0.9%
0.9%

-2.4%

Wasatch County
-0.5%

-5.7%
-5.7%

-10%

0.7%

1.0%

-0.2%

0.6%

-20%

-18.9%

-25%

-0.9%

-3.8%

-10.8%

-15%

1.8%

-16.3%

-14.3%

-12.5%

-10.1%

-27.9%

-30%
Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics

5

COVID-19 Economic Recovery & Resilience Plan


Unemployment and labor force – Mountainland region
Historically, both Utah as a whole and the Mountainland region have enjoyed relatively low unemployment rates compared to the
US average. This remains true today. Immediately prior to the pandemic, in March 2020, the unemployment in the Mountainland
region was just 3.7%. During this same period, the unemployment rate in Utah and the US was 4.1% and 4.5% respectively. In
April, the unemployment rate in the Mountainland region peaked at 9.3% while it reached double digits in both Utah and the US.
Regional unemployment fell to 2.5% by March 2021, reaching pre-pandemic levels. A similar dynamic occurred statewide.
Although the unemployment rate in the US has fallen considerably since April, it remains above pre-pandemic levels. Although
individuals falling out of the labor force may contribute to lower unemployment, overall the Mountainland region’s labor force grew
1.8% from March 2020 to March 2021, compared to a contraction of 1.3% nationally.
Year-over-year labor force change, March 2021

Unemployment rate, January 2020 – March 2021
Mountainland
15%

US

5%

14.4%
1.8%

9.1%

10%

6.2%
5%

0%

4.0%
4.5%
2.4%

2.6%

-1.3%

2.5%

0%

-5%
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar

Mountainland

US
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics

6

COVID-19 Economic Recovery & Resilience Plan


Unemployment, continued
Given the varying level of job losses in individual counties within the Mountainland region, it is perhaps unsurprising that there are
also significant differences in local unemployment rates. In Utah County, for example, the unemployment rate never reached 8%. In
Summit County, it topped 20%. In Wasatch, it exceeded 17%. By March 2021, the unemployment rate in Utah County fell to prepandemic levels at 2.5%. Both Summit and Wasatch Counties were initially slower to recover but have both reached pre-pandemic
levels at 2.8% and 3.0% respectively.

Monthly unemployment rate, 2019 - 2021
Utah County

Summit County

25%

Wasatch County
21.4%

20%

17.7%

15%
10%
5%

2.8%

2.2%
2.6%

0%

3.1%
2.4% 2.6%

7.7%

3.0%
2.8%
2.5%

19
19 -1 9 - 19 -1 9 -19 l-1 9 -19 -1 9 -1 9 - 19 -1 9 - 20 - 20 -2 0 - 20 -2 0 -20 l-2 0 -20 -2 0 -2 0 - 20 -2 0 - 21 - 21 -2 1
r
t
t
n- ebar Ap r
ay Ju n Ju Au g Sep Oc No v Dec Jan Feb Mar Ap
ay Ju n Ju Au g Sep Oc No v Dec Jan Feb Mar
a
J
F
M
M
M
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics

7

COVID-19 Economic Recovery & Resilience Plan


Employment change by industry – Mountainland region
Although a majority of industries in the Mountainland region suffered employment declines as a result of the pandemic, jobs were
highly concentrated in a handful of sectors. Between June 2019 and June 2020, for example, Leisure & Hospitality firms
eliminated nearly 6,000 jobs. The combined losses for all other industries was less than 2,000 during this period. Several
industries in the Mountainland region posted job gains between June 2019 and June 2020, including Business & Professional
Services, Financial Activities, and Construction.

Mountainland region year-over-year monthly employment change, June 2019 - June 2020
Absolute Change
3,000

Percentage Change

911

1,500
0

-76

-1,500

-151

-617

1,675

1,070

912

10%
5%

-27

-320

-477

0%

-3,000

-5%

-4,500

-10%

-6,000

Re
t.

c
ur
so

-15%

-5,970

-7,500

Na

15%

e

s&

g
in
in
M

uc
tr
s
n
Co

n
ti o
uf
an
M

g
in
ur
t
ac
e
ad
Tr

&

a
Tr

rt
po
s
n

a

n
ti o

rm
fo
In

a

n
ti o
ia
nc
a
n
Fi

iv
ct
lA

es
iti

P

.&
ro

z
Bi

rv
Se

es
ic

u
Ed

&

a
He

lth

r
Se

c
vi

es

Le

e
ur
is

&

ta
pi
s
Ho

l

ity
r
he
t
O

r
Se

c
vi

-20%

es
r
ve
o
G

nm

t
en

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics

8

COVID-19 Economic Recovery & Resilience Plan


Unemployment change by industry – Mountainland region
Change in employment resulted in corresponding changes in the number of unemployed individuals in the Mountainland region.
Comparing June 2019 to June 2020, the largest increases in unemployed individuals were in Leisure & Hospitality (4,650
unemployed, a 574% increase from the previous year), followed by Trade & Transportation (1,797 unemployed, 115% increase),
Education & Health Services (1,538 unemployed, 94% increase), and Professional & Business Services (1,173 unemployed, 53%
increase). Other Services, which includes nail salons and many pandemic-impacted businesses, saw a smaller number of new
unemployed (328) but the 2nd highest percentage increase (256%). With unemployed dropping significantly since June, many of
these individuals have likely been rehired, found new employment, or dropped from the labor force, but it is notable that the most
impacted groups, Leisure & Hospitality and Trade & Transportation, are generally lower wage industries.
Mountainland region year-over-year monthly unemployment change, June 2019 - June 2020
Absolute Change

Percentage Change

6,000

700%

4,650

600%

4,500

500%

3,000

400%

1,797

1,500

-4

0

167

1,538

1,173

783

270

300%

328

217

52

Na

Re
t.

100%
0%

-1,500

c
ur
so

200%

-100%

e

s&

g
in
in
M

uc
tr
s
n
Co

n
ti o
uf
an
M

g
in
ur
t
ac
e
ad
Tr

&

a
Tr

rt
po
s
n

a

n
ti o

rm
fo
In

a

n
ti o
ia
nc
a
n
Fi

iv
ct
lA

es
iti

P

.&
ro

z
Bi

rv
Se

es
ic

u
Ed

&

a
He

lth

r
Se

c
vi

es

Le

e
ur
is

&

ta
pi
s
Ho

l

ity
r
he
t
O

r
Se

c
vi

es
r
ve
o
G

nm

t
en

Source: EMSI

9

COVID-19 Economic Recovery & Resilience Plan


New unemployment claims by industry – Mountainland region
Examining new, first-time unemployment claims by industry provides another lens on the impacts of the pandemic to people in the
Mountainland region. These numbers show that although Leisure & Hospitality workers accounted for the most unemployed at the
peak of the pandemic, over the course of the past year, they did not represent the most totally impacted. Professional & Business
Services (especially the administrative subsector) had the largest number of first-time unemployment claims filed in the
Mountainland region over the past year with 10,943, followed by Trade & Transportation (9,258), Leisure & Hospitality (8,935),
and Education & Health Services (7,4050). These trends indicate that for many businesses and industries, the impacts continued
to be felt throughout the year and not just during the initial months of greatest economic shutdown.

Total first-time unemployment claims filed by industry, March 16, 2020 - current
Absolute Change

Percentage Change

10,943

12,000

9,258

10,000

8,935
7,405

8,000
6,000

4,290

4,286

4,000
2,000

6,153

164

1,568

1,718

n
io
at

tie
vi

1,739

1,117

0

t
Na

e
.R

c
ur
so

&
es

g
in
in
M

n
ti o
c
ru
st
n
Co

uf
an
M

g
in
ur
t
ac

a
Tr

de

&

a
Tr

r
po
ns

n
ti o
a
t

rm
fo
In

s

ti
S
Ac
l
iz
a
B
i
&
nc
o.
na
r
i
F
P

vi
er

s
ce

u
Ed

&

He

th
al

Se

e
ic
rv

s

re
su
i
Le

&

Ho

l
i ta
sp

ity
r
he
t
O

Se

e
ic
rv

s
ve
Go

m
rn

t
en

ow
kn
n
U

n

Source: Utah Department of Workforce Services

10

COVID-19 Economic Recovery & Resilience Plan


Establishment change by industry – Mountainland region
Between June 2019 and June 2020, the number of private sector establishments in the Mountainland region increased across
every industry. On absolute basis, the greatest increase in establishments occurred in Professional & Business Services, Trade &
Transportation, and Construction. On a percentage basis, the Natural Resources & Mining and Information posted the greatest
gains. Data on establishments, combined with employment information, suggests that while companies have eliminated workers
from their payrolls, as of June they have not permanently ceased operations.

Mountainland region year-over-year establishment change, June 2019 - June 2020
Absolute Change

Percentage Change

400

15%

311

300
200
100

10%

207

186

81

65

19

8

139

5%

49

48
0%

0

-1

-100

Na

Re
t.

c
ur
so

-5%

e

s&

g
in
in
M

uc
tr
s
n
Co

n
ti o
uf
an
M

g
in
ur
t
ac
e
ad
Tr

&

a
Tr

rt
po
s
n

a

n
ti o

rm
fo
In

a

n
ti o
ia
nc
a
n
Fi

iv
ct
lA

es
iti

P

.&
ro

z
Bi

rv
Se

es
ic

u
Ed

&

a
He

lth

r
Se

c
vi

es

Le

e
ur
is

&

ta
pi
s
Ho

l

ity
r
he
t
O

r
Se

c
vi

es
r
ve
o
G

nm

t
en

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics

11

COVID-19 Economic Recovery & Resilience Plan


Paycheck Protection Program loans – Mountainland region
In 2020, nearly 12,000 Mountainland region companies received loans via the federal Paycheck Protection Program (PPP). Loan
recipients were asked to report how many jobs would be covered by each loan and identify the industry in which they operate. PPP
recipients in the Mountainland region encompassed more than 125,000 jobs. There was little relationship between the selfreported industries of loan recipients and job losses in the region. For example, the Mountainland region’s Professional & Business
posted employment gains between June 2019 and June 2020. This industry also represented the largest category of local jobs
covered by PPP loans. Other industries with high levels of employment covered by PPP loans included Leisure & Hospitality,
Education & Health Services, and Trade & Transportation.

Jobs associated with Payback Protection Program loans in the Mountainland region by
industry, 2020
25,000

22,194

20,000

16,809

15,000

20,129

19,527

19,196
10,598

10,000
5,000

3,931

1,364

8,170

6,744

0

t
Na

rc
ou
s
e
.R

&
es

g
in
in
M

n
ti o
c
ru
st
n
Co

uf
an
M

g
in
ur
t
ac

a
Tr

de

&

a
Tr

r
po
ns

n
ti o
a
t

rm
fo
In

n
io
at

ti
Ac
l
ia
nc
a
n
Fi

tie
vi

s

P

.&
ro

z
Bi

S

vi
er

s
ce

u
Ed

&

He

th
al

Se

e
ic
rv

s

Le

e
ur
is

&

Ho

l
i ta
sp

ity
r
he
t
O

Se

e
ic
rv

s

Source: Small Business Administration

12

COVID-19 Economic Recovery & Resilience Plan


Paycheck Protection Program loans, continued – Mountainland
region
In the Mountainland region, the leading industries for Payback Protection Program loans largely mirrored the same industries with
the most jobs supported by the program. The Mountainland region Professional & Business Firms cumulatively received nearly $67
million in funding. Other leading recipients of loans included Construction ($53.2 million), Trade & Transportation ($51.4 million),
and Education & Health Services ($44.0 million).

Total loan values associated with Payback Protection Program loans in the Mountainland region by industry, 2020
(in millions and excluding loans exceeding $150,000)
$75

$66.9
$53.2

$51.4

$44.0

$50

$27.6

$27.4

$21.6

$17.4

$25

$7.2

$5.3
$0

t
Na

rc
ou
s
e
.R

&
es

g
in
in
M

n
ti o
c
ru
st
n
Co

uf
an
M

g
in
ur
t
ac

a
Tr

de

&

a
Tr

r
po
ns

n
ti o
a
t

rm
fo
In

n
io
at

ti
Ac
l
ia
nc
a
n
Fi

tie
vi

s

P

.&
ro

z
Bi

S

vi
er

s
ce

u
Ed

&

He

th
al

Se

e
ic
rv

s

Le

e
ur
is

&

Ho

l
i ta
sp

ity
r
he
t
O

Se

e
ic
rv

s

Source: Small Business Administration

13

COVID-19 Economic Recovery & Resilience Plan


CARES Act grants by industry – Mountainland region
The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act stimulus program signed into law in March 2020 included a grant
program separate from the PPP program. Companies were eligible for both loan programs, though they were required to use them
for separate expenses. In the Mountainland region, more than 60% of all CARES Act grants went to companies in one of four
industries—Retail, Healthcare & Social Assistance, Arts & Entertainment, and Accommodation & Food.

Mountainland region CARES Act Grants by Industry, 2020
200

161

153

134

150

127

93

100

49

50

57
6

3

17

22

26

8

21

43

0

Ag

tu
ul
ir c

re

n
g
in
io
ct
ur
t
u
tr
ac
ns
uf
o
n
a
C
M

t
Re

l
ai

t
s
s
n
e
e
e
n
t.
t
od
ic
io
io
is
at
en
ce
ce
ac
or
t
i
i
t
t
s
r
p
Fo
rv
a
s
v
v
a
m
s
u
t
p
r
r
e
n
E
s
&
m
e
e
s
l
lA
or
ai
Su
In
or
lS
lS
ia
on
er
rt
ea
e
sp
&
i
c
a
a
nf
e
h
t
v
R
n
I
t
i
n
n
a
a
So
ce
Ot
io
at
En
tio
od
Tr
&
tr
an
a
ss
&
m
s
c
n
e
e
i
o
r
u
Fi
ts
of
in
cc
ca
Ed
m
Ar
Pr
h
A
t
d
A
al
He
Source: Mountainland Association of Governments

14

COVID-19 Economic Recovery & Resilience Plan


CARES Act grants by company size – Mountainland region
CARES Act grant recipients in the Mountainland region were overwhelmingly smaller firms. Approximately 75% of all companies
that received a grant employed fewer than 10 full-time equivalent workers. Approximately 19% of CARES Act grant recipients in
the Mountainland region had 11 to 25 workers on their payrolls. The remaining recipients employed 26 to 100 workers.

Mountainland region CARES Act Grants by Company Size, 2020

1-10 FTEs
74.6%

0%

25%

11-25 FTEs
19.1%

50%

75%

26-100 FTEs
6.3%

100%

Source: Mountainland Association of Governments

15

COVID-19 Economic Recovery & Resilience Plan


CARES Act grants by industry by company size – Mountainland
region
The average company size of CARES Act grant recipients in the Mountainland region varied widely by industry. In industries such
as Retail, Information, Finance & Insurance, Real Estate, and Professional Services, more than 80% of grant recipients employed
fewer than 10 full-time equivalent workers. In other industries, including Agriculture, Educational Services, and Accommodation &
Food, grant recipients often midsized companies with 11 to 25 workers.

Mountainland region CARES Act Grants by Industry by Company Size, 2020

1-10 FTEs
8%

100%
75%

16%
67%

50%
25%

76%

14%

1%
11%

11-25 FTEs

26-100 FTEs
3%

17%

12%

19%

11%

38%

21%

65%

5%

88%

83%

33%

88%

100%

81%

86%
57%

5%

6%

19%

13%

14%

14%

39%
76%

84%

81%
47%

0%

Ag

tu
ul
ir c

re

n
g
in
io
ct
ur
t
u
tr
ac
ns
uf
o
n
a
C
M

t
Re

l
ai

t
s
s
n
e
e
e
n
t.
od
ic
io
io
is
at
en
ce
ce
ac
t
i
i
t
t
s
r
Fo
rv
a
s
v
v
a
m
s
u
t
r
r
e
n
E
s
&
m
e
e
s
l
lA
or
ai
In
or
lS
lS
ia
on
er
rt
ea
sp
&
i
c
a
a
nf
e
h
t
R
n
I
t
n
n
a
a
So
ce
Ot
io
io
En
od
Tr
&
an
at
ss
&
m
c
n
e
e
o
r
u
Fi
ts
of
cc
ca
Ed
Ar
Pr
h
A
t
al
He
Source: Mountainland Association of Governments

16

COVID-19 Economic Recovery & Resilience Plan


Housing costs – Mountainland region
At $340,184, the median home value is 56% greater than the national value ($217,500) and 22% greater than Utah ($279,100).
Home values are also rising rapidly – increasing 35% in the Mountainland region from 2014 to 2019 – compared to 24% nationally
and 31% in Utah.
Costs for renters are also above the Utah and US average but by much smaller margins – 5% and 3% respectively, and median rent
only grew 20% in the Mountainland region from 2014 to 2019 – compared to 15% nationally and 19% in Utah.

Median home value (owner-occupied), 2019

Median rent, 2019

$400,000

$1,100

$350,000

$1,092

$340,184

$300,000

$1,062

$279,100

$250,000

$217,500

$1,050

$1,037

$200,000
$150,000
$100,000

$1,000
Mountainland

Utah

US

Mountainland

Utah

US

Source: US Census, American Community Survey

17

COVID-19 Economic Recovery & Resilience Plan


Housing availability – Mountainland region
Housing availability is slighter higher in the Mountainland region than Utah or the US averages – likely partly due to above average
rates of new housing construction, which can take a little longer to be absorbed. In 2019, the Mountainland region had a 2.1%
homeowner vacancy rate and a 6.9% rental vacancy rate.
From 2014 to 2019, the Mountainland region saw the number of owned housing units grow 14% and rental units grow 16% compared to 9% and 9% respectively in Utah. The US only saw 3% growth in owned housing units and 4% in rental units over the
same period. The number of new housing units added in the Mountainland region roughly kept pace with the number of new
households added.
Percentage growth in total new housing units, 2014 – 2019*

Housing vacancy rate, 2019

Owner-occupied
8%

Rental

Owner-occupied
18%

6.9%
6.0%

6%

6.0%

16%
14%

Rental

16.3%
13.8%

12%

9.0% 8.5%

10%

4%

8%

2.1%
2%

1.1%

1.6%

6%

4.4%
2.8%

4%
2%

0%

0%
Mountainland

Utah

US

Mountainland

Utah

US

Source: US Census, American Community Survey
*includes occupied and vacant housing units

18

COVID-19 Economic Recovery & Resilience Plan


Consumer spending - Mountainland region
In April, consumer spending dropped precipitously. Nationally, consumer spending fell by approximately 26%. In Utah County, the
decline was slightly less at 22.4%. In Summit County, consumer spending in April fell by nearly a third. In Wasatch County,
consumer spending dropped 26%. In the months since, there has been a significant divergence in consumer spending trends.
Wasatch County has benefitted from a nearly 20% rise in consumer spending. Consumer spending in Summit County, however,
remains 11% below pre-pandemic levels. In Utah County, consumer spending is still 4% below pre-COVID levels.

Percent change in all consumer spending (indexed to January 2020 levels and seasonally adjusted), 2020
Utah County

Summit County

Wasatch County

Utah

US

40%
30%

19.9%

20%
10%
0%
-10%

1.7%

-0.9%
-4.0%

-0.3%

-22.4%

-11.1%

-20%

-26.0%

-30%
-40%
Jan

Feb

Mar

-32.8%

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Source: Affinity Solutions / Opportunity Insights

19

COVID-19 Economic Recovery & Resilience Plan


Small business revenue - Mountainland region
The decline in consumer spending hit was especially hard for many small busines. This was particularly true in Summit County. In
April, small business revenue fell by 55%. The declines in Utah and Wasatch County were far less severe, at 8.9% and 14.6%
respectively. By December, there has been little improvement in local small business revenue. In fact, small business revenue fell
further in both Utah and Wasatch Counties. In Utah County, small business revenue remains 14% below pre-pandemic levels. In
Wasatch County, small business revenue is nearly 22% less than pre-COVID levels. The situation has brightened slightly in Summit
County, where small business revenue is 44% less than pre-pandemic levels.

Percent change small business revenue (indexed to January 2020 levels and seasonally adjusted), 2020
Utah County

Summit County

Wasatch County

Utah

US

40%

20%

0.5%

-8.9%

0% -1.0%

-14.2%

-0.9%
-14.6%

-20%

-21.9%

-40%

-43.6%

-55.0%

-60%
Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Source: Womply / Opportunity Insights

20

COVID-19 Economic Recovery & Resilience Plan


Small business openings - Mountainland region
The collapse in consumer spending has forced many small businesses to close their doors. In Summit County, for example, nearly
half of all small businesses closed in April. By December, more than a quarter of small businesses in Summit County remained
close. The situation has been less dire in both Utah and Wasatch Counties. In April, nearly 22% of small businesses in Utah County
closed. By the years’ end, 18% of small businesses remained closed. In Wasatch County, nearly 24% of small businesses shut their
doors in April. In December, 17% remained closed.

Percent change small businesses open (indexed to January 2020 levels and seasonally adjusted), 2020
Utah County

Summit County

Wasatch County

Utah

US

40%

20%

-0.4%

0% -2.0%

-0.6%

-21.8%

-18.1%

-23.5%

-17.4%
-25.7%

-20%

-40%

-49.5%

-60%
Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Source: Womply / Opportunity Insights

21

COVID-19 Economic Recovery & Resilience Plan


Sales tax revenues - Mountainland region
Since March 2020, monthly sales tax distributions in the Mountainland region have exceeded the previous year every month
except April 2020, which saw a $0.3 million decrease from April 2019, and March 2021, which saw a $0.2 million decrease from
March 2020. Notably, sales tax revenues in March 2021 still exceeded March 2021 by over $2 million.
These trends indicate that commercial sales continued to occur and even increase throughout the region through the pandemic.
As discussed on the next page however, distribution was not even across the counties of the region. Additionally, taxable sales
likely shifted from areas like tourism towards grocery stores and online sales, which Utah taxes at the customer location.

Mountainland region sales tax distribution – all counties and cities, March 2020 – April 2021
Previous Year
$18,000,000

$15.8M

$16,000,000

$10.5M

$12,000,000
$10,000,000
$8,000,000

$14.2M

$13.5M

$14,000,000 $13.1M

$12.5M

$10.8M $10.2M

$11.0M
$9.9M

$12.2M
$11.4M

$12.8M

$13.4M $13.0M

$14.6M
$12.2M

$12.0M $11.7M $12.4M

$16.9M

$11.3M

$15.1M

$13.1M
$12.9M
$12.9M

$11.8M

$10.2M

$6,000,000
$4,000,000
$2,000,000
$0
Mar

Apr

May

Jun

2020

July

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

2021
Source: Utah State Tax Commission

22

COVID-19 Economic Recovery & Resilience Plan


Sales tax activity, continued
Sales tax activity in the Mountainland region has varied by county. In Utah and Wasatch Counties, sales tax activity followed a
similar trend, with sales falling initially in April but increasing steadily through the summer months, dipping significantly in March
2021, but rebounding significantly in April 2021.
Summit County, on the other hand, experienced greater sales tax declines and a more uneven trend – largely due to the high
concentration of tourism-related activities and sales in the county. Summit County sales tax revenues were down year-over-year in
much of the summer of 2020, rebounded well in the fall, but dropped 7% in February and 18% in March compared to the previous
year. They since rebounded to positive growth comparing April 2020 and April 2021.
Year-over-year change in sales tax distribution, March 2020 – April 2021
Utah County

Summit County

Wasatch County

50%
40%

37%

33%

25%
22%
20%
17%
30%

10%

17%
2%
12%

0%

-3%
-4%

-10%
-20%

19%
13%

21%

26%

21%

14%

28%

10%

19%

13%

6%

12%

14%
11%

4%

2%

18%
10%

24%
19%

8%
4%

15%

Mar
2020

Apr

1%

-6%

-7%
-15%

May

Jun

3%
8%

-18%

-21%

-30%

29%

July

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Jan
2021

Feb

Mar

Apr

Source: Utah State Tax Commission

23

COVID-19 Economic Recovery & Resilience Plan


Restaurant tax activity - Mountainland region
Although the pandemic has negatively impacted restaurant tax revenues in the Mountainland region, the severity of the declines
has ebbed since late summer/early fall. During the final four months of 2020, for example, restaurant tax revenues in the
Mountainland region actually increased on a year-over-year basis. This trend reversed itself during the first few months of 2021,
though the declines are less pronounced than the ones seen during the first months of the pandemic.

Year-over-year change in the Mountainland region restaurant tax revenues, 2020
20%

10%

6%
0%

0%

-20%

1%

-8%

-11%

-13%
-19%

3%

-6%

-19%

-32%
-40%
Apr
2020

May

Jun

July

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Jan
2021

Feb

Mar

Source: Utah State Tax Commission

24

COVID-19 Economic Recovery & Resilience Plan


Restaurant tax activity, continued
Within the Mountainland region, restaurant tax declines have been especially severe in Summit County. In July 2020, for example,
restaurant tax revenues in Summit County were nearly 60% below 2019 levels. Although revenues have improved since then, total
2020 restaurant tax revenues in Summit County remain approximately 20% to 50% less than pre-pandemic levels. Both Utah and
Wasatch Counties restaurant tax revenues have bit less hard hit by the pandemic. Between April 2020 and March 2021,
restaurants tax revenues in Utah and Wasatch Counties were down -0.4% and -6.4% relative to the 12 months preceding the
pandemic.

Year-over-year change in restaurant tax collection
Utah County

Summit County

Wasatch County

40%

29%

20%

1%
-6%

0%

-15%
-20%

-40%

4%

-21%

-16%

-2%

-2%

-42%

-56%

Jun

July

-7%
0%

-12%
-13%

-29%

-11%
-19%

-31%

-34%

Aug

Sep

29%
1%

-27%
-43%

23%

14%
8%

3%

-22%

-9%

-18%

-5%

13%

-24%

-14%

-40%

-60%
Apr
2020

May

Oct

Nov

Dec

Jan
2021

Feb

Mar

Source: Utah State Tax Commission

25

COVID-19 Economic Recovery & Resilience Plan


Transient room tax activity - Mountainland region
The pandemic has been calamitous for the hotel industry. In July 2020, transient room tax collection in the Mountainland region
were 60% below July 2019 levels. While revenues have since rebounded slightly, activity has remained significantly below prepandemic levels during most months.

Year-over-year change in transient room tax revenues
40%

24%
20%

10%

0%

-8%

-20%

-18%
-27%

-40%

-34%

-40%

-44%
-60%

-16%

-19%

-55%

-60%

-80%
Apr
2020

May

Jun

July

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Jan
2021

Feb

Mar

Source: Utah State Tax Commission

26

COVID-19 Economic Recovery & Resilience Plan


Transient room tax activity, continued
During the past year, the performance of transient room tax collections within the Mountainland region have varied widely.
Initially, Summit County experienced a substantial decline in transient room tax collections; in July, revenues were down more
than 80%. In the subsequent months, however, in transient room tax collections in Summit County rebounded strongly. In Wasatch
County, transient room tax collections have actually increased during most months of the padenimc. Transient room tax in Utah
County have fallen below these two extremes.

Year-over-year change in transient room tax collection, 2020
Utah County

Summit County

Wasatch County

60%
40%
20%
0%
-20%

18%

6%

-7%

-16%
-17%

-40%

-6%
-27%
-39%
-49%

-46%

-80%

-74%

-100%
May

-31%

-27%
-42%

-60%

Apr
2020

6%

Jun

-50%

-20%

7%
-22%

-16%

-25%

11%

56%

40%
-14%
-16%

-22%
-26%

-19%

-20%

Dec

Jan
2021

Feb

-37%

-44%

-24%
-28%
-37%

-81%
July

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Mar

Source: Utah State Tax Commission

27

COVID-19 Economic Recovery & Resilience Plan


2

County & City of Provo Profiles

COVID-19 Economic Recovery & Resilience Plan


Utah County Profile

29

COVID-19 Economic Recovery & Resilience Plan


Total employment – Utah County
In April 2020, total employment in Utah County fell 5.7% compared to a year earlier. This contraction in employment was less than
the statewide figure (7.3%) and well below the national decline (13.8%). Utah County was the least severely impacted of the
Mountainland region counties and saw employment recover rapidly in the summer of 2020. By July 2020, employment in Utah
County was already 0.7% higher than July 2019 and by September 2020 was 1.8% higher than September 2019. Meanwhile
employment in the State of Utah remained 1% below 2019 levels and nationally 6.8% below.

Year-over-year monthly employment change, 2020
Utah County
5%

0%

2.4%
2.3%
1.3%

2.4%
2.0%
1.3%

State of Utah

1.7%
0.9%
0.4%

-5%

-2.4%
-5.7%
-4.8%

US

-0.5%

-3.1%

-7.3%

-10%

-9.5%

-15%

-13.8%

1.8%

0.7%

1.0%

-2.0%

-1.5%

-1.0%

-8.3%

-7.6%

-6.8%

-12.1%

-20%
Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics

30

COVID-19 Economic Recovery & Resilience Plan


Unemployment and labor force – Utah County
After an initial surge during the initial onset of the pandemic, the unemployment rate in Utah County has steadily declined. The
unemployment rate in Utah County was just 2.8% in December 2020, less than half the US average. In April 2020, unemployment
peaked at 7.7% - nearly half the US peak of 14.4%. The local unemployment rate has since fallen steadily, reaching 2.5% in March
2021 – more than half the national level of 6.2%.
Notably, the decline in unemployment rate in Utah County has not been driven by people leaving the labor force (and thus no
longer counted as being officially unemployed). From March 2020 to March 2021, the total size of the labor force in Utah County
increased 2.5%. Nationally, the labor force declined 1.3% over the same period.
Year-over-year labor force change, March 2021

Unemployment rate, January 2020 – March 2021
Utah County
15%

US

5%

14.4%
2.5%

10%

7.7%
6.2%

5%

0%

4.0%
4.5%
2.4%

2.6%

-1.3%

2.5%

0%

-5%
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar

Utah County

US
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics

31

COVID-19 Economic Recovery & Resilience Plan


Employment change by industry – Utah County
Despite the pandemic and resulting economic downturn, Utah County has experienced notable employment increases in a variety
of sectors. Between June 2019 and June 2020, local Professional & Business companies added more than 1,300 workers to their
payrolls. Financial Activities employment rose by more than 1,000. While software publishing posted job gains, total Information
employment was dragged down by telecommunications declines. A significant jump in government employment also helped
bolster the local economy. These declines were offset by losses in areas such as Leisure & hospitality, Manufacturing, and
Information.

Utah County year-over-year employment change, June 2019 - June 2020
Absolute Change

Percentage Change

3,000

2,185

2,000
1,000
0

-77

-1,000

10%

1,351

1,035

784

5%

145

0%

-46

-331

-661

-343

-5%

-2,000

-10%

-2,191

-3,000

Na

Re
t.

c
ur
so

15%

e

s&

g
in
in
M

uc
tr
s
n
Co

n
ti o
uf
an
M

g
in
ur
t
ac
e
ad
Tr

&

a
Tr

rt
po
s
n

a

n
ti o

rm
fo
In

a

n
ti o
ia
nc
a
n
Fi

iv
ct
lA

es
iti

P

.&
ro

z
Bi

rv
Se

es
ic

u
Ed

&

a
He

lth

r
Se

c
vi

es

Le

e
ur
is

&

ta
pi
s
Ho

l

ity
r
he
t
O

-15%

r
Se

c
vi

es
r
ve
o
G

nm

t
en

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics

32

COVID-19 Economic Recovery & Resilience Plan


Unemployment change by industry – Utah County
As with the region overall, the largest increase in unemployed individuals during the pandemic (comparing June 2019 to June
2020) occurred in Leisure & Hospitality (2,693 unemployed, a 523% increase from the previous year), followed by Trade &
Transportation (1,407 unemployed, 102% increase), Education & Health Services (1,398 unemployed, 90% increase), and
Professional & Business Services (948 unemployed, 47% increase).
Construction, Financial Activities, Government, and Information (which included software) were the least impacted industries.

Utah County year-over-year unemployment change, June 2019 - June 2020
Absolute Change

Percentage Change

2,693

3,000

600%

2,500

500%

2,000

1,407

1,500
500

Na

Re
t.

200%

221

94

34

-10

-500

c
ur
so

245

55

0

300%

948

683

1,000

400%

1,398

e

s&

g
in
in
M

100%
0%
-100%

uc
tr
s
n
Co

n
ti o
uf
an
M

g
in
ur
t
ac
e
ad
Tr

&

a
Tr

rt
po
s
n

a

n
ti o

rm
fo
In

a

n
ti o
ia
nc
a
n
Fi

iv
ct
lA

es
iti

P

.&
ro

z
Bi

rv
Se

es
ic

u
Ed

&

a
He

lth

r
Se

c
vi

es

Le

e
ur
is

&

ta
pi
s
Ho

l

ity
r
he
t
O

r
Se

c
vi

es
r
ve
o
G

nm

t
en

Source: EMSI

33

COVID-19 Economic Recovery & Resilience Plan


New unemployment claims by industry – Utah County
Over the course of the pandemic, from March 2020 to present, the greatest increases in new, first-time unemployment claims filed
in Utah County came from Professional & Business Services (9,890 new claims), Trade & Transportation (7,704), Education &
Health Services (6,540), Leisure & Hospitality (4,605), and Manufacturing (4,080).
The difference in claims filed over the year versus the peak number of unemployed indicates that many industries continue to
experience disruptions through the pandemic.

Total first-time unemployment claims filed by industry, March 16, 2020 - current
Absolute Change

Percentage Change

12,000

9,890

10,000

7,704

8,000
6,000

3,881

4,000
2,000

6,540
4,885

4,605

4,080

132

1,439

1,173

n
io
at

tie
vi

1,424

925

0

t
Na

e
.R

c
ur
so

&
es

g
in
in
M

n
ti o
c
ru
st
n
Co

uf
an
M

g
in
ur
t
ac

a
Tr

de

&

a
Tr

r
po
ns

n
ti o
a
t

rm
fo
In

s

ti
S
Ac
l
iz
a
B
i
&
nc
o.
na
r
i
F
P

vi
er

s
ce

u
Ed

&

He

th
al

Se

e
ic
rv

s

re
su
i
Le

&

Ho

l
i ta
sp

ity
r
he
t
O

Se

e
ic
rv

s
ve
Go

m
rn

t
en

ow
kn
n
U

n

Source: Utah Department of Workforce Services

34

COVID-19 Economic Recovery & Resilience Plan


Establishment change by industry – Utah County
Between June 2019 and June 2020, the number of establishments in Utah County increased across every private sector industry.
On absolute basis, the greatest increases in establishments occurred in Professional & Business Services, Trade & Transportation,
and Construction. On a percentage basis, the Natural Resources & Mining and Information posted the greatest gains. Data on
establishments, combined with employment information, suggests that while companies have eliminated workers from their
payrolls, as of June they have not permanently ceased operations.

Utah County year-over-year establishment change, June 2019 - June 2020
Absolute Change

Percentage Change

279

300

15%

200

200

10%

136

100

47

15

10

106

64

5%

50

47

0

-3

-100

Na

Re
t.

c
ur
so

0%
-5%

e

s&

g
in
in
M

uc
tr
s
n
Co

n
ti o
uf
an
M

g
in
ur
t
ac
e
ad
Tr

&

a
Tr

rt
po
s
n

a

n
ti o

rm
fo
In

a

n
ti o
ia
nc
a
n
Fi

iv
ct
lA

es
iti

P

.&
ro

z
Bi

rv
Se

es
ic

u
Ed

&

a
He

lth

r
Se

c
vi

es

Le

e
ur
is

&

ta
pi
s
Ho

l

ity
r
he
t
O

r
Se

c
vi

es
r
ve
o
G

nm

t
en

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics

35

COVID-19 Economic Recovery & Resilience Plan


Paycheck Protection Program loans – Utah County
In 2020, approximately 7,700 Utah County companies received loans via the federal Paycheck Protection Program (PPP). Loan
recipients were asked to report how many jobs would be covered by each loan and identify the industry in which they operate. In
Utah County, PPP recipients encompassed nearly 110,000 jobs. Notably, the relationship between the self-reported industries of
loan recipients and job losses is relatively modest. Although Utah County’s Professional & Business Services industry posted
employment gains between June 2019 and June 2020, for example, this industry also represented the largest category of local
jobs covered by PPP loans. A similar dynamic characterized the Construction sector. Conversely, Utah County’s Leisure &
Hospitality industry has suffered significant job losses. Employment covered by local Leisure & Hospitality PPP loan recipients,
however, trails other industries such as Professional & Business, Education & Health Services, Trade & Transportation, and
Construction.
Jobs associated with Payback Protection Program loans in Utah County by industry, 2020
20,000

14,553

15,000

18,989

16,260

17,501
13,525

10,019

10,000

3,546

5,000

6,678

4,792

1,185

0

t
Na

rc
ou
s
e
.R

&
es

g
in
in
M

n
ti o
c
ru
st
n
Co

uf
an
M

g
in
ur
t
ac

a
Tr

de

&

a
Tr

r
po
ns

n
ti o
a
t

rm
fo
In

n
io
at

ti
Ac
l
ia
nc
a
n
Fi

tie
vi

s

P

.&
ro

z
Bi

S

vi
er

s
ce

u
Ed

&

He

th
al

Se

e
ic
rv

s

Le

e
ur
is

&

Ho

l
i ta
sp

ity
r
he
t
O

Se

e
ic
rv

s

Source: Small Business Administration

36

COVID-19 Economic Recovery & Resilience Plan


Paycheck Protection Program loans, continued – Utah County
In Utah County, the leading industries for Payback Protection Program loans largely mirrored the same industries with the most
jobs supported by the program. Utah County Professional & Business Services Firms cumulatively received nearly $52 million in
funding. Other leading recipients of loans included Trade & Transportation ($41.8 million), Construction ($49.8 million), and
Education & Health Services ($37.5 million).

Total loan values associated with Payback Protection Program loans in Utah County by industry, 2020
(in millions and excluding loans exceeding $150,000)
$60

$51.7

$50

$41.8

$39.8

$40

$37.5

$30

$19.0

$14.4

$20

$17.4

$5.8

$4.1

$10

$18.7

$0

t
Na

rc
ou
s
e
.R

&
es

g
in
in
M

n
ti o
c
ru
st
n
Co

uf
an
M

g
in
ur
t
ac

a
Tr

de

&

a
Tr

r
po
ns

n
ti o
a
t

rm
fo
In

n
io
at

ti
Ac
l
ia
nc
a
n
Fi

tie
vi

s

P

.&
ro

z
Bi

S

vi
er

s
ce

u
Ed

&

He

th
al

Se

e
ic
rv

s

Le

e
ur
is

&

Ho

l
i ta
sp

ity
r
he
t
O

Se

e
ic
rv

s

Source: Small Business Administration

37

COVID-19 Economic Recovery & Resilience Plan


CARES Act grants by industry– Utah County
In March 2020, the the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act was signed into law. The stimulus bill included
a grant program separate from the PPP program. Companies were eligible for both loan programs, though they were required to
use them for separate expenses. In Utah County, the industry composition of CARES Act grant recipients was rather different from
the industry composition of PPP loan recipients. Nearly two-thirds of Utah County companies that received CARES Act grants were
in one of four industries—Retail, Healthcare & Social Assistance, Arts & Entertainment, and Accommodation & Food.

Utah County CARES Act Grants by Industry, 2020
138

150

123

100

127

81
47

50

48

3

3

0

Ag

112

tu
ul
ir c

re

n
g
in
io
ct
ur
t
u
tr
ac
ns
uf
o
n
a
C
M

t
Re

15

22

18

0

11

26

l
ai

t
s
s
n
e
e
e
n
t.
t
od
ic
io
io
is
at
en
ce
ce
ac
or
t
i
i
t
t
s
r
p
Fo
rv
a
s
v
v
a
m
s
u
t
p
r
r
e
n
E
s
&
m
e
e
s
l
lA
or
ai
Su
In
or
lS
lS
ia
on
er
rt
ea
e
sp
&
i
c
a
a
nf
e
h
t
v
R
n
I
t
i
n
n
a
a
So
ce
Ot
io
at
En
tio
od
Tr
&
tr
an
a
ss
&
m
s
c
n
e
e
i
o
r
u
Fi
ts
of
in
cc
ca
Ed
m
Ar
Pr
h
A
t
d
A
al
He
Source: Mountainland Association of Governments

38

COVID-19 Economic Recovery & Resilience Plan


CARES Act grants by company size – Utah County
CARES Act grant recipients in Utah County were overwhelmingly smaller companies. Nearly 75% of all companies that received a
grant employed fewer than 10 full-time equivalent workers. An additional 20% of CARES Act grant recipients in Utah County had
11 to 25 workers on their payrolls. The remaining recipients employed 26 to 100 workers.

Utah County CARES Act Grants by Company Size, 2020

1-10 FTEs
74.0%

0%

25%

11-25 FTEs
19.5%

50%

75%

26-100 FTEs
6.5%

100%

Source: Mountainland Association of Governments

39

COVID-19 Economic Recovery & Resilience Plan


CARES Act grants by industry by company size – Utah County
The average company size of CARES Act grant recipients in Utah County varied widely by industry. In industries such as Retail,
Information, Finance & Insurance, Real Estate, and Professional Services, more than 80% of grant recipients employed fewer than
10 full-time equivalent workers. In other industries, including Agriculture, Educational Services, and Accommodation & Food, grant
recipients were often midsized companies with 11 to 25 workers.

Utah County CARES Act Grants by Industry by Company Size, 2020

1-10 FTEs
9%

100%
75%

17%
67%

50%
25%

74%
33%

17%

Ag

re

26-100 FTEs
2%

1%
11%

13%

17%

11%

25%
88%

100%

58%

n
g
in
io
ct
ur
t
u
tr
ac
ns
uf
o
n
a
C
M

87%

100%

9%

t
Re

6%

5%

19%

14%

83%

86%

14%

23%

39%

64%
76%
27%

0%

tu
ul
ir c

11-25 FTEs

80%

77%
46%

l
ai

t
s
s
n
e
e
e
n
t.
od
ic
io
io
is
at
en
ce
ce
ac
t
i
i
t
t
s
r
Fo
rv
a
s
v
v
a
m
s
u
t
r
r
e
n
E
s
&
m
e
e
s
l
lA
or
ai
In
or
lS
lS
ia
on
er
rt
ea
sp
&
i
c
a
a
nf
e
h
t
R
n
I
t
n
n
a
a
So
ce
Ot
io
io
En
od
Tr
&
an
at
ss
&
m
c
n
e
e
o
r
u
Fi
ts
of
cc
ca
Ed
Ar
Pr
h
A
t
al
He
Source: Mountainland Association of Governments

40

COVID-19 Economic Recovery & Resilience Plan


Housing costs – Utah County
At $305,500 the median home value in Utah County is 89% of the overall Mountainland region but 9% greater than Utah
($279,100) and 40% greater than the US ($217,500). Home values are also rising rapidly – increasing 37% in Utah County from
2014 to 2019 – compared to 24% nationally and 31% in Utah.
Costs for renters in Utah County are approximately the same as the US average and only slightly above Utah. Median rent only
grew 20% in Utah County from 2014 to 2019 – compared to 15% nationally and 19% in Utah.

Median home value (owner-occupied), 2019

Median rent, 2019

$350,000

$1,100

$305,500
$300,000

$279,100
$1,062

$1,060

$250,000

$217,500

$1,050

$1,037

$200,000

$150,000

$100,000

$1,000
Utah County

Utah

US

Utah County

Utah

US

Source: US Census, American Community Survey

41

COVID-19 Economic Recovery & Resilience Plan


Housing availability – Utah County
Housing availability is slighter lower in Utah County than the Mountainland region, Utah, and US averages. In 2019, Utah County
had a 0.8% homeowner vacancy rate and a 4.0% rental vacancy rate.
From 2014 to 2019, the Mountainland region saw the number of owned housing units grow 14% and rental units grow 16% compared to 9% and 9% respectively in Utah. The US only saw 3% growth in owned housing units and 4% in rental units over the
same period. The number of total housing units added in Utah County slightly exceeded the number of new households added over
this period.

Percentage growth in total new housing units, 2014 – 2019*

Housing vacancy rate, 2019

Owner-occupied

Rental

Owner-occupied

8%

18%

6.0%

6%

6.0%

16%

Rental

15.9%
14.0%

14%
12%

4.0%

4%

9.0% 8.5%

10%
8%

2%

0.8%

1.1%

1.6%

6%

4.4%
2.8%

4%
2%

0%

0%
Utah County

Utah

US

Utah County

Utah

US

Source: US Census, American Community Survey
*includes occupied and vacant housing units

42

COVID-19 Economic Recovery & Resilience Plan


Consumer spending – Utah County
In April, consumer spending dropped precipitously. Nationally, consumer spending fell by approximately 26%. In Utah County, the
decline was slightly less at 22%. Consumer spending has since rebounded in Utah County, though overall expenditures remain
slightly below pre-pandemic levels.

Percent change in all consumer spending (indexed to January 2020 levels and seasonally adjusted), 2020
Utah County

US

10%

0%

-0.3%
0.4%

1.8%
-0.3%

-3.8%
-9.3%

-10%

-10.3%

-7.2%
-9.8%

-22.4%

-20%

-7.9%
-7.8%

-5.2%
-5.8%

-2.7%
-4.4%

0.4%

-1.2%

-4.0%

-3.3%

-4.3%

-4.7%

Oct

Nov

Dec

-15.3%

-26.3%

-30%
Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Source: Affinity Solutions / Opportunity Insights

43

COVID-19 Economic Recovery & Resilience Plan


Small business revenue and closing – Utah County
There have been significant declines in Utah County small business revenue and small businesses open during 2020. In April, small
business revenue fell nearly 45%. Since then, small business revenue in Utah County has consistently been 25% to 30% below prepandemic levels. Small business opening data tells a similar story. In April, 40% of Utah County small businesses closed their
doors. Since then, 20% to 30% of small businesses have remained closed. Notably, the declines in small business revenue and small
businesses open in Utah County haven’t been as severe as statewide averages.

Percent change small businesses open
(indexed to January 2020 levels), 2020

Percent change small business revenue
(indexed to January 2020 levels), 2020
Utah County
20%

US

Utah County
10%

10.2%
0.5% 2.4%

0%
-0.2%

3.5%

0%

-5.5%

-5.8%

-7.0%

-13.5%

-12.4%

-8.9%
-15.7%

-24.5%

-20%
-20.7%

-27.9%
-40%

US

-14.2%

-0.3% -1.1%
-0.4%
-3.0%

-8.9%

-10%

-16.2%

-15.5%

-23.9%

-25.9%-26.2%
-31.2%
-28.6%
-32.1%

-20%

-17.2%

-14.4%

-21.8%

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

-17.3%

-17.3%
-23.7%

-28.0%
-40%

-17.6%

-25.3%

-30%

-44.7%
-60%

-12.4%

-18.4%

-26.6%

-26.8%

-18.1%

-28.0%
-26.4%

-28.5%

-39.3%
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
Source: Womply / Opportunity Insights

44

COVID-19 Economic Recovery & Resilience Plan


Sales tax revenues – Utah County
In April 2020, sales tax revenues declined year-over-year by $0.4 million in Utah County, but since then, sales tax revenues have
been higher every month than the previous year. In the 13 months since the pandemic began (April 2020 – April 2021), total
government sales tax revenues in Utah County increased over $14.7 million, an 11% increase over the previous 13 months.
November 2020 saw the largest increase, with sales tax revenues exceeding the previous year by $3 million. March 2021 saw the
smallest change, a year-over-year increase of $0.1 million compared to March 2020. Notably, March 2021 sales tax revenues
exceeded March 2019 by $3 million.

Utah County sales tax distribution – County and all cities, March 2020 – April 2021

Previous Year

$16,000,000
$14,000,000
$12,000,000

$10.6M

$10,000,000
$8,000,000
$6,000,000

$12.4M

$11.4M
$9.6M
$8.1M

$10.1M

$8.7M $8.5M

$10.5M
$9.9M

$11.0M

$8.6M

$14.3M

$13.6M
$11.5M $11.1M

$12.5M
$10.4M

$12.4M

$10.7M$10.5M
$10.6M

$10.2M $10.0M $10.6M $9.7M $10.1M

$8.1M

$4,000,000
$2,000,000
$0
Mar

Apr

May

Jun

2020

July

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

2021
Source: Utah State Tax Commission

45

COVID-19 Economic Recovery & Resilience Plan


Sales tax revenues, continued – Utah County
Through the pandemic, sales tax revenues collected by the cities within Utah County have increased more than those collected by
the County itself. For the cities of Utah County, only April 2020 saw a decrease in sales tax revenues compared to the previous
year. All other months posted positive gains, including a 28% year-over-year increase in November 2020, 24% in January 2021,
15% in February 2021, and 30% in April 2021, indicating a stronger recovery from the drop the previous year.

Year-over-year change in sales tax distribution, March 2020 – April 2021
Utah County

Utah County Cities

35%
30%
25%
20%

30%
30%
22%

28%
24%

13%

15%
10%

13%

5%

-5%

11%

12%
6%

-3%

0%

13%

17%
12%

12%

5%

5%

14%
8%

12%

15%
6%

7%

1%

1%

-4%

-10%

-10%

-10%

-15%
Mar
2020

Apr

May

Jun

July

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Jan
2021

Feb

Mar

Apr

Source: Utah State Tax Commission

46

COVID-19 Economic Recovery & Resilience Plan


Restaurant and transient room tax activity – Utah County
While restaurant tax revenues in Utah County have proven relatively resilient during the pandemic, transient room tax revenues
have fallen sharply. While restaurant tax revenues fell during the early months of the pandemic, they began to rebound in
September. Between April 2020 and March 2021, total restaurant tax revenues in Utah County are nearly identical to levels
observed during the 12 months preceding the pandemic. Transient room taxes revenues have been much slower to recover. In
June and July, Transient room taxes revenues in Utah County were down by more than 50%. Since then, they have remained 20%
to 30% below pre-pandemic levels.

Utah County transient room tax distribution

Utah County restaurant tax distribution
Previous Year
966K
932K
960K
922K
$1,000,000
930K
922K
885K
848K
745K
777K
892K
915K
782K
768K
681K
$750,000
621K
619K
799K
745K
717K
584K
684K
510K
603K
$500,000

$250,000

Previous Year
$500,000

396K

391K
$400,000

437K
404K
445K
341K
342K 341K
334K

283K
261K
$300,000 259K
237K
217K
198K
$200,000
$100,000

$0

485K

321K

286K
254K 264K
230K
230K
212K

69K

$0
Apr May Jun July Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar
2020

2021

Apr May Jun July Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar
2020

2021
Source: Utah State Tax Commission

47

COVID-19 Economic Recovery & Resilience Plan


Summit County Profile

48

COVID-19 Economic Recovery & Resilience Plan


Total employment – Summit County
In April 2020, total employment in Summit County fell 28% compared to a year earlier. This was four times the statewide figure
(7.3%) and double the national decline (13.8%). Employment in Summit County began to recover at a steady pace in the summer
of 2020, but in September 2020 employment in Summit County remained 10% below September 2019 levels. Within Utah,
employment was 1% less than in 2019. Nationally employment remained 7% less than 2019 levels.

Year-over-year monthly employment change, 2020

5%

2.8%

0%

2.3%
1.3%

2.4%
2.3%
1.3%

Summit County
1.7%
0.9%
0.4%

-5%

State of Utah

-7.3%
-4.8%

-10%
-15%

-13.8%

-20%

-12.1%

-3.1%
-9.5%
-16.3%

US

-2.0%
-8.3%
-14.3%

-1.5%
-7.6%
-12.5%

-1.0%
-6.8%
-10.1%

-18.9%

-25%
-30%
Jan

Feb

Mar

-27.9%

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics

49

COVID-19 Economic Recovery & Resilience Plan


Unemployment and labor force – Summit County
With an economy that is heavily reliant on tourism, Summit County has been disproportionately impacted by the pandemic and
resulting economic downturn. In March, unemployment in Summit County was less than 5%. By May, it exceeded 20%. Since then,
it has steadily fallen. By March 20201, the unemployment rate in Summit County reached 2.8% - only slightly above pre-pandemic
levels and well below the US level of 6.2%. The dramatic decline in Summit County’s unemployment rate has been partially
facilitated by a large contraction in the overall labor force. From March 2020 to March 2021, 1,330 workers dropped out of
Summit County’s labor force, a decline of 5%. For statistical purposes, these discouraged workers are not formally included in the
unemployment rate.

Year-over-year labor force change, March 2021

Unemployment rate, January 2020 – March 2021
Summit County
25%

US

0%

21.4%
-1.3%

20%

14.4%

15%

-5%
10%

-4.9%

6.2%

4.0%
4.5%
5%
0%

2.0% 2.4%

2.8%

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar

-10%
Summit County

US
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics

50

COVID-19 Economic Recovery & Resilience Plan


Employment change by industry – Summit County
As highlighted earlier, Summit County has been especially hard hit by the global pandemic. Immediately prior to the pandemic, the
Leisure & Hospitality sector employed approximately one in every four workers in Summit County. The pandemic has most directly
impacted this industry, and the effects can be seen in Summit County’s Leisure & Hospitality sector, as well as a host of other
supporting industries. In June 2020, Leisure & Hospitality employment remained nearly 40% less than June 2019 levels. During
this 12-month period, nearly every other employment sector in Summit County also suffered job losses.

Summit County year-over-year employment change, June 2019 - June 2020
Absolute Change
1,000

4

0

Percentage Change

130

29

6

-106

-331

-1,000

10%

-3,432
-87

-221

-86

-327

0%
-10%

-2,000

-20%

-3,000

-30%

-4,000

t.
Na

Re

c
ur
so

-40%

&
es

g
in
in
M

uc
tr
s
n
Co

n
ti o
uf
an
M

g
in
ur
t
ac

a
Tr

de

&

a
Tr

rt
po
s
n

a

n
ti o

rm
fo
In

a

n
ti o
ia
nc
a
n
Fi

iv
ct
lA

es
iti

P

.&
ro

z
Bi

rv
Se

es
ic

u
Ed

&

a
He

lth

r
Se

c
vi

es

Le

e
ur
is

&

ta
pi
s
Ho

l

ity
r
he
t
O

r
Se

c
vi

es
ve
Go

t
en
n
r

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics

51

COVID-19 Economic Recovery & Resilience Plan


Unemployment change by industry – Summit County
The significant pandemic impacts to the tourism sector in Summit County led to a related increase in the number of unemployed
Leisure & Hospitality workers. With 1,414 unemployed in June 2020, Leisure & Hospitality workers made up 67% of the
unemployed in Summitt County. This was a 630% increase in the number of unemployed Leisure & Hospitality workers from 2019.
Although unemployment has declined significantly in Summit County since June 2020, with over 1,000 workers falling out of the
labor force, it is unclear how many were in the Leisure & Hospitality industry. The impacts to these workers, many of whom were in
lower wage occupations, have likely been significant, and the number leaving the labor force could indicate an increased challenge
finding available labor in this industry.
Summit County year-over-year unemployment change, June 2019 - June 2020
Absolute Change

Percentage Change

1,600

700%
600%

1,200

500%

1,414

400%

800

300%

400

39

0

t.
Na

Re

c
ur
so

50

5

&
es

g
in
in
M

uc
tr
s
n
Co

n
ti o
uf
an
M

a
Tr

de

a
Tr

rt
po
s
n

a

n
ti o

rm
fo
In

a

n
ti o
ia
nc
a
n
Fi

200%

93

19

g
in
ur
t
ac
&

122

208

iv
ct
lA

es
iti

P

.&
ro

75

61

z
Bi

rv
Se

es
ic

u
Ed

&

a
He

lth

r
Se

c
vi

es

Le

e
ur
is

&

ta
pi
s
Ho

l

ity
r
he
t
O

r
Se

c
vi

10

es
ve
Go

100%
0%

t
en
n
r

Source: EMSI

52

COVID-19 Economic Recovery & Resilience Plan


New unemployment claims by industry – Summit County
Unlike other counties in the Mountainland region, Leisure & Hospitality remained consistently the greatest source of new first-time
unemployment claims in Summit County. Over the past year, 2,983 individuals in the Leisure & Hospitality industry filed for
unemployed. The next largest industry clusters were Trade & Transportation (1,006) and Unknown (896).
These trends reflect the high concentration of tourism jobs in Summit County and the disproportionate impact of the COVID-19
pandemic on this sector and the individuals working those jobs.

Total first-time unemployment claims filed by industry, March 16, 2020 - current
Absolute Change

Percentage Change

3,500

2,983

3,000
2,500
2,000
1,500

1,006

1,000
500

19

203

128

73

352

659

896

522

225

124

0

t
Na

e
.R

c
ur
so

&
es

g
in
in
M

n
ti o
c
ru
st
n
Co

uf
an
M

g
in
ur
t
ac

a
Tr

de

&

a
Tr

r
po
ns

n
ti o
a
t

rm
fo
In

n
io
at

tie
vi

s

ti
S
Ac
l
iz
a
B
i
&
nc
o.
na
r
i
F
P

vi
er

s
ce

u
Ed

&

He

th
al

Se

e
ic
rv

s

re
su
i
Le

&

Ho

l
i ta
sp

ity
r
he
t
O

Se

e
ic
rv

s
ve
Go

m
rn

t
en

ow
kn
n
U

n

Source: Utah Department of Workforce Services

53

COVID-19 Economic Recovery & Resilience Plan


Establishment change by industry – Summit County
Despite job losses across virtually every industry, the number of establishments in Summit County rose across most sectors
between June 2019 and June 2020. On absolute basis, the greatest increases in establishments occurred in Education & Health
Services and Construction. On a percentage basis, these two industries also enjoyed the greatest increase in establishments within
Summit County. The resiliency of establishments in Summit County suggest that through the first half of 2020 relatively few firms
permanently shut their doors.

Summit County year-over-year establishment change, June 2019 - June 2020
Absolute Change

Percentage Change

30

22

15%

22

20

15

10

10%

15
8

4

3

5%

2

0

0

-2

-4

-10

Na

Re
t.

c
ur
so

e

s&

g
in
in
M

uc
tr
s
n
Co

n
ti o
uf
an
M

g
in
ur
t
ac
e
ad
Tr

&

a
Tr

rt
po
s
n

a

n
ti o

rm
fo
In

a

n
ti o
ia
nc
a
n
Fi

iv
ct
lA

es
iti

P

.&
ro

z
Bi

rv
Se

es
ic

u
Ed

&

a
He

lth

r
Se

c
vi

es

Le

e
ur
is

&

ta
pi
s
Ho

l

0%
-5%

ity
r
he
t
O

r
Se

c
vi

es
r
ve
o
G

nm

t
en

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics

54

COVID-19 Economic Recovery & Resilience Plan


Paycheck Protection Program loans – Summit County
Compared to other counties in the region, there was more direct link between the industry composition of loan recipients and local
job losses in Summit County. Approximately 1,600 firms in Summit County received PPP loans. These loans covered nearly
16,000 jobs. Leisure & Hospitality firms comprised nearly a third of this total, representing almost 5,100 jobs. Other leading
industry recipients of PPP loans in Summit County include Trade & Transportation (2,200 jobs), Professional & Business Services
(1,775), and Financial Activities (1,700).

Jobs associated with Payback Protection Program loans in Summit County by industry, 2020
6,000

5,088

4,000

2,184

1,582

2,000

1,333

1,215

334

314

171

1,768

1,692

0

t
Na

rc
ou
s
e
.R

&
es

g
in
in
M

n
ti o
c
ru
st
n
Co

uf
an
M

g
in
ur
t
ac

a
Tr

de

&

a
Tr

r
po
ns

n
ti o
a
t

rm
fo
In

n
io
at

ti
Ac
l
ia
nc
a
n
Fi

tie
vi

s

P

.&
ro

z
Bi

S

vi
er

s
ce

u
Ed

&

He

th
al

Se

e
ic
rv

s

Le

e
ur
is

&

Ho

l
i ta
sp

ity
r
he
t
O

Se

e
ic
rv

s

Source: Small Business Administration

55

COVID-19 Economic Recovery & Resilience Plan


Paycheck Protection Program loans, continued – Summit County
Although Payback Protection Program loans in Summit County help support more Leisure & Hospitality jobs than any other
industry, actual funding was largely directed elsewhere. Summit County Professional & Business Services Firms cumulatively
received nearly $11 million in funding. Other leading recipients of loans included Construction ($9.7 million), Trade &
Transportation ($6.8 million), and Financial Activities ($7 million). Summit County Leisure & Hospitality companies received less
than $7 million in Payback Protection Program loans.

Total loan values associated with Payback Protection Program loans in Summit County by industry, 2020
(in millions and excluding loans exceeding $150,000)
$12

$10.9

$9.7

$9

$7.0

$6.8

$6.5

$6

$4.2

$3

$1.7

$1.0

$3.2

$1.1

$0

t
Na

rc
ou
s
e
.R

&
es

g
in
in
M

n
ti o
c
ru
st
n
Co

uf
an
M

g
in
ur
t
ac

a
Tr

de

&

a
Tr

r
po
ns

n
ti o
a
t

rm
fo
In

n
io
at

ti
Ac
l
ia
nc
a
n
Fi

tie
vi

s

P

.&
ro

z
Bi

S

vi
er

s
ce

u
Ed

&

He

th
al

Se

e
ic
rv

s

Le

e
ur
is

&

Ho

l
i ta
sp

ity
r
he
t
O

Se

e
ic
rv

s

Source: Small Business Administration

56

COVID-19 Economic Recovery & Resilience Plan


CARES Act grants by industry – Summit County
The the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act signed into law in March 2020 created a grant program
separate from the PPP program. Companies were eligible for both loan programs, though they were required to use them for
separate expenses. In Summit County, Accommodation & Food companies represented nearly a third of CARES Act grant
recipients. Other leading industries included Arts & Entertainment and Retail.

Summit County CARES Act Grants by Industry, 2020
40

29

30
20
10

0

0

Ag

tu
ul
ir c

re

2

9

5

n
g
in
io
ct
ur
t
u
tr
ac
ns
uf
o
n
a
C
M

1
t
Re

5
0

0

8

6

4

9

12

3

l
ai

t
s
s
n
e
e
e
n
t.
t
od
ic
io
io
is
at
en
ce
ce
ac
or
t
i
i
t
t
s
r
p
Fo
rv
a
s
v
v
a
m
s
u
t
p
r
r
e
n
E
s
&
m
e
e
s
l
lA
or
ai
Su
In
or
lS
lS
ia
on
er
rt
ea
e
sp
&
i
c
a
a
nf
e
h
t
v
R
n
I
t
i
n
n
a
a
So
ce
Ot
io
at
En
tio
od
Tr
&
tr
an
a
ss
&
m
s
c
n
e
e
i
o
r
u
Fi
ts
of
in
cc
ca
Ed
m
Ar
Pr
h
A
t
d
A
al
He
Source: Mountainland Association of Governments

57

COVID-19 Economic Recovery & Resilience Plan


CARES Act grants by company size – Summit County
Smaller companies represented the lion’s share of CARES Act grant recipients in Summit County. More than 70% of all companies
that received a grant employed fewer than 10 full-time equivalent workers. An additional 20% of CARES Act grant recipients in
Summit County had 11 to 25 workers on their payrolls. The remaining recipients employed 26 to 100 workers.

Summit County CARES Act Grants by Company Size, 2020

1-10 FTEs
72.0%

0%

25%

11-25 FTEs
21.5%

50%

75%

26-100 FTEs
6.5%

100%

Source: Mountainland Association of Governments

58

COVID-19 Economic Recovery & Resilience Plan


CARES Act grants by industry by company Size – Summit County
Summit County CARES Act grant recipients varied widely by size and industry. In industries such as Construction, Manufacturing,
Healthcare & Social Assistance, and Arts & Entertainment,100% of grant recipients employed fewer than 10 full-time equivalent
workers. In other industries, including Real Estate and Accommodation & Food, grant recipients often midsized companies with 11
to 25 workers.

Summit County CARES Act Grants by Industry by Company Size, 2020

1-10 FTEs
100%

11-25 FTEs

11%

50%

12.5%
13%

40%

75%

26-100 FTEs

Column1
8.3%

13.8%

25%

45%
100%

100%

100%

89%

75%

60%

25%

100%

75%

100%

92%
41%

0%

n
io
ct
u
tr
ns
o
C

uf
an
M

g
in
ur
t
ac

t
Re

l
ai

Tr

n
io
at
t
or
sp
n
a

a
Re

l

ta
Es

P

te

ss
fe
o
r

l
na
io

Se

e
ic
rv

s

a
uc
Ed

l
na
o
i
t

Se

e
ic
rv

a
He

s

r
ca
h
t
l

e

&

a
ci
o
S

lA

t.
is
s
s

t
Ar

s

&

rt
te
n
E

nm
ai

t
en

c
Ac

om

n
ti o
a
od

&

od
Fo
r
he
t
O

r
se

ce
vi

Source: Mountainland Association of Governments

59

COVID-19 Economic Recovery & Resilience Plan


Housing costs – Summit County
At $641,900 the median home value in Summit County is 89% greater than the overall Mountainland region ($340,184), 130%
greater than Utah ($279,100) and 195% greater than the US ($217,500). Home values are rising rapidly – increasing 29% in
Summit County from 2014 to 2019 – compared to 24% nationally and 31% in Utah.
Costs for renters in Summit County are also higher, with median rent ($1,429) more than 30% greater than the Mountainland
region, US, and Utah levels. Median rent only grew 17% in Summit County from 2014 to 2019 – compared to 15% nationally and
19% in Utah.

Median home value (owner-occupied), 2019

Median rent, 2019

$700,000

$1,600

$641,900

$1,429

$1,400

$600,000

$1,200
$500,000

$1,037

$1,062

Utah

US

$1,000

$400,000

$800
$600

$279,100

$300,000

$217,500
$200,000

$400
$200

$100,000

$0
Summit County

Utah

US

Summit County

Source: US Census, American Community Survey

60

COVID-19 Economic Recovery & Resilience Plan


Housing availability – Summit County
Housing availability in Summit County is likely skewed by a large share of vacation rentals. In 2019, Summit County’s homeowner
vacancy rate was only 2.1% - slightly higher than the US and Utah levels, but the Summit County rental vacancy rate was 30.2% likely due to a large share of rental units being utilized as vacation rentals, which are counted as “vacant” within the Census.
From 2014 to 2019, the Summit County saw the number of owned housing units grow 7.6% - slightly below the 9% statewide
housing construction rate. Over the same period, the number of rental units grew 12% in Summit County – well above the the
statewide rate of 9% and potentially indicating a high growth in construction of new vacation rental units.

Percentage growth in total new housing units, 2014 – 2019*

Housing vacancy rate, 2019

Owner-occupied
35%
30%

Rental

Owner-occupied
14%

30.2%

12.1%

12%

25%

9.0%

10%

20%

8%

15%

6%

10%

4%

5%

6.0%
2.1%

Rental

1.1%

6.0%
1.6%

0%

7.6%

8.5%

4.4%
2.8%

2%
0%

Summit County

Utah

US

Summit County

Utah

US

Source: US Census, American Community Survey
*includes occupied and vacant housing units

61

COVID-19 Economic Recovery & Resilience Plan


Consumer spending – Summit County
During the initial onset of the global pandemic, consumer spending in the US declined dramatically. Nationally, consumer spending
fell by approximately 26% in April. At nearly 33%, the decline was slightly larger in Summit County. Although the spending has
improved modestly since then, overall consumer expenditures in Summit County has remained consistently below pre-pandemic
levels.

Percent change in all consumer spending (indexed to January 2020 levels and seasonally adjusted), 2020
Summit County

US

10%

0.4%
0%

1.7%

-0.3%

0.6%

-0.9%

-10%

-9.8%

-10.3%

-20%

-15.3%
-26.3% -17.8%

-7.8%

-5.8%

-4.4%

-3.3%

-4.2%
-11.2%

-10.5%

Jul

Aug

-4.3%
-7.9%

-11.9%

-4.7%

-11.1%

-17.9%

-30%

-32.8%
-40%
Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Source: Affinity Solutions / Opportunity Insights

62

COVID-19 Economic Recovery & Resilience Plan


Small business revenue and closing – Summit County
Summit County small business revenue has declined substantially in 2020. A large proportion of small businesses in Summit
County have also temporarily closed their doors. In April, small business revenue in Summit County dropped 55%. Although it has
since recovered, overall small business revenues remained approximately 40% below pre-pandemic throughout the rest of 2020.
Similarly, nearly half of small businesses in Summit closed their doors in April. Although many have since reopened, more than a
quarter of small businesses in the community remain closed.

Percent change small businesses open
(indexed to January 2020 levels), 2020

Percent change small business revenue
(indexed to January 2020 levels), 2020
Summit County

US

Summit County

20%

10%
3.5%

-0.2%
0%
-0.9%
-5.4%

0%
-10%
-20.7%
-24.5%

-20%

-27.9%
-40%

-43.7%

-44.7%

-0.3% -1.1%
-0.6%

-14.4%

-4.1%

-20%
-26.2%
-31.2%
-32.1%
-25.9%
-37.1%
-43.6%

-28.6%

-23.9%

-38.7%
-33.4%

-60%

US

-45.4%

-41.1%

-40.8%

-47.8%

-55.0%
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

-30%
-40%

-23.8%

-26.6%
-26.0%
-25.7%
-25.3% -24.6%
-26.4%
-27.1%
-28.0%
-23.7%
-26.6%
-28.0%
-39.3%
-26.8% -26.4%
-28.5%
-31.7%
-32.4%

-50%
-49.5%
-60%
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
Source: Womply / Opportunity Insights

63

COVID-19 Economic Recovery & Resilience Plan


Sales tax revenues – Summit County
Within the Mountainland region, Summit County has experienced the greatest decrease and volatility in sales tax activity through
the pandemic. In the 13 months since the pandemic began, total government sales tax revenues in Summit County declined nearly
$620,000, a 3% decrease over the previous 13 months.
The greatest relative drop in sales activity in Summit County occurred in May 2020, when sales tax distributions fell to $1.5
million from $1.9 million the previous year. For much of the summer of 2020, sales tax distributions matched the previous year,
except August, which fell slightly behind. November 2020 and January 2021 saw increases in Summit County sales tax activity,
although February and March 2021 both fell short of the previous year by $0.1 million and $0.3 million respectively.
Summit County sales tax distribution
$2,500,000

Previous Year
$2,000,000

$1.9M
$1.6M

$1,500,000

$1.9M

$1.9M

$1.7M $1.6M

$1.5M

$1.2M
$.8M

$1,000,000

$.8M

$500,000

$1.0M
$.9M

$1.0M

$1.4M
$1.2M $1.2M

$1.4M

$1.9M

$1.8M $1.6M

$1.6M

$1.1M

$1.2M $1.2M $1.2M

$1.1M

$1.8M

$1.1M

$0
Mar

Apr

May

Jun

July

2020

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

2021
Source: Utah State Tax Commission

64

COVID-19 Economic Recovery & Resilience Plan


Sales tax revenues, continued – Summit County
Sales tax activity Summit County was generally consistent between Cities and County distributions. July 2020 saw an increase in
sales tax distributions to the County despite a decline within the Cities,

Year-over-year change in sales tax distribution
Summit County

Summit County Cities

40%
30%
20%
10%

21%

30%

23%

23%

15%

15%

10%
4%

14%
-4%
6%

0%

-2%

-10%

-6%

-20%

-11%

-6%

-4%

5%
3%

-1%

5%

-15%

-16%

-22%

-30%

18%

2%
-12%
-22%

-31%

-40%
Mar
2020

Apr

May

Jun

July

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Jan
2021

Feb

Mar

Apr

Source: Utah State Tax Commission

65

COVID-19 Economic Recovery & Resilience Plan


Restaurant and transient room tax activity – Summit County
The pandemic has resulted in prolonged declines in Summit County restaurant and transient room tax revenues. Between May and
July 2020, restaurant tax revenue were down at least 40% compared to one year earlier. Throughout the remainder of 2020, in
most months they have remained approximately 10% to 30% lower relative to levels observed one year earlier. Transient room
revenues in Summit County have been more resilient in large part due to the nature of the community’s tourism industry. As skiing
is a primary driver of tourism activity in Summit County, hotel revenues typically spike during the first three months of the year.
Although transient room tax revenues were down nearly 40% in March of 2021, overall declines have been less severe during
much of the pandemic. Between April 2020 and March 2021, transient room tax revenues were approximately 20% below where
they stood one year earlier.
Summit County transient room tax distribution (in millions)

Summit County restaurant tax distribution
Previous Year
464K

$500,000 454K
433K
$400,000

369K

358K

281K
281K

249K261K
218K227K
196K
168K
142K148K161K
149K
136K

248K

$200,000

82K

$100,000

$2.5
$2.1

$2.1 $2.0

299K
$300,000

Previous Year

235K

64K

152K

$2.0

$1.8
$1.6

$1.5

$1.3 $1.3
$1.0

$1.0

$0.8

$0.5 $0.5 $0.5
$0.4
$0.4
$0.3
$0.6
$0.3
$0.2
$0.6
$0.5 $0.6
$0.1
$0.1

$0.5

$0

$0.9

$0.0
Apr May Jun July Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar

Apr May Jun July Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar

2020

2020

2021

2021
Source: Utah State Tax Commission

66

COVID-19 Economic Recovery & Resilience Plan


Wasatch County Profile

67

COVID-19 Economic Recovery & Resilience Plan


Total employment – Wasatch County
In April 2020, total employment in Wasatch County region fell 10.8% compared to a year earlier. The contraction in employment
was greater than the statewide figure (7.3%) but less than the national decline (13.8%).
Employment in Wasatch County has since recovered rapidly - recovering most lost jobs in August 2020 before a slight dip in
September 2020, when employment fell to 0.9% of September 2019 levels. At this time within Utah, employment was 1% less
than in 2019. Nationally employment remained more than 7% less than 2019 levels.

Year-over-year monthly employment change, 2020
Wasatch County
4%
2%

1.4%
2.3%

2.4%
2.2%

0%

1.3%

1.3%

-2%

1.8%

State of Utah

1.7%

-0.2%

0.4%

-3.8%

-4%

-7.3%

-6%

US

-5.7%

-3.1%

-2.0%

-10%

-10.8%

-14%

-1.5%

-0.9%
-1.0%

-4.8%

-8%

-12%

0.6%

-9.5%

-8.3%

-7.6%

-6.8%

-12.1%

-13.8%

-16%
Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics

68

COVID-19 Economic Recovery & Resilience Plan


Unemployment and labor force – Wasatch County
In April, the unemployment rate in Wasatch County rose sharply as the pandemic curtailed economic activity throughout much of
the US. Since then, however, it has steadily fallen. By March 2021, Wasatch County’s unemployment rate was 3%.
Loss of labor force was not a primary factor affecting unemployment declines in Wasatch County. From March 2020 to March
2021, Wasatch County’s labor force grew slightly at 0.3% compared to a national decline of 1.3%.

Year-over-year labor force change, March 2021

Unemployment rate, January 2020 – March 2021
Wasatch County

US

1%

25%

0.3%

17.7%

20%

0%
15%

14.4%

10%

5%

0%

4.0%

6.2%

-1%

4.5%

2.6% 3.1%

-1.3%
3.0%

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar

-2%
Wasatch County

US
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics

69

COVID-19 Economic Recovery & Resilience Plan


Employment change by industry – Wasatch County
From an employment standpoint, Utah County escaped the recent economic downturn relatively unscathed. Summit County, on
the other hand, experienced significant job losses. Wasatch County employment trends have remained these two extremes; while a
majority of industry sectors post job losses between June 2019 and June 2019, the depth of these declines was relatively
modest. Leisure & Hospitality has been a notable exception, with job losses approaching 20%. Compared to Summit County,
however, Leisure & Hospitality represents a much proportion of Wasatch County’s employment base.

Wasatch County year-over-year employment change, June 2019 - June 2020
Absolute Change

Percentage Change

500

20%

250

10%

38

-3

0

35

-347

-3

-183

106

-18

-250

-17

-60

es
iti

es
ic

-48
-10%

-500

t.
Na

Re

c
ur
so

0%

-20%

&
es

g
in
in
M

uc
tr
s
n
Co

n
ti o
uf
an
M

g
in
ur
t
ac

a
Tr

de

&

a
Tr

rt
po
s
n

a

n
ti o

rm
fo
In

a

n
ti o
ia
nc
a
n
Fi

iv
ct
lA

P

.&
ro

z
Bi

rv
Se

u
Ed

&

a
He

lth

r
Se

c
vi

es

Le

e
ur
is

&

ta
pi
s
Ho

l

ity
r
he
t
O

r
Se

c
vi

es
ve
Go

t
en
n
r

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics

70

COVID-19 Economic Recovery & Resilience Plan


Unemployment change by industry – Wasatch County
Corresponding to employment changes, Wasatch County saw the greatest increase of unemployed individuals in Leisure &
Hospitality (543 new unemployed from June 2019 to June 2020, a 772% increase), followed by Trade & Transportation (190
unemployed, 236% increase), and Professional & Business Services (99 unemployed, 108% increase).
The overall drop in unemployment from June 2020 to March 2021 alongside a slight increase in labor force size indicates that
many of these individuals have seen been able to regain employment.

Wasatch County year-over-year monthly unemployment change, June 2019 - June 2020
Absolute Change

Percentage Change

600
500

543

400
300

190

200
100
0

t
Na

rc
ou
s
e
.R

&
es

0g
in
in
M

73

51

n
ti o
c
ru
st
n
Co

g
in
ur
t
ac

uf
an
M

a
Tr

de

&

7

a
Tr

r
po
ns

n
ti o
a
t

rm
fo
In

n
io
at

ti
Ac
l
ia
nc
a
n
Fi

30
tie
vi

s

P

.&
ro

82

99

z
Bi

S

vi
er

s
ce

u
Ed

&

a
He

11

35

lth

Se

e
ic
rv

Le

s

e
ur
is

&

Ho

l
i ta
sp

ity
rS
he
t
O

e

e
ic
rv

s
ve
Go

900%
800%
700%
600%
500%
400%
300%
200%
100%
0%

t
en
n
r

Source: EMSI

71

COVID-19 Economic Recovery & Resilience Plan


New unemployment claims by industry – Wasatch County
Similar to Summit County, new unemployment claims filings in Wasatch County over the past year indicate that Leisure &
Hospitality continued to remain the most impacted local industry throughout the year. From March 2020 through the present,
1,347 new first-time unemployment claims came from the Leisure & Hospitality sector in Wasatch County, followed by Trade &
Transportation (548), Professional & Business Services (394), Unknown (372), and Education & Health Services (343).

Total first-time unemployment claims filed by industry, March 16, 2020 - current
Absolute Change

Percentage Change

1,600

1,347

1,400
1,200
1,000
800

548

600
400

13

200

206

394

78

56

372

343

193

90

68

0

t
Na

e
.R

c
ur
so

&
es

g
in
in
M

n
ti o
c
ru
st
n
Co

uf
an
M

g
in
ur
t
ac

a
Tr

de

&

a
Tr

r
po
ns

n
ti o
a
t

rm
fo
In

n
io
at

tie
vi

s

ti
S
Ac
l
iz
a
B
i
&
nc
o.
na
r
i
F
P

vi
er

s
ce

u
Ed

&

He

th
al

Se

e
ic
rv

s

re
su
i
Le

&

Ho

l
i ta
sp

ity
r
he
t
O

Se

e
ic
rv

s
ve
Go

m
rn

t
en

ow
kn
n
U

n

Source: Utah Department of Workforce Services

72

COVID-19 Economic Recovery & Resilience Plan


Establishment change by industry – Wasatch County
Despite job losses across most industries, between June 2019 and June 2020 the number of establishments in Wasatch County
rose across most sectors. On absolute basis, the greatest increases in establishments occurred in Professional & Business Services
and Construction. On a percentage basis, these two industries also enjoyed the greatest increase in establishments within Wasatch
County. The widespread increase in Wasatch County establishments across a variety of industries suggest that relatively few firms
permanently shut their doors during the first half of 2020.

Wasatch County year-over-year establishment change, June 2019 - June 2020
Absolute Change

Percentage Change

28

30

15%

24

20

10%

11
10

1

0

0

3

3

6

2

2

0%

-4

-10

Na

Re
t.

c
ur
so

e

s&

g
in
in
M

5%

uc
tr
s
n
Co

n
ti o
uf
an
M

g
in
ur
t
ac
e
ad
Tr

&

a
Tr

rt
po
s
n

a

n
ti o

rm
fo
In

a

n
ti o
ia
nc
a
n
Fi

iv
ct
lA

es
iti

P

.&
ro

z
Bi

rv
Se

es
ic

u
Ed

&

a
He

lth

r
Se

c
vi

es

Le

e
ur
is

&

ta
pi
s
Ho

l

ity
r
he
t
O

r
Se

c
vi

-5%

es
r
ve
o
G

nm

t
en

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics

73

COVID-19 Economic Recovery & Resilience Plan


Paycheck Protection Program loans – Wasatch County
In Wasatch County, approximately 600 firms received received PPP loans. These loans covered encompassed 6,000 jobs. Nearly
half of these jobs were in two industries—Leisure & Hospitality (1,500 jobs) and Professional & Business Services (1,425). Other
significant industries covered by PPP loans in Wasatch County include Trade & Transportation (750), Education & Health Services
(700), and Construction (675).

Jobs associated with Payback Protection Program loans in Wasatch County by industry, 2020
2,000

1,000

752

674

500

t
Na

693

265

51

8

0

rc
ou
s
e
.R

1,516

1,437

1,500

&
es

g
in
in
M

n
ti o
c
ru
st
n
Co

uf
an
M

g
in
ur
t
ac

a
Tr

de

&

a
Tr

r
po
ns

n
ti o
a
t

rm
fo
In

n
io
at

ti
Ac
l
ia
nc
a
n
Fi

277

260

tie
vi

s

P

.&
ro

z
Bi

S

vi
er

s
ce

u
Ed

&

He

th
al

Se

e
ic
rv

s

Le

e
ur
is

&

Ho

l
i ta
sp

ity
r
he
t
O

Se

e
ic
rv

s

Source: Small Business Administration

74

COVID-19 Economic Recovery & Resilience Plan


Paycheck Protection Program loans, continued – Wasatch County
In Wasatch County, the leading industries for Payback Protection Program loans largely mirrored the same industries with the
most jobs supported by the program. Wasatch County Professional & Business Firms cumulatively received more than $4 million in
funding. Other leading recipients of loans included Construction ($3.7 million), Trade & Transportation ($2.8 million), and Leisure
& Hospitality ($2.5 million).

Total loan values associated with Payback Protection Program loans in Wasatch County by industry, 2020
(in millions and excluding loans exceeding $150,000)
$6

$4.2

$3.7

$4

$2.8

$2

$2.5

$2.3
$1.4

$1.2

$1.0

$0.3

$0.2
$0

t
Na

rc
ou
s
e
.R

&
es

g
in
in
M

n
ti o
c
ru
st
n
Co

uf
an
M

g
in
ur
t
ac

a
Tr

de

&

a
Tr

r
po
ns

n
ti o
a
t

rm
fo
In

n
io
at

ti
Ac
l
ia
nc
a
n
Fi

tie
vi

s

P

.&
ro

z
Bi

S

vi
er

s
ce

u
Ed

&

He

th
al

Se

e
ic
rv

s

Le

e
ur
is

&

Ho

l
i ta
sp

ity
r
he
t
O

Se

e
ic
rv

s

Source: Small Business Administration

75

COVID-19 Economic Recovery & Resilience Plan


CARES Act Grants by Industry – Wasatch County
In March 2020, the the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act was signed into law. The stimulus bill created
a separate grant program from the PPP program. Companies could obtain loans from both programs, though they were required to
use them for separate expenses. In Wasatch County, the leading recipients of CARES Act Loans included Healthcare & Social
Assistance, Arts & Entertainment, Educational Services, and Retail companies.

Wasatch County CARES Act Grants by Industry, 2020
10

8
6

6

4

5

2
0

Ag

tu
ul
ir c

0

0

re

n
g
in
io
ct
ur
t
u
tr
ac
ns
uf
o
n
a
C
M

3

2

4

6

5

5

2

0
t
Re

l
ai

t
s
s
n
e
e
e
n
t.
t
od
ic
io
io
is
at
en
ce
ce
ac
or
t
i
i
t
t
s
r
p
Fo
rv
a
s
v
v
a
m
s
u
t
p
r
r
e
n
E
s
&
m
e
e
s
l
lA
or
ai
Su
In
or
lS
lS
ia
on
er
rt
ea
e
sp
&
i
c
a
a
nf
e
h
t
v
R
n
I
t
i
n
n
a
a
So
ce
Ot
io
at
En
tio
od
Tr
&
tr
an
a
ss
&
m
s
c
n
e
e
i
o
r
u
Fi
ts
of
in
cc
ca
Ed
m
Ar
Pr
h
A
t
d
A
al
He
Source: Mountainland Association of Governments

76

COVID-19 Economic Recovery & Resilience Plan


CARES Act grants by company size – Wasatch County
Wasatch County CARES Act Business Loan recipients were overwhelmingly smaller enterprises. More than 87% of all grant
recipients employed fewer than 10 full-time equivalent workers. An additional 10% of Wasatch County CARES Act grant recipients
had 11 to 25 workers on their payrolls. The remaining recipients employed 26 to 100 workers.

Wasatch County CARES Act Grants by Company Size, 2020

11-25 FTEs
9.4%

1-10 FTEs
86.8%

0%

25%

26-100 FTEs
3.8%

50%

75%

100%

Source: Mountainland Association of Governments

77

COVID-19 Economic Recovery & Resilience Plan


CARES Act grants by industry by company size – Wasatch County
Given the relatively small size of companies receiving CARES Act grant in Wasatch County, it is perhaps unsurprising that many
industries were characterized by 100% small firm recipients. This includes Manufacturing, Information, Real Estate, Professional
Services, and Educational Services. Only in Arts & Entertainment and Accommodation & Food did any grant recipients employ
more than 25 workers.

Wasatch County CARES Act Grants by Industry by Company Size, 2020

1-10 FTEs
100%

26-100 FTEs
17%

17%

75%
50%

11-25 FTEs

25%

50%
100%

100%

83%

25%

100%

100%

100%

50%

20%

17%

75%

67%

t.
is
s
s

t
en

100%

80%

0%

uf
an
M

g
in
ur
t
ac

t
Re

l
ai

Tr

n
io
at
t
or
sp
n
a

rm
fo
In

n
io
at
a
Re

l

ta
Es

P

te

ss
fe
o
r

l
na
io

Se

e
ic
rv

s

a
uc
Ed

l
na
o
i
t

Se

e
ic
rv

a
He

s

r
ca
h
t
l

e

&

a
ci
o
S

lA

t
Ar

s

&

rt
te
n
E

nm
ai

c
Ac

om

n
ti o
a
od

&

od
Fo
r
he
t
O

r
se

ce
vi

Source: Mountainland Association of Governments

78

COVID-19 Economic Recovery & Resilience Plan


Housing costs – Wasatch County
At $419,900 the median home value in Wasatach County is 23% higher than overall Mountainland region ($340,184), 50%
greater than Utah ($279,100), and 93% greater than the US ($217,500). Home values are also rising rapidly – increasing 38% in
Wasatch County from 2014 to 2019 – compared to 24% nationally and 31% in Utah.
Costs for renters in Wasatch County are higher than the region and state. At $1,364, median rent in Wasatch County is
approximately 25% higher than the Mountainland regional level and more than 30% above the Utah and US levels. Median rent also
increased 33% in Summit County from 2014 to 2019 – compared to 15% nationally and 19% in Utah.

Median home value (owner-occupied), 2019

Median rent, 2019

$450,000

$1,600

$419,900

$1,400

$400,000

$1,364

$1,200

$350,000

$1,062

Utah

US

$1,000

$279,100

$300,000

$1,037

$800
$250,000

$217,500

$200,000

$600
$400

$150,000

$200

$100,000

$0
Wasatch County

Utah

US

Wasatch County

Source: US Census, American Community Survey

79

COVID-19 Economic Recovery & Resilience Plan


Housing availability – Wasatch County
Housing availability in Wasatch County is mixed. With a homeowner vacancy rate of 0.6%, fewer homes are available to purchase
than the regional, state, and US average. Rental vacancies are slightly higher at 7.1%, but this could be reflective of vacation
rentals – though not as significant a share as in Summit County.
From 2014 to 2019, Wasatch County saw the number of owned housing units grow 22% and rental units grow 33% - much higher
than the 9% and 9% respective growth in Utah. The US only saw 3% growth in owned housing units and 4% in rental units over the
same period. The number of new housing units added in Wasatch County roughly matched the number of new households added.

Percentage growth in total new housing units, 2014 – 2019*

Housing vacancy rate, 2019

Owner-occupied
8%

Rental

Owner-occupied
33.3%

35%

7.1%
6.0%

6%

6.0%

Rental

30%
25%

21.7%

20%
4%
15%
2%

0.6%

1.1%

1.6%

9.0% 8.5%

10%

2.8%

5%

0%

4.4%

0%
Wasatch County

Utah

US

Wasatch County

Utah

US

Source: US Census, American Community Survey
*includes occupied and vacant housing units

80

COVID-19 Economic Recovery & Resilience Plan


Consumer spending – Wasatch County
Consumer spending in the US fell dramatically during the early months of the pandemic. In April, for example, consumer spending
both nationally and in Wasatch County declined by approximately 26%. In June, however, consumer spending in Wasatch County
exceeded pre-pandemic levels. They have remained above pre-pandemic levels ever since.

Percent change in all consumer spending (indexed to January 2020 levels and seasonally adjusted), 2020
Wasatch County

US

30%
20%

7.5%

10%

0.4%

-0.3%

-0.9%
-10%

-1.3%
-10.3%

4.2%
-9.8%

-8.7%
-26.0%

-20%

19.1%

19.9%

-3.3%

-4.3%

-4.7%

Oct

Nov

Dec

11.0%

-0.2%

0%

19.8%

-7.8%

3.6%
-5.8%

-4.4%

Aug

Sep

-15.3%

-26.3%

-30%
Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Source: Affinity Solutions / Opportunity Insights

81

COVID-19 Economic Recovery & Resilience Plan


Small business revenue and closing – Wasatch County
While small business revenue in Wasatch County has declined in the wake of the pandemic, these declines haven’t been as severe
as the national average. Small business opening activity tells a similar story. In April, nearly one in four Wasatch County small
businesses temporarily closed their doors. Since then, some have reopened. In December, fewer than 20% of small businesses
remained closed. Nationally, the figure exceeded 28%.

Percent change small businesses open
(indexed to January 2020 levels), 2020

Percent change small business revenue
(indexed to January 2020 levels), 2020
18.4%

20%

3.5%
-0.2%
7.1%

0%
-1.0%
-20%

-40%

Wasatch County

Wasatch County

US

10%

2.9%
10.8%

-20.7%

US

-0.1%

4.9%
-3.7%

-1.4%

0%
-18.2%

-21.9%
-14.6% -24.5%
-26.2%
-28.6%
-27.9%
-32.1%
-23.9%
-25.9%
-44.7%
-31.2%

-10%
-20%
-30%

-0.3%

0.5% -5.3%

-1.1%

-2.0%
-2.1%

-3.5%
-6.9%
-6.2%
-7.9%

-14.4%
-23.5%
-39.3%

-60%

-4.4%
-14.5%
-17.4%

-25.3%-23.7%
-26.6%
-28.0%
-26.8% -26.4%
-28.0%
-28.5%

-40%
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
Source: Womply / Opportunity Insights

82

COVID-19 Economic Recovery & Resilience Plan


Sales tax revenues – Wasatch County
Among the Mountainland region’s geographic areas, Wasatch County overall saw the greatest percentage increase in sales tax
activity during the pandemic. Sales tax distributions throughout the county from May 2020 to April 2021 totaled nearly $8.3
million – a 19% or $1.3 million increase over the previous year.
Monthly sales tax activity in Wasatch County exceeded the the previous year in every month except April 2020, which saw a $0.1
million decline.

Wasatch County sales tax distribution
$900,000
$800,000
$700,000
$600,000

Previous Year
$.6M

$.6M

$.6M

$.6M
$.5M

$.4M

Mar

Apr

$.7M

$.9M

$.8M
$.7M

$.6M
$.6M

$.5M

$500,000
$400,000

$.8M

$.6M

$.7M

$.7M

$.6M

$.6M
$.6M

$.6M

$.7M

$.6M

$.6M

$.6M

$.6M

$.5M

$.4M

$300,000
$200,000
$100,000
$0
May

Jun

July

2020

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

2021
Source: Utah State Tax Commission

83

COVID-19 Economic Recovery & Resilience Plan


Sales tax activity, continued
Trends in sales tax distributions to Wasatch County roughly matched those to Wasatch County Cities over the past year, with the
County seeing slightly higher growth in sales tax distributions overall.
November 2020 and January 2021 saw the greatest increase in distributions to the County relative to the cities.

Year-over-year change in sales tax distribution
Wasatch County

Wasatch County Cities

60%

55%

50%

48%

40%
30%
20%

41%
35%

34%
23%
16%
18%

10%

19%
17%

15%
14%

22%
16%

26%
20%

-10%
Mar
2020

-4%

Apr

May

Jun

July

Aug

28%

12%

-2%

0%

23%

Sep

Oct

23%

21%
18%

10%
10%

Nov

Dec

8%
1%
Jan
2021

Feb

Mar

Apr

Source: Utah State Tax Commission

84

COVID-19 Economic Recovery & Resilience Plan


Restaurant and transient room tax activity – Wasatch County
The pandemic has contributed to declines in Wasatch County restaurant and transient room tax revenues. During the early days of
the pandemic, restaurant room tax revenues in Wasatch County fell sharply. By the end of 2020, however, much of this decline had
been reserved. Overall, restaurant room tax revenues between April 2020 and March 2021 were down less than 6% compared to
the 12 months preceding the pandemic. Transient room tax revenues in Wasatch have experienced a more severe decline largely
due to lackluster at both the beginning of the pandemic and during the first few months of 2021. Transient room tax revenues for
Wasatch County between April 2020 and March 2021 were approximately 12% less than the year preceding the pandemic.

Wasatch County transient room tax distribution

Wasatch County restaurant tax distribution
Previous Year
$500,000

Previous Year
$100,000

405K

80K

$400,000
294K
$300,000

361K
320K

243K

191K
200K
191K
191K

$200,000
64K
55K 44K
52K

$100,000

$75,000

276K

296K
276K

190K178K137K
140K
99K
180K

70K

$50,000

56K 52K
46K
52K
48K
47K
42K

62K

59K

72K

75K 76K
75K
66K

71K
58K
51K

65K
56K

45K
37K

31K
$25,000

123K
63K

$0

$0

Apr May Jun July Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar
2020

2021

Apr May Jun July Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar
2020

2021
Source: Utah State Tax Commission

85

COVID-19 Economic Recovery & Resilience Plan


City of Provo Profile

86

COVID-19 Economic Recovery & Resilience Plan


Total employment – City of Provo
In April 2020, total employment in the City of Provo fell 5.7% compared to a year earlier. The contraction in employment was less
than the statewide figure (7.3%) and the national decline (13.8%).
Employment in Provo recovered rapidly – recovering lost jobs in August 2020 and continuing to grow through September 2020,
when employment was 1.5% higher than September 2019. At this time within Utah, employment was 1% less than in 2019.
Nationally employment remained more than 7% less than 2019 levels.

Year-over-year monthly employment change, 2020
City of Provo
2.5%
2% 2.3%
4%

0%

1.3%

2.4%
1.9%
1.3%

-2%

State of Utah

1.7%
0.9%
0.4%

-2.0%
-5.7%

-4%
-6%

-0.5%

-3.1%

US
0.5%

0.8%

-2.0%

-1.5%

1.5%

-1.0%

-4.8%

-8%

-7.3%

-10%

-9.5%

-12%

-8.3%

-7.6%

-6.8%

-12.1%

-14%

-13.8%

-16%
Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep
Source: EMSI

87

COVID-19 Economic Recovery & Resilience Plan


Unemployment and labor force – Provo
Although the unemployment rate in Provo during the initial onset of the pandemic, the rise proved far less severe than the
national figure. In April 2020, the national unemployment rate topped 14%. In Provo, it remained less than 7%. Since then, it has
steadily declined, reaching 2.1% in March 2021 – below pre-pandemic levels for the city and the national level of 6.2%. Note:
unemployment details by industry are unavailable at the City level.
Notably, the decline in unemployment rate in Provo as not been driven by people abandoning the labor force (and thus no longer
counted as being officially unemployed). From March 2020 to March 2021, Provo’s total labor force increase in size by 1.8% compared to a 1.3% decline nationally.
Year-over-year labor force change, March 2021

Unemployment rate, January 2020 – March 2021
Provo
15%

US

5%

14.4%
1.8%

10%
0%

6.4%
5%

4.0%
4.5%

0%

-1.3%

6.2%
2.4%

2.2%

2.1%

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar

-5%
Provo

US
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics

88

COVID-19 Economic Recovery & Resilience Plan


Employment change by industry – Provo
Job losses in Provo between June 2019 and June 2020 proved relatively limited. All told, employment in the city fell by less than
1% during this period. Perhaps unsurprisingly, the Leisure & Hospitality sector accounted for most of these losses. Between June
2019 and June 2020, Leisure & Hospitality employment in Provo declined by more than 13%. Other industries such as
Information and Education & Health Services also suffered jobs losses, though these contractions were relatively modest. Several
industries in Provo posted jobs gains despite the pandemic. Professional and Business Services employment in the city, for
example, rose by nearly 4% between June 2019 and June 2020.

City of Provo year-over-year employment change, June 2019 - June 2020
Absolute Change

Percentage Change

417

500

106

250
0

182

88

78

-17

-250

5%
0%

-89

-5%

-20

-95

-253

-500

-15%

-750

-787

-1,000

Na

Re
t.

c
ur
so

-10%

e

s&

g
in
in
M

uc
tr
s
n
Co

n
ti o
uf
an
M

g
in
ur
t
ac
e
ad
Tr

&

a
Tr

rt
po
s
n

a

n
ti o

rm
fo
In

a

n
ti o
ia
nc
a
n
Fi

iv
ct
lA

es
iti

P

.&
ro

z
Bi

rv
Se

es
ic

u
Ed

&

a
He

lth

r
Se

c
vi

es

Le

e
ur
is

&

ta
pi
s
Ho

l

ity
r
he
t
O

-20%

r
Se

c
vi

es
r
ve
o
G

nm

t
en

Source: EMSI

89

COVID-19 Economic Recovery & Resilience Plan


Paycheck Protection Program loans – Provo
In 2020, approximately 1,500 companies in Provo received loans via the federal Paycheck Protection Program (PPP). Loan
recipients were asked to report how many jobs would be covered by each loan and identify the industry in which they operate. In
Provo, PPP recipients encompassed nearly 22,500 jobs. With the exception of Professional & Business Services, industries with
relatively severe job losses were the same industries to receive PPP loans. The two industries that experienced the most
pronounced jobs losses in Provo—Leisure & Hospitality and Education & Health Services—reported the most jobs covered by PPP
loans.

Jobs associated with Payback Protection Program loans in City of Provo by industry, 2020
5,401

6,000

4,407
3,587

4,000

2,604
1,469

2,000

1,012

465

1,095

1,257

n
io
at

tie
vi

1,301

0

t
Na

rc
ou
s
e
.R

&
es

g
in
in
M

n
ti o
c
ru
st
n
Co

uf
an
M

g
in
ur
t
ac

a
Tr

de

&

a
Tr

r
po
ns

n
ti o
a
t

rm
fo
In

ti
Ac
l
ia
nc
a
n
Fi

s

P

.&
ro

z
Bi

S

vi
er

s
ce

u
Ed

&

He

th
al

Se

e
ic
rv

s

Le

e
ur
is

&

Ho

l
i ta
sp

ity
r
he
t
O

Se

e
ic
rv

s

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics

90

COVID-19 Economic Recovery & Resilience Plan


Paycheck Protection Program loans, continued – Provo
In Provo, the leading industries for Payback Protection Program loans largely mirrored the same industries with the most jobs
supported by the program. Provo Professional & Business Services Firms cumulatively received more than $10 million in funding.
Other leading recipients of loans included Education & Health Services ($7.5 million), Trade & Transportation ($6.6 million), and
Leisure & Hospitality ($5.3 million).

Total loan values associated with Payback Protection Program loans in City of Provo by industry, 2020
(in millions and excluding loans exceeding $150,000)
$15

$10.2
$10

$7.5

$6.6
$3.5

$5

$5.3

$1.9

$0.4

$4.0

$3.3
$0.6

$0

t
Na

rc
ou
s
e
.R

&
es

g
in
in
M

n
ti o
c
ru
st
n
Co

uf
an
M

g
in
ur
t
ac

a
Tr

de

&

a
Tr

r
po
ns

n
ti o
a
t

rm
fo
In

n
io
at

ti
Ac
l
ia
nc
a
n
Fi

tie
vi

s

P

.&
ro

z
Bi

S

vi
er

s
ce

u
Ed

&

He

th
al

Se

e
ic
rv

s

Le

e
ur
is

&

Ho

l
i ta
sp

ity
r
he
t
O

Se

e
ic
rv

s

Source: Small Business Administration

91

COVID-19 Economic Recovery & Resilience Plan


Housing costs – Provo
At $271,300 the median home value in Provo is 80% of the overall Mountainland region, 97% of Utah ($279,100), and 25%
greater than the US ($217,500). Home values are rising rapidly – increasing 35% in Provo from 2014 to 2019 – compared to 24%
nationally and 31% in Utah.
Costs for renters in Provo are much lower than the region, state, and US. Median rent of $877 in Provo is 80% of the Mountainland
region and 85% of the state. Median rent in Provo grew more slowly than to-purchase homes, rising only 19% from 2014 to 2019 –
compared to 15% nationally and 19% in Utah. Lower rents in Provo are likely affected by a large student population and associated
housing.
Median home value (owner-occupied), 2019

Median rent, 2019

$300,000

$1,200

$280,000

$271,300

$279,100

$1,000

$260,000
$240,000

$217,500

$220,000
$200,000

$1,037

$1,062

Utah

US

$877

$800
$600

$180,000
$400

$160,000
$140,000

$200

$120,000
$100,000

$0
City of Provo

Utah

US

City of Provo

Source: US Census, American Community Survey

92

COVID-19 Economic Recovery & Resilience Plan


Housing availability – Provo
Housing availability in Provo is lower than the Mountainland region overall and Utah and US averages. In 2019, the City of Provo
had a 0.9% homeowner vacancy rate and a 3.0% rental vacancy rate. Low availability of housing may also be related to the large
student population, as well relatively slower growth in new rental units and a decline in the number of for-purchase units in the
City in recent years.
From 2014 to 2019, the City of Provo saw the number of owned housing units decline 4% while rental units grow 8%. This was
compared to 9% and 9% growth respectively in Utah. The US only saw 3% growth in owned housing units and 4% in rental units
over the same period.
Percentage growth in total new housing units, 2014 – 2019*

Housing vacancy rate, 2019

Owner-occupied

Rental

Owner-occupied

8%

10%

6.0%

6%

6.0%

7.9%

8%

9.0% 8.5%

6%

4.4%
2.8%

4%
4%

2%

2%

3.0%

0.9%

0%

1.1%

1.6%

-2%
-4%

0%

-6%
City of Provo

Rental

Utah

US

-4.1%
City of Provo

Utah

US

Source: US Census, American Community Survey
*includes occupied and vacant housing units

93

COVID-19 Economic Recovery & Resilience Plan


Sales tax revenues – City of Provo
Monthly taxable sales revenues in the City of Provo either matched or exceeded the previous year for nearly every month of the
pandemic except April 2020, the month that experience the greatest lockdown and consumer uncertainty. Between May 2020 and
April 2021, sales tax revenues in the City of Provo totaled $22 million. This was an increase of nearly $1.6 million compared to
the 12 months preceding months.
November 2020, January 2021, February 2021, and April 2021 saw the greatest increases in local sales activity in Provo relative
to the previous year.

City of Provo sales tax distribution
$3,000,000

Previous Year

$2,500,000
$2,000,000

$2.3M

$2.2M
$1.5M

$1,500,000

$1.5M
$1,000,000

$2.0M

$1.9M

$1.8M

$1.5M
$1.7M
$1.5M

$1.4M

$1.6M

$1.9M

$1.6M

$1.8M

$2.0M
$1.7M

$1.7M

$1.8M
$2.1M

$1.7M $1.6M $1.8M $1.7M $1.7M

$1.7M

$1.7M
$1.4M

$500,000
$0
Mar

Apr

May

Jun

July

2020

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

2021
Source: Utah State Tax Commission

94

COVID-19 Economic Recovery & Resilience Plan

File and source

File
mag-utah-recovery-resilience-appendix-2021.pdf
Size
1,366,289 bytes
SHA-256
5eaecab3dbed32477b9472d2df7382bcf9b009e4de4fd6e800491ded33b3729e
Our copy
mag-utah-recovery-resilience-appendix-2021.pdf
Original
magutah.gov
Back to top