Is Wyoming a good place to live? Pros, Cons, and What to Expect

Is Wyoming A Good Place To Live? Pros And Cons You Must Know

Yes, Wyoming can be a great place to live, depending on what you’re looking for.

Wyoming offers a simple lifestyle that many people enjoy. It features open spaces, natural beauty, and a slower pace of life. With wide horizons, little traffic, and a strong community feeling, living in Wyoming is very different from big cities.

Wyoming is the 10th least populated state in the U.S. It has a low population density but a relatively high average income, mainly because of its strong energy and natural resources industries. However, deciding if Wyoming is the right place for you depends on what you value. 

Think about climate, job opportunities outside of resource-based jobs, access to services, and your lifestyle preferences. This overview will give clear insights into what residents and newcomers can expect in 2025, helping you decide if Wyoming fits your needs and goals.

What You’ll Learn in This Guide

In this article, we will answer:

• What are the advantages and disadvantages of living in Wyoming?

• What factors should you consider when moving to Wyoming?

• Is Wyoming a good place to live?

Overview

Wyoming can be a great place to live, depending on what you’re looking for. Factors like cost of living, job opportunities, and lifestyle preferences influence its suitability. The best or most relevant information depends on individual needs or priorities, such as valuing open spaces and a slower pace of life versus extensive urban amenities. Here's a more detailed breakdown: Cost of Living and Taxes Wyoming is affordable compared to many states, with no state income tax and lower living costs. This makes it attractive for families and anyone looking to stretch their budget. Housing Market Homes and rentals are usually cheaper than in nearby states like Colorado and Utah, making housing more accessible for most residents. Job Opportunities The state’s economy is strong in energy and natural resources, with many jobs in coal, oil, and gas. These industries provide solid opportunities for skilled workers. Healthcare Access Healthcare is better in cities like Cheyenne and Casper, where larger hospitals and more specialists are available. Rural areas often rely on small hospitals and clinics, with telehealth helping to bridge the gap. Natural Beauty and Recreation Wyoming is famous for its stunning scenery and outdoor activities. National parks like Yellowstone and Grand Teton attract visitors from around the world and provide endless opportunities for hiking, skiing, and exploring. Safety and Community The state has a low crime rate and a strong sense of community, which helps create a safe and welcoming environment. Weather Conditions The climate is cool because of the state’s elevation, but severe storms, including hail, tornadoes, and heavy snow, can cause disruptions. Transportation and Distances With limited public transportation, most people rely on cars. Long drives between towns and services are common. Entertainment Options Wyoming has fewer cultural and entertainment options than larger states. Still, many residents enjoy the trade-off for peace, space, and natural beauty. Other Notable Aspects Celebrity Appeal: Stars are drawn to Wyoming, especially Jackson Hole, for its privacy, beautiful landscapes, and tax advantages.

Pros of living in Wyoming

Low Cost of Living In Wyoming

One of the most substantial reasons for moving to the Cowboy State is the low cost of living. According to statistics compiled by the World Population Review—Cost of Living Index by State 2025, Wyoming's cost of living index is 95.1, 4.9% below the national average of 100. The affordability of living in Wyoming attracts many budget-conscious individuals and families.

Average Cost Of Living In Wyoming

Here's a clear and simple table showing the average annual per-capita cost of living in Wyoming.

Category	Average Annual Cost (Per Person)
Housing and Utilities	$9,698
Health Care	$9,050
Food and Beverages (non-restaurant)	$4,896
Gas and Energy Goods	$1,798
All Other Personal Expenditures	$31,499
Total	$56,941

Source: SOFI - Cost of Living in Wyoming 2025

No State Income Tax

According to the 2025 State Tax Competitiveness Index by the Tax Foundation, Wyoming has the country's best tax system, which offers residents financial benefits. It has no state income tax on personal or corporate income, making it one of only two states that don’t have these taxes or a gross receipts tax, along with South Dakota. The lack of state income tax laws makes Wyoming tax-friendly, allowing residents to keep more money for saving and spending.

Wyoming has a 4.00% state sales tax rate. When combined with local taxes, the average total sales tax rate is 5.44%. This places Wyoming among the five states with the lowest average combined sales tax rates, alongside Alaska (1.82%), Hawaii (4.50%), Maine (5.50%), and Wisconsin (5.70%).

The National Retail Federation (NRF) points out that lower tax rates benefit shoppers and retailers. Lower taxes for individuals increase disposable income, leading to more consumer spending and better living standards. Similarly, lower corporate tax rates help retailers grow, invest in their staff, and create more jobs.

Celebrity Appeal

Celebrities are drawn to Wyoming for its privacy, peaceful landscapes, and the community feel in Wyoming towns. The state’s lack of state income, estate, and inheritance taxes makes it appealing for protecting wealth.

Many celebrities have purchased properties in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. Some include Harrison Ford, who owns an extensive 800-acre ranch there, where he has resided since the 1980s. Sandra Bullock, an Academy Award-winning actress, reportedly owns a vacation home in this area. Kanye West also reportedly owns a ranch in the region, which he purchased in 2019.

Other famous figures who bought properties in Wyoming include:

• Brad Pitt: Owns second homes in Wyoming.

• Jeffree Star: The makeup artist and internet personality relocated from California to Casper, Wyoming, and owns a large property there.

• Taylor Sheridan: The creator of the Yellowstone series, recently bought a 179-acre ranch in Wyoming.

• Joe Ricketts: The billionaire co-owner of the Chicago Cubs and founder of Ameritrade, purchased the Granite Creek Ranch in Jackson Hole in late 2024.

• Bill Gates: The Microsoft co-founder also owns property in Wyoming.

Affordable Housing

Aside from having wide housing options, Wyoming properties for sale are more affordable than those of its neighboring states, like Colorado and Utah. The average home value in Wyoming is $370,629. In contrast, Colorado and Utah are $549,409 and $534,478, respectively.

Average Housing Cost In Wyoming

Here’s the average cost of a house in Wyoming in major cities.

City	Average Housing Cost
Cheyenne	$367,326
Casper	$295,371
Gillette	$349,563
Laramie	$371,533
Rock Springs	$284,793

Source: Zillow -  Wyoming Housing Market 2025 

Rentals In Wyoming

The average rent in Wyoming for all bedrooms and all property types is $1,300. This is significantly lower compared to the national average of $2100. Zillow currently lists 763 available rental properties in Wyoming. 

Best Places to Live in Wyoming (Towns and Communities)

If you are looking for Wyoming properties for sale or rentals, here are a few towns worth checking out:

• Cheyenne: As the state capital, Cheyenne blends classic Western charm with modern living. It offers solid job opportunities, good schools, and a busy events calendar highlighted by the world-famous Cheyenne Frontier Days rodeo.

• Jackson Hole: Upscale and scenic, Jackson Hole is known for its breathtaking mountain views and unmatched access to outdoor adventures. It’s pricey, but its beauty and proximity to national parks make it one of a kind.

• Casper: Nicknamed “The Oil City,” Casper has a blue-collar, down-to-earth vibe. With plenty of energy-sector jobs and welcoming, family-friendly neighborhoods, it’s a great place to put down roots.

• Laramie: Home to the University of Wyoming, Laramie has a lively college-town feel. A younger crowd, thriving arts scene, and constant stream of cultural events keep the city vibrant.

• Alpine: Nestled in the mountains, Alpine is a quiet, small town perfect for outdoor lovers. Fishing, hiking, and peaceful scenery define the area, and nearby Alpine, Wyoming hotels make it easy to explore.

• Cody: A popular destination for vacation rentals, especially for those interested in rodeos and national park adventures.

• Rawlins: Often cited as a place where you can find cheap apartments in Wyoming, with median house rents significantly lower than the state average.

Strong Job Opportunities in Energy

According to the Wyoming State Geological Survey, Wyoming is the top coal producer in the U.S., with coal mines operating in Campbell, Lincoln, and Sweetwater counties. In 2024, coal mining directly employed 4,400 people. At the same time, the oil and gas jobs were at 9,200 employees.

If you are interested in Wyoming’s energy industry, here are some in-demand energy-related jobs you can apply for:

• Wind Turbine Technician

• Solar Electrician / Solar Installer

• Landman / Land Acquisition Specialist

• Oil & Gas Field Mechanic / Technician

• Lease Operator

• Environmental Scientist / Environmental Compliance Coordinator

• Journeyman Lineman

• Gas Operations Technician

• Project Manager (Energy)

Health Care Options for Urban and Rural Residents

Wyoming’s healthcare system looks very different in rural and urban areas, mainly because of the state’s size and population spread.

Rural Residents

• Challenges: Rural residents often face long travel times to see a doctor, limited transportation, and shortages of providers in primary health care. Many also deal with higher rates of certain health conditions, and in small towns, privacy concerns can keep people from seeking care. Even with insurance, the cost of treatment can still be a major barrier.

• Resources: The Wyoming Office of Rural Health works to expand access, train healthcare workers, and support community-based programs, often with the help of federal funding. Community paramedics also help fill in gaps in care. Wyoming relies on several types of facilities to support rural communities:

• Critical Access Hospitals (CAHs)

• Rural Health Clinics (RHCs)

• Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs)

Urban Residents

• Access: People in cities like Cheyenne and Casper have better access to larger hospitals. There are more primary care doctors and a wider range of specialists than in rural areas.

• Services: Urban hospitals are more likely to offer full-service care. They benefit from more staff and stronger resources than rural facilities. Some of the hospitals available to urban residents include:

• Cheyenne Regional Medical Center

• VA Medical Center Cheyenne

• Banner Wyoming Medical Center

• Summit Medical Center

• Wyoming Behavioral Health Institute

• Ivinson Memorial Hospital

Natural Beauty And Outdoor Recreation

Wyoming is a great place to live for nature trips and outdoor adventures, boasting an abundance of natural attractions and recreational activities. According to the 2024 Economic Impact Report by Dean Runyan Associates, Wyoming's travel industry is growing. Travel spending reached $4.9 billion and supported 33,610 jobs. Overnight visitors totaled 8.8 million. These numbers show how important tourism is for Wyoming's economy.

National Parks And Recreation Areas In Wyoming

Here is a list of the 10 best national parks and recreation areas for spending time outdoors, as highlighted by the official Visit The USA travel site:

1. Yellowstone National Park: America’s first national park, famous for geysers like Old Faithful and colorful hot springs.

2. Grand Teton National Park is known for its stunning Rocky Mountain peaks, the Snake River, and wildlife like moose and bears.

3. Devils Tower National Monument: A large rock formation popular for hiking, camping, and rock climbing.

4. Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area: Recognized for its red canyon walls, it offers fishing and boating.

5. Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area: Features 27 km of trails, scenic views of water, and historic spots.

6. Monument Hill & Hot Springs State Park: Located in Thermopolis, it has hiking paths, mineral hot springs, and a bison herd.

7. National Elk Refuge: In Jackson, home to many elk and popular winter sleigh rides.

8. Fremont Lake: Close to Pinedale, Fremont Lake is the second-largest lake in Wyoming and is excellent for fishing and kayaking.

9. Vedauwoo Recreation Area: Known for its unique granite formations, this area is excellent for climbing and hiking.

10. Fossil Butte National Monument: Near Kemmerer, features fossil beds, hiking trails, and summer quarry tours.

Low Crime Rate

In Wyoming, residents generally feel safe due to the state’s low crime rate. You can be assured of a secure living because of the state’s low crime rate. According to the World Population Review, the total number of crimes in Wyoming was only 1,660 per 100,000 people in 2023. Wyoming residents expressed a 43% concern about property crime, lower than the national average of 52%.

Safety is important when choosing a place to live. In Wyoming, low crime rates are partly due to the strong community spirit. Residents in these communities trust each other and work together, which helps keep everyone safe and lowers crime rates.

Cons Of Living In Wyoming

Weather Conditions

Wyoming has a cooler climate because of its elevation. At altitudes above 6,000 feet, temperatures seldom exceed 100°F. In the past decade, however, Wyoming has seen a rise in severe storms, including thunderstorms, hailstorms, and even tornadoes. 

These storms can bring heavy rainfall, large hail, and strong winds, often leading to widespread damage and disruption. Understanding the approximate timing, frequency, and intensity of various weather threats, including high winds, snow, rain, ice, flooding, tornadoes, and hail, can enhance crop yields and protect livestock.

Limited Transportation Options

Public transportation in Wyoming can often be challenging because of the limited options, especially in the smaller towns and rural areas. The Wyoming Department of Transportation (WYDOT) reports that all 23 counties in Wyoming have at least one public transportation provider. Still, many of these services are sparse and may not operate at convenient times. 

In big cities like Cheyenne and Casper, residents heavily rely on cars, making a personal vehicle essential for many. This reliance reduces the need for public transportation, making it hard for low-income families who don’t have a car to get to work, healthcare, school, and other essential places.

Pro Tip: If you plan to buy a car outside the state, AmeriFreight Auto Transport offers reliable auto transportation to Wyoming.

Long Distances

The State Symbols US ranks Wyoming 9th in the largest states with a land area of 97,105 square miles. Wyoming's expansive plains make it hard for residents to access basic services like jobs and healthcare, especially in rural areas. This leads to a heavy reliance on personal vehicles. 

Driving in remote areas comes with risks, especially if help is far away during an accident. Limited cell phone reception in these regions can make it hard to get assistance if a car breaks down. These factors impact residents’ daily lives and overall quality of life.

Common Drive Times From Cheyenne to Other Notable Cities

Here are the common drive times and distances from Cheyenne to other notable cities.

Destination City	Approximate Drive Time	Approximate Distance (Miles)
Denver	1 hour 30 minutes	101
Fort Collins	45 minutes	45
Casper	2 hours 40 minutes	179
Rapid City	5 hours 45 minutes	268
Salt Lake City	6 hours 30 minutes	440
Lincoln, Nebraska	6 hours 45 minutes	445

Pro Tip: A reliable car is necessary for traveling long distances. Buying a durable vehicle from the best car dealerships in Wyoming is a good idea.

Lack of Entertainment Options

Many Californians are making the move to Wyoming. Around 2,146 more people are moving into Wyoming than out of it between July 2023 and July 2024 alone. This number contributes to the state's continued population growth. While the appeal of lower living costs and wide-open spaces is strong, individuals accustomed to California's vibrant cultural scene and extensive entertainment options might find Wyoming's more limited offerings a significant adjustment.

Pro Tip: If you're planning a move to Wyoming, consider checking out our services like Amerifreight for California car shipping.

Relocating to Wyoming with AmeriFreight Auto Transport

Moving to the Cowboy State often means covering long distances, and a dependable car is essential. Whether you're settling in Cheyenne, Casper, or a rural town off the grid, AmeriFreight Auto Transport can help ensure your vehicle gets there safely and efficiently.

We coordinate transport through a network of licensed carriers and provide personal support to guide you through the process. With no credit card required to start your order, getting your car to Wyoming is one less thing to worry about.

Get your free quote today.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is Wyoming a desirable place to live in 2025?

Yes, Wyoming remains a desirable place to live in 2025, particularly for those seeking a lower cost of living and abundant outdoor recreation, despite having fewer urban cultural and entertainment options compared to more populated states.

How big is Wyoming? 

Wyoming has a total area of approximately 97,813 square miles, making it the 10th largest state in the United States.

Is it expensive to live in Wyoming? 

No, the cost of living in Wyoming is lower than the national average, ranking among the top 25 most affordable states, though specific cities like Jackson can be quite expensive.

Is moving to Wyoming worth it?

Yes, moving to Wyoming can be worthwhile for those who appreciate outdoor recreation, an affordable cost of living, and a more rural lifestyle. However, it's essential to consider the potential for harsh weather, limited job market diversity, and fewer urban amenities.

What are the pros and cons of living in Wyoming? 

The pros and cons of living in Wyoming include a low cost of living, no state income tax, beautiful outdoor recreation, and low crime rates. Cons include severe weather, limited transportation, long distances, and fewer job opportunities.

Does Wyoming get a lot of tornadoes?

Yes, Wyoming does get a lot of tornadoes. The number of severe storms, including tornadoes, has increased in the past decade. These storms bring strong winds and heavy damage.

Why don’t more people move to Wyoming?  

Few people move to Wyoming because of its harsh weather, rural isolation, limited public transportation, and lack of job diversity.

Are people happy living in Wyoming? 

Yes, many people are happy living in Wyoming because of its strong sense of community, low crime, affordable living, and access to nature.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be taken as legal, financial, or relocation advice. While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, housing costs, taxes, and other details may change over time. Consult with qualified professionals before making any decisions about moving to or living in Wyoming.