Like many Western cities with colorful names, Hurricane, Utah, is a popular with residents, and is attracting homebuyers with its small frontier-town laid-back culture and proximity to Utah's spectacular national parks and recreational opportunities.

"Located 20 miles east of St. George," says Realtor Richard C. Svien, "Hurricane offers country-like living, recreation at Sand Hollow Reservoir, the Washington County Equestrian Park and Fairgrounds. The population is about 8,500."

Says Realtor Rand McCullough , "This community is the gateway to multiple national parks and recreation areas. Slightly cooler than St. George, this community was and is still is the 'Fruit Orchard' of Washington County."

McCullough suggests, "The current market in Hurricane favors the seller with a lower inventory of homes, and property more in demand than we have seen here for years. There is a better selection of mid-range homes here than in bordering Washington City or St. George. However, single family homes under $200,000 are on the market for an average of 8 days, making it very challenging. There are some great choices in town and several options in new construction; buyers need to be ready when they find what they are looking for. The prices of homes here remain competitive to those other geographical areas that offer similar features. Many want the quality of life that Southern Utah offers including its landscape and access to several recreation sites and unbeatable scenery, but want to be at a slightly slower pace than that of St. George. Hurricane is still very laid back and comfortable."

He adds, "Even though there is a 18 mile gap between Hurricane and Washington City/St George, all the major services are within a short drive to the south."

Agrees Realtor Ryan Anderson , "The Hurricane real estate market is very strong. Prices have increased dramatically in the past 12 months. Because of the pressure put on the St. George market, the Hurricane market has become very strong. You can still find homes priced under $200,000. The area is growing by leaps and bounds. As the largest land mass city in Washington County, it is a good bet that it is the place to buy real estate. Homes and land prices are on the way up."