23 Pros and Cons of Living in Wyoming (2024)

Thinking about relocating out west? Wyoming is a great place to consider, but weighing the pros and cons of living in Wyoming is essential!

As someone who has lived all around the world and is constantly considering where to live next, I have a unique perspective on the pros and cons of living in Wyoming. I’ve also lived in California, so I can relate it to that.

I drove through Wyoming for a few days earlier this year and asked the locals their pros and cons.

So, is the Equality State right for you? Even though it is the 10th largest state, Wyoming has the second lowest population density in the country at 5.9 people per square mile, so there’s room to spread out and breathe!

Wyoming also has no income tax and lower housing costs than nearby states – all great benefits of moving to Wyoming!

But there are also drawbacks to life in Wyoming, especially if you’re looking for more urban opportunities and entertainment options. Wyoming has fewer job opportunities or cultural amenities than other states. Still, its rural setting makes it an ideal spot for those looking to get away from city life and enjoy the outdoors.

So, look deeper into the pros and cons of living in Wyoming to help you decide if this state is the right home for you!

1. Pro: Low Taxes 

One of the biggest pros of living in Wyoming is its low taxes. There is no individual income tax, corporate state income tax, or retirement income tax. Property taxes are among the country’s lowest, with a low 4% state sales tax rate. 

Wyoming’s overall ranking on the Tax Foundation’s State Business Tax Climate Index is 1st, making it an attractive option for those looking to save money.

2. Con: Limited Career and Education Opportunities

With only one public university (University of Wyoming), one private university (Wyoming Catholic College), and seven community colleges, the number of higher education opportunities available in the state is limited. Less than a third of the population in Wyoming has a college degree.

Finding a job in Wyoming can also be difficult due to the state’s small population of just over 500,000 people. There is no major metropolitan area in Wyoming, and many jobs available are in the energy sector, seasonal, or related to tourism.

3. Pro: Cowboy Culture

People in Wyoming love its unique cowboy culture. 

If you love horseback riding and rodeos, there is plenty to do in the Cowboy State. There are even museums dedicated to the history of the American Cowboy. Check out the famous rodeos (and carnival) at Cheyenne Frontier Days. Yee-haw!

4. Con: Remote Cities

Wyoming is far from any major city, resulting in fewer employment opportunities and limited access to top-tier restaurants, shopping, and entertainment.

It feels a bit isolating, especially if you’re used to a more bustling environment.

While the remoteness can be a downside for some, it also provides an opportunity to experience a unique and wild landscape relatively untouched by human presence and development. 

5. Pro: Extreme Beauty

Wyoming is famous for being one of the most beautiful states in the United States.

The iconic Devil’s Tower, the lush Grand Tetons, and the Moulton Barn (the most photographed barn in the world) are just a few of the most beautiful places in Wyoming. 

Not only does Wyoming offer all the wonders of Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming also offers hikers and wildlife watchers the chance to explore Fossil Butte National Monument, Oxbow Bend, and Snake River Overlook. 

6. Con: Forest Fires

Forest fires are an unfortunate reality in Wyoming, and it’s actually one of the most burned states in the country. 

The fires are often caused by lightning that strikes the dry land, threatening homes, livelihoods, and even lives when they get out of control. 

7. Pro: Plenty of Sunshine

Wyoming is ranked as one of the sunniest states in the US, making it an ideal place for those who need a generous dose of vitamin D. 

Despite the abundant sun, Wyoming still has four distinct seasons, so you’ll enjoy watching the landscapes change around you.

The long days of summer offer plenty of time to enjoy outdoor activities while soaking up the rays, and winter days are brighter due to the snow reflecting sunlight. 

8. Con: Harsh Winters

Temperatures drop drastically in the winter months, and many parts of Wyoming receive quite a  bit of snow. Wyoming is famous for being one of the coldest and snowiest states in the US!

The cold weather often causes roads to become deadly icy and dangerous, leading to hazardous conditions for drivers. Blizzards are not uncommon, either.

9. Pro: World-Class Skiing

While the cold winter weather may be gloomy, Wyoming is famous for its perfect, powdery slopes, making the winter months appealing to skiers and snowboarders.

Ski resorts like Jackson Hole offer visitors a variety of terrain ranging from groomed intermediate trails to steep, expert runs. Not only are the ski hills great for all levels of skiers, but they also host popular events like the Jackson Hole Rendezvous, a popular Spring music festival. 

10. Con: Tornadoes and Wind

Tornadoes and extreme wind can be significant hazards for Wyoming residents. 

Although the tornadoes in this area tend to be weaker than those in the Midwest, they still cause damage. 

High winds are also common, making it difficult and dangerous to travel on highways. The large storms cause frequent power outages that sometimes last for days. 

11. Pro: Low Crime Rates

Wyoming is an incredibly safe place to live, with lower crime rates than many other states. It’s one of the big advantages of living in Wyoming! 

With fewer people living in Wyoming than in other states, there is less opportunity for crime to occur. The state ranks 17th in the US for safety (the safest is Vermont), with the top 5 safest cities being Douglas, Sheridan, Cody, Torrington, and Rock Springs. 

Wyoming residents typically enjoy close-knit and supportive communities that discourage criminal behavior. 

12. Con: Only Three Shopping Malls

If you love to shop, living in Wyoming will be a challenge since there are only three shopping malls in the entire state: White Mountain Mall in Rock Springs, Eastridge Mall in Casper, and Frontier Mall in Cheyenne.

The bigger towns have Walmarts that carry a variety of goods at great prices, but other stores are scarce. 

Local stores like thrift shops, boutiques, hardware stores, and family-owned businesses are well-established throughout the state, providing unique items you won’t find in department stores or malls. 

13. Pro: Little Traffic 

A pro of living in Wyoming is the lack of traffic and pollution. With the state’s second-lowest population in the US after Alaska, fewer people and cars are on the roads. You can enjoy a peaceful drive around the state without hassle.  

Residents also love the lack of pollution that comes with few cars on the road. The air is crisp and fresh, starkly contrasting to smog-filled areas like Los Angeles or New York City.

There are no toll roads in Wyoming, making it easy to travel within the state without spending extra money due to fees.

14. Con: No Professional Sports Teams

The closest professional sports teams are all based in Denver, Colorado.

If you want to see a major league game or watch an event, you will have to drive, and no public transportation is available. 

Denver’s professional sports teams may be a bit further away for Wyoming residents, but if you are up for a road trip, you’ll have fun in the Mile High City!

15. Pro: Low Housing Costs and Below Average Cost of Living

The cost of living and median home value ($220,500) is slightly lower than the national average. Nearby states like Colorado and Utah tend to be more expensive.

To rent a 1-bedroom apartment in Laramie, Wyoming, for example, you’ll pay about $608 per month. 

16. Con: Lack of Diversity

The US Census recorded that 92.3% of the population is white, so there are very few opportunities to experience different cultures or get involved in diverse communities. 

This lack of diversity can make it difficult for newcomers, and it limits access to different aspects of life, such as food, music, and art. 

17. Pro: Chicken Fried Steak

Wyoming is known for its delicious beef-based dishes, with chicken fried steak being one of the most popular. 

Chicken Fried Steak consists of tenderized steak coated in a flour or cracker coat and deep-fried until golden brown. It’s often served with sides like mashed potatoes, gravy, and vegetables and can be found all over the state. 

Wyoming also has other tasty treats to offer, like Doughboys, Cowboy Steaks, Dutch oven biscuits, and berry pies – all delicious reasons to live in Wyoming!

18. Con: Aging Population

When weighing the pros and cons of retiring in Wyoming, keep in mind that almost 19% of Wyoming’s population is over 65. 

Those over 65 have fewer opportunities for meaningful occupations and may lack access to quality medical care. Wyoming’s larger elderly population puts a strain on social services such as housing and healthcare assistance. 

19. Con: Sparse Healthcare Facilities

In many rural parts of Wyoming, access to medical care is limited due to a lack of physicians and hospitals. This can be a particular issue for those with chronic health conditions who may need specialized doctors or treatments.

The nearest hospital might be a few hours away from one’s home, making it difficult to get timely medical attention when needed. 

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20. Pro: Access to Hunting and Fishing

Wyoming’s abundance of public land also ensures hunters can pursue their sport without needing a guide or outfitter. 

In addition to game species like mule deer, elk, black bear, cougar, pronghorn antelope, and bison, Wyoming also has plenty of opportunities for anglers looking to catch rainbow trout, cutthroat trout, brown trout, and lake trout. 

21. Con: Long Drives and Limited Public Transportation

One of the downsides of living in Wyoming is the long drives and limited public transportation. 

Residents in Wyoming need to be comfortable driving in all types of weather or risk being trapped in town.

Most people in Wyoming live near their workplaces, so they don’t have to commute far for work.

22. Pro: Friendly Communities

Small towns and rural areas are known for their tight-knit communities, where neighbors look out for each other, and townspeople have each other’s backs – that’s exactly what it’s like to live in Wyoming. 

Going to small-town events like parades and farmers’ markets allows people to meet their neighbors, make new friends, and learn more about the culture in their area. 

The support system available within these tight-knit communities provides residents with a greater sense of security and safety than those living in big cities.

23. Con: Lack of Political and Religious Diversity

Wyoming is known for its traditional values, with most residents subscribing to the same political and religious beliefs. 

The lack of political diversity can disadvantage people who don’t share those values, as it can be very isolating. If you have differing views, you may not have a supportive community around you, and it can even limit your access to certain resources. 

24. Pro: Yellowstone National Park

I drove through Yellowstone with my dog in 2023 to spend 2 days hiking.

Located just south of Montana, the majestic Yellowstone National Park boasts many unique natural wonders and wildlife, such as the Grand Prismatic Spring, geysers, Upper and Lower Yellowstone Falls, the multi-colored Grand Canyon of Yellowstone, and brightly colored hot springs. 

The park is also close to the iconic Devils Tower National Monument, a butte made of igneous rock formed by the cooling of magma over millions of years.

25. Con: Isolating and Boring

Wyoming can be quite isolating and boring compared to states with larger populations and more urban centers. There are limited cultural attractions and fewer nightlife options in Wyoming. 

While there are rodeos and other events, you may find yourself longing for more opportunities than Wyoming provides. 

But if you prefer spending time outdoors rather than in nightclubs and museums, Wyoming is the perfect place to enjoy nature!

Is Wyoming a Good Place to Live? 

Yes, Wyoming is a good place to live! It’s especially attractive for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city living. 

Its lower cost of living and the lack of income tax make it a great place for budget-conscious individuals or families looking for an affordable place to call home. 

Wyoming’s natural beauty and outdoor activities offer the perfect escape for relaxation and exploration. 

Some of the disadvantages of living in Wyoming are that there are fewer job opportunities and cultural amenities than in more populated areas. 

Overall, Wyoming’s peaceful atmosphere, affordability, and scenic backdrops make it a great place to live.

FAQs

What Are The Negatives Of Living In Wyoming?

The negatives of living in Wyoming mostly revolve around being far from major cities, including limited options for healthcare, education, entertainment, and jobs.

What Are The Positives Of Living In Wyoming?

The positives of living in Wyoming are the low cost of living, low crime rates, and the unique cowboy culture. With wide open spaces, majestic mountains, and plenty of outdoor activities such as skiing, fishing, hunting, and camping, there is never a shortage of things to do. 

What Is It Like Living In Wyoming?

Living in Wyoming offers a tranquil life, outdoor activities year-round, and a low cost of living. However, harsh weather and limited access to medical care can be drawbacks for many. 

Wrap Up: Moving to Wyoming Pros and Cons 

Nowhere is perfect, but knowing what to expect from your new home before you move helps you prepare for the change and ensure a smooth transition. 

Living in Wyoming offers a lower cost of living than other parts of the US, with access to natural recreational activities like hunting and fishing. You’ll love living in Wyoming if you’re after a quiet life with beautiful landscapes.

Reasons not to move to Wyoming include sparse healthcare facilities, limited career opportunities, lack of diversity, and limited public transportation options. 

If you’re considering a relocation, weigh all the pros and cons of moving to Wyoming carefully before taking the plunge!

Find out more about living in Montana, which is right next to Wyoming and people commonly move between.