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Best Places To Live in Wyoming

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Best Places To Live in Wyoming

If you need wide open spaces, Wyoming is the state for you. These 6 cities are the best places to hang your hat.

By Livability on December 12, 2023

With scenery that stretches for miles, iconic winter weather and a multitude of small towns that possess a strong sense of rugged individualism, Wyoming is a wonderful place to live for anyone hoping to live a life of adventure and outdoor recreation. The state’s vast landscapes, including the breathtaking Grand Teton National Park, provide enough outdoor recreation for a lifetime, from hiking and skiing to wildlife viewing and hunting. The distinct seasons satisfy a wide range of personal preferences, and the surprisingly small population compared to the state’s expansive land area instills in residents a strong sense of community amid a beautiful and practically unspoiled environment. 

Casper

A downtown ice skating rink is all the range during Christmas time in Casper, WY. Casper is a best place to live in Wyoming.
Casper Downtown Development Authority
A downtown ice skating rink is all the rage during Christmas time in Casper, Wyoming.

What makes Casper a great place to live in Wyoming?

Families interested in bringing up their children among some of the nation’s most beautiful landscapes will enjoy putting down roots in Casper, Wyoming. The city boasts a surprising range of family-friendly activities that cater to all ages and interests. The Casper Mountain Recreation Area is a popular destination that offers hiking trails in the summer and changes to skiing and snowshoeing in winter. The Nicolaysen Art Museum and Discovery Center features a variety of exhibits, art clubs, classes and lessons. Casper also hosts the beloved Central Wyoming Fair & Rodeo, a fun-filled, family-friendly activity if there ever was one. 

Professionals are equally interested in the city because of its ties to the energy and natural resource industries. The city has had a long-standing reputation as a hub for oil, natural gas and coal, which provides jobs for those with expertise in energy extraction, production and related services. In recent years, the city has also seen a growing market in sectors such as health care, education and tourism. 

What are some things to do in Casper? 

Casper, Wyoming, offers a diverse range of activities and attractions that cater to locals and tourists alike. Nature enthusiasts appreciate the rugged beauty of Casper Mountain with its hiking and biking trails, skiing in the winter and opportunities for wildlife viewing. The Platte River Parkway provides a scenic route for biking and jogging along the North Platte River, while Alcova Reservoir offers boating, fishing and water recreation. History buffs can delve into the past at the National Historic Trails Interpretive Center, which showcases the region’s rich pioneer history. Art lovers can visit the Nicolaysen Art Museum or attend local galleries, while the Fort Caspar Museum takes visitors on a journey through the city’s fascinating frontier heritage.

Read more about living in Casper, WY.

Cheyenne

An image of the downtown scene in Cheyenne, WY. Cheyenne is a great place to live in Wyoming.
iStock/Cheri Alguire
An image of downtown Cheyenne, Wyoming.

Cheyenne is a best place to live in Wyoming.

Cheyenne, Wyoming, boasts a unique charm that makes it a great place to live. The city celebrates its rich Western heritage in a variety of cultural events such as the Cheyenne Frontier Days, which has a reputation for being the world’s largest outdoor rodeo and Western celebration. Held each year, this event brings rodeo competitions, parades, live entertainment and people from all around the world. Beyond that, Cheyenne is home to numerous parks, including Lions Park and Holliday Park, which are favorites among locals who enjoy getting outside. The scenic trails, picnic areas and miniature steam train ride are held in high regard among residents. 

For those who appreciate the arts, the Cheyenne Civic Center is a real treat. The center hosts a variety of performances throughout the year, while the Wyoming State Museum boasts a rich and interesting history of the state that makes it a great educational destination for young families. Dining options range from cozy cafes and local diners to more upscale restaurants, and the city’s affordability and friendly atmosphere make it an attractive place to put down roots. 

What kind of jobs are there in Cheyenne?

Cheyenne benefits from a diverse economy and steady job market, which is appealing to anyone looking to establish or build a career in Wyoming. While government employment, such as positions at F.E. Warren Air Force Base and state government agencies, plays a major role in the city’s job market, Cheyenne is also home to other industries such as manufacturing and health care. Companies like Microsoft and Green House Data have an established presence in the area as well, which provides job opportunities in the technology sector. 

Read more about living in Cheyenne, WY.

Gillette

An antelope grazes on the prairie in Gillette, WY. Gillette is a great place to live in Wyoming.
Getty Images/Brittney Grant
An antelope grazes on the prairie in Gillette, Wyoming.

Why Gillette is a best city in Wyoming.

Nestled in the heart of the Powder River Basin, Gillette, Wyoming, boasts a cheerful blend of outdoor recreation and a strong and stable economy. Those who appreciate the great outdoors love that the city is surrounded by sweeping landscapes and endless possibilities for hiking, fishing, hunting and camping. The nearby Bighorn Mountains provide a postcard backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts as well as a destination for skiing and snowmobiling in winter.  Residents also have easy access to the Devil’s Tower National Monument with its world-class rock climbing spots and hiking trails. 

Gillette is often referred to as the “Energy Capital of the Nation” because of its proximity to the Powder River Basin and the vast coal reserves in the region. The city’s strong energy sector means residents enjoy a stable job market and reliable income. Gillette has seen growth in the renewable energy sector, with an increase in wind farms and solar projects that contribute to a more diversified and resilient local economy. Paired with the reasonable cost of living, Gillette is an understandably attractive destination. 

What are some things to do in Gillette?

Surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, Gillette is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. From hiking and camping in the wilderness to fishing and boating in the lakes and rivers, this area entices adventurers all year long. In the winter, the nearby ski resorts provide excellent opportunities for skiing and snowboarding, while the Devil’s Tower National Monument offers rock climbing and hiking trails. For those interested in local culture, Gillette hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, including the beloved Gillette Festival of Trees. Whether you’re seeking the thrill of the great outdoors or a taste of local culture, Gillette, Wyoming, has an abundance of activities to keep you engaged and entertained. 

Read more about living in Gillette, WY.

Laramie

Laramie, WY, is surrounded by natural beauty. Laramie is one of the best places to live in Wyoming.
iStock/Wirestock
Laramie, Wyoming, is surrounded by natural beauty.

Why is Laramie a best place to live in Wyoming?

Laramie, Wyoming, is a special place to live. Located in the southeastern corner of the state, this city blends together many of the state’s finest features. Residents appreciate the small-town atmosphere, outdoor recreation, diverse economy and presence of the University of Wyoming, the state’s only four-year university. Because UW is a Division 1 school, football and basketball games are popular and crowd-drawing events. Rodeos, festivals and other local events and activities sprinkle the social calendars, and there are plenty of galleries, theaters and live musical performances to keep residents engaged and entertained throughout the year. 

Laramie is surrounded by natural beauty, including the nearby Medicine Bow National Forest. This presents ample opportunities for hiking, camping and wildlife viewing, while the Laramie River and other nearby lakes cater to fishing and boating enthusiasts. Laramie is only a hop, skip and a jump away from the renowned Rocky Mountains, as well, which offer some of the most spectacular and breathtaking scenery in the country. When those iconic western winters hit, there are plenty of snowshoeing and skiing opportunities nearby, too.

What is the job market like in Laramie? 

In terms of the economy, Laramie has evolved into a thriving hub for education, technology and health care. Home to the University of Wyoming, the city benefits from a highly educated workforce and numerous research opportunities. The university also contributes to the city’s cultural scene and diverse array of restaurants. Other important industries in Laramie include agriculture, manufacturing and renewable energy.

Read more about living in Laramie, WY.

Rock Springs

A view of an outdoor landscape in Rock Springs, WY.
iStock/Robert_Ford
Rock Springs, Wyoming, is surrounded by breathtaking scenery.

Rock Springs is a great city to live in Wyoming.

The combination of natural beauty, outdoor recreation and vibrant culture of Rock Springs, Wyoming, make it a delightful place to put down roots. Nestled in the southwestern region of the state, Rock Springs boasts a unique landscape that includes the mesmerizing Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area, which is just a short drive away. Locals enjoy boating, fishing and camping here, and many take to Killpecker Sand Dunes for a little off-roading and sandboarding adventures. For those who are more interested in getting outside without leaving the city, there are several parks, hiking trails and golf courses to enjoy amid the temperate climate and four distinct seasons. 

Residents boast about the strong sense of community in Rock Springs. Locals gather readily for annual events and festivals, and the historic downtown is rich with charming shops, restaurants and all manner of cultural attractions. The city’s economy is supported by a variety of industries, including mining, health care and social assistance, education and manufacturing. The combination of natural landscapes, recreational opportunities, and a steady job market make Rock Springs an ideal place to live for anyone who values a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle.

What are some things to do in Rock Springs?

There are a surprising number of activities and places to enjoy in Rock Springs, Wyoming. From boating and camping at the nearby Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area to the local Bunning Park with its playgrounds and walking paths to the fossil collection at Western Wyoming Community College Natural History Museum and scenic drives along the Wild Horse Loop Tour, there truly is something to suit every interest. Another must-see is White Mountain Petroglyphs, which is a short drive away and invites visitors to get a fascinating glimpse into the area’s history while exploring ancient Native American carvings. 

Read more about living in Rock Springs, WY.

Sheridan

A beautiful late summer landscape outside of Sheridan, Wyoming.
iStock/DC_Colombia
A beautiful late summer landscape outside of Sheridan, Wyoming.

Sheridan is one of the best places to live in Wyoming.

Located in the heart of the Bighorn Mountains, Sheridan, Wyoming, is a small town surrounded by stunning natural beauty that provides endless opportunities for outdoor recreation. The nearby Bighorn National Forest is a beautiful destination that appeals to anyone hoping to spend their days hiking, camping, and wildlife watching, while the Bighorn Mountains cater to outdoor enthusiasts with activities like fishing, horseback riding and snowmobiling in the winter. The local landscape not only makes Sheridan an outdoor paradise but also creates a tranquil and picturesque environment for its residents.

Community spirit is a common theme in Sheridan, thanks in part to the smaller population size and close-knit community. People often know their neighbors and enjoy a strong sense of camaraderie, which is good news since towns are more spread out in Wyoming than in most states. In addition to the natural beauty and small town atmosphere, Sheridan boasts a vibrant cultural scene with several galleries, museums and theaters, including the WYO Theater, which puts on a variety of performances and events year-round. Downtown is rich in historic architecture, local shops and dining, all of which make it a fun destination for shopping, lingering or strolling. 

What is the economy like in Sheridan?

Agriculture has long been a significant part of Sheridan’s economy, with farming and cattle ranching playing major roles. Health care and education are equally prominent sectors, especially considering the city is home to Sheridan Memorial Hospital and Sheridan College. Tourism, retail, manufacturing and energy are additional industries that contribute to the area’s economy.

Read more about living in Sheridan, WY.

Thinking of moving to Wyoming?

Finding the right place to move in Wyoming doesn’t have to be a chore. We have more resources for relocating to Wyoming as well as other best places to live in the West. No matter where you want to go, we can help you decide where to move and discover the best places to live in the U.S.

Other Great Places To Live Near Wyoming

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