If you're considering making your home in Salt Lake City but crave a blend of serene suburban comfort, beautiful mountain views, and easy city access, the St. Mary’s neighborhood might be exactly what you're looking for. Tucked just east of Foothill Drive and bordered by Wasatch Drive and 1700 South, St. Mary’s is one of Salt Lake’s most beloved east bench communities—a place where wide streets, leafy yards, and a strong sense of neighborhood pride set the tone for daily life.
Community Vibe
St. Mary’s is best described as peaceful, friendly, and neighborly. Residents often speak about the “small town within the city” feel that permeates the tree-lined streets, such as Chandler Drive and Laurelhurst Drive. Longtime neighbors greet each other on daily walks; kids ride bikes and gather at local parks; and there are regular block parties, holiday parades, and even a few lemonade stands come summer. The neighborhood is tight-knit, with an active community association that keeps residents connected and informed.
Types of Housing
Variety is a hallmark of St. Mary’s housing stock:
- Classic mid-century ranch homes dominate, many of which have been carefully updated while retaining their original charm.
- Larger, two-story colonials and contemporary custom homes nestle comfortably on generous lots, often with breathtaking mountain or valley views.
- The area also includes some townhomes and duplexes, though the vast majority are single-family homes.
- Spacious yards, mature trees, and well-kept gardens are community standards, particularly along roads like Devonshire Drive and Laird Avenue.
Homes here typically range from 2,000 to over 6,000 square feet, with price points reflecting the desirability and stability of the area.
Walkability
While St. Mary’s is primarily residential and quiet, walkability is a pleasant surprise for newcomers:
- Residents can stroll or bike safely along wide sidewalks, and the gentle hills provide just enough exercise without feeling strenuous.
- The scenic Bonneville Golf Course lies at the neighborhood’s edge, where early morning walkers and joggers can catch glimpses of deer or enjoy panoramic views.
- The Foothill Village shopping center is within easy walking or biking distance for many, featuring grocery stores, cafes, boutiques, and basic amenities.
- Although not as urban as downtown neighborhoods, few St. Mary’s homeowners feel “car dependent” for daily routines thanks to strategically located schools, churches, and parks.
Schools and Family-Friendliness
St. Mary’s is sought after for its strong, family-focused schools and educational environment:
- Bonneville Elementary sits at the heart of the neighborhood on 2345 S 1900 E, known for its dedicated teachers and active PTA.
- Older kids typically attend Clayton Middle School and East High—both within a short drive or bike ride.
- Access to both public and reputable private options, such as Rowland Hall, makes the area versatile for families of all backgrounds.
Churches, safe crossing guards, and sports leagues abound, creating a welcoming hub for social and after-school activities. Parents appreciate the relatively quiet streets and visible community support, making it easy for kids to walk or bike to classes and parks.
Parks and Green Spaces
One of St. Mary’s most cherished features is its access to outdoor recreation:
- Laird Park is the central community green space, with playgrounds, basketball courts, and open fields shaded by trees—always bustling with dog walkers, soccer games, and casual picnics.
- Bonneville Golf Course offers not only golf but also excellent sledding hills in winter, making it a year-round neighborhood perk.
- The nearby foothill trailheads (Parley’s and Emigration Canyon) are within a short drive, allowing residents to hike, bike, or ski just minutes from their front doors.
Many families and nature lovers cite these amenities as reasons they chose—and stay in—St. Mary’s.
Safety
Safety is a consistent priority here, with the area ranking as one of Salt Lake’s safest established neighborhoods:
- Streets like Princeton Avenue and Devonshire Drive maintain low traffic speeds and have an active neighborhood watch program.
- Routine police patrols and engaged homeowners help ensure that crime rates remain well below city averages.
- A sense of “everyone looking out for each other” prevails, with newcomers quickly feeling part of the fold.
Proximity to Downtown and Major Employers
One of St. Mary’s biggest practical perks is its location:
- Just 10 minutes by car to downtown Salt Lake City, the University of Utah, or major medical centers (like Primary Children’s Hospital and U of U Health).
- Easy access to I-80 and Foothill Drive cuts commuting time for those working in research, tech, or healthcare.
- For outdoor enthusiasts, Park City resorts and Big Cottonwood Canyon trailheads are less than a 40-minute drive, making weekend adventures spontaneous.
Residents often say they get the best of both worlds: a peaceful home base with all the benefits and opportunities of a major city close at hand.
What Residents Love Most
Ask a handful of St. Mary’s locals what stands out, and you’ll likely hear:
- “The quiet, the views, and the neighbors—it’s a truly beautiful, welcoming place to live.”
- “Everything is just easy: school drop-offs, shopping, heading downtown or into the mountains.”
- “I love our mature trees and the sense of community you feel at every corner.”
Whether it’s the friendly waves from neighbors on Park View Drive, the laughter from Laird Park’s playgrounds, or the sunsets over the Salt Lake Valley seen from a backyard deck, there’s an intangible quality here that turns houses into homes and neighbors into lifelong friends.
St. Mary’s is not just a place to live—it’s a place to belong.