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Moving to Wyoming? Here are the Basics

Wyoming is an affordable state that combines the simplicity of the past and untouched natural beauty with the innovation of today.

By Jenna Butz on August 23, 2017

Wyoming
Wyoming / Courtesy of Alan English, CPA under a CC 2.0 license.
Riding horses in Jackson Hole, WY.

Wyoming is a Western United States paradise, combining the tradition of the Old West with the high quality amenities of today. Put those against a scenic backdrop that’s impossible to beat, and the Cowboy State is an easy choice for laying down roots. Here, you’ll find a basic rundown of everything you need to know before heading West.

Sunshine and Snow

Wyoming residents enjoy a range of climates depending on where in the state they live. Temperatures can vary drastically. Summer temps can reach 95 °F in the day and fall below 60 °F at night, while average winter temps hover just above freezing. Overall, the state is relatively dry, with an average of less than 10 inches of rainfall a year – though more mountainous regions can receive up to 20 inches, typically of snowfall.

Wide Open Spaces

The Cowboy State is known for its well-preserved, natural scenery, embodying the culture of the Old West, low taxes and a high quality of life. So it’s no surprise that Wyoming’s cities are attracting new residents. Cheyenne, the state’s capital and a Top 100 Best Place to Live, is a top choice for setting down roots with its high-quality healthcare and endless supply of arts and culture. Cody, Jackson, Rock Springs and Gillette are also some of the best places to live in Wyoming, each with a unique identity that captures the Wyoming spirit.

Discover the Best Places to Live in Wyoming

Open for Business

Economically, Wyoming is a great place to live, work and grow. With a low cost of operating and a business-friendly regulatory environment, residents and officials support big and small businesses in the area. The state doesn’t have a corporate income tax or an individual income tax, and sales and property taxes are lower than almost any other state.

Energy and Health Care Fuel Jobs

Energy production is a top industry in Wyoming, as well as mining, distribution, healthcare and education. Top public employers include the University of Wyoming, the F.E. Warren Air Force Base, the state and city governments, and the state’s school districts. Private top employers lead the state’s industry sectors, such as Rio Tinto Energy America, Cheyenne Regional Medical Center, Thunder Basin Coal Co. and Walmart Distribution.

Climb a Mountain

Wyoming is known as an outdoors lovers’ playground, from mountain climbing to river sports. Jackson Hole is home to some of the best skiing in North America, and Grand Teton National Park is perfect for hiking, camping and mountaineering. Looking for something more low-key? Catch Yellowstone National Park’s Old Faithful, a boiling water geyser that erupts every 35 to 120 minutes, or experience the Old Wild West at the Buffalo Bill Center of the West in Cody.

Quality and Quantity

The Equality State is one of the most affordable states in the country, with low property taxes and no income tax. The median home price in Wyoming is $194,800, with an average property tax rate of 0.61 percent. Well-funded schools and low tuition rates also make high-quality education accessible for children and adults.

Discover the 5 Most Affordable Cities in Wyoming

Calm Commute

Thanks to Wyoming’s wide open spaces, say hello to an easy commute. Light traffic and gas prices that are on track with the national average make driving a car in Wyoming a breeze. The state’s largest airport is the Jackson Hole Airport, which employs over 500 employees. Larger cities, such as Cheyenne and Jackson, have public transportation options or are navigable by foot or bike; however, major public transportation options are hard to find statewide.

Top Ranked Schools

Wyoming’s public school systems have been ranked seventh in the nation by Education Week for school performance and student success. Setting students up for success later in life, Wyoming high schools have a graduation rate of 80 percent, which is right on course with the national average. And for the next step?  The University of Wyoming in Laramie is the state’s only public, four-year university, and Wyoming Catholic College in Lander is the only private, four-year university. There also seven community colleges throughout the state.

 

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