Carbon County in Eastern — urban density and zoning complexity lower the buildability score, but opportunities exist in outlying areas.
📊48/100AcreScore
💰$4KLand $/acre
🏠$195KHome Value
👥20,463Population
📈+-2.1%Growth (10yr)
🌊12%Flood RiskLow
🌡️Cold high desertClimateZone 5b
🏗️ Can You Build Here?
Carbon County has local zoning regulations. Check with the county building department for specific rules on your parcel. Barndominiums may require conditional use permits in some zones.
Zone
Min Lot
Barndo OK?
Residential
Varies
⚠️ Conditional
Agricultural
None
✅ Yes
Commercial
Varies
❌ No
Carbon County has local zoning. Contact the county building department for specific regulations.
📋 What Permits Do You Need?
Most states allow owner-builders to act as their own general contractor for personal residences. Check Utah requirements — licensed subs are typically needed for electrical, plumbing, and HVAC.
Required Permits
• Building permit (residential)
• Septic permit (if no public sewer)
• Electrical permit
• Plumbing permit
Permit Office
Carbon County Building Department
Price, UT
Contact county clerk for current hours and requirements
🌊 What's the Flood & Soil Risk?
Moderate flood risk. 12% of county land is in FEMA flood zones. Most buildable parcels are outside hazard areas, but always verify your specific site.
12%
In Flood Zone
Good
Soil Drainage
Varies
Septic Viability
Source: FEMA National Flood Hazard Layer, USDA Web Soil Survey
💰 What Does It Cost?
Extremely affordable. Median land prices around $3,500 per acre make Carbon County one of the most budget-friendly options in Utah.
$4K
Median $/acre
$195K
Median Home Value
$120–200
Build Cost $/sqft
0.0072%
Property Tax Rate
Source: U.S. Census Bureau ACS 2024, Carbon County Assessor
🏔️ Why People Love Living Here
Carbon County sits in the heart of Eastern. Provo is 70 min away. Utah has a state income tax — factor that into your cost-of-living calculations.
🏗️
Affordable Land
Median land at $3,500/acre means you can buy more, build bigger, and still stay under budget.
🏠
Established Community
Zoning provides predictability — you know what your neighbors can and can't build. Good for long-term property value.
At a Glance
Population20,463
10-Year Growth-2.1%
County SeatPrice
State Income TaxYes
ClimateCold high desert (Zone 5b)
How Close Is Everything?
Provo70 min
Salt Lake City Intl120 min
Austinvaries
💧 Utilities & Infrastructure
Most rural Carbon County land uses well water and septic systems. Municipal utilities are available near Price. Check with local utility providers for your specific parcel.
Electric ProviderLocal Co-op / TXU
WaterWell or Municipal
SewerSeptic (most rural)
InternetVaries by location
Cell CoverageVariable
Natural GasPropane common in rural areas
🏦 Financing & Incentives
USDA Rural Development loans are generally not available in Carbon County due to urban classification. FHA, VA, and conventional financing options are available.
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❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I build a barndominium in Carbon County?
Check with the Carbon County Building Department for specific zoning rules on your parcel. Some zones allow barndominiums outright, others may require conditional use permits.
How much does land cost in Carbon County?
Median price is approximately $3,500 per acre, though prices vary by location, road access, and improvements.
Is Carbon County eligible for USDA Rural Development loans?
Most of Carbon County is not eligible for USDA Rural Development due to its urban/suburban classification. Check the USDA eligibility map for specific addresses.
What is the property tax rate in Carbon County?
The effective property tax rate is approximately 0.0072%. Check with the county assessor for the most current rates and any available homestead exemptions.
Do I need a licensed contractor to build in Carbon County?
Most states allow owner-builders to act as their own general contractor for personal residences, though requirements vary by state and county. In Utah, check local building codes for specific licensing requirements. You'll typically need licensed professionals for electrical, plumbing, and HVAC work.