Wyoming, the Cowboy State, is a land of breathtaking natural beauty, wide-open spaces, and charming cities that offer a high quality of life.
Each city has unique character and attractions, from the bustling capital city of Cheyenne to the picturesque mountain town of Jackson.
Wyoming has something to offer if you’re looking for outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or a strong sense of community.
In this article, we’ll explore the 10 best cities in Wyoming, delving into their key features, job markets, educational opportunities, and recreational activities to help you discover the perfect place to call home.
| City | Population | Median Home Price | Top Industry | Attractions | Outdoor Activities |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cheyenne | 64,235 | $220,000 | Government | Cheyenne Frontier Days | Curt Gowdy State Park |
| Casper | 58,446 | $195,000 | Energy | Casper Mountain | North Platte River |
| Laramie | 32,711 | $254,000 | Education | Laramie Jubilee Days | Vedauwoo Recreation |
| Sheridan | 17,940 | $265,000 | Tourism | Bighorn Mountains | Kendrick Park |
| Jackson | 10,553 | $800,000 | Tourism | Grand Teton National Park | Snake River |
| Gillette | 32,857 | $220,000 | Energy | Gillette Thunder Speedway | Campbell County Rec |
| Rock Springs | 23,319 | $215,000 | Mining | Rock Springs Historical Museum | Sweetwater County Museum |
| Cody | 9,828 | $350,000 | Tourism | Buffalo Bill Center of the West | Cody Nite Rodeo |
| Green River | 12,515 | $180,000 | Mining | Flaming Gorge National Rec | Seedskadee Wildlife |
| Buffalo | 4,578 | $220,000 | Agriculture | Jim Gatchell Memorial Museum | Longmire Days |
10 Best Cities in Wyoming
1. Cheyenne
As the capital and largest city of Wyoming, Cheyenne offers a blend of urban amenities and Western charm.
What are the top attractions in Cheyenne?
- Cheyenne Frontier Days: The world’s largest outdoor rodeo and Western celebration
- Wyoming State Capitol: Historic building offering tours and exhibits
- Cheyenne Botanic Gardens: Beautiful gardens featuring a conservatory and children’s village
How are the job market and economy in Cheyenne?
Cheyenne’s economy is diverse, with strong sectors in government, healthcare, and retail. The city’s unemployment rate is consistently lower than the national average, and job growth is projected to remain steady.
What outdoor activities are popular in and around Cheyenne?
- Curt Gowdy State Park: Offers hiking, biking, fishing, and camping
- Medicine Bow National Forest: Features scenic drives, hiking trails, and winter sports
- Vedauwoo Recreation Area: Known for its unique rock formations and rock climbing opportunities
2. Casper
Casper, the second-largest city in Wyoming, is a hub for energy production and outdoor recreation.
What educational opportunities are available in Casper?
- Casper College: A public community college offering associate degrees and certificate programs
- University of Wyoming at Casper: A branch campus of the state’s flagship university
How is the housing market in Casper?
Casper’s housing market is affordable compared to many other cities in the United States. The median home price is lower than the national average, and there is a mix of single-family homes, apartments, and townhouses available.
What natural attractions are near Casper?
- Casper Mountain: Offers skiing, hiking, and scenic drives
- North Platte River: Popular for fishing, kayaking, and rafting
- Fremont Canyon: Features stunning rock formations and hiking trails
3. Laramie
Laramie, home to the University of Wyoming, is a vibrant college town with a thriving arts and culture scene.
What is the cost of living like in Laramie?
Laramie’s cost of living is lower than the national average, making it an affordable place to live. Housing, groceries, and utilities are all relatively inexpensive compared to other cities.
How safe is Laramie compared to other cities in Wyoming?
Laramie has a low crime rate and is considered one of the safest cities in Wyoming. The city has a strong sense of community and a proactive police department.
What cultural events and attractions are there in Laramie?
- Laramie Jubilee Days: An annual celebration featuring parades, rodeos, and live music
- University of Wyoming Art Museum: Houses a diverse collection of art from around the world
- Laramie Plains Museum: Offers exhibits on the history of Laramie and the surrounding area
4. Sheridan
Known as the “Jewel of Wyoming,” Sheridan is a charming mountain town with a rich Western history.
What is the community atmosphere like in Sheridan?
Sheridan has a strong sense of community, with friendly residents and a welcoming atmosphere. The city hosts numerous community events throughout the year, including farmers’ markets, art walks, and festivals.
How are the public schools in Sheridan?
Sheridan has excellent public schools, with high graduation rates and strong academic performance. The city also has several private school options.
What outdoor recreation opportunities are available near Sheridan?
- Bighorn Mountains: Offer hiking, camping, fishing, and scenic drives
- Kendrick Park: Features a swimming pool, tennis courts, and a golf course
- Sheridan Pathways: A network of trails for hiking and biking
5. Jackson
Jackson, a popular tourist destination, is known for its stunning natural beauty and world-class ski resorts.
What is the cost of living in Jackson compared to other cities in Wyoming?
Jackson has a higher cost of living compared to other cities in Wyoming, primarily due to its popularity as a tourist destination. Housing costs, in particular, are higher than the state average.
What ski resorts and outdoor activities are available in Jackson?
- Jackson Hole Mountain Resort: A world-renowned ski resort offering skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports
- Grand Teton National Park: Features stunning mountain scenery, hiking trails, and wildlife viewing opportunities
- Snake River: Popular for fishing, rafting, and scenic float trips
How is the art and culture scene in Jackson?
Jackson has a thriving art and culture scene, with numerous galleries, museums, and performing arts venues. The city hosts several annual art festivals and events, showcasing the work of local and regional artists.
6. Gillette
Located in northeastern Wyoming, Gillette is a hub for energy production and a growing community.
What is the job market like in Gillette, particularly in the energy sector?
Gillette’s economy is heavily dependent on the energy sector, with coal mining and oil and gas production being major employers. The city also has a growing healthcare and retail sector.
How are the healthcare facilities in Gillette?
Gillette has excellent healthcare facilities, including the Campbell County Memorial Hospital, which offers a wide range of medical services. The city also has several clinics and specialty medical practices.
What recreational activities are popular in Gillette?
- Gillette Thunder Speedway: Hosts stock car races throughout the summer
- Campbell County Recreation Center: Offers a pool, fitness center, and various sports programs
- Avenues of Art: An annual event showcasing local artists and their work
7. Rock Springs
Rock Springs, located in southwestern Wyoming, is a diverse community with a rich mining history.
What is the diversity and demographic makeup of Rock Springs?
Rock Springs has a diverse population, with a significant number of residents of Hispanic and Asian descent. The city has a long history of welcoming immigrants, particularly those who came to work in the mining industry.
How is the transportation infrastructure in Rock Springs?
Rock Springs has a well-developed transportation infrastructure, with easy access to Interstate 80 and the Union Pacific Railroad. The city also has a regional airport with daily flights to Denver.
What historical sites and museums are there in Rock Springs?
- Rock Springs Historical Museum: Offers exhibits on the history of Rock Springs and the surrounding area
- Sweetwater County Historical Museum: Features exhibits on the mining and railroad history of the region
- Reliance Tipple: A historic coal mining structure that has been preserved as a museum
8. Cody
Named after William “Buffalo Bill” Cody, this city is known for its Western heritage and proximity to Yellowstone National Park.
What are the top tourist attractions in Cody?
- Buffalo Bill Center of the West: A complex of five museums showcasing the history and culture of the American West
- Cody Nite Rodeo: A nightly rodeo held throughout the summer months
- Old Trail Town: A collection of historic buildings and artifacts from the Old West
How is the weather and climate in Cody throughout the year?
Cody has a semi-arid climate, with hot summers and cold winters. The city experiences a wide range of temperatures, from below zero in the winter to over 90 degrees in the summer.
What educational options are available in Cody?
Cody has a strong public school system, with several elementary schools, a middle school, and a high school.
The city also has a branch campus of Northwest College, which offers associate degrees and certificate programs.
9. Green River
Green River, located along the river of the same name in southwestern Wyoming, is a friendly community with a strong mining heritage.
What is the housing market like in Green River?
Green River has an affordable housing market, with a mix of single-family homes, apartments, and townhouses available. The median home price is lower than the national average, making it an attractive option for families and first-time homebuyers.
How are the employment opportunities in Green River?
Green River’s economy is primarily based on mining, particularly trona mining. The city also has a growing healthcare and retail sector, providing a range of employment opportunities.
What outdoor recreation activities are popular in Green River?
- Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area: Offers fishing, boating, and camping
- Seedskadee National Wildlife Refuge: Features hiking trails and wildlife viewing opportunities
- Green River Whitewater Park: Offers kayaking and rafting on the Green River
10. Buffalo
Buffalo, a small town located in northern Wyoming, offers a unique blend of Western charm and modern amenities.
What is the cost of living in Buffalo compared to other cities in Wyoming?
Buffalo has a lower cost of living compared to many other cities in Wyoming, particularly in terms of housing costs. The median home price is significantly lower than the national average, making it an affordable place to live.
How is the sense of community and small-town charm in Buffalo?
Buffalo has a strong sense of community, with friendly residents and a welcoming atmosphere. The town hosts several annual events, including the Longmire Days celebration and the Johnson County Fair and Rodeo.
What historical sites and cultural events are there in Buffalo?
- Jim Gatchell Memorial Museum: Offers exhibits on the history of Buffalo and the surrounding area
- Occidental Hotel: A historic hotel that has been restored to its former glory
- Buffalo Bluegrass Festival: An annual music festival featuring bluegrass and acoustic performances
Wrap Up
Wyoming’s cities offer a diverse range of experiences, from the urban amenities of Cheyenne to the small-town charm of Buffalo.
Each city has its unique character, shaped by its history, natural surroundings, and the warm, welcoming people who call it home.
Whether you’re drawn to the energy sector in Gillette, the artistic vibe of Jackson, or the outdoor adventures near Laramie, Wyoming has a city that will capture your heart.
As you explore these 10 best cities in Wyoming, you’ll discover a place where you can put down roots, embrace a strong sense of community, and enjoy an unparalleled quality of life.