Wyoming is the Cowboy State—and it tends to attract those with a wild streak who love wide-open spaces. It’s the least populated state in the country, with just over half a million residents spread out over a vast, varied terrain characterized by high plains, dramatic mountain ranges, and winding rivers. If you think you can handle it, Wyoming may be the perfect retirement state for you.
Wyoming’s climate is dry and windy, with cold winters and relatively mild summers. Residents take advantage of the warmer months to enjoy hiking, climbing, camping, and more in spectacular national parks such as Yellowstone and Grand Teton, river sports on the Platte, Wyoming, and Yellowstone Rivers, and skiing at one of Wyoming’s stunning resorts such as Jackson Hole.
Housing prices in Wyoming are undoubtedly affected by resort towns, which bring the statewide average up to well above the national average. However, taxes in Wyoming are extremely low—the state has the third lowest overall tax burden of any in the nation at 3.9%. There is no state income tax, including taxes on retiree income and Social Security. Property taxes are the 4th highest nationwide—but military veterans are exempt.
If you’re interested in a Wyoming retirement, start with these metropolitan areas in your research for Wyoming retirement communities.
Cheyenne
Cheyenne, Wyoming senior living has a lot to offer. Cheyenne is the largest city and the state capitol, and was an early settlement town that got big when the first railroads came through it—history buffs will love the town’s rich railroad history. While prices in some areas of Wyoming can be higher than the national average, Cheyenne’s cost of living is significantly lower—and it benefits from Wyoming’s low taxes as well.
Jackson Hole
It’s one of the most expensive places to live in Wyoming—let’s get that out of the way first. Residents find the prices to be worth it—for the absolutely spectacular scenery alone. Nestled in a high, jagged valley in the Grand Tetons National Forest at an elevation of 6,500 feet above sea level, Jackson Hole attracts its fair share of tourists with its uncontestedly fabulous recreational activities. Active retirees find plenty of entertainment in the area’s world-class downhill and cross-country skiing, as well as hiking, mountain biking, camping, and more in the summertime. In the nearby town of Jackson, you’ll find boutiques, fine dining, a public square featuring a remarkable sculpture of elk antlers, and more.
Laramie
Situated on the picturesque Laramie River, Laramie is located in southeastern Wyoming. There are plenty of events to attract tourists and entertain residents in Laramie, including Laramie Jubilee Days, offering free food, carnival games, a street fair and parade, and live music. The city has plenty of museums including the Geological Museum and the University of Laramie’s art museum. You can listen to concerts at the Fine Arts Concert Hall or take the grandchildren to the Wyoming Children’s Museum and Nature Center, offering interactive exhibits and pottery classes perfect for young children.
If you’re in the market for an adventurous and low-cost place to retire, Wyoming may just be the ideal state for you. With wide-open spaces, stunning mountains, world-class skiing, and spectacular parks such as Yellowstone National Park and the Grand Tetons National Forest, Wyoming offers plenty to keep your inner cowboy or cowgirl happy. Its retiree-friendly taxes make it a highly affordable place for most retirees, if you can avoid more expensive places to live such as Jackson Hole. Check out our free and comprehensive listing of Wyoming retirement communities today, and get started finding your ideal retirement community in Wyoming.
