You’ve always loved Old West movies and dreamed about walking out your back door and seeing wide-open spaces.
Colorado, like many other states, is getting crowded, and you can feel your dreams of quiet and solitude slipping away.
It’s time for a change, and instead of the hustle and bustle of a metropolitan state, you are longing for the beauty and simplicity of small-town living.
One state remains seemingly untouched by modern sensibilities where you can live a slower-placed life and raise a family.
Wyoming residents have kept a big secret from the rest of the country, and that secret is the cowboy spirit of their fantastic state.
Living in Wyoming: What the Locals Want You to Know
Wyoming is a beautiful state that is seemingly untouched by modern technology.
The locals prefer it that way, and if you are lucky enough to call Wyoming home, there are a few things the locals will want you to learn before moving to their state.
Here are a few unique things to know about the least populated state in the country:
Cowboy culture is alive and well
The state symbol of Wyoming is a cowboy on a bucking horse, so it won’t come as any surprise that many Wyoming residents spend their weekends at the rodeo.
If you want to fit in with the neighbors, buy a pair of cowboy boots and a cowboy hat and prepare to immerse yourself in cowboy culture!
Living in Wyoming can get lonely
Wyomingites value their privacy, and if you love solitude, the very low population density will seem like a dream come true.
If you are an extrovert, unfortunately, you may find the lack of social events and people very isolating.
Wyoming winters can be intense
The western half of Wyoming is dominated by mountain ranges, particularly the Rocky Mountains.
The state’s eastern portion is designated as High Plains because of its elevation.
What does this mean for you as a new resident?
The new combination of geographic extremes means the winters can be intense, with high winds and extreme snowfall.
The summers are very dry, so don’t be surprised when temperatures rise well above 90 degrees Fahrenheit in the warmer months.
Planning a move in winter and want to know what not to do? Avoiding Colorado moving mistakes is essential, no matter what time of the year.
Be prepared for the wildlife
The most significant difference between living in an urban or rural area is the wildlife.
For instance, if you live in Denver, chances are the most ferocious animals you encounter are stray dogs or your neighbor’s nosy cat.
Living in the rural areas of Wyoming, one massive rural area means you will encounter many dangerous wildlife, including grizzly bears, mountain lions, elk, moose, and even wild horses.
Are you ready to commune with nature, or are you just simply sick of your current surroundings? Here are a few signs it’s time to move!
Exploring Wyoming’s Natural Wonders: From the Grand Teton National Park to the Yellowstone National Park
Living in a state with plenty of recreational activities is a top priority.
Even though Wyoming has the smallest population of any state, it makes up for a lack of people with its natural beauty and plentiful outdoor activities.
Here are just a handful of the must-see outdoor wonders for anyone who wants to experience and live in Wyoming:
Devil’s Tower
Although the name might seem foreboding and unwelcoming, Devil’s Tower, located in Northeastern Wyoming, is technically a butte that formed when magma forced its way upwards through layers of igneous rocks.
The tower is an impressive site and the perfect place to explore and enjoy some camping and fishing. It is arguably one of the best areas in the country for rock climbing.
Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone is one of the most visited national parks in the country, and although the park stretches between three states, 96% of Yellowstone lies within the Wyoming borders.
Several must-see wonders are spread throughout Yellowstone, from Fairy Falls and Lamar Valley to Old Faithful and the awe-inspiring Grand Prismatic Spring!
Grand Teton National Park
There is no denying Wyoming is a beautiful place to live, and a considerable part of the state’s appeal is the Grand Teton National Park.
Along with Yellowstone, Grand Teton is one of the most visited parks in the country, attracting over 3 million visitors each year.
The park covers over 300,000 acres, and the main attraction is the Teton Range, which is technically part of the Rocky Mountains.
North Platte River
Stretching over 700 miles along Wyoming, Colorado, and Nebraska, people have been calling the North Platte River area home for over 11,000 years.
The river is a beautiful place to splash around with the kids, enjoy a picnic, or simply take in the natural beauty of your surroundings.
In addition to the wonders mentioned above, several national forests, small parks, and greenspaces are scattered throughout Wyoming.
Does Wyoming Have the Second Lowest Population Density?
Rural living takes on a whole new meaning in Wyoming, primarily because if you live in the state’s remote areas, chances are you won’t have a neighbor around for miles!
The total population of Wyoming is 582,279 residents, roughly the same as Boston, Massachusetts.
Before you move to Wyoming, be aware there are only 5.9 people per square mile in the state.
In comparison, the population density of New Jersey is 1,300 per square mile.
The only state with a lower population density is Alaska, where there are less than two people per square mile throughout the state.
Ready to pack up the kids and enjoy the solitude of Wyoming – Here are some family-friendly moving tips!
The Centennial State Vs. The Equality State: Comparing Colorado and Wyoming’s Most Populous Cities
Denver, CO
With a population of 699,288, Denver is Colorado’s capital and the most populous city.
Denver is an exciting town with plenty of outdoor activities and indoor recreation to enjoy – from hiking the foothills of the Rockies to strolling through the pristine Denver Botanical Gardens or enjoying culture at the William Havu Gallery.
As with any other major city, there are downfalls to living in Denver – namely, the exorbitant cost of living, mainly because of the city’s skyrocketing prices of goods, services, and real estate.
The median home value in Denver is just over $600,000, far above the national average.
You can expect to also pay more for your basic needs in the Mile High City – from food and utilities to groceries.
Cheyenne, WY
The capital and biggest city in Wyoming, Cheyenne, has a population of only 664,831.
In the county seat of Laramie County, the living costs in the city are 5%lower than the national average and around 20% lower than in Denver.
The median home price is $441,500, and the cost of other essentials is lower than in Denver and the rest of the country.
Cheyenne has many jobs, particularly in the energy production and healthcare sectors.
While you are touring this eclectic city, make sure to check out:
Colorado Springs, CO
With a population of 693,000 residents, Colorado Springs is booming and experiencing a positive population growth of 1.5% from 2022 to 2023.
The cost of living in Colorado Springs is slightly higher than the national average, and there are several jobs in the area, including high-paying professions in the aerospace, medical equipment, and cybersecurity professions.
The median cost of a home in Colorado Springs is declining and has fallen almost 5% between 2022 and 2023 to $447,343, which is on par with the surrounding areas.
While in Colorado Springs, check out the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, the Red Rock Canyon Open Space, and the Western Museum of Mining & Industry.
Casper, WY
The second-largest city in Wyoming, Casper’s population is 57,502.
If you want to live in Casper, and many people do, prepare for a more suburban setting rather than a city out of an old-west novel.
The median home price in Casper is $315,800, making it seem downright affordable, especially compared to the major metropolitan areas in Colorado.
The overall cost of living is slightly below the national average, although you will pay more for some necessities, including groceries and healthcare.
Want to move to Casper, Wyoming, and are planning a road trip while the movers handle the heavy lifting? Here are some tips for traveling while the movers handle your stuff.
Aurora, CO
Although Aurora, CO, is technically a suburb of Denver, this diverse area has a unique population of roughly 399,913.
One thing Aurora does have in common with Denver is the city’s high cost of living, although the median household income in Aurora is less than Denver at $72,052/year.
In addition to all the fantastic sites, restaurants, and activities available in the nearby Mile High City, there are plenty of ways to spend an afternoon in Aurora – including Cherry Creek State Park, the Stanley Marketplace, and the Plains Conservation Center.
Gilette, WY
The fourth largest city in Campbell County, Gilette, is mainly known for its coal and oil production, significantly impacting the area’s economy and history.
When you look beyond this, you will find a great city with a low cost of living, low home prices, and some of the most breathtaking views in the whole state.
Gilette is a few miles from Devil’s Tower and the Bighorn Mountains.
If you move to Gilette, get ready to spend your weekends exploring the mountain range, shopping, and dining in Historic Downtown Gilette and the CAM-PLEX Park.
Ready to plan your move to Gilette but worried about the money required to move to one of the largest cities in the state?
Don’t worry; follow these tips for saving money on your move!
Jackson Hole: Is It Worth the Hype?
No discussion of Wyoming would be complete without mentioning the state’s premier tourist destination: Jackson Hole.
Unlike the other rustic areas of Wyoming, this city of 11,015 people is more cosmopolitan – but still retains the cowboy spirit the state is known and loved for.
If you are considering making a home in Wyoming, be prepared to spend a small fortune and contact your financial advisor, as the median home price is roughly $2.9 million!
In return for all that money, you will be surrounded, or at least within driving distance, of some of the best scenic vistas and outdoor activities the state has to offer – including the National Elk Refuge, the Snake River, Laurence S. Rockefeller Preserve, not to mention several national parks, state parks, and hiking trails.
Comparing the Cost of Living in Wyoming to the National Average
In a perfect world, you would find the ideal state with low taxes, low crime, and, most importantly, a very low cost of living.
Could Wyoming be the perfect state that meets all your requirements? Let’s start with the average living costs, which are 8% lower than the national average.
The cost of housing is 18% lower than the rest of the nation, and the price of utilities is 16% lower.
Property crime and violent crime rates are lower than in the rest of the country.
Specifically, the country’s property crime rate is 35.4 per 100,00 people, and in Wyoming, the rate is 28.5 per 100,000 residents.
There are several other Wyoming pros, including the small-town feel throughout the state, and many residents reap the benefits of the state’s strong economy.
All the history buffs already know that Wyoming was the first state to grant women the right to vote in 1890!
How is the Weather in Wyoming?
Wyoming is one in a million, and nowhere is this more accurate than the odd, unpredictable, and downright crazy weather you will experience.
The northwest portion of the state is categorized as semi-arid, while you will experience humid conditions in the northeast.
The average low temperature hovers around 15 degrees Fahrenheit in the winter, and the summers are hot and dry one day and humid the next.
Not everyone can handle the bizarre weather fluctuation in the summer, but the weather during the warmer months is nothing compared to the state’s typically snowy winters.
The state receives an average of 56.3 inches of snow annually, well above the average national snowfall totals of 27.8 inches.
If you love the snow in winter and warm temperatures in summer, Wyoming is the right place for you.
Here are some tips for entertaining kids during a move to Wyoming.
Tips for Renting Your First Apartment in Wyoming
Most cities in Wyoming enjoy low rental costs, and it is one of the few places where you can still rent an apartment without breaking the bank!
Are you moving out of your first apartment and into your new apartment or home in Wyoming?
Here are a few tips to help you find prime real estate in the Cowboy State:
- Get in touch with local property management groups: Instead of searching online, contact Wyoming-based property management companies directly to inquire about vacancies in the state.
- Understand your needs vs. your wants: You want a townhouse with an inground pool and laundry service, but you need an apartment close to the bus line with two bedrooms.
- Understand the difference between what you want and what you need to find a place to live that fits your lifestyle.
- Start today. Finding apartments off-leasing season can be tricky, so you must start your search ASAP.
- Don’t wait for your old lease to expire. Instead, have your new apartment lined up well before your moving day.
- Understand your partner’s needs. Ask the right questions before cohabitating to ensure the apartment meets not only your needs but also the needs of your significant other.
Need more help – Here are some first apartment moving considerations and tips for getting your security deposit back from your old landlord!
Moving During Winter: Simple Tips to Stay Safe and Warm
On paper, winter doesn’t seem like the ideal time to move.
However, considering the potential cost savings, as winter is the slow season in the moving industry, you will quickly realize that aside from the cold and snow, there is no better time to move than winter!
The key to stress-free holiday moving and staying festive during holiday moves, which can seem impossible, is proper preparation and finding the right moving company!
For example, complete the bulk of your packing between Thanksgiving and Christmas.
Don’t pack all the holiday decorations; instead, create a festive atmosphere with a smaller tree and some lights that can quickly be put into boxes before the moving trucks arrive.
If you are stuck, here are a few more moving holiday decorations tips!
Follow safe winter home moving strategies, such as hiring local movers or dressing appropriately for the weather.
Arriving in your new Wyoming home can be difficult in winter, especially if you aren’t prepared.
This is why following tips for winter-proofing your new home is critical!
You will be thankful you took the time and effort to make your new Wyoming property cozy, safe, and protected from the elements.
Here are a few eco-friendly moving tips to help you relocate to Cheyenne without creating a massive carbon footprint!
You Can Plan a Successful Move During Summer!
If moving in winter isn’t possible, the next best thing would be to move in summer, right? The weather is more favorable, but the prices are higher because this is the peak season.
There are other pros to moving in summer, but you must make the proper preparations, including avoiding heat exhaustion while moving.
Dressing right for moving day is just as important in summer as in winter, and you must also drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration.
Learning about moving oversized furniture tips can also help you avoid heat exhaustion and avoidable back injuries.
Did you know planning an autumn relocation is the best option for saving money and moving during optimal conditions?
Planning a fall move in summer will allow you plenty of time to pack up and prepare your new home, not to mention you will enjoy the cost savings and won’t sweat while loading boxes onto the moving truck!
Planning Your First Successful Move: Avoid These Common Moving Mistakes
Whether you are moving to Wyoming, Oregon, Maryland, or even across the state, packing your life and settling in a new home can be overwhelming and confusing.
This can lead to several common, avoidable mistakes that can cost you serious time and money.
Start with taking the necessary steps in protecting your vacant home – including asking a neighbor to watch your property or installing a temporary security system.
When you work with Eden’s Moving Services, avoiding common moving mistakes is possible with a bit of help from our knowledgeable staff!
Buying Too Few Packing Supplies
Start by getting an accurate box count for your move. For example, did you know the average person moving out of a studio apartment requires at least 10 to 30 boxes?
Your houseplants also require special care and consideration to prevent damage or even death during the move. Don’t stress about your plants’ welfare; follow our houseplants moving guide!
Beyond boxes, packing tape, and bubble wrap, you must purchase other supplies to keep your household belongings safe – including furniture, blankets, packing paper, which can protect your floors during the move, and other essential moving tools.
Hiring the Wrong Long-Distance Moving Company
As a rule, always receive at least three quotes from established local moving companies.
The long-distance movers should provide you with a free quote and be available to answer any questions.
Watch out for common red flags in moving talks, including negative customer reviews and a company that asks for a total payment upfront.
Not Understanding What to Expect From Your Full-Service Moving Company
You’ve opted for full-service movers – but what does this mean?
It means your Denver movers will handle all aspects of the interstate move, from packing and loading the truck to helping you understand moving insurance.
Understanding full-service moving expectations is critical to help ensure you get what you pay for!
Not Prepping For Your First Night in Your New House
The boxes are packed, your kids are ready, and you are excited to start a new adventure in a new town.
Unfortunately, chaos ensued because you didn’t prepare for that first night.
Pack a separate box filled with essentials to get you through the first hectic night – including comfortable clothing, blankets and sleeping bags, snacks, entertainment, and a coffee pot.
Do you have kids and are worried about the adjustment – here are some moving tips for families with tots!
After you survive that first night, take the necessary steps and complete the first things to do in your new house.
Not Caring For Yourself During the Move to Wyoming
Between packing and prepping, it can be easy to overlook your health. Eating right while moving is critical to ensure you remain strong and alert.
Top moving apps can also help make the process easier, including Grubhub, Uber Eats, and other food delivery services. Just make sure to opt for healthy food options!
Pests Happen: Tips to Keeping Mice, Insects, and Other Unwanted Pests At Bay
You’ve purchased enough packing supplies for two houses, found the best moving company in your area, and planned for every eventuality.
Unfortunately, if you are like most homeowners, chances are you overlooked one crucial step: Preventing common pests from ruining moving day.
For example, in addition to finding the perfect storage unit, preventing pests in storage units is essential to avoid unnecessary damage to your belongings.
Are you worried about moths eating your clothing and generally ruining your experience – Here are some tips for preventing moths during moves.
Want to learn more about planning and executing a pest-free relocation? Here are some additional pest-free moving tips!
Prevent Stress to Your Pets While You Move
Moving is stressful, and there are many things you can do to alleviate or even avoid the anxiety associated with packing and relocating.
Unfortunately, the move is just as stressful for your pets, and you must take steps to ensure your pet is safe and comfortable.
For example, ask a friend or family to watch your pets on moving day.
If you are driving cross-country with your pets, keep them safe in a pet carrier and make sure they have access to fresh water and food.
Winter pet moving tips are essential for anyone relocating to Wyoming during the tricky colder months. For feline lovers, here are a few more tips for keeping cats calm during moves.
Unboxing and Creating a Warm, Inviting Home in Wyoming
Congratulations, you made it to Wyoming – now what?
- Start by creating an unpacking and organizing strategy. For example, unpack the kitchen and bathrooms first, as these are the most used rooms in the home.
- Now comes the fun part. Unpack your kids’ bedrooms next and help you decorate the space!
- Settling quickly in your new home is possible with the right plan!
Here’s another helpful hint to make unpacking easier – throw away, donate, or sell items you might not need in your new home before the move!
Our Customers also Ask
How much does it cost to live comfortably in Wyoming?
Wyoming is both a wonderful place and a relatively inexpensive state to live a comfortable life; the average single person must earn at least $31,720/year.
Of course, if you are a homeowner, there are other expenses to consider, including maintenance and homeowners insurance. Here are the answers to common homeowners insurance questions.
Is Wyoming expensive to live in?
Except for Jackson Hole, the most expensive city in the state, it is inexpensive to call Wyoming home!
Before your move, follow this simple guide to packing the pantry to help you determine what you should keep and what should go in the trash.
Why are people moving to Wyoming?
The list of Wyoming pros far outweighs the cons, so people are flocking to the Cowboy State.
The views are spectacular, the weather in summer is beautiful, the people are friendly, and the food is out of this world!
Are the income tax rates high in Wyoming?
Wyoming is among the seven states in the US that do not collect personal income taxes!
Ready to Move to Wyoming? Contact Eden’s Moving Services Today!
Start your journey to Wyoming by calling the pros at Eden’s Moving Services. We can assist you no matter what type of move you are planning.
From handling short-term moves to helping you understand and complete pre-move important tasks, our team is available to help.`
