Thinking of visiting or moving to St. George, Utah? You’re in for sunshine, scenery, and serious elevation perks. This guide covers everything you need to know about its elevation, geography, and why so many people are drawn to this growing desert gem. St. George Elevation: 2,860 feet.

Table of Contents

Where is St. George, Utah?

St. George sits in the southwestern tip of Utah, bordering Nevada and Arizona. It’s a strategic spot where desert meets mountain, just a short drive from stunning national parks.

City Basics

  • County Seat: Washington County
  • Size: Nearly 65 square miles
  • Population: Around 85,000 residents, with nearly double that in the surrounding metro area
  • Growth: Among the fastest-growing cities in the country—people love the climate and lifestyle here.

The History Behind St. George

  • Indigenous Roots: Originally home to Paiute tribes
  • Founded: 1861 as a cotton mission for the LDS Church
  • Named After: George Smith, a Mormon leader
  • Development: The favorable climate and location made it perfect for farming and growth
  • Today: It’s the 7th-largest city in Utah and a hotspot for tourism and new residents

Outdoor and Cultural Attractions

Nearby National Parks

Explore world-class nature just a short drive away:

Local Cultural Highlights

  • Museums Galore: From the St. George Children’s Museum to the Rosenbruch Wildlife Museum
  • Events Year-Round: Like the St. George Marathon and Huntsman World Senior Games

Elevation Fast Facts

  • St. George Elevation: 2,860 feet (872 m)
  • Utah’s Average Elevation: 6,100 feet (1,860 m)
  • Utah Elevation Rank: 3rd-highest state (after Colorado and Wyoming)
  • High Point: Kings Peak – 13,534 feet (4,125 m)
  • Low Point: Beaver Dam Wash – 2,180 feet (664 m)

Elevation Compared to Other Cities

How does St. George stack up against other Utah cities?

  • Salt Lake City: 4,226 ft
  • Provo: 4,551 ft
  • West Jordan: 4,373 ft
  • St. George: Lower than most—only Santa Clara and Washington are lower

Most coastal U.S. cities sit below 500 feet, so yes, St. George is significantly higher than the national average.

Climate and Weather

  • Climate Type: Hot desert
  • Rainfall: Just 8.8 inches a year
  • Snow: Rare to non-existent
  • Sunshine: Abundant year-round
  • Summer Temps: Frequently over 100ºF (38ºC) in June–August

This makes St. George ideal if you’re chasing dry heat and clear skies.

Things to Do Around Town

Historic Landmarks

  • Explore Ancestor Square and other sites that reflect the city’s Mormon heritage.

Local Outdoor Spots

  • Pioneer Park: For hiking, picnics, and incredible red rock views
  • Red Hills Desert Garden: A unique desert botanical garden full of native plants and trails

Plan Your Trip