Wyoming is famous for its low population and stunning natural scenery, with several national parks and many mountain ranges.
It certainly has a one-of-a-kind culture, one that compels many people to call it home.
However, it can also be an isolated place with little to do and a dwindling population.
In this article, we will break down everything you need to know about living in Wyoming to help you decide if the Equality State is a good fit for you.
Contents
Pros of Living in Wyoming
1. Low Taxes
Living in Wyoming will offer a reduction in your tax bill.
There is no state tax, personal income tax, or corporate tax, and the property tax rate sits at 0.62 percent, one of the lowest in the United States.
For the average person, the taxation situation in Wyoming is highly affordable, especially in comparison to other states.
2. Low Crime Rates
Crime rates are stunningly low in Wyoming, with rates of violent crime at 2.13 per 1,000 people.
This is 60 percent lower than the median across the United States.
And individual communities around Wyoming often beat the state average, with as much as 90 percent showing even lower rates for violent crime and 80 percent experiencing lower rates of property crime.
3. Stunning Scenery
Surrounded by national parks and mountain ranges, it should come as no surprise that Wyoming offers some truly breathtaking scenery.
The limited effects of urbanization mean that most of the state is undeveloped, and the vast majority of Wyoming residents live within view of unspoiled mountains, forests, plains, and lakes.
Yellowstone National Park holds a place of honor in the state, along with several other national and state parks.
4. Good Travel
Traveling is easy in Wyoming. In fact, you probably will not find yourself spending a lot of time in the car.
Low population means that there are lots of resources to keep roads well-maintained.
Similarly, traffic jams are not really seen.
The lower levels of road traffic also mean lower pollution, which is better for your health.
Many residents report being able to get to work in less than 20 minutes, which is impressive in comparison to many states in the US.
5. Outdoor Activities and State Parks
People who love the outdoors and pursue outdoor activities will be right at home in Wyoming.
It is a prime spot for hiking, hunting, fishing, skiing, snowboarding, and rock climbing.
Wyoming is also home to several national and state parks, most famously Yellowstone National Park and Grand Teton National Park.
6. Frequent Sunshine and Seasonal Weather Changes
While Wyoming is famous for its sometimes extreme weather, it generally has beautiful weather.
In fact, the state averages 300 days of sunshine a year.
It also usually experiences distinct seasons, providing plenty of variety and seasonal beauty throughout the year, with warm summers, colorful autumns, snowy winters, and mild springs.
7. Affordable Housing Options
While the cost of living in Wyoming is roughly average to the rest of the country, there are plenty of affordable housing options.
This is especially the case if you are looking in a more rural area as opposed to Cheyenne or Laramie.
Renters will find very reasonable rates across the state!
8. No Overcrowding
Wyoming has the lowest population of any state in the US.
As of 2020, the state population was only 581,348, making overcrowding a non-issue.
You will also find that the state has been largely immune to the effects of urbanization, leaving much of its natural beauty unspoiled (and cutting back on pollution!).
Cons of Living in Wyoming
1. Isolation
Many people find life in Wyoming extremely isolated, and it is not hard to see why.
The state is almost entirely rural, with only Cheyenne as its main city (and even that has a small population).
Most residents of Wyoming live in largely undeveloped, rural areas.
This can be a struggle for those who are used to having a larger, more present community.
2. Low Diversity
Wyoming’s population is small, and that population is intensely lacking in diversity.
In fact, Wyoming was named among the 10 least diverse states in the country.
On the 2020 census, 84.7 percent of residents indicated that they were white alone, while 2.4 percent said they were Native American and only .9 percent said that they were black alone.
3. No Major Urban Areas
One of the biggest cons of living in Wyoming is that there are no major urban areas.
Wyoming’s largest city is its capital Cheyenne, with a population of 64,099.
That means that you might have difficulty tracking down retail and dining options, and shopping for anything other than essentials can prove to be a challenge.
4. Aging Population
The population of Wyoming is shrinking, and this is largely due to younger people moving away.
Young people are leaving the state in droves, largely because of the limited options for work, schooling, and other facilities.
As younger people leave Wyoming, the remaining population is increasingly elderly and white, making the state even less diverse than before.
With a larger-than-average senior population, retirement options may be limited as well.
5. Limited Work and Educational Opportunities
If you are looking to get an education in Wyoming, your options are exceedingly limited.
In fact, there are only a few state schools available, and Wyoming Catholic College is the state’s sole institute of private higher education.
The work opportunities are similarly slim.
Most jobs are in a few sectors, such as farming, and there are few job openings that are classified as professional.
In other words, the job openings are few, and those that are available are in a few limited industries.
6. Few Entertainment Options
Without a significant urban presence, entertainment options in Wyoming are less than stellar.
In fact, some residents might even tell you that there is nothing to do.
That is not exactly true, but it is true that if you’re not outdoorsy, you might struggle to find something to hold your interest.
On the other hand, if you enjoy hiking, camping, fishing, or hunting, there are entertainment options galore.
But those who have indoor hobbies might feel a bit lost.
7. Dangerous Wildlife
Less urbanization and development are excellent for the planet and a great thing for those who want to live in the country.
But it also means that there are many spots in Wyoming where human development has not pushed back against dangerous wildlife.
Rural living without human threats means that grizzly bears, moose, coyotes, bison, gray wolves, and venomous snakes can be a common sight in Wyoming.
8. Unpredictable Weather
When you move to Wyoming, start preparing for extreme weather.
While the state is generally pleasant and sunny, it sees its fair share of tornadoes, forest fires, severe winds, and thunderstorms.
Much of the state is extremely windy and dry, which can cause health problems.
More seriously, it can make excellent conditions for forest fires, which can spread and pose a danger to both humans and animals.
Wyoming winters are similarly brutal, often bringing heavy snowfall and temperatures well below freezing.
Pros and Cons of Living in Wyoming – Summary Table
| Pros of Living in Wyoming | Cons of Living in Wyoming |
|---|---|
| 1. Low Taxes | 1. Isolation |
| 2. Low Crime Rates | 2. Low Diversity |
| 3. Stunning Scenery | 3. No Major Urban Areas |
| 4. Good Travel | 4. Aging Population |
| 5. Outdoor Activities and State Parks | 5. Limited Work and Educational Opportunities |
| 6. Frequent Sunshine and Seasonal Weather Changes | 6. Few Entertainment Options |
| 7. Affordable Housing Options | 7. Dangerous Wildlife |
| 8. No Overcrowding | 8. Unpredictable Weather |
Conclusion
If you are considering moving to Wyoming, prepare yourself for a one-of-a-kind experience.
The people who love it praise the beautiful, unspoiled scenery, the unique Western “cowboy” culture, the fascinating cuisine, and the rural living.
However, others find it lonely, lacking in diversity, too versatile in weather, and unpleasantly isolated, making it difficult to find entertainment, shopping, and work.
Ultimately it is up to you to decide if Wyoming is a good choice for you and your needs.
Comparing these pros and cons is a great place to start.
Wyoming Safety Overview
READ THE FULL REPORT: Wyoming Safety Review
Safety Index:
- OVERALL RISK: MEDIUM
- TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW
- PICKPOCKETS RISK: LOW
- NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: HIGH
- MUGGING RISK: LOW
- TERRORISM RISK: LOW
- SCAMS RISK: LOW
- WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Cost of Living in Wyoming?
The cost of living in Wyoming is roughly the average of the rest of the United States.
However, many people might find that it is more affordable for them thanks to lower housing costs and tax rates.
As of 2022, Wyoming residents reported spending an average of $843 a month on rent.
Utilities and other basic needs were also cheaper than the national average.
The median home value was $140,000.
What is the Population of Wyoming?
Wyoming is the least populated state in the United States.
Its total population is 581,348, with much of that concentrated in Cheyenne, Casper, and Laramie.
The rest of the residents largely live in isolated communities around the state, which may themselves be extremely small, insulated, and rural, an unusual living experience for most Americans.
What are the Demographics of Wyoming?
The demographics of Wyoming, as of 2020, were 84.7 percent white, 2.4 percent Native American, .9 percent black, and .9 percent Asian.
About 7.5 percent of residents said they were from two or more races, while 3.5 percent said they were of some other race than those named above.
Wyoming is one of the least diverse states in the country.
Can You Buy a House in Wyoming?
As of 2022, the median home value in Wyoming was $140,000.
This makes Wyoming a more affordable housing market than many others throughout the United States.
There are also state programs automatically granted to offer first-time homebuyers a 30-year fixed mortgage rate, likely to increase the state population and fight the exodus from state lines.
Why is Wyoming Called the Equality State?
Wyoming is famously known as the Equality State.
This is because it was the first state to grant women the right to vote and hold office, passing the law in 1869.
Wyoming has always considered itself a trailblazer when it comes to equal rights, and at least in terms of equality of the sexes, it has a history of proving itself worthy of the name.
Looking forward to moving to Montana someday!
Low ”diversity” is a pro.
Exactly what I was thinking! Top priority!
This is most definitely an opinion piece…I know many folks who don’t want to live near urban areas and who seek isolation for the privacy. Isolation is not a bad thing, if it’s your preference.
I definitely agree. Just wonder to what degree isolation is. Meaning: isolation in Wyoming vs. isolation in (I don’t know) for a comparison. For context, I live in Wisconsin.
I’ve visited Wyoming 2x. You can literally drive for a couple hours and not see another car on the road. I love it!
Totally agree!! Seems like the older I get the more isolated I want to become. Give me acreage, the comforts of home, my family, animals and a beautiful view (all of which I have now in a neighboring state that I’ll eventually leave) and I can live out my life happily!
It is correct on isolation. Many haul water from the nearest town which maybe 30min-1hr away. Water drilling is very expensive and not guaranteed to hit. Shopping and getting water is a all day affair cause towns aren’t close. If you want fastfood you will have to go to larger towns. It’s considered frontier medicine. Many hospitals are considered critical access with on call doctors. Speed limits are 80 on the highway cause towns are few and far between. When the big snowstorms hit the roads are closed so you better stock up on food, water and medicine. The wildlife can cause a traffic jam even in town. And they aren’t friendly. Even a deer can kill you. Not to mention the elk, moose and bear. Oh and rattlesnakes. I love Wyoming for all these reasons. Here isolation isn’t subjective it’s the real thing. These people are tough and self sufficient. They have to be. Cowboys and cowgirls are some of the strongest and smartest people i know. Don’t underestimate Wyoming Or it’s people.
Isolation is relative. You can live in a large city or a rural area and feel isolated. It matters what it is you want to do.
You are so right!
WOW! Shocked to hear the equality state thinks it is the “diversity” 😳 and not the greed, lack of morals and honor that is causing the issues in diverse states!!
Lack of “diversity” isn’t a con, it’s a pro:
-Here in Wyoming we don’t have to deal with the periodic rioting and looting, and the higher rates of violent and property crime, that accompany “diversity”.
I agree!
Amen!!!!
Hmmmmmm🌚got me scared to move for my job
How is the help for people on disability?
We left Southern California in 2012 and moved to Arizona to escape the ‘diversity.’ Arizona was a very different state compared to now. We’ve had enough and agree 100% that lack of diversity isn’t a con, it’s a pro, and that’s one of the many reasons we’re moving to Wyoming in a couple of months.
Where in Wyoming are you going?
We want to go as well but worried about schools we have a 3 year old.
We moved to Sheridan, Wy 27 years ago. The article didn’t mention places like this. Sheridan has been growing like mad, lots of out of state license plates.
Great hospital, education, including Sheridan Community College.
The idea of moving back to Maryland is a nightmare.
I see a couple of comments in regard to diversity. So is there a particular “race” you all are referring to that you are trying to stay away from? Just curious because I am considering the move to Wyoming because I am a fan of isolation, but I would like to steer away from “racist” individuals who think that it is a particular race that causes riots, looting, etc.
If you think it may be waycist (™️) because people don’t have to put up with criminal activities being part and parcel of diverse (diverse being a clue, it’s diametrically opposite to united) cultures, gang violence,ghettos or constantly offended well funded Marxist militant racial organisations, then perhaps obviously this isn’t the place for you. Unless of course you are a founder of BLM who fraudulently steals money from the victim organisation they helped to set up then moved to a predominantly white area. Get my drift?
Exactly
I totally agree that this article seemed to me as someone’s personal opinion. I was thinking as I read the article, this will not stop me from moving there; however, reading the comments will. It just amazes me how comfortable some people are making racist comments under the name of “Anonymous”. These comments leads me to believe that the residents of Wyoming still wear pillowcases. Nope, don’t need to move in that state.
Thank you!! They shouldn’t move there then.
I hear the banjos playing in the trees even now.
Best rural city to live in?
What about Well educated collage degree non Anglo, Mexican white family? Is that a no no?
Why would you put “low diversity” as a negative when that is the best thing about Wyoming!!!?!
The reason there’s low crime is because there is low diversity!
I have lived in Wyoming all my life, and my issue is that it is very windy. The wind makes me anxious and more aggressive.
Also, while low taxes is an upside, if you like things like libraries, concert halls, restaurants, pretty towns, Cheyenne Frontier Days, and more, then you need higher taxes. There’s just no way around it.
I personally would not live in Wyoming. I want to leave as soon as I can.
Diversity does perpetuate violence but rather the lack of respect for humanity and human life.
I can’t believe the comments! WOW!!!!
Coming from Florida I can tell you the leading cause of its failure is “diversity”. Its overrated, and breeds nothing but problems trying to cater and pander to everyone. Why do you think so many non diverse nations are thriving still. Statistics dont lie, they are numbers, they are just that. They dont have bias, opinions or preference. Everyone getting offended by that reality has never lived among trash in todays cities or is part of that trash themselves if they dont see the problem. Also note, Wyoming has the highest gun ownership per person, and lowest crime. Again, diversity is overrated. Its one of the reasons I want to move to WY, KY, or CT. Im tired of the congestion, traffic, and low life loud trash cultures in major cities.
Ct. is a bureaucratic gun restricting liberal diversity enforcing nightmare.
CT used to be a lovely state…Been There has it correct…Liberal…high taxes…and lots of them….governor wants us to be just like CA….so sad!
Well shit from the comments sounds like a place for me only one thing that’s not been mentioned is Healthcare are the Dr’s there any good at finding out what’s wrong and fixing problems if so then I’d love to live there I’ve been to several Dr’s over the past 14 yes now trying to figure out why suddenly I’m a shell of the person I once was not one Dr has a freaking clue I with recent research found that I may have severe lyme disease every single thing on list for it I’ve complained about Dr here want to treat one thing or the other none of it works why cause all of its linked together so yeah if Dr’s there have common sense then I’m there
I’m seriously wanting to relocate to Wy from Tennessee. I live my state but it has been infiltrated with the left wing extremist and their propaganda. The schools are becoming impossible for the kids to get an education, land has skyrocketing as we speak. People from north are moving south, and south are moving north.
I’m 56 years old and wouldn’t mind slowing down, and the isolation wouldn’t be a problem at all. Hopefully there are opportunities to find companionship as time goes on, I make friends easy lol.
Job market and housing are my main issues. Securing a job is the most important and finding a rental property.
Look into the city of Sheridan, WY. You may find answers to mousetrap of your concerns.
Likewise! I live in Florida (the freedom state, for now) being infiltrated by these NY and California loonies. I will still need to work for at least 10 years unless I hit the lotto so I need spa work or touristy spot to earn income so I can get out of this soon to be “smart city”