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Laramie, Wyoming

USA · Comprehensive city data and intelligence

74
Overall Score

Laramie, Wyoming, known as the "Gem City of the Plains," is nestled in southeastern Wyoming at an elevation of 7,200 feet, surrounded by the picturesque Snowy Range Mountains and the Medicine Bow National Forest. This location offers abundant outdoor activities, including fishing, camping, skiing, snowmobiling, hiking, biking, and climbing. Laramie provides a neighborly atmosphere and a warm, small-town feel with a population of approximately 32,511 in 2026. The city is also a hub of education, largely influenced by the presence of the University of Wyoming and WyoTech trade school, which contribute to a diverse mix of residents. Laramie gained international attention in 1870 when Louisa Swain became the world's first woman voter under laws guaranteeing absolute political equality.

About Wyoming

Wyoming, known as "The Equality State," is characterized by its vast, open landscapes, including the Rocky Mountains and high-elevation prairies, fostering a lifestyle deeply connected to nature and a strong sense of community. The state's economy is primarily driven by mineral extraction, particularly coal, natural gas, oil, and trona, alongside a significant tourism industry centered around national parks like Yellowstone and Grand Teton, and agriculture, mainly livestock and hay. Living in Wyoming generally offers a lower cost of living compared to the national average, with no state income tax. The climate is typically semi-arid and continental, featuring dry, windy conditions with significant temperature extremes, long winters, and short growing seasons, while the lifestyle embraces a slower pace, self-reliance, and abundant outdoor recreational opportunities.

32,511
Population
$65K
Avg Salary
95
Cost Index
73.9
Quality Score
How this 74/100 was calculated five components, with every reading behind them
Component Readings used Points Weight Contributes
Safety Safety score: 95 / 100 95.0 30% 28.5
Affordability Cost of living index (100 = national baseline): 95.0 50.0 25% 12.5
Economy & jobs Median household income: $55,613 Income needed to live here: $31,776 Unemployment rate: 2.2% 98.8 20% 19.8
Growth Population growth rate: 0.7% Job growth rate: no usable reading 42.5 15% 6.4
Business climate assessment Business climate assessment: 68 / 100 68.0 10% 6.8
Overall score 73.9

Provenance. These figures were produced by the research pass recorded as Gemini (Tier 1 (fast), q=85), last refreshed 24 July 2026. They are researched estimates drawn from public sources, not a licensed data feed.

Each component is scored against fixed published endpoints, so this number is comparable with any other city and does not move as the dataset grows. Scoring framework 2026.10 — full methodology, weights and accepted ranges.

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Quality Scores

Business
68
Livability
74
Affordability
65
Growth
70

Cost of Living

The cost of living in Laramie, WY, is generally lower than the national average, making it an attractive option for many. Overall, Laramie is approximately 4.5% cheaper than the United States average. Housing costs are notably more affordable, being about 19.2% less expensive than the national average, with rent for apartments typically ranging between $681 and $1,319 per month. Groceries are also slightly cheaper, around 2% less than the national average, while utilities are about 5.2% less pricey. However, some expenses, such as childcare and dining out, can be more expensive in Laramie compared to the national average.

Average Rent
$1,149/mo
Groceries
$377/mo
Transport
$120/mo
Utilities
$352/mo
Healthcare
$138/mo
Gym membership (monthly)
$45.00
Cinema ticket
$14.00
Restaurant meal (mid-range)
$55.00
Monthly groceries
$377.00
Doctor visit (without insurance)
$150.00

Salary Insights

Laramie's economy is stable, largely driven by the presence of the University of Wyoming and a growing tourism sector. While specific job growth rates for 2026 were not readily available, the presence of a major university and a trade school like WyoTech suggests a consistent demand for skilled labor and educational professionals. The average monthly net salary in Laramie is around $5,428. The unemployment rate in Laramie was 2.2% in 2026. The city's small-town charm and outdoor amenities may also attract remote workers seeking a higher quality of life.

The average salary in Laramie is $65,136 per year. You would need approximately $31,776 to live comfortably.

Top Industries

Education Healthcare Technology Tourism Agriculture

Climate

🌡️
Avg Temp
☀️
Summer High
❄️
Winter Low
🌧️
"
Annual Rain
💧
46.00%
Humidity
🌤️
Sunny Days

Transport

Getting around Laramie is relatively easy, with residents benefiting from shorter work commutes. The average one-way commute time is only 13 minutes, significantly lower than the national average of 26 minutes. While specific public transit and walkability scores for 2026 were not readily available, the city's smaller size generally implies a more walkable environment compared to larger metropolitan areas. Car dependency is likely medium, given the availability of amenities within the city but also the need for vehicles for regional travel and accessing outdoor recreational areas.

13 min
Avg Commute
30.00/10
Transit Score
40.00/10
Walkability
Medium
Car Dependency

Pros & Cons

Advantages
The cost of living in Laramie is lower than the national average, particularly for housing and groceries.
Laramie has a violent crime rate significantly below the national average, making it a very safe place to live.
The city offers a strong sense of community and a friendly, welcoming atmosphere.
There are abundant outdoor activities available, including hiking, biking, skiing, and fishing, due to its proximity to mountains and forests.
Commute times are significantly shorter than the national average, at only 13 minutes.
Drawbacks
Childcare and dining out costs can be more expensive in Laramie compared to the national average.
Some residents may need to travel to larger cities for specialized medical care or extensive shopping options.
Despite growth, Laramie can still feel somewhat isolated, with a "middle of nowhere" feel for some.
The median household income in Laramie is lower than the national average.
The housing market, while affordable, has seen a slight decrease in median home prices in early 2026.

Questions about Laramie

What people ask about living in and moving to Laramie, Wyoming.

What is the quality of public schools for families with kids? Schools & Education 1 answer

Public schools in Laramie are managed by a district that emphasizes small class sizes and community involvement. They receive state accreditation and offer a range of extracurricular activities. Performance metrics show steady improvement in standardized test scores. For detailed ratings and enrollment data, consult the state education department’s school report cards and the district’s website.

How do I get around Laramie if I don’t have a car? Getting Around 1 answer

Laramie offers a modest public transit system that connects key points such as the university, downtown, and residential areas. Biking infrastructure includes dedicated lanes and bike‑share programs. Many residents also walk to nearby destinations. For schedules, routes, and bike‑share availability, check the city’s transit authority website, which provides maps and fare information.

Is Laramie a safe place to live and raise a family? Safety 1 answer

Laramie has a safety score of 95 out of 100, indicating it is one of the safer communities in the region. Violent crime rates are low, and property crime is below the national average. Local law enforcement maintains a visible presence, and community programs promote neighborhood watch initiatives. For up‑to‑date crime statistics, review the city’s public safety reports or the state’s crime data portal.

How does the cost of living in Laramie compare to the national average? Cost of Living 1 answer

Laramie’s cost of living index is 95, meaning it’s about 5% below the national average. Housing is the main driver, with average rent at $1,149 per month, slightly lower than many urban centers. Daily expenses such as groceries, utilities, and transportation are also modest. Overall, your salary of $65,136 should comfortably cover living costs, leaving room for savings or discretionary spending.

What is the average rent for a one‑bedroom apartment in Laramie? Housing 1 answer

The average rent in Laramie is $1,149 per month for a typical one‑bedroom unit. Prices can vary by neighborhood and proximity to campus, but this figure gives a realistic baseline. For current listings, check local rental platforms or the city’s housing portal, which aggregates available units and includes details on amenities and lease terms.

What kinds of jobs are most common for residents in Laramie? Jobs & Economy 1 answer

Employment in Laramie is largely driven by the university and its research facilities, along with public sector roles in education, healthcare, and local government. There are also opportunities in retail, hospitality, and small businesses. Your background in education and health services would align well with positions in the university’s departments, community colleges, and local clinics. Job boards and the city’s...

What healthcare options are available for residents? Healthcare 1 answer

The city hosts several medical facilities, including primary care clinics, specialty practices, and a regional hospital that offers emergency services. Telehealth options are also available through local providers. For appointment scheduling and insurance coverage details, refer to the city’s health department portal or the hospital’s patient services page.

What are the top outdoor activities near Laramie? Things to Do 1 answer

Laramie is surrounded by scenic mountains and open plains, offering hiking, mountain biking, and rock climbing in the summer, and skiing, snowshoeing, and cross‑country skiing in winter. Nearby state parks provide trails and wildlife viewing. For trail maps and seasonal guides, consult the state parks department or local outdoor recreation groups.

What should I know about moving my household into Laramie? Moving Here 1 answer

Plan your move by scheduling a moving company early, especially if you’re traveling from a distant location. Consider the seasonal weather; winter can bring snow that may delay deliveries. Coordinate with the city’s utilities department for setting up electricity, water, and internet. Check the city’s moving guidelines for any local permits or parking restrictions during the move.

What is the overall vibe of Laramie for new residents? General 1 answer

Laramie offers a blend of small‑town charm and academic energy. Residents enjoy a close‑knit community, frequent cultural events, and a relaxed pace of life. The presence of the university brings diversity, student life, and cultural festivals. Outdoor recreation is a staple, and the local economy is stable with a mix of education, healthcare, and small businesses.

Some answers here were drafted as a starting point and may be out of date. Live in Laramie? Add your own.

Frequently Asked Questions

Urblytica benchmarks its Cost of Living Index against a United States national average baseline of 100. A score of 115 means a city is approximately 15% more expensive than the national average, while a score of 85 indicates it is 15% more affordable. This composite calculation is weighted across six primary expenditure categories: housing, utilities, grocery items, transportation, healthcare, and miscellaneous goods.

Urblytica aggregates housing data from multiple authoritative sources, including Multiple Listing Service (MLS) feeds, municipal property tax registries, the U.S. Census Bureau’s American Community Survey (ACS), and verified historical deed transactions. This multi-tier aggregation ensures precision in tracking median home values and rental rates.

A municipality must meet minimum data-density thresholds—including consistent reporting population samples from the U.S. Census and active residential or commercial real estate transaction feeds—to ensure statistical significance before a complete scoring profile is published.

When primary agencies (such as the Bureau of Labor Statistics or U.S. Census Bureau) issue historical data revisions or benchmark corrections, Urblytica's data pipeline automatically re-indexes affected historical archives to maintain longitudinal trend accuracy.

U.S. affordability calculations incorporate federal income tax brackets, state-specific income tax rates, and local municipal tax variations to evaluate the true net tax drag on median household earnings across different states and cities.

Local county and municipal property tax millage rates are factored directly into the housing component of the cost-of-living index to reflect recurring annual tax burdens for homeowners.

The platform aggregates state sales taxes alongside county and city surtaxes to measure consumer basket purchasing power parity accurately across different retail jurisdictions.

Utility calculations apply regional seasonal consumption weightings, incorporating high summer air conditioning loads in southern states and heavy winter heating demands in northern states.

The index tracks average out-of-pocket healthcare expenses, routine outpatient visit costs, and regional health insurance premium benchmarks published by federal health agencies.

Educational metrics aggregate state standardized testing benchmarks, student-to-teacher ratios, high school graduation rates, and per-pupil expenditure data published by state departments of education.
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