9th and 9th Neighborhood Guide: Salt Lake City's Hippest District
If you're searching for the perfect blend of urban energy and neighborhood charm in Salt Lake City, look no further than the 9th and 9th district. This eclectic corner of the city has earned its reputation as one of SLC's most walkable, vibrant, and authentically cool neighborhoods, and living at Crossing at 9th puts you close to the action.
What Makes 9th and 9th Salt Lake City's Hippest Neighborhood?
Tucked between downtown Salt Lake City and Sugar House, the 9th and 9th neighborhood has cultivated a distinct identity that sets it apart from any other area in the city. Unlike the corporate feel of some urban districts, 9th and 9th maintains an authentic, grassroots vibe that locals have nurtured for decades.
The neighborhood centers around the iconic intersection of 900 South and 900 East, but its influence radiates outward for several blocks in each direction. What started as a collection of small, independent businesses has blossomed into one of the city's most sought-after residential and commercial districts. The area is characterized by tree-lined streets, historic homes mixed with modern apartments, and a palpable sense of community that's increasingly rare in urban environments.
For renters considering apartments in Salt Lake City, the 9th and 9th area offers something special: the convenience of city living without sacrificing neighborhood character. It's a place where you can walk to your favorite coffee shop, browse vintage records, grab dinner at a James Beard-nominated restaurant, and still be home in minutes, all without getting in your car.
The Food Scene: Where Culinary Excellence Meets Neighborhood Charm
Farm-to-Table Dining at Its Finest
The 9th and 9th neighborhood has become synonymous with exceptional dining, and for good reason. The area boasts some of Salt Lake City's most celebrated restaurants, many of which have garnered national attention for their innovative approaches to cuisine.
Pago, located right at the 9th and 9th intersection, has been a cornerstone of the neighborhood's culinary scene since 2009. This farm-to-table restaurant emphasizes seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients and has become a destination for food lovers throughout the region. The menu changes regularly to reflect what's fresh and available, ensuring that every visit offers something new.
Pizza Nono brings authentic wood-fired Neapolitan pizza to the neighborhood, with a cozy atmosphere that's perfect for date nights or casual dinners with friends. The restaurant's commitment to traditional techniques and high-quality ingredients has made it a local favorite.
Coffee Culture and Casual Eats
Beyond fine dining, 9th and 9th excels at the everyday essentials that make a neighborhood truly livable. Salt & Honey Market serves as both a gourmet market and a casual eatery, offering everything from artisanal sandwiches to locally-roasted coffee. It's the kind of place where you'll become a regular, and where you'll inevitably run into neighbors.
The neighborhood's coffee scene is robust, with several independent cafes offering alternatives to chain coffee shops. These spots serve as community gathering places where locals work remotely, meet friends, or simply enjoy a quiet morning with a good book.
Living at Crossing at 9th means these culinary experiences are part of your daily routine, not special occasions requiring planning and travel. When you can walk to world-class dining, your relationship with food, and your neighborhood, transforms entirely.
Shopping Local: Boutiques, Vintage Finds, and Unique Treasures
The Anti-Mall Experience
If you're tired of generic shopping centers and identical chain stores, 9th and 9th offers a refreshing alternative. The neighborhood has cultivated what locals affectionately call an "anti-mall" atmosphere, where every shop offers something you won't find anywhere else.
Vintage and Secondhand Treasures
The area is a paradise for vintage enthusiasts and sustainable shoppers. A mix of curated boutiques and secondhand-focused shops offer carefully selected pieces from different eras, allowing you to build a wardrobe that's truly one-of-a-kind. These aren’t big thrift chains, they’re smaller, owner-run shops where taste, quality, and craftsmanship matter.
Beyond clothing, you'll find shops specializing in home goods, records, books, and art. It's the kind of neighborhood where a casual Saturday afternoon stroll can result in an unexpected find, whether that’s a standout vintage jacket, a piece of local art, or something delightfully offbeat you didn’t know you were looking for.
Arts, Culture, and Community Events
A Thriving Creative Scene
The 9th and 9th neighborhood has long been a haven for artists, musicians, and creative professionals. This creative energy is visible throughout the district, from public art installations and occasional murals to locally owned shops and venues that showcase artistic expression.
The neighborhood brings residents together through community-led events, live music events, and pop-ups. These aren't corporate-sponsored events, they're grassroots initiatives organized by people who genuinely care about fostering community connections.
The Walkability Factor
One of the 9th and 9th neighborhood's greatest assets is its exceptional walkability. The area consistently ranks as one of Salt Lake City's most pedestrian-friendly districts, with wide sidewalks, tree-lined streets, and a compact layout that makes car ownership optional rather than essential.
For renters who prioritize walkable urban living, this is a game-changer. The ability to accomplish daily errands, socialize with friends, and explore your neighborhood on foot fundamentally changes your quality of life. You'll save money on gas and parking, get more exercise naturally, and feel more connected to your community.
Living at Crossing at 9th: Your Gateway to the Neighborhood
Location, Location, Location
While the 9th and 9th neighborhood is undeniably special, finding the right apartment within the area is crucial to fully experiencing everything it offers. Crossing at 9th occupies a prime location at 880 West 200 South, positioning residents perfectly to enjoy both the neighborhood's charms and downtown Salt Lake City's amenities.
From Crossing at 9th, the heart of the 9th and 9th district is just a short bike ride or drive away. You're close enough to make the neighborhood part of your daily routine, yet you also have easy access to downtown's business district, entertainment venues, and cultural attractions.
Modern Amenities Meet Neighborhood Character
Living in a hip, walkable neighborhood doesn't mean sacrificing modern comforts. Crossing at 9th offers premium amenities that complement the neighborhood lifestyle:
- Secure Bike Storage: Essential for residents who embrace the neighborhood's bike-friendly culture and want to explore on two wheels
- Co-Working Synergy Space: Perfect for remote workers who want a professional environment without leaving home
- Rooftop Lounge with Scenic Views: Enjoy panoramic views of the Wasatch Mountains and downtown skyline while staying connected to your community
- Pet-Friendly Facilities: Including a pet wash station, because the neighborhood's dog-friendly culture means your furry friend is part of the community too
These amenities aren't just features, they're designed to enhance the lifestyle that drew you to the neighborhood in the first place. The bike storage supports car-free living, the co-working space acknowledges modern work patterns, and the rooftop lounge provides a space to connect with neighbors while enjoying the natural beauty that makes Salt Lake City special.
Beyond 9th and 9th: Exploring the Surrounding Area
Liberty Park: Your Backyard Oasis
Just west of the 9th and 9th district lies Liberty Park, Salt Lake City's second-largest public park. This 80-acre green space offers a welcome respite from urban life, with walking paths, sports facilities, a pond, and plenty of open space for picnics, reading, or simply enjoying a sunny afternoon.
The park is home to Tracy Aviary, one of the oldest and most established aviaries in the United States, featuring over 400 birds from around the world. It's the kind of amenity that makes city living feel less constrained, you have access to nature and wildlife without leaving the urban core.
Downtown SLC: Minutes Away
While the 9th and 9th neighborhood offers plenty to keep you entertained, downtown Salt Lake City's attractions are just minutes away. The Eccles Theater hosts Broadway shows and concerts, the Clark Planetarium offers interactive exhibits, and City Creek Center provides a mix of national retailers and upscale shopping when you need something beyond the neighborhood boutiques.
This proximity to downtown is one of the reasons Salt Lake City renters love living near downtown, you get the best of both worlds without compromise.
The Wasatch Mountains: Adventure Awaits
One of Salt Lake City's most compelling features is its proximity to world-class outdoor recreation. From the 9th and 9th area, hiking trails and foothill access are within minutes, while several renowned ski resorts and mountain biking destinations are typically about 30–45 minutes away.. This unique combination of urban culture and mountain access is rare, and it's one of the reasons people fall in love with Salt Lake City.
Whether you're an avid skier, a weekend hiker, or someone who simply appreciates having natural beauty nearby, living in this area means you can enjoy a morning hike and an afternoon browsing vintage shops, all in the same day.
The Community Spirit: What Really Makes 9th and 9th Special
A Neighborhood That Cares
Beyond the restaurants, shops, and walkability, what truly distinguishes the 9th and 9th neighborhood is its sense of community. This isn't a place where residents are anonymous faces passing on the street, it's a neighborhood where people know each other, support local businesses, and gather for events that celebrate the area’s unique character.
The neighborhood hosts community-driven events, like the annual 9th and 9th Street Festival, which bring residents together and highlight local businesses. These gatherings, along with ongoing neighbor engagement, help maintain the welcoming atmosphere that makes 9th and 9th so special.
Practical Considerations: Living in 9th and 9th
Transportation and Parking
While the neighborhood's walkability is a major draw, it's worth considering the practical aspects of transportation. Street parking can be competitive, especially during peak hours and events. This is one reason why choosing an apartment with dedicated parking, like those at Crossing at 9th, can be valuable.
The area is well-served by public transportation, with several bus routes connecting the neighborhood to downtown, the University of Utah, and other parts of the city. For those who bike, the neighborhood's flat terrain and bike-friendly streets make cycling a practical year-round option (weather permitting).
Cost of Living
The 9th and 9th neighborhood's popularity has made it one of Salt Lake City's more desirable areas, which is reflected in housing costs. At Crossing at 9th, you'll find various floor plans designed to accommodate different budgets and lifestyles, from efficient studios to spacious two-bedroom apartments.
Why Now Is the Time to Discover 9th and 9th
The 9th and 9th neighborhood is one of Salt Lake City's most walkable neighborhoods, known for its mix of local shops, restaurants, and small businesses. The area has maintained the authentic, grassroots character that made it special in the first place.
New businesses continue to open, drawn by the neighborhood's reputation and supportive community. Long-time establishments remain strong, providing continuity and stability. The balance between growth and preservation is delicate, but the neighborhood has managed it well, ensuring that development enhances rather than erases what makes the area unique.
For renters considering a move to Salt Lake City or looking to relocate within the city, the 9th and 9th area represents an opportunity to be part of something special. It's a neighborhood with a strong sense of community, and a lifestyle that prioritizes quality over quantity, and connection over convenience.
Experience the 9th and 9th Lifestyle at Crossing at 9th
Ready to make Salt Lake City's hippest neighborhood part of your daily life? Crossing at 9th offers modern apartments with premium amenities in the perfect location to enjoy everything the 9th and 9th district has to offer.
Discover our available floor plans, explore our community amenities, or schedule a tour to see why Crossing at 9th is the ideal home base for experiencing the best of Salt Lake City. Your neighborhood adventure starts here.