For role-by-role compensation benchmarking and career income strategy, see the Profession Salary Guides hub.
For conversion formulas, overtime scenarios, and annual-pay planning, see the Hourly to Annual hub.
A good salary in Wyoming varies dramatically — most of the state is affordable, but Jackson Hole rivals Manhattan in cost.
Quick Answer
| Situation | Good Salary | Comfortable Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Single, WY average | $52,000-$68,000 | $42,000-$52,000 |
| Single in Cheyenne | $50,000-$65,000 | $40,000-$50,000 |
| Single in Jackson Hole | $80,000-$110,000 | $65,000-$80,000 |
| Family of 4 | $85,000-$110,000 | $68,000-$85,000 |
Key advantage: Wyoming has no state income tax and most areas are affordable.
Why Wyoming Is (Mostly) Affordable
Wyoming benefits from:
- No state income tax — significant savings
- Affordable housing outside Jackson Hole
- Low population reduces competition for housing
- Energy industry jobs pay well
Exception: Jackson Hole is extremely expensive.
Good Salary by Wyoming City
Cheyenne
Cheyenne is the state capital with government and military jobs.
| Category | Single Person | Family of 4 |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum to survive | $35,000 | $58,000 |
| Comfortable | $48,000 | $78,000 |
| Good lifestyle | $65,000+ | $105,000+ |
Median home price: ~$340,000
Average rent (1BR): ~$1,050/month
Casper
Casper is Wyoming’s second-largest city with energy industry jobs.
| Category | Single Person | Family of 4 |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum to survive | $35,000 | $58,000 |
| Comfortable | $48,000 | $78,000 |
| Good lifestyle | $65,000+ | $105,000+ |
Median home price: ~$310,000
Average rent (1BR): ~$1,000/month
Laramie
Laramie is a college town (University of Wyoming) at high altitude.
| Category | Single Person | Family of 4 |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum to survive | $32,000 | $55,000 |
| Comfortable | $45,000 | $72,000 |
| Good lifestyle | $58,000+ | $95,000+ |
Median home price: ~$320,000
Average rent (1BR): ~$950/month
Jackson Hole
Jackson Hole is an extreme outlier — one of the most expensive places in America.
| Category | Single Person | Family of 4 |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum to survive | $60,000 | $105,000 |
| Comfortable | $85,000 | $145,000 |
| Good lifestyle | $120,000+ | $200,000+ |
Median home price: ~$2,500,000+ (!) Average rent (1BR): ~$2,500/month
Many Jackson workers commute from Idaho or live in employee housing.
How Much House Can You Afford in Wyoming?
| Annual Salary | Max Home Price (28% rule) |
|---|---|
| $52,000 | $190,000-$210,000 |
| $68,000 | $255,000-$280,000 |
| $85,000 | $320,000-$350,000 |
| $110,000 | $420,000-$460,000 |
Note: These ranges don’t apply to Jackson Hole where even $150K is modest.
Wyoming vs. Other States
| State | $65K Salary Take-Home | Cost of Living Index |
|---|---|---|
| Wyoming | $56,500 | 95 |
| Montana | $53,800 | 106 |
| South Dakota | $56,500 | 93 |
| Colorado | $53,200 | 108 |
Wyoming’s no income tax maximizes take-home pay.
Wyoming Taxes
- Income Tax: None
- State Sales Tax: 4% (plus local up to 6%)
- Property Tax: 0.61% (relatively low)
- No corporate income tax either
Wyoming is one of the most tax-friendly states in the nation.
Top Industries in Wyoming
- Oil & Gas — Average salary $85,000+
- Mining (coal, trona) — Average salary $75,000+
- Tourism — Average salary $40,000+ (much higher in Jackson)
- Government — Average salary $55,000+
- Agriculture (ranching) — Average salary $45,000+
- Healthcare — Average salary $60,000+
Wyoming Lifestyle Considerations
Pros:
- No state income tax
- Stunning natural beauty (Yellowstone, Grand Teton)
- Low population density
- Outdoor recreation paradise
- Low crime rates
Cons:
- Limited job market
- Jackson Hole unaffordable for most
- Harsh winters, high altitude
- Very far from major metros
- Limited diversity and amenities
The Jackson Hole Paradox
Jackson Hole is simultaneously part of Wyoming (no income tax) and one of America’s most expensive places:
- Median home: $2.5M+
- Many workers commute from Driggs, ID or Victor, ID
- Employee housing is a major challenge
- Billionaires have driven up prices significantly
Related Guides
- What is a good salary in Montana?
- What is a good salary in Colorado?
- How much house on $65K salary?
- US Income Percentile Calculator
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. “Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2024.” bls.gov/oes
The content on Wealthvieu is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, tax, or investment advice. Consult a qualified professional before making financial decisions. Full disclaimer · Editorial policy