Utah Counties. List Alphabetically (and by Population)
How many counties are there in Utah? As of 2024, there are a total of 29 counties in the state of Utah. Among them, Salt Lake County is the oldest one (established in 1849) while Daggett County is the youngest (established in 1919). With population of 1,029,665, Salt Lake County is the most populated. The biggest county by land area is San Juan County (20,254 km²) and the smallest is Davis County (774 km²).
Largest Counties in Utah
1. San Juan County
County Overview
- County Seat: Monticello
- Area: 7,933 square miles
- Population: 14,518 (2020 Census)
- Area Codes: 435
- Latitude: 37.8669° N
- Longitude: 109.3425° W
Location and History
San Juan County is located in the southeastern corner of Utah, bordered by Colorado, New Mexico, and Arizona. It is the largest county in Utah by area and is known for its rugged landscapes, which include vast deserts, deep canyons, and towering mesas. The county was established in 1880 and named after the San Juan River, which flows through the region. Monticello, the county seat, developed as a small farming and ranching community in the late 19th century. San Juan County’s history is deeply tied to Native American cultures, particularly the Navajo Nation and the ancient Ancestral Puebloans, whose ruins are scattered throughout the region. The county is also known for its connection to the Old Spanish Trail, a historic trade route that linked Santa Fe to Los Angeles.
Major Highways and Landmarks
U.S. Route 191 and U.S. Route 163 are the major highways that traverse San Juan County, providing access to the county’s many natural and cultural attractions. Major landmarks include the Bears Ears National Monument, a vast protected area that is sacred to Native American tribes and features stunning archaeological sites. The county is also home to Canyonlands National Park and Arches National Park, both of which offer some of the most spectacular landscapes in the American Southwest. Additionally, the Valley of the Gods, often compared to Monument Valley, is a hidden gem with towering rock formations and scenic driving routes.
2. Tooele County
County Overview
- County Seat: Tooele
- Area: 6,941 square miles
- Population: 72,698 (2020 Census)
- Area Codes: 435
- Latitude: 40.5308° N
- Longitude: 112.2983° W
Location and History
Tooele County is located in northwestern Utah, west of Salt Lake City. The county was established in 1852 and named after the Goshute word for the area, which is believed to mean “bear.” Tooele, the county seat, has a rich history tied to mining, with significant deposits of silver, gold, and lead discovered in the region during the 19th century. The county also played a crucial role in World War II, serving as a site for military facilities such as the Tooele Army Depot. Today, Tooele County is known for its blend of rural landscapes and growing suburban communities, with an economy that includes manufacturing, agriculture, and defense-related industries.
Major Highways and Landmarks
Interstate 80 is the primary highway that runs through Tooele County, providing a direct connection to Salt Lake City and Nevada. Major landmarks include the Bonneville Salt Flats, a unique natural formation that is world-renowned as a venue for land speed records and other automotive events. The Great Salt Lake Desert, another key feature of the county, offers stark, otherworldly landscapes that have been used as a backdrop for numerous films. The county is also home to the historic Wendover Airfield, a training base during World War II, and the Deseret Peak Complex, which hosts a variety of recreational activities, including rodeos, concerts, and sports events.
3. Millard County
County Overview
- County Seat: Fillmore
- Area: 6,828 square miles
- Population: 12,975 (2020 Census)
- Area Codes: 435
- Latitude: 39.0164° N
- Longitude: 112.3308° W
Location and History
Millard County is located in west-central Utah and is named after Millard Fillmore, the 13th President of the United States. The county was established in 1851, making it one of Utah’s oldest counties. Fillmore, the county seat, was originally designated as the capital of the Utah Territory, and the Territorial Statehouse, which still stands today, was the first public building in Utah. Millard County has a rich history of agriculture, ranching, and mining, with its economy traditionally centered on these industries. The county’s landscapes range from arid deserts to fertile valleys, with notable geological features such as the Sevier Desert and the House Range.
Major Highways and Landmarks
Interstate 15 is the major highway that runs through Millard County, providing access to Salt Lake City and Las Vegas. U.S. Route 50, known as “The Loneliest Road in America,” also crosses the county, offering scenic views of Utah’s vast deserts. Major landmarks include the Great Stone Face, a natural rock formation that resembles a human profile, and the Topaz War Relocation Center, a World War II-era Japanese American internment camp that is now a National Historic Landmark. The Fishlake National Forest, located in the eastern part of the county, offers opportunities for camping, fishing, and hiking, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
4. Box Elder County
County Overview
- County Seat: Brigham City
- Area: 5,744 square miles
- Population: 57,666 (2020 Census)
- Area Codes: 435
- Latitude: 41.5102° N
- Longitude: 112.0150° W
Location and History
Box Elder County is located in northern Utah, bordering Idaho to the north and Nevada to the west. The county was established in 1856 and named after the box elder trees that are native to the area. Brigham City, the county seat, was founded by Mormon pioneers and named after Brigham Young, the leader of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The county has a diverse history that includes agriculture, railroads, and military installations. The completion of the First Transcontinental Railroad at Promontory Summit in 1869 is one of the most significant events in the county’s history, marking a pivotal moment in American history.
Major Highways and Landmarks
Interstate 15 and Interstate 84 are the major highways that run through Box Elder County, providing access to Salt Lake City, Idaho, and Nevada. Major landmarks include the Golden Spike National Historical Park, which commemorates the completion of the First Transcontinental Railroad. The Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge, located near the Great Salt Lake, is a critical habitat for migratory birds and offers birdwatching, hiking, and educational programs. The county is also home to the Great Salt Lake, one of the largest saltwater lakes in the Western Hemisphere, and the Bonneville Salt Flats, a unique geological feature known for its speed records and other automotive events.
5. Uintah County
County Overview
- County Seat: Vernal
- Area: 4,480 square miles
- Population: 35,620 (2020 Census)
- Area Codes: 435
- Latitude: 40.4554° N
- Longitude: 109.5287° W
Location and History
Uintah County is located in northeastern Utah, bordering Colorado to the east. The county was established in 1880 and is named after the Ute Indian tribe, who have historically inhabited the region. Vernal, the county seat, is known as the “Dinosaur Capital of the World” due to its proximity to Dinosaur National Monument, which preserves some of the most significant dinosaur fossils ever discovered. Uintah County has a rich history of Native American cultures, fur trapping, and oil and gas production. The county’s economy has traditionally been based on energy extraction, agriculture, and tourism, with its natural resources playing a central role in its development.
Major Highways and Landmarks
U.S. Route 40 is the primary highway that runs through Uintah County, providing connections to Colorado and other parts of Utah. Major landmarks include Dinosaur National Monument, which spans the Utah-Colorado border and offers visitors the chance to see fossilized dinosaur remains, petroglyphs, and stunning canyon landscapes. The county is also home to Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area, a popular destination for boating, fishing, and hiking, with its dramatic red rock cliffs and expansive reservoir. Additionally, the Ashley National Forest offers extensive opportunities for outdoor recreation, including camping, hunting, and wildlife viewing.
6. Duchesne County
County Overview
- County Seat: Duchesne
- Area: 3,256 square miles
- Population: 19,596 (2020 Census)
- Area Codes: 435
- Latitude: 40.1635° N
- Longitude: 110.3897° W
Location and History
Duchesne County is located in northeastern Utah, in the Uinta Basin. The county was established in 1915 and named after the Duchesne River, which flows through the region. The town of Duchesne, the county seat, was originally established as a trading post and later became a center for agriculture and ranching. The county’s history is closely tied to the development of the Uinta Basin, which has been a significant area for oil and gas production since the early 20th century. In addition to its energy resources, Duchesne County is known for its outdoor recreation opportunities, with its rivers, lakes, and mountains attracting visitors year-round.
Major Highways and Landmarks
U.S. Route 40 is the major highway that runs through Duchesne County, providing access to Salt Lake City and Colorado. Major landmarks include Starvation State Park, which offers boating, fishing, and camping along the shores of Starvation Reservoir. The county is also home to the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, which features rugged mountain terrain, pristine lakes, and extensive hiking and camping opportunities. The Duchesne River, a tributary of the Green River, is a popular destination for fishing and rafting. Additionally, the historic Pariette Wetlands, located in the southern part of the county, provide critical habitat for wildlife and offer birdwatching and nature photography opportunities.
7. Iron County
County Overview
- County Seat: Parowan
- Area: 3,301 square miles
- Population: 57,289 (2020 Census)
- Area Codes: 435
- Latitude: 37.8323° N
- Longitude: 113.1059° W
Location and History
Iron County is located in southwestern Utah, known for its red rock landscapes and historical significance. The county was established in 1850 and named after the iron deposits found in the area, which were mined by early Mormon settlers. Parowan, the county seat, was one of the first settlements established in southern Utah and served as a key center for agriculture and mining. The county’s history is deeply tied to the pioneer era, with many of its communities founded by Mormon settlers seeking to establish a self-sufficient economy based on agriculture, mining, and iron production. Today, Iron County is known for its thriving arts scene, outdoor recreation, and historic sites.
Major Highways and Landmarks
Interstate 15 is the major highway that runs through Iron County, providing access to Salt Lake City, Las Vegas, and other parts of Utah. Major landmarks include Cedar Breaks National Monument, a natural amphitheater of eroded limestone formations that offers stunning views and hiking trails. The county is also home to the Frontier Homestead State Park Museum in Cedar City, which preserves the history of Iron County’s pioneer settlers. Additionally, the Utah Shakespeare Festival, held annually in Cedar City, is one of the most prestigious Shakespeare festivals in the country, attracting visitors from around the world.
8. Kane County
County Overview
- County Seat: Kanab
- Area: 4,109 square miles
- Population: 7,667 (2020 Census)
- Area Codes: 435
- Latitude: 37.2692° N
- Longitude: 112.5246° W
Location and History
Kane County is located in southern Utah, known for its stunning natural landscapes and outdoor recreation opportunities. The county was established in 1864 and named after Thomas L. Kane, a friend and advocate of the Mormon pioneers. Kanab, the county seat, has a rich history as a filming location for Western movies, earning it the nickname “Little Hollywood.” The county’s history is deeply tied to the settlement of southern Utah by Mormon pioneers, as well as its role in the development of the region’s tourism industry. Today, Kane County is a gateway to some of the most iconic natural attractions in the American Southwest.
Major Highways and Landmarks
U.S. Route 89 is the major highway that runs through Kane County, providing access to Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon National Park, and other major destinations in the region. Major landmarks include the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, a vast protected area known for its geological wonders, ancient fossils, and remote wilderness. The county is also home to the Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park, where visitors can explore rolling dunes of pink-hued sand. Additionally, Lake Powell, located on the county’s eastern border, offers boating, fishing, and water sports in a stunning desert setting.
9. Garfield County
County Overview
- County Seat: Panguitch
- Area: 5,208 square miles
- Population: 5,083 (2020 Census)
- Area Codes: 435
- Latitude: 37.8251° N
- Longitude: 111.5020° W
Location and History
Garfield County is located in south-central Utah and is known for its dramatic landscapes and national parks. The county was established in 1882 and named after James A. Garfield, the 20th President of the United States. Panguitch, the county seat, is a historic town that was founded by Mormon pioneers in 1864. The county’s history is deeply connected to the settlement of southern Utah, with agriculture, ranching, and tourism being the primary economic activities. Garfield County is home to some of the most famous natural attractions in the United States, making it a major destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Major Highways and Landmarks
U.S. Route 89 and State Route 12, known as Utah’s Scenic Byway 12, are the major highways that run through Garfield County, providing access to its many natural wonders. Major landmarks include Bryce Canyon National Park, known for its unique hoodoo rock formations and stunning sunrises. The county is also home to Capitol Reef National Park, a lesser-known gem that features striking cliffs, canyons, and a historic fruit orchard. Additionally, the Escalante Petrified Forest State Park offers hiking trails and views of ancient petrified wood, showcasing the county’s rich geological history.
10. Sevier County
County Overview
- County Seat: Richfield
- Area: 1,911 square miles
- Population: 21,522 (2020 Census)
- Area Codes: 435
- Latitude: 38.7669° N
- Longitude: 112.0833° W
Location and History
Sevier County is located in central Utah and is named after the Sevier River, which flows through the region. The county was established in 1865 and has a rich history tied to the settlement of Utah by Mormon pioneers. Richfield, the county seat, developed as a key agricultural and trade center in the 19th century and continues to serve as the economic hub of the county. Sevier County’s history is characterized by its agricultural roots, with farming and ranching playing a central role in its development. Today, the county is known for its strong sense of community, outdoor recreation opportunities, and historical sites.
Major Highways and Landmarks
Interstate 70 and U.S. Route 89 are the major highways that run through Sevier County, providing access to other parts of Utah and the broader western United States. Major landmarks include the Fishlake National Forest, which offers camping, fishing, and hiking opportunities in a beautiful mountain setting. The county is also home to the Fremont Indian State Park, where visitors can explore ancient petroglyphs and artifacts from the Fremont culture, which inhabited the region over a thousand years ago. Additionally, the Sevier Valley Center in Richfield hosts a variety of cultural and sporting events, making it a focal point for community activities.
List of All Counties in Utah Alphabetically
Below please see all Utah counties which are listed in alphabetical order.
- Beaver County, UT
- Box Elder County, UT
- Cache County, UT
- Carbon County, UT
- Daggett County, UT
- Davis County, UT
- Duchesne County, UT
- Emery County, UT
- Garfield County, UT
- Grand County, UT
- Iron County, UT
- Juab County, UT
- Kane County, UT
- Millard County, UT
- Morgan County, UT
- Piute County, UT
- Rich County, UT
- Salt Lake County, UT
- San Juan County, UT
- Sanpete County, UT
- Sevier County, UT
- Summit County, UT
- Tooele County, UT
- Uintah County, UT
- Utah County, UT
- Wasatch County, UT
- Washington County, UT
- Wayne County, UT
- Weber County, UT
Map of Utah Counties
