Explore the elevation of Cedar City—perched high in Utah’s southwest, where history, red rock landscapes, and culture meet at nearly 6,000 feet above sea level in the shadow of the Rocky Mountains and near national park wonders.

Table of Contents

Where is Cedar City?

  • Location: Cedar City is located in southwestern Utah, near the Mojave Desert and close to the Utah–Nevada border.
  • County seat: It is the largest city in Iron County.
  • Area: Covers 36.8 square miles.
  • Population: Estimated at 31,000+ residents.

City Profile

  • Founding: Settled in 1851 by Mormons seeking iron resources; incorporated in 1868.
  • Historic heritage: Human activity dates back thousands of years, including Southern Paiute peoples and nearby rock art sites.
  • Economic evolution: Originally tied to iron and coal mining; now driven by tourism and higher education.
  • Main institutions: Home to Southern Utah University (SUU).
  • Events: Hosts the annual Utah Shakespeare Festival and Utah Summer Games.

Elevation Basics

  • City elevation: Cedar City stands at 5,846 feet (1,782 m) above sea level.
  • National comparison: That’s more than double the U.S. average of 2,500 feet (760 m).
  • State comparison: Utah has a mean elevation of 6,100 feet (1,860 m), so Cedar City is just below average.
  • Reasons for elevation: Due to its inland position and location in a mountainous state.

Must-Know Elevation Facts

  • Highest city in Utah: Brian Head – 9,800 feet (2,987 m).
  • Salt Lake City elevation: 4,226 feet (1,288 m); includes high points like Grandview Peak – 9,410 feet (2,868 m).
  • Other major cities:
    • West Valley City: 4,304 feet (1,312 m)
    • Provo: 4,551 feet (1,387 m)
    • West Jordan: 4,373 feet (1,333 m)
  • State extremes:
    • Highest point: Kings Peak – 13,534 feet (4,125 m)
    • Lowest point: Beaver Dam Wash – 2,180 feet (664 m)

Climate and Tourism

  • Climate type: Cedar City has a semi-arid climate, typical of the Mountain West.
  • Seasonal weather:
    • Summers: Warm and dry – July highs average 89°F (32°C).
    • Winters: Cold and snowy – January lows average 19°F (-7°C).
  • Snowfall: Occurs November through April.
  • Attractions:
    • Southern Utah University
    • Utah Shakespeare Festival
    • Utah Summer Games
  • Main Street charm: Features historic buildings filled with shops and restaurants.
  • Outdoor recreation: Ideal for climbing, hiking, mountain biking, and exploring nearby natural parks like:
    • Zion National Park
    • Bryce Canyon National Park
    • Grand Canyon National Park