Cost of Living in Wyoming [2025]

Wyoming is an appealing option for individuals and families seeking affordability, space, and access to the outdoors. With sweeping mountain views, low population density, and a strong sense of community, the state offers a lifestyle that’s hard to find in larger, more crowded regions. Whether you're drawn by its tax-friendly policies—like no state income tax—or its abundance of recreational opportunities, Wyoming blends natural beauty with everyday practicality.

Compared to higher-cost cities in the area, like Denver, Minneapolis, or Salt Lake City, Wyoming’s overall cost of living is noticeably lower. Housing and rent prices are especially budget-friendly in most cities, and residents benefit from lower transportation and utility costs as well. While some areas like Jackson come with luxury-level pricing, much of the state remains highly accessible. If you’re curious about where your budget can stretch the farthest, keep reading to explore the cost of living in Wyoming across housing, groceries, transportation, and more.

Cost of Living in Wyoming

What Is the Cost of Living in Wyoming?

Wyoming offers a cost of living that is generally lower than the national average. The overall cost of living index is 97.5, meaning it's 2.5% less expensive than the U.S. average. Housing plays a significant role in this affordability, with median home values around $285,100, which is approximately 31% less than the national median of $414,500.

Within Wyoming, costs can vary notably between areas. For instance, Cheyenne, the state capital, has a cost of living index of 100.3, slightly above the national average, with median home values at $311,200. In contrast, Casper offers a more affordable lifestyle, featuring a cost of living index of 94.8 and median home values around $250,700. These variations highlight the importance of considering specific locales within Wyoming when evaluating living expenses.

Where Is the Highest Cost of Living in Wyoming?

Jackson has the highest cost of living in the state, with an overall index of 180.9—80.9% higher than the national average and 85.5% higher than Wyoming's average. Housing is the main driver, with a median home value of over $1.2 million, more than four times the state average. Despite its high costs, Jackson remains popular for its access to outdoor recreation and luxury mountain living.

Where Is the Cost of Living Most Affordable in Wyoming?

Rawlins offers one of the most affordable cost-of-living rates in the state, with an overall index of 87.1, which is 12.9% lower than the national average and 10.7% lower than Wyoming's average. Housing significantly contributes to this affordability, with a median home value of $205,900, approximately 50.3% less than the national median of $414,500.

How Much Is Rent in Wyoming?

As of April 2025, the average rent in Wyoming is approximately $1,115 per month, with variations depending on the region and property type. This figure is notably lower than the national average rent of $1,384 per month as of March 2025. Over the past year, Wyoming has experienced a modest decrease in rental prices, aligning with national trends where rents are expected to decrease modestly in 2025 following several years of sharp increases. ​

In the broader context, Wyoming's average rent positions it among the more affordable states in the U.S., ranking as the 15th-lowest among all 50 states. This affordability, coupled with the state's natural attractions and lower population density, makes Wyoming an appealing option for those seeking a balance between cost and quality of life.

How Much Is a One-Bedroom Apartment in Wyoming?

Within Wyoming, rental costs vary significantly by city. For instance, Jackson stands out with an average rent of $2,430 per month, which is 75.6% higher than the national average. In contrast, cities like Cheyenne and Casper offer more affordable options, with median rents for a one-bedroom apartment at $1,018 and $764, respectively. These disparities highlight the importance of considering specific locations within the state when evaluating rental affordability.

How Much is a Two-Bedroom Apartment in Wyoming?

The average rent for a two-bedroom apartment in Wyoming is approximately $922 per month as of April 2025. This is significantly lower than the national average of $1,401, making the state an attractive option for renters seeking more affordable housing.

Rent prices vary notably by location. In Cheyenne, a two-bedroom apartment rents for about $1,065, while in Casper, the average is $930. These figures highlight how local market conditions, property features, and proximity to amenities can influence monthly rent across Wyoming.

How Much Is Housing in Wyoming?

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the median value of owner-occupied housing units in Wyoming is $285,100. This figure reflects the middle point of home values across the state, indicating a relatively affordable housing market compared to the national median.

What Salary Do I Need to Live in Wyoming?

The MIT Living Wage Calculator estimates that a single adult in Wyoming requires an hourly wage of $21.14, totaling $43,974 annually before taxes, to cover basic necessities. This calculation covers essential needs but does not account for additional expenses such as travel, savings, or debt repayments.

For context, the 30% rule is a common budgeting guideline suggesting that no more than 30% of your gross income should be allocated to housing costs, including rent and utilities. This approach aims to ensure that you have sufficient income remaining for other essential expenses such as food, transportation, and healthcare.

In Wyoming, as of January 2025, the average rent for a two-bedroom apartment was approximately $922 per month. Applying the 30% rule, you would need a gross annual income of about $36,880 to comfortably afford that rent. This breaks down to a monthly income of $3,073 or an hourly wage of approximately $19.21, assuming a standard 40-hour workweek.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Wyoming's median household income for 2019-2023 is $74,815. This figure is slightly lower than the national median household income of $78,538 during the same period. Use our rent calculator to see what kind of rent you can afford in Wyoming.

How Much Is Transportation in Wyoming?

Transportation expenses in Wyoming can vary significantly based on household composition. According to the MIT Living Wage Calculator, a single adult incurs annual transportation costs of approximately $11,733, while a family with two working adults and two children faces about $19,681 per year in transportation expenses.

Wyoming's expansive rural landscape and limited public transportation infrastructure contribute to a predominantly car-dependent culture. The state's vast distances and low population density make personal vehicles the primary mode of transportation for most residents. Public transit options are scarce, and walkability varies across Wyoming's cities. For instance, Cheyenne has a Walk Score of 36 and a Bike Score of 49, indicating that most errands require a car.

How Much Are Groceries in Wyoming?

In Wyoming, annual food expenses vary depending on household size. According to the MIT Living Wage Calculator, a single adult's food costs amount to approximately $4,327 per year, while a family of four incurs about $12,682 annually. Grocery prices in Cheyenne include a loaf of fresh white bread (1 lb) at $3.39 and chicken fillets (1 lb) at $2.49.

Dining out in Wyoming also reflects a range of prices. In Cheyenne, for instance, an inexpensive restaurant meal averages around $18. A three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant costs approximately $65.

Wyoming's culinary scene features hearty local dishes such as bison burgers, Rocky Mountain oysters, and trout, reflecting the state's rich Western heritage. Frequent dining out, especially indulging in these regional specialties, can significantly impact one's budget. Balancing home-cooked meals with occasional restaurant visits allows residents to enjoy local flavors while managing food expenses effectively.

How Much Is Child Care in Wyoming?

Child care expenses in Wyoming represent a significant portion of a family's budget. According to the MIT Living Wage Calculator, annual child care costs are approximately $8,879 for one child and $17,768 for two children.

To mitigate these expenses, parents can explore various strategies. Adjusting work schedules to accommodate remote work or flexible hours can reduce the need for full-time child care. Additionally, researching areas with lower living costs and shorter waitlists for child care facilities may offer more affordable options. Collaborating with other families to arrange shared child care or participating in cooperative child care groups can also provide cost-effective solutions.

How Much Is Healthcare in Wyoming?

According to the MIT Living Wage Calculator, annual healthcare expenses in Wyoming are approximately $2,876 for a single adult and $9,626 for a family of four. This indicates that families face healthcare costs more than three times those of single adults, highlighting the significant financial impact on larger households.

How Much Are Utilities in Wyoming?

In Cheyenne, Wyoming, the average monthly cost for basic utilities—including electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage—for a 915-square-foot apartment is approximately $187.20, $21.40 less than the national average of $208.60. This indicates that Wyoming residents typically pay lower utility costs compared to the rest of the country.

Wyoming's diverse climate, characterized by cold winters and warm summers, can lead to seasonal fluctuations in utility expenses. Heating costs may rise during the frigid winter months, while cooling expenses can increase in the summer. Residents should anticipate these variations and consider allocating additional funds in their budgets to accommodate the changing utility costs throughout the year.

Wyoming Fitness and Entertainment

In Cheyenne, Wyoming, the cost of fitness and entertainment is relatively affordable compared to many other cities in the country. For example, a cinema ticket for an international release averages around $10, which is lower than in nearby cities like Denver, where the same ticket costs approximately $15. In Cheyenne, gym memberships average around $35 per month.

Cheyenne also offers a wealth of free or low-cost outdoor activities that promote an active lifestyle. Curt Gowdy State Park, located between Cheyenne and Laramie, features over 35 miles of trails suitable for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding, set amid diverse landscapes of rolling hills and granite formations. Within the city, the Greater Cheyenne Greenway provides more than 40 miles of multi-use trails connecting various parks and neighborhoods, ideal for walking, running, and cycling. Additionally, the Cheyenne Botanic Gardens offers a serene environment for leisurely strolls and is free to the public. These amenities make it easy for residents to maintain an active and healthy lifestyle without incurring significant expenses.

How Much Are Taxes in Wyoming?

Wyoming is one of the most tax-friendly states in the U.S., which significantly contributes to its lower overall cost of living. The state has no individual or corporate income tax, meaning residents keep more of their earnings, regardless of their income level. Sales tax is relatively low, with a statewide base rate of 4%, and the average combined state and local sales tax rate comes to 5.44%. In places like Cheyenne, this includes both state and local contributions.

Property taxes are also modest, with an effective rate of 0.55% on owner-occupied home values—well below the national average. Wyoming doesn’t levy estate or inheritance taxes, and its relatively low excise taxes, like $0.24 per gallon on gasoline and $0.60 per pack of cigarettes, help keep everyday costs down. These tax advantages, along with the state’s top ranking on the 2025 State Tax Competitiveness Index, make Wyoming an attractive option for individuals and families looking to stretch their dollar further.

Wyoming’s Job Market

Wyoming’s job market showed signs of modest recovery in early 2025, with the seasonally adjusted unemployment rate dipping to 3.5% in February. While the rate remains higher than the 2.8% seen in February 2024, it continues to outperform the national average of 4.2%. This suggests Wyoming’s labor market is stabilizing following recent economic fluctuations.

Employment gains were also reported, with non-farm jobs increasing by 4,800 year-over-year, reaching a total of 291,100 in February 2025. Industries driving growth included heavy and civil engineering, recreation and gambling, economic program administration, and appliance manufacturing. However, the state also experienced losses in key sectors such as mining support and telecommunications. Despite these declines, Wyoming is projected to add 8,000 jobs between 2024 and 2026, indicating cautious optimism for continued economic expansion.

Find Your Next Apartment in Wyoming

Wyoming’s wide-open spaces, low cost of living, and easy access to outdoor adventure make it a welcoming place to call home. From the charm of small towns like Laramie and Cody to the scenic beauty of Jackson and Cheyenne, there’s a Wyoming community for every lifestyle. Whether you’re relocating for work, school, or a change of pace, the right apartment is waiting for you.

Ready to make the move? Start your Wyoming apartment search today with Apartment List. With us, you’ll spend five minutes and save 50 hours searching.

FAQs: Cost of Living in Wyoming

What is the average housing cost in Wyoming?

In 2025, the average housing cost in Wyoming is notably affordable compared to the national average, with a median home value of $285,100. Renters also benefit from lower costs, with average monthly rent around $1,115, placing Wyoming among the 15 most affordable states for renters.

What is the cheapest rent in Wyoming?

In Wyoming, some of the most affordable rents can be found in cities like Green River and Kemmerer. Green River offers average rents of around $928 per month for a two-bedroom, while follows closely with rents averaging $833. These cities are ideal for renters looking to keep housing costs low without sacrificing access to Wyoming’s scenic landscapes and small-town charm.

Is Wyoming a good place to live?

Yes, Wyoming is a great place to live, offering a mix of affordability, natural beauty, and a relaxed pace of life. With no state income tax and a cost of living below the national average, it’s especially appealing for those looking to stretch their budget without sacrificing quality of life. Whether you're drawn to outdoor recreation, low crime rates, or tight-knit communities, there's a Wyoming town to match your lifestyle. From scenic Jackson to affordable Laramie, the state offers diverse options—check out our guide to the best places to live in Wyoming to find the right fit for you.

How many people live in Wyoming?

As of July 1, 2024, Wyoming's estimated population was 587,618, reflecting a modest increase from the 2020 census count of 576,851.