Best Cities To Live In Wyoming (2024 Guide)
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Last updated 03/19/2024 by
Benjamin LockeEdited by
Summary:
Wyoming, the “Equality State,” is celebrated for its stunning landscapes and tranquil lifestyle. This article explores the unique aspects of Cheyenne, Jackson, and Laramie, highlighting their economic strengths, healthcare facilities, educational opportunities, and walkability, showcasing Wyoming as a state of varied opportunities and vibrant community life.
Wyoming, often referred to as the Equality State (sometimes also the “Cowboy State”), captivates with its diverse and awe-inspiring scenery, from the rugged peaks of the Rockies to the expansive stretches of its high plains. If Wyoming is beckoning out of necessity or curiosity, look no further. These are the top three cities to consider living in Wyoming.
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Best cities to live in Wyoming
Cheyenne
Cheyenne, the capital city of Wyoming, is known for its rich history and vibrant culture, blending the charm of the Old West with modern amenities. This city offers a unique living experience marked by its friendly community, scenic landscapes, and strong sense of heritage.
Cheyenne snapshot
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Average Home Price | $352,546 |
| Cost of Living | 94.094 Regional Price Parity (RPP for the US is 100, lower = lower than average, higher = higher than average) |
| Crime | 40 incidents per 1,000 residents (Average crime rate in the US is 23.48 per 1,000 residents (FBI, US Census)) |
| Weather | Cheyenne experiences a semi-arid climate with cold, dry winters and warm summers, offering a distinct seasonal experience. Known as one of the windiest cities in the U.S., these winds are particularly notable in the winter and spring, which shapes the local climate. |
Cheyenne healthcare
Cheyenne, Wyoming, may not have the same scale of healthcare facilities as a major city like Atlanta, but it offers comprehensive healthcare services with several well-regarded medical centers.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Cheyenne Hospitals | Cheyenne Regional Medical Center is a primary healthcare provider in the city, offering a wide range of medical services and specialized care. |
| Other Notable Facilities | Other significant healthcare facilities in Cheyenne include UCHealth Cheyenne Medical Specialists and HealthWorks, providing comprehensive medical, dental, and behavioral health services. |
Cheyenne walkability
Cheyenne, Wyoming, offers a different walkability experience compared to a large urban center like Atlanta. The city has areas that are pedestrian-friendly, but its overall walkability varies.
Cheyenne Walkability
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Overall Walkability | Cheyenne has an average Walk Score of 36, indicating that most errands require a car. The city’s layout is more suburban, with limited walkable areas. |
| Highly Walkable Areas | The Historic Cheyenne neighborhood is the most walkable area in the city, offering a more pedestrian-friendly environment. |
| Neighborhood Variability | Walkability in Cheyenne varies significantly by neighborhood. Some areas, like the downtown region, are more walkable, while others are less conducive to walking. |
| City Ranking | Cheyenne is working towards improving its walkability, with ongoing developments and enhancements to its trail and greenway systems. |
Cheyenne education
Cheyenne, Wyoming, offers a diverse and robust education system, with a range of public and private schools providing quality education to its residents.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Cheyenne Area School Districts | Laramie County School District 1 is the primary school district in Cheyenne, known for its commitment to academic excellence and comprehensive educational programs. |
| High Schools in Cheyenne | Notable high schools in Cheyenne include East High School and Central High School, both recognized for their strong academic and extracurricular offerings. |
| Public School Performance | Cheyenne’s public schools, such as Poder Academy and Gilchrist Elementary School, are known for their high performance and focus on student achievement. |
| Top Public Schools in Cheyenne | Other top-performing schools in Cheyenne include Poder Secondary School and Triumph High School, offering a range of educational opportunities for students. |
Cheyenne jobs and economy
Cheyenne, Wyoming, presents a stable and growing economy with diverse job opportunities and a positive outlook for future growth.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Job Market Growth | Cheyenne has seen steady job growth, with a civilian labor force of approximately 49.5k and employment of 48.2k as of September 2023. |
| Average Annual Salary | The average annual salary in Cheyenne is $59,148 |
| Future Job Growth | Projected annual job growth in Cheyenne is estimated at 0.2%, indicating a steady economic development. |
| Recent Trends | Cheyenne’s economy is primarily based on light manufacturing, agriculture, the military, government services, and transportation. |
| Attractiveness to New Residents | The stable job market and diverse industries in Cheyenne contribute to its attractiveness to new residents and workers. |
| Overall Economic Strength | Cheyenne’s economy benefits from a balanced mix of sectors, including a significant presence of government and military jobs, supporting its overall economic strength. |
Jackson
Jackson, Wyoming, known for its stunning natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities, offers a unique blend of small-town charm and upscale amenities. This picturesque town, nestled in the Jackson Hole Valley, is a gateway to national parks and a haven for adventure enthusiasts.
Jackson snapshot
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Average Home Price | $2,080,199, |
| Cost of Living | 36% higher than national average |
| Crime | 18.62 incidents per 1,000 residents (Average crime rate in the US is 23.48 per 1,000 residents (FBI, US Census)) |
| Weather | Jackson experiences a cold climate with long, snowy winters and short, mild summers, offering distinct seasonal experiences. |
Jackson healthcare
Jackson, Wyoming, while smaller than a major city like Atlanta, still offers excellent healthcare services with top-rated medical facilities.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Jackson Hospitals | St. John’s Health in Jackson is a leading healthcare provider, offering a wide range of medical services and specialized care. |
| Other Notable Facilities | Other significant healthcare facilities in Jackson include the Teton County Hospital District and St. John’s Medical Center, both providing comprehensive healthcare services. |
Jackson walkability
Jackson, Wyoming, offers a unique walkability experience, differing significantly from a large urban center like Atlanta. The town’s layout and attractions make it conducive to pedestrian exploration.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Overall Walkability | Jackson has a high Walk Score of 89, indicating that most errands can be accomplished on foot and it is very walkable. |
| Highly Walkable Areas | The Jackson Town Square and surrounding downtown area are particularly walkable, offering easy access to shops, restaurants, and attractions. |
| Neighborhood Variability | While the central areas of Jackson are highly walkable, the walkability can vary in more residential or rural areas around the town. |
| City Ranking | Jackson’s walkability is enhanced by its compact town center and the presence of pedestrian-friendly pathways and trails. |
Jackson education
Jackson, Wyoming, offers a diverse and high-quality education system, with a range of public and private schools providing excellent educational opportunities.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Jackson Area School Districts | Teton County School District is the primary school district in Jackson, known for its high academic standards and comprehensive educational programs. |
| High Schools in Jackson | Jackson Hole High School is a notable institution within the district, recognized for its academic excellence and diverse extracurricular offerings. |
| Public School Performance | Jackson’s public schools, such as Jackson Hole Middle School and Colter Elementary School, are known for their strong performance and focus on student achievement. |
| Top Public Schools in Jackson | Other top-performing schools in Jackson include the Mountain Academy of Teton Science Schools and Jackson Hole Classical Academy, offering a range of educational opportunities for students. |
Jackson jobs and economy
Jackson, Wyoming, offers a unique economic landscape, distinct from a major metropolitan area like Atlanta, with a focus on tourism and outdoor recreation.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Job Market Growth | Jackson has experienced a slight decrease in the job market by -1.6% over the last year, but future job growth over the next ten years is predicted to be 34.2%, higher than the national average. |
| Average Annual Salary | The average annual salary in Jackson is $52,876. |
| Future Job Growth | Future job growth in Jackson is expected to be robust, driven by the town’s strong tourism sector and outdoor recreational activities. |
| Recent Trends | Jackson’s economy is primarily driven by tourism, with a significant influx of visitors to nearby national parks and ski resorts. |
| Attractiveness to New Residents | The unique lifestyle and job opportunities in Jackson, especially in the tourism and outdoor recreation sectors, contribute to its attractiveness to new residents. |
| Overall Economic Strength | Jackson’s economy benefits from a strong tourism industry, outdoor recreation, and a vibrant small-town community, supporting its overall economic strength. |
Pro Tip
“In my experience, the key to efficiently planning a relocation is to get organized and make lists. Break the move down into manageable chunks – research neighborhoods, make packing checklists, and sort possessions. Handle logistics methodically – schedule movers, change addresses, and transfer records. Give yourself time to wrap up loose ends at your old home while settling into the new community. Join local groups, explore the area, and meet neighbors. Moving can be chaotic, but staying focused on each task helps smooth the transition. Don’t be afraid to ask for help.” – Mac Steer, Owner and Director of Sims Direct
Laramie
Laramie, Wyoming, known for its rich history and vibrant academic community, offers a blend of small-town charm and cultural diversity. As the home of the University of Wyoming, Laramie provides a unique combination of educational excellence and outdoor recreational opportunities.
Laramie Snapshot
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Average Home Price | $352,868 |
| Cost of Living | 20% lower than national average |
| Crime | 18 incidents per 1,000 residents (Average crime rate in the US is 23.48 per 1,000 residents (FBI, US Census)) |
| Weather | Situated at a high elevation of over 7,000 feet, it experiences a unique weather pattern characterized by cooler temperatures and more snow compared to other regions in Wyoming. This high-altitude climate results in longer winters and shorter, cooler summers, making Laramie a distinct spot for weather in the state. |
Laramie healthcare
Laramie, Wyoming, while not as large as Atlanta, Georgia, still offers quality healthcare services with reputable medical facilities.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Laramie Hospitals | Ivinson Memorial Hospital is a key healthcare provider in Laramie, offering a wide range of medical services and specialized care. |
| Other Notable Facilities | Other significant healthcare facilities in Laramie include Albany Community Health Clinic and Snowy Range Health Center, both providing comprehensive healthcare services. |
Laramie walkability
Laramie, Wyoming, offers a different walkability experience compared to a large urban center like Atlanta. The city’s layout and amenities provide a mix of walkable areas and those that require transportation.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Overall Walkability | Laramie has an average Walk Score of 35, indicating that most errands require a car, but there are some walkable areas. |
| Highly Walkable Areas | Certain locations in Laramie, particularly around the University of Wyoming campus and downtown, are more walkable, offering easy access to amenities. |
| Neighborhood Variability | Walkability in Laramie varies by neighborhood. The downtown area and university vicinity are more pedestrian-friendly compared to other parts of the city. |
| City Ranking | Laramie is working towards improving its walkability, particularly in the downtown area and near the university, to enhance pedestrian access and connectivity. |
Laramie education
Laramie, Wyoming, offers a strong education system, with a focus on both public schooling and higher education, distinct from the urban education landscape of Atlanta.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Laramie Area School Districts | Albany County School District #1 serves Laramie, known for its commitment to academic excellence and comprehensive educational programs. |
| High Schools in Laramie | Laramie High School is a notable institution within the district, recognized for its strong academic and extracurricular offerings. |
| Public School Performance | Laramie’s public schools, such as Snowy Range Academy and UW Laboratory School, are known for their high performance and focus on student achievement. |
| Top Public Schools in Laramie | Other top-performing schools in Laramie include Indian Paintbrush Elementary and Spring Creek Elementary, offering a range of educational opportunities for students. |
| Higher Education | The University of Wyoming, located in Laramie, is the state’s flagship university, offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. |
Laramie jobs and economy
Laramie, Wyoming, presents a distinct economic landscape compared to a major metropolitan area like Atlanta, with a focus on education, research, and local businesses.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Job Market Growth | Laramie has seen a job market decrease by -2.2% over the last year, but future job growth over the next ten years is predicted to be 19.5%, which is lower than the national average. |
| Average Annual Salary | The average annual salary in Laramie is $49,476. |
| Future Job Growth | Future job growth in Laramie is expected to be steady, driven by the city’s educational institutions and local economic initiatives. |
| Recent Trends | Laramie’s economy is influenced by the presence of the University of Wyoming, contributing to its focus on education, research, and technology. |
| Attractiveness to New Residents | The unique lifestyle and job opportunities in Laramie, especially in the education and research sectors, contribute to its attractiveness to new residents. |
| Overall Economic Strength | Laramie’s economy benefits from a strong educational sector, research facilities, and a supportive community for local businesses and startups. |
Eric Plam, leader in the tech industry at SIMO, provides valuable insights into the factors that shape remote work experiences
“US cities can vary vastly in terms of their digital infrastructure and connectivity, impacting remote work experiences. Here’s a breakdown of key factors for remote work:
“US cities can vary vastly in terms of their digital infrastructure and connectivity, impacting remote work experiences. Here’s a breakdown of key factors for remote work:
- Internet service providers (ISPs): Availability and competition between ISPs drive price and network quality.
- Infrastructure technology: Cities with fiber optic networks offer faster and more reliable connections compared to those with older, copper-based technology.
- Digital equity: Some cities have broader coverage and affordability gaps, leaving low-income communities with limited access.
- Public Wi-Fi: Availability and speed of free public Wi-Fi hotspots can be crucial for remote workers on the go.
Additional Factors to Consider:
- Cost of living: Remote work allows for more location flexibility, but consider housing costs and overall affordability.
- Culture and amenities: Vibrant cities with diverse social scenes and good coffee shops can enhance the remote work experience.
- Personal preferences: Consider your desired lifestyle, access to nature, and proximity to family and friends.
Our methodology
In our methodology for identifying the best places to live in a state, we adopt a comprehensive and data-driven approach, relying on a variety of trusted and authoritative sources to compile our rankings. This process is outlined in the following steps:
Economic Data Analysis: We gather robust economic statistics from esteemed sources such as the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and the Bureau of Economic Analysis. These agencies provide us with critical data on employment rates, income levels, job growth, and other economic indicators that contribute significantly to the quality of life in an area.
Employment Opportunities: In addition to general economic data, we specifically examine employment statistics from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This includes examining trends in job growth, the diversity of industries present, and the stability of employment in different regions, which are vital factors in determining a place's economic health and attractiveness.
Crime Rate Assessment: For understanding the safety and security of a place, we utilize data from the FBI’s Crime Data Explorer. This tool offers detailed insights into various types of crime rates, including both property and violent crimes, allowing us to assess the safety of a community comprehensively.
Housing Market Evaluation: Housing affordability and market trends are key components of our analysis. We primarily use Zillow.com for up-to-date and detailed information on house prices, trends in the housing market, and the overall affordability of living in different areas. When necessary, we also consult other reliable sources to validate and enrich our data.
Additional Quality of Life Factors: Recognizing that quality of life is influenced by a variety of factors, we also incorporate data from other official and reputable sources. This includes information on education quality, healthcare accessibility, environmental quality, transportation infrastructure, and recreational opportunities, among others.
Data Integration and Analysis: Upon gathering data from these diverse sources, we integrate and analyze it to provide a holistic view of each location. Our analysis involves not only looking at the raw numbers but also understanding the context and relative significance of each data point.
FAQ
What makes Cheyenne, Wyoming, a great place to live?
Cheyenne, the state capital, is known for its rich history, cultural events like Frontier Days, and a growing economy, making it an attractive city for families and professionals.
Why is Jackson, Wyoming, popular among residents and tourists?
Jackson is famed for its stunning natural scenery, proximity to national parks like Grand Teton and Yellowstone, and vibrant arts scene, appealing to nature lovers and culture enthusiasts.
What outdoor activities can one enjoy in Wyoming?
Wyoming offers a plethora of outdoor activities, including hiking in the Tetons, skiing in Jackson Hole, and exploring the natural wonders of Yellowstone National Park.
How is the job market in Wyoming’s major cities?
Wyoming’s job market varies by city, with Cheyenne offering opportunities in government and tech sectors, while towns like Jackson thrive on tourism and hospitality industries.
What are the educational opportunities in Wyoming?
Wyoming boasts strong educational institutions, including the University of Wyoming in Laramie, and various public and private schools known for their academic excellence.
Key takeaways
- Cheyenne, Wyoming’s capital, combines historical charm with modern amenities, offering a high quality of life with a strong sense of community.
- Jackson, Wyoming, is a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, boasting stunning natural beauty and a vibrant arts scene.
- Laramie, home to the University of Wyoming, offers a unique blend of educational excellence and outdoor recreational opportunities.
- Wyoming’s cities provide diverse living experiences, from Cheyenne’s growing economy to Jackson’s tourism-driven vibrancy and Laramie’s academic community.
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