What if your next move took you to a place where mountains are your morning view, neighbors wave from horseback, and the community feels like family? You can find that lifestyle in the best places to live in Wyoming. Wyoming is also considered one of the best states for retirement.
This guide will help you choose locations that fit your needs and avoid spending time or money on areas that do not match your plans.
What You’ll Learn
In this guide, you will find:
Towns and cities in Wyoming ranked for scenery, amenities, and quality of life.
Housing costs and overall living expenses, so you know what to expect before moving.
Lifestyle and job opportunities in each location to help you choose the right match.
Summary
Wyoming offers wide-open spaces, stunning natural beauty, no state income tax, and strong communities across its small cities and towns. Known as the "Equality State" and "Cowboy State," Wyoming attracts residents seeking outdoor recreation, affordable living, and small-town values. Here are the best places to call home in America's least populated state.
Top-Ranked Cities & Towns
1. Jackson – #1 Overall
Population: 10,746 | Median home price: $1,968,484
Why it leads: World-class resort destination with unmatched access to Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks
Reality check: Cost of living 39% above national average, making it among America's most expensive small towns
Best for: Affluent outdoor enthusiasts, resort workers, and those prioritizing lifestyle over affordability
2. Laramie – #2 Overall, College Town
Population: 31,848 | Median home price: $366,784
Why it works: The University of Wyoming brings youthful energy, cultural activities, and an educated workforce
Affordability: 5.1% below the national cost of living
Perfect for: Students, young professionals, families wanting college town amenities
3. Kemmerer – #3 Overall
Population: 2,788 | Median home price: ~$290,000
Appeal: Small-town charm with strong community feel and affordable housing
Notable: Birthplace of J.C. Penney, quiet rural lifestyle
Family-Friendly Communities
4. Powell – #4 Overall, #7 for Families
Population: 6,466 | Median home price: ~$320,000
Why families love it: Quiet, safe environment with welcoming residents and low-stress living
Perfect for: Those seeking small-town tranquility and community connections
5. Lander – #5 Overall, #4 for Families
Population: 7,565 | Median home price: ~$340,000
Why it's special: National Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS) headquarters, outdoor recreation hub
Appeal: Beautiful mountain setting with adventurous, outdoorsy community
What Makes Wyoming Special
No State Income Tax: Significant savings for residents
Natural Beauty: Yellowstone, Grand Teton, endless outdoor recreation
Low Population Density: Wide-open spaces, minimal traffic
Strong Communities: Small-town values, neighborly culture
Affordable Living: Most areas below national cost averages
Matching Wyoming Towns to Your Taste
Before we get into the list, remember that “best” means different things in Wyoming. What is perfect for one person may not work for another. Choosing a Wyoming town is like choosing a coffee blend: some are bold and full of activity, while others are mild and steady. The right choice is the one that fits your taste and routine.
Wyoming at a Glance
Wyoming has lots of open space, beautiful nature, and friendly towns. People who live there enjoy spending time outdoors, living affordably, and the feeling of a small community. It's one of the safest states in the country and doesn't have a state income tax.
Top-Ranked Cities and Towns
1. Jackson – #1 Overall
Population: 10,746 | Median home price: $1,968,484
Jackson is in a valley called Jackson Hole. To the west are the Teton mountains, and to the east are the Gros Ventre Mountains. Grand Teton National Park is very close, and Yellowstone National Park is near enough for a day trip. Residents and visitors can go hiking, skiing, rafting, and view abundant wildlife.
The town is a mix of a small community and a tourist town. You'll find art galleries, local stores, and restaurants downtown. There are also many events throughout the year. Most jobs are in tourism, hotels, and recreation. But there's also steady work in education, healthcare, and construction.
Housing prices are the highest in Wyoming, and living costs run about 39 percent above the national average. Many workers commute from nearby Idaho towns to balance income and expenses. For those who can afford it, Jackson offers unmatched outdoor access, a strong cultural scene, and a lifestyle built around both nature and community.
2. Laramie – #2 Overall, College Town
Population: 31,848 | Median home price: $366,784
Laramie sits between the Snowy Range and the Laramie Mountains, giving residents easy access to trails, fishing, and winter sports. As home to the University of Wyoming, the town has a steady flow of cultural events, research activity, and athletic competitions that bring energy year-round.
The University of Wyoming is the largest employer, providing jobs in teaching, administration, and campus support. Healthcare, factories, and stores are also important. Even though there are a lot of students, housing prices are lower than the national average, making it cheaper than other cities of its size in Wyoming.
Laramie has old neighborhoods, new areas, and a downtown where you can walk to coffee shops, bookstores, and places with live music. It's a good place for students, young people starting their careers, and families who want a small-town feel but also the benefits of a college town.
3. Kemmerer – #3 Overall
Population: 2,788 | Median home price: $290,000
Kemmerer, a small town in southwest Wyoming, is known for its historic downtown and strong community feeling. It's also famous as the birthplace of J.C. Penney stores, and you can still visit the original store. If you love the outdoors, you'll find plenty to do nearby, like visiting Fossil Butte National Monument or going hunting, fishing, and hiking.
The town's economy relies on energy production, stores, and public services. While there aren't as many job opportunities as in bigger cities, homes are affordable, which makes it a good place for families and retired people to live. Many residents enjoy the slower pace of life and the close connections they build with their neighbors in this small town.
Kemmerer is a great place for people who want affordable living, easy access to nature, and a community where everyone knows each other. It's perfect for those who prefer a quiet life but still want important services and nearby outdoor activities.
4. Powell – #4 Overall, #7 for Families
Population: 6,466 | Median home price: $320,000
Powell is located in the Bighorn Basin of northwest Wyoming, surrounded by farmland and mountain views. It is a short drive from Yellowstone National Park, which makes weekend trips easy. The town has a reputation for being safe and family-oriented, with schools and parks that serve as community gathering points.
Farming is important to the local economy, along with schools and hospitals. Northwest College, a two-year college, brings in students and supports local events. Housing prices are fair, and the cost of living is good compared to other towns nearby.
Powell is a good place for families who want a steady, small-town life with outdoor activities close by. It has important services like schools, doctors, and stores, and prices are lower than in bigger towns that attract a lot of tourists.
5. Lander – #5 Overall, #4 for Families
Population: 7,565 | Median home price: $340,000
Lander is located near the Wind River Mountains, so people living there can easily go hiking, climbing, and fishing. The National Outdoor Leadership School is located here, bringing in students from all over the world and creating a lot of outdoor activities.
The local economy includes education, healthcare, tourism, and government jobs. Lander has both old and new homes. The housing market is competitive but not as expensive as bigger cities in Wyoming. The community has active groups, seasonal events, and a downtown area where you can walk to restaurants and shops.
Families often pick Lander because of its good schools, outdoor activities, and friendly community. It offers a good mix of services and fun outdoor options, while maintaining a relaxed pace of life.
Why Wyoming Stands Out
Wyoming offers a mix of economic advantages and lifestyle benefits that appeal to a wide range of residents.
No state income tax: Residents keep more of what they earn.
Abundant outdoor access: National parks, forests, and public lands are open year-round.
Low population density: Communities are less crowded and quieter.
Strong small-town values: Neighbors know each other, and community events are common.
Final Thoughts
Wyoming has many kinds of places to live, from fancy towns with amazing views to peaceful communities where people know each other well. What things cost, how easy it is to find a job, and what's available are different in each place. So, it's important to know what's most important to you before you move.
If you find the right fit, Wyoming can offer you chances to grow and a feeling of really belonging.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Where are the most affordable places to buy land in Wyoming for building a custom home?
Land is generally more affordable in towns like Rawlins, Torrington, and Riverton than in tourist-heavy areas. These towns are good places to start looking for land that won't cost too much, and they still have important services you need.
Are there any specific communities in Wyoming known for their hunting or wildlife viewing opportunities?
Cody, Sheridan, and Thermopolis are great places for hunting and seeing wild animals. You can easily get to public lands nearby where you can find elk, deer, antelope, and other wildlife.
What are the challenges of living in rural Wyoming, especially regarding healthcare access and amenities?
In rural areas, access to doctors and hospitals can be difficult, and residents often need to drive long distances for specialized medical care. There might also not be many places to shop, eat, or have fun, so many people travel to bigger towns for those things.
Are there specific areas in Wyoming that attract artists, musicians, or other creative professionals?
Jackson, Laramie, and Sheridan are good places for art lovers because they have art galleries, music, museums, and local events.
Disclaimer: This article is for general information only. It is not financial, legal, or relocation advice. Always research local regulations and consult qualified professionals before making major decisions.
