Wyoming, known as the "Cowboy State", is a no-income-tax Western state with low costs and wide-open spaces. Here is everything you need to know about the cost of living in the Cowboy State — from housing and groceries to taxes, utilities, childcare, and what salary you actually need.
Here is what a typical month costs in Wyoming for a single person earning the median income of $65,000/year:
Each category shows how Wyoming compares to the national average. Green means cheaper, yellow means similar, orange/red means more expensive.
Adjust your salary to see a detailed monthly budget breakdown for living in Wyoming.
Select a state to see how much salary you would need there to maintain the same lifestyle you have in Wyoming.
The most popular cities for residents and newcomers in Wyoming:
Housing is the single biggest expense in Wyoming, as it is everywhere. The median home price in Wyoming is $315,000, and the median rent for a one-bedroom apartment is $900/month. With a housing cost index of 88, Wyoming housing is 12% cheaper than the national average.
Housing in Wyoming is a genuine advantage. The low cost of housing frees up income for savings, investments, and discretionary spending that residents of expensive states simply cannot afford.
Wyoming is one of only 9 states with no state income tax. This is a major financial benefit — a household earning $65,000 saves approximately $3,900/year compared to a state with a 6% income tax rate. This extra take-home pay effectively reduces your cost of living and increases your purchasing power.
The average single person in Wyoming spends approximately $400/month on groceries. A family of four can expect to spend $1,000-$1,200/month. The food cost index of 98 means groceries in Wyoming are 2% below the national average.
Gas prices in Wyoming average $3.25/gallon. For the average commuter driving 15,000 miles/year at 25 MPG, that is roughly $1,950/year in fuel costs.
Wyoming healthcare costs are 10% above the national average (index: 110). The average annual healthcare cost per person in Wyoming is approximately $6,600 including premiums and out-of-pocket expenses. Employer-sponsored health insurance covers the majority of working adults.
Infant daycare in Wyoming averages $850/month ($10,200/year). This is below the national average, making Wyoming more family-friendly from a financial perspective. Many families in Wyoming find that one parent staying home is more cost-effective when two or more children need daycare.
Wyoming offers a solid balance of cost, opportunity, and quality of life. With costs near the national average, you get the added benefit of no state income tax, access to growing job markets in Cheyenne and Casper, and a cost of living that leaves room for saving and investing.
See all Wyoming financial calculators:
Wyoming (WY) has a cost of living index of 95, meaning it is 5% cheaper than the US average. Housing is the biggest factor with an index of 88. The median rent is $900/month and the median home price is $315,000. Wyoming ranks #26 out of 50 states for affordability (1 = cheapest).
For a single person, a comfortable salary in Wyoming is approximately $84,500/year ($7,042/month). For a family of four, aim for $143,000/year. This covers housing at 30% of income, groceries ($400/mo), transportation, healthcare, and a 15% savings rate. The median household income in Wyoming is $65,000.
The median rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Wyoming is approximately $900/month. A two-bedroom averages $1,215/month. Rent varies significantly by city: Cheyenne, Casper, Laramie are the most popular metro areas. Housing in Wyoming is affordable compared to the national average.
Wyoming is an excellent choice for affordability. With a cost of living 5% below the national average and median rent of just $900/month, your money goes significantly further here. The lack of state income tax is an additional major benefit. Top cities include Cheyenne, Casper, Laramie.
The most affordable areas in Wyoming are typically smaller cities and rural areas away from the major metros. Within Wyoming, costs can vary 20-40% between the most expensive city (Cheyenne metro) and more affordable areas. Gillette and Rock Springs tend to offer lower costs while still providing good amenities and job opportunities.
The average monthly grocery bill in Wyoming for a single person is approximately $400 ($1,000 for a family of four). Wyoming food costs are 2% below the national average. Shopping at Walmart, Aldi, and local discount stores can reduce this by 15-25%.
The average monthly electric bill in Wyoming is approximately $105. Total utilities (electric, gas, water, internet) average $231/month. Wyoming utilities are 12% below the national average. Utility costs are manageable for most households.
Wyoming has NO state income tax, saving the average household $3,250-$5,200/year compared to states with typical income tax rates. This is one of only 9 states with no income tax. However, Wyoming may collect more revenue through sales tax or property tax.