countyscore
56.5
County Score
Disaster Risk 83.9Property Tax 79.3Safety 61.5

County Report Card

About Hot Springs County, Wyoming

Hot Springs Exceeds the National Median

With a composite score of 56.5, Hot Springs County outperforms the national median of 50.0. It offers a quality of life that is competitive with rural communities across the United States. Residents enjoy a stable environment that avoids the extremes of many coastal markets.

Meeting the Wyoming State Average

The county's score of 56.5 perfectly matches the Wyoming state average, placing it in the middle of the pack locally. It serves as a reliable benchmark for the Cowboy State's standard of living. It balances typical regional costs with unique geographic benefits.

Low Risk and Favorable Taxes

Hot Springs excels in stability with a risk score of 83.9, one of its highest metrics. The tax score of 79.3 reflects a light burden, supported by a low 0.561% effective tax rate. These factors provide a predictable financial landscape for homeowners and retirees.

Health Access and Schooling Needs

The county faces challenges in health services, marked by a score of 38.2. Schooling also trails the state average with a score of 45.1, suggesting room for educational investment. Water quality scores remain a secondary concern at 44.6.

Ideal for Retirees Seeking Stability

Hot Springs is best suited for individuals or retirees who value low taxes and environmental resilience. While incomes are modest at $64,375, the low cost of living and high safety make it a secure choice. It offers a quiet, predictable lifestyle away from urban volatility.

2040608010079.35861.538.245.151.683.944.632.1Tax79.3Cost58Safety61.5Health38.2Schools45.1Income51.6Risk83.9Water44.6Weather32.156.5/100
This county
National avg
3 above average3 below average

Hot Springs County DNA

Foverall

How Hot Springs County compares to the national average across 9 dimensions

Hot Springs County is a tale of two counties — exceptional in Disaster Risk (83.9/100) but notably weak in Weather & Climate (32.1/100). This polarized profile creates distinct trade-offs for residents.

Dimension Breakdown

Tax
79.3+27.299999999999997
Cost
58+10
Safety
61.5
Health
38.2-11.799999999999997
Schools
45.1-8.899999999999999
Income
51.6
Risk
83.9+36.900000000000006
Water
44.6-13.399999999999999
Weather
32.1-23.9
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Can You Afford to Live Here?

Median Home Price

$214,400

National median: $174,650

Median Rent

$976/mo

National median: $854/mo

Income Needed (home)

$214,400/yr

28% front-end rule

Income Needed (rent)

$39,040/yr

30% rent rule

Affordability Spectrum3.3x income
AffordableNational avgExpensive
Local median income: $64,375/yr
Compare Mortgage Rates

Economic & Education Snapshot

Data from Federal Reserve (FRED), U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard, and CMS NPPES.

Explore this county

Property Taxtaxbycounty.comCost of Livingcostbycounty.comIncome & Jobsincomebycounty.comSafetycrimebycounty.comHealthhealthbycounty.comSchoolsschoolsbycounty.comDisaster Riskriskbycounty.comWater Qualitywaterbycounty.comWeather & Climateweatherbycounty.comSoil Qualitysoilbycounty.comLawn Carelawnbycounty.comFarmers Marketsmarketsbycounty.comView on Mapcountyscore.com/map
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Nearby counties

Washakie County
Wyoming
64.6
Fremont County
Wyoming
49.2
Big Horn County
Wyoming
62.6
Park County
Wyoming
57.8
Natrona County
Wyoming
55.2
Johnson County
Wyoming
55.6
Sublette County
Wyoming
67.4
Sheridan County
Wyoming
50.1

Deep Dives

Hot Springs County across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 11 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in Hot Springs County

via TaxByCounty

Hot Springs taxes rank low nationally

Hot Springs County's effective tax rate of 0.561% sits well below the national median property tax of $2,690 on a $281,900 home. At this rate, the county falls in roughly the bottom third nationally, meaning homeowners here pay significantly less in property taxes than most Americans.

Slightly above Wyoming average

Hot Springs County's 0.561% effective rate marginally exceeds Wyoming's state average of 0.556%, placing it in the middle tier among the state's 23 counties. The median property tax of $1,202 here runs below the state median of $1,666, reflecting the county's lower home values.

Middle of the pack regionally

Hot Springs sits between Johnson County (0.552%) and Natrona County (0.618%) in effective rates. Among its peers, it offers a moderate tax burden—cheaper than Park County but steeper than Niobrara County's notably low 0.376% rate.

Median home costs $1,202 yearly

A homeowner with a median-valued property of $214,400 in Hot Springs County pays approximately $1,202 annually in property taxes. With a mortgage, that figure rises to $1,396; without one, it drops to $1,110.

Check if your assessment is fair

Many Wyoming homeowners pay more in property taxes than they should due to overassessment. If your property tax bill seems high relative to recent sales in your area, consider requesting a formal assessment review or appeal to potentially lower your tax burden.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Hot Springs County

via CostByCounty

Hot Springs: Slightly Stretched Nationally

Hot Springs County renters spend 18.2% of their income on housing, above the national benchmark of roughly 14% but closer than many rural counties nationwide. The median household income of $64,375 falls short of the national average of $74,755, putting residents in a tighter squeeze than typical American households.

Middle of the Pack in Wyoming

Hot Springs' 18.2% rent-to-income ratio ranks above Wyoming's state average of 15.5%, reflecting higher-than-average housing cost pressure. Among Wyoming's eight surveyed counties, Hot Springs falls in the moderate affordability band, neither the most nor least strained.

Competing with Regional Housing Markets

At $976/month for median rent, Hot Springs tracks slightly above the state average of $937 and sits between similar-sized Wyoming counties. Median home values of $214,400 are relatively modest regionally, offering more accessible ownership pathways than neighbors like Laramie County ($324,900).

Where Hot Springs Income Goes

Renters dedicate $976 monthly to housing while homeowners pay $586 in monthly ownership costs—a 16-point gap that rewards building equity early. With median household income of $64,375 annually, a typical renter household spends 18.2% of gross income on housing, leaving limited budget cushion for other essentials.

Consider Hot Springs If You Value Balance

Hot Springs offers modest rent and home prices compared to wealthier Wyoming counties, making it worth exploring if you're relocating from the coasts or high-growth metros. Run the numbers: at $976/month rent versus ownership costs of $586, first-time homebuyers may find unexpected affordability in this quiet corner of Wyoming.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Hot Springs County

via IncomeByCounty

Hot Springs trails national income

Hot Springs County's median household income of $64,375 falls about $10,400 below the U.S. median of $74,755. This puts the county in the lower half nationally, though many rural counties face similar gaps.

Below average for Wyoming

Hot Springs ranks below Wyoming's state average of $73,360, placing it in the lower tier among the state's 23 counties. The $9,000 gap reflects the county's reliance on smaller-scale industries.

Competing with basin neighbors

Hot Springs' $64,375 income compares unfavorably to nearby Natrona County ($71,247) but outpaces Niobrara County ($48,987). Regional economic variation suggests targeted industry development could shift the trajectory.

Housing remains affordable here

At 18.2%, Hot Springs' rent-to-income ratio is healthy and below the recommended 30% threshold, suggesting residents are well-positioned on housing costs. With a median home value of $214,400, homeownership remains accessible compared to state and national trends.

Build savings with stable housing

Because housing costs consume less than one-fifth of median income, households have room to direct dollars toward emergency funds and retirement accounts. Even modest regular investments can compound significantly over time—start with automatic transfers, even small ones.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Hot Springs County

via CrimeByCounty

Hot Springs County Outperforms National Safety Averages

Hot Springs County earns a high safety score of 98.6, reflecting a very secure environment. Its total crime rate of 888.3 per 100,000 is significantly lower than the national average of 2,385.5.

Slightly Safer Than the Wyoming Average

The county's safety score of 98.6 sits just above the Wyoming state average of 98.5. Its total crime rate of 888.3 is also better than the statewide average of 978.0 per 100,000 residents.

A Quiet Alternative to Regional Neighbors

Compared to nearby Johnson County at 1,054.4, Hot Springs maintains a lower overall crime footprint. Two local agencies work diligently to keep these numbers below both state and regional trends.

Violent Crime is Extremely Rare Here

The violent crime rate is just 21.7 per 100,000, far below the national rate of 369.8. Property crime accounts for 866.6 per 100,000, which is still much lower than the national average of 2,015.7.

Maintaining a Secure Rural Household

While crime is low, 866.6 property incidents per 100,000 suggest that basic vigilance is still necessary. Installing motion-sensor lights and securing outbuildings helps maintain this county's peaceful reputation.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Schools in Hot Springs County

via SchoolsByCounty

Small-Scale Learning in Thermopolis

Hot Springs County operates a compact educational network of 4 public schools, including two elementary, one middle, and one high school. A total of 642 students are enrolled across two distinct districts. The infrastructure is centered primarily around the town of Thermopolis.

Academic Challenges and Resource Allocation

The county's graduation rate stands at 74.0%, which is significantly lower than the Wyoming state average of 82.0% and the national mark of 87.0%. Per-pupil expenditure is $10,076, trailing the national average of $13,000. These factors contribute to a composite school score of 51.7.

Hot Springs County School District #1 Leads

Hot Springs County School District #1 is the primary provider, managing three schools and the entire 642-student body. There are currently no charter schools operating within the county. The Northwest Wyoming BOCES exists as a secondary district, though it reports no current enrollment.

Intimate Town and Rural Classrooms

With an average school size of 214 students, the environment is highly personalized. Ralph Witters Elementary is the largest campus with 242 students, while Thermopolis Middle School serves 197. Three schools sit in town settings, while one provides a dedicated rural learning experience.

Finding a Home Near Local Schools

Families looking for a close-knit community should explore residential options near Ralph Witters Elementary. School quality is a vital factor in local property values and long-term community growth. Secure your place in this small-town environment today.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Hot Springs County

via RiskByCounty

Hot Springs stays well below national risk

Hot Springs County's composite risk score of 16.09 places it in the Very Low category, substantially safer than the national average. This county faces roughly 57% less overall disaster risk than typical U.S. counties, making it one of Wyoming's more resilient communities.

Among Wyoming's safest counties

Hot Springs ranks in the lower half of Wyoming's natural disaster risk, with a score of 16.09 compared to the state average of 37.86. The county benefits from lower flood and tornado exposure than most Wyoming communities, though wildfire and earthquake risks remain present.

Safer than nearby Washakie and Fremont

Hot Springs County's risk profile is notably lower than Johnson County (19.31) and Park County (57.73) to the north and east. Its combination of low flood (39.38) and tornado (11.39) risks gives it a distinct advantage in the region, though wildfire exposure (66.44) mirrors broader Rocky Mountain trends.

Wildfire and earthquake top the list

Wildfire risk scores 66.44 in Hot Springs, making it the county's most significant hazard despite overall low risk. Earthquakes rank second at 60.78, reflecting the county's location near the Wasatch fault zone, though both risks remain below national averages.

Prioritize wildfire and earthquake coverage

While Hot Springs County's overall risk is low, homeowners should ensure their policies cover wildfire damage, which standard homeowners insurance often excludes or limits. Consider earthquake insurance given the county's proximity to seismic zones—it's affordable in lower-risk areas and protects against a significant, if infrequent, threat.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Water Quality in Hot Springs County

via WaterByCounty

Modest Violation Rate Earns a D Grade

Hot Springs County carries a D grade with one health violation recorded over the last five years. Despite the grade, the violation rate of 24.5 per 100K residents remains significantly lower than the Wyoming state average of 205.0.

Watershed Assessments Currently Pending Federal Review

This county's water bodies are not yet covered in the federal §303(d) assessment database. Without active ATTAINS data, the local impairment status remains unclassified compared to the 0.0% state average impairment rate.

Limited Monitoring at One Active Site

Local water quality data rests on 62 measurements taken at a single monitoring site over the past five years. Researchers focus primarily on organic compounds, pesticides, and PFAS chemicals to track local contamination.

No USGS Streamgage Data Available

Hot Springs County does not currently host a representative USGS streamgage for live flow tracking. Residents should look to drinking water compliance records as the primary indicator of local water security.

Filter for Organics and PFAS

The presence of PFAS and organic compounds in monitoring records suggests residents should use advanced filtration systems. Because data points are sparse, regular independent testing provides the best safeguard against potential contaminants.

Full water quality analysis on WaterByCounty

Weather & Climate in Hot Springs County

via WeatherByCounty

A Cooler Corner of the High Plains

With an average annual temperature of 45.6°F, Hot Springs County remains notably cooler than the national median. This semi-arid climate features low annual precipitation of just 13.3 inches, which is less than half the national average.

Warmer Than the Wyoming Average

The county's average temperature of 45.6°F sits nearly two degrees higher than the state average of 43.8°F. While Wyoming is known for its chill, this region serves as one of the state's warmer pockets.

Milder Than Its Northern Neighbors

Hot Springs County enjoys a warmer profile than neighboring Park County, which averages 42.4°F. It also edges out Johnson County to the east, which records a slightly cooler 45.1°F annual average.

Hot Summers and Snowy Winters

Summer temperatures peak in July at 71.4°F, contributing to 34 extreme heat days per year where temperatures top 90°F. Winters are demanding, with an average of 50.3 inches of snow and January lows averaging 22.8°F.

Prepare for Seasonal Shifts

Residents should invest in high-efficiency HVAC systems to handle the significant 48.6-degree swing between January and July averages. Heavy-duty snow removal equipment is essential for managing the 50-inch annual snowfall.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Hot Springs County

via SoilByCounty

A Rugged Soil Profile in Hot Springs

Detailed taxonomic and pH data remain unmapped for much of the county's unique terrain. Local growers typically encounter alkaline conditions common across Wyoming, where the state average pH is 7.18 compared to the national 6.5 median.

Texture Variations Across the Basin

While specific sand and clay percentages are not recorded, the region's geography suggests a mix of rocky and silty textures. Gardeners should perform a jar test to determine their specific soil workability and drainage needs.

Building Fertility in Mountain Soils

Without specific organic matter data, residents should look to the state average of 5.40% as a high-water mark for soil health. Adding compost is vital to improve growing potential in areas where natural organic content is likely below the 2.0% national average.

Managing Water in Arid Conditions

Formal drainage and hydrologic classifications are currently unavailable for this area. Observing how quickly your land dries after a storm provides the best practical guide for irrigation and construction planning.

Thriving in Zone 4b

Hot Springs County sits in Hardiness Zone 4b, requiring plants that can withstand deep winter freezes. Hardy crops like spinach and peas thrive here, so grab some seeds and start your mountain garden today.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Hot Springs County

via LawnByCounty

Hot Springs County's Challenging High-Desert Turf

With a lawn difficulty score of 34.9, Hot Springs County is significantly harder to maintain than the national median of 50.0. While it outperforms the Wyoming state average of 32.6, gardeners in hardiness zone 4b must select exceptionally hardy turf. Local lawns face a steep climb due to limited moisture and a rigorous mountain climate.

High Heat and Low Precipitation

The county receives just 13.3 inches of annual precipitation, which is less than half of the 30-inch minimum ideal for lawns. With 34 extreme heat days per year, your mowing schedule must adjust for rapid mid-summer evaporation. The 2,258 growing degree days provide a healthy but brief window for turf development.

Preparing Your Unseen Foundation

While specific local soil data is currently limited, regional mountain soils often lack the organic matter found in the Midwest. You should prioritize a professional soil test to determine your specific pH and drainage needs before seeding. Adding compost or organic amendments typically helps improve the water-holding capacity of local ground.

Managing Water in Semi-Arid Conditions

The county spent 26 weeks in drought over the last year, and over 22% of the area currently faces severe drought conditions. Over 92% of the county is classified as abnormally dry, making deep, infrequent watering essential for root health. Focus on early morning irrigation to minimize water loss from wind and high evaporation.

Cool-Season Grasses for Zone 4b

Kentucky Bluegrass or Fine Fescue are the strongest choices for this zone, provided they receive supplemental irrigation. Aim to seed your lawn around May 24 after the final spring frost to give roots time to establish before the summer heat. Be prepared to finish any major lawn projects before the first fall frost arrives in early October.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Hot Springs County's county score?
Hot Springs County, Wyoming has a composite county score of 56.5 out of 100 on CountyScore. This score is calculated from a weighted average of available data dimensions including property tax, cost of living, income, safety, health, and schools.
How does Hot Springs County rank among counties in Wyoming?
Hot Springs County ranks #12 among all counties in Wyoming on CountyScore's composite ranking. Rankings are based on available data dimensions and updated as new data is added.
What are property taxes like in Hot Springs County, Wyoming?
The median annual property tax in Hot Springs County is $1,202, with an effective tax rate of 0.56%. This earns Hot Springs County a tax score of 79.3/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Hot Springs County?
The median household income in Hot Springs County, Wyoming is $64,375 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Hot Springs County earns an income score of 51.6/100 on CountyScore.
Is Hot Springs County, Wyoming a good place to live?
Hot Springs County scores 56.5/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #12 in Wyoming. The best way to evaluate Hot Springs County is to compare individual dimension scores — property tax, cost of living, income, safety, health, and schools — based on your personal priorities. Use CountyScore to compare Hot Springs County with other counties side by side.
By Logan Johnson, Founder & Data EditorUpdated Reviewed by Logan Johnson, Founder & Data Editor

ByCounty Network

Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers Markets

Data from U.S. Census Bureau ACS, FBI UCR, CDC, FEMA NRI, NCES, EPA SDWIS, NOAA — informational only.