countyscore
40.1
County Score
Income & Jobs 81.4Property Tax 76.2Health 59.1

County Report Card

About Laramie County, Wyoming

Urban Challenges in the High Plains

Laramie County’s composite score of 40.1 falls below the national median of 50.0. This lower score is driven by urban pressures and environmental risks not found in more rural areas. It reflects a more complex socioeconomic profile than its neighbors.

A Gap Below State Averages

At 40.1, the county trails the Wyoming state average of 56.5 by a significant margin. Despite being the seat of government, it struggles with safety and affordability metrics that elevate other Wyoming counties. It operates as a distinct, more metropolitan outlier in a rural state.

Strong Incomes and Low Taxes

The county boasts a high income score of 81.4, with a median household income of $77,884. Taxpayers benefit from a score of 76.2 and a competitive effective tax rate of 0.583%. These economic drivers sustain a bustling local economy centered in Cheyenne.

Concerns in Safety and Stability

Safety scores are notably low at 7.2, reflecting challenges common in larger population centers. Environmental and economic risk also weighs on the county, resulting in a score of 23.3. High median home values of $324,900 further drag down the affordability score to 15.7.

Built for High-Earning Professionals

Laramie County is best for career-oriented individuals who can leverage the $77,884 median income to offset higher costs. It offers an urban lifestyle and government-sector stability unique to Wyoming. Those who prioritize income potential over quiet safety will find it a productive home.

Score breakdown

Tax76.2Cost15.7Safety7.2Health59.1Schools49.9Income81.4Risk23.3Water46.7Weather43
🏛76.2
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠15.7
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼81.4
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡7.2
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤59.1
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓49.9
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡23.3
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧46.7
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤43
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱30.4
Lawn Care
Lawn difficulty score based on climate, soil, and grass suitability
LawnByCounty →
🛒
Farmers Markets
Local market density, SNAP/EBT acceptance, and product variety
MarketsByCounty →
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Nearby counties

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Deep Dives

Laramie County across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 10 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in Laramie County

via TaxByCounty

Laramie's rate tops many U.S. peers

Laramie County's effective tax rate of 0.583% sits roughly in the middle nationally, with median taxes of $1,893 versus the national median of $2,690. The county ranks in the 45th percentile—a balanced position that favors neither high nor low tax filers.

Highest rate in Wyoming

Laramie County leads all Wyoming counties with an effective tax rate of 0.583%, exceeding the state average of 0.556% by roughly 5%. This makes it the priciest county in the state for property tax burden, though still cheaper than many national peers.

Notably steeper than neighbors

Laramie County's 0.583% rate significantly exceeds Lincoln County (0.436%) and Natrona County (0.618%) is close behind. Among regional peers, Laramie stands as one of the higher-tax options in southeastern Wyoming.

Median home tax reaches $1,893

Homeowners with a median-valued Laramie County property of $324,900 pay approximately $1,893 annually in taxes. With a mortgage, that rises to $1,916; without one, it's $1,836.

Assessment appeal could reduce burden

As Wyoming's highest-tax county, Laramie residents benefit even more from ensuring accurate assessments. Request a reassessment or appeal if your property's assessed value exceeds comparable recent sales—savings here add up quickly.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Laramie County

via CostByCounty

Laramie County: Close to National Norms

Laramie County's rent-to-income ratio of 16.6% sits just above the national benchmark, suggesting relatively balanced housing costs despite a median income of $77,884 exceeding the national average of $74,755. This county represents one of the few Wyoming markets where renter affordability aligns reasonably well with national patterns.

Better-Than-Average Wyoming Affordability

Laramie County's 16.6% rent-to-income ratio ranks below Wyoming's state average of 15.5% by just 1.1 percentage points, placing it near the middle of the state's affordability spectrum. Higher median income than most Wyoming counties ($77,884) provides cushion that softens housing cost pressure.

Premium Pricing, Premium Wages

Laramie's median rent of $1,080/month runs 15% above the state average and reflects its status as Wyoming's largest metro area, anchored by Cheyenne. Home values hit $324,900—third-highest among surveyed counties—yet higher local wages ($77,884 median) make the math work better than in rural peers.

Laramie's Income Absorbs Housing Costs

Renters dedicate $1,080 monthly while homeowners carry $1,463, yet median household income of $77,884 means families still devote only 16.6% to rent—manageable by modern standards. The wage advantage makes Laramie's higher housing costs feel less punishing than they appear on paper.

Laramie County Rewards Wage-Earners

If you're relocating with a professional salary or remote income, Laramie County offers metro amenities without the coastal cost crisis—and local wages actually exceed the national median. Higher rents reflect real job opportunities; compare your offer against that $77,884 county median before deciding.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Laramie County

via IncomeByCounty

Laramie exceeds national average

Laramie County's median household income of $77,884 surpasses the U.S. median of $74,755 by over $3,100. The county ranks in the upper-middle tier nationally, outperforming roughly two-thirds of American counties.

Wyoming's second-tier earner

Laramie County's $77,884 tops Wyoming's state average of $73,360 and ranks among the state's stronger performers. Only Lincoln County ($86,092) significantly outpaces Laramie, making it a relative income powerhouse.

Regional economic engine

Laramie's $77,884 substantially exceeds Hot Springs ($64,375), Johnson ($63,905), and Niobrara ($48,987) counties, reflecting Cheyenne's economic scale. The county's larger population and diverse job market support higher average wages.

Housing remains well-priced

Laramie County's 16.6% rent-to-income ratio sits comfortably below the 30% threshold, indicating solid housing affordability. At $324,900, the median home value is reasonable given the income level, supporting equity-building homeownership.

Invest above baseline retirement

With income exceeding national averages and housing costs controlled, Laramie households can comfortably fund retirement accounts beyond minimums and explore diversified investment portfolios. Consider working with a financial advisor to optimize tax-deferred growth strategies.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Laramie County

via CrimeByCounty

Higher Activity Levels in Laramie County

Laramie County reports a total crime rate of 3,084.3 per 100,000, which is higher than the national average of 2,385.5. This results in a safety score of 95.1, reflecting its status as a major regional hub.

Wyoming's Urban Center Safety Profile

The county's crime rate of 3,084.3 is more than triple the Wyoming state average of 978.0. It ranks lower in safety than more rural neighbors who average a 98.5 safety score.

Busiest Region in the Local Area

Laramie County experiences significantly more reported crime than nearby Platte County, which reported zero crimes in 2022. Four reporting agencies track the higher volume of incidents in this populous area.

Property Crimes Drive Local Statistics

Property crime sits at 2,725.4 per 100,000, which is higher than the national average of 2,015.7. Violent crime is recorded at 358.9, remaining slightly below the national mark of 369.8.

Prioritizing Home and Asset Security

Given the higher property crime rates, residents should consider comprehensive home security systems. Visible cameras and alarm systems provide a strong deterrent in this active urban environment.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Laramie County

via HealthByCounty

Life expectancy near U.S. national average

Laramie County's 76.0-year life expectancy sits slightly below the U.S. average of 79 years, placing the county in the middle range of American health outcomes. The 14.5% poor/fair health rate aligns closely with national patterns, indicating moderate population health challenges.

Slightly below Wyoming's health baseline

At 76.0 years, Laramie County trails Wyoming's state average of 77.0 years by a single year. The 14.5% poor/fair health rate exceeds the state's typical profile, suggesting localized health disparities that warrant attention.

Mid-tier outcomes in Wyoming context

Laramie County's 76.0-year life expectancy places it between the lowest (Hot Springs at 73.0) and highest (Johnson at 79.3) peers in the state. However, primary care access at 64 providers per 100K ranks among the weakest—a significant gap compared to Johnson County's 151.

Uninsured rate below state average

12.0% of Laramie County residents lack health insurance, a positive 2.8 points below Wyoming's average of 14.8%. Yet primary care access is constrained at 64 per 100K, while mental health providers are plentiful at 486 per 100K—creating uneven access to routine care.

Check your coverage in Laramie County

If you're among Laramie County's 12% uninsured, now is the time to explore coverage options through Wyoming's health marketplace or Medicaid. Visit healthcare.gov or call your local health department to find affordable plans and primary care providers nearby.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Laramie County

via SchoolsByCounty

Wyoming’s Largest Educational Hub

Laramie County hosts an expansive network of 46 public schools, including 32 elementary schools and 8 high schools. With 14,930 students and three districts, it is the most significant educational infrastructure in the state. This diverse landscape includes special education and alternative school options.

Investing in the Next Generation

The county reports a graduation rate of 79.4%, slightly trailing the state average of 82.0%. Per-pupil expenditure is $10,574, supporting a composite school score of 55.7. While spending is below the national average of $13,000, the high volume of schools provides varied academic pathways.

Cheyenne’s Dominant District Power

Laramie County School District #1 is the state's heavyweight, serving 13,821 students across 38 schools. The county also offers school choice through two charter schools, representing roughly 4% of the total school count. Smaller districts like LCSD #2 and Rite of Passage serve the outlying and specialized populations.

City Sophistication Meets Rural Reach

The school experience varies from urban campuses in Cheyenne to 13 rural schools. East High School is the largest in the county with 1,513 students, followed closely by Central High. The average school size is 325 students, offering a more traditional 'big school' feel than most Wyoming counties.

Your Future Near Cheyenne’s Top Schools

Proximity to major high schools like East and Central remains a top priority for homebuyers in Laramie County. Explore neighborhoods within the LCSD #1 boundaries to take advantage of the county's diverse extracurricular and academic programs. A home here puts you at the center of Wyoming’s educational activity.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Laramie County

via RiskByCounty

Laramie faces elevated national disaster risk

Laramie County's composite risk score of 76.69 places it well above the national average, earning a Relatively Low rating but indicating notably higher hazard exposure. The county experiences roughly double the disaster risk of the safest U.S. counties.

Laramie ranks as Wyoming's riskiest county

With a score of 76.69, Laramie County faces the highest composite disaster risk in Wyoming—more than double the state average of 37.86. This elevation reflects the county's exposure across multiple hazards, particularly tornadoes and wildfires.

Significantly riskier than neighboring counties

Laramie County's 76.69 score vastly exceeds Hot Springs (16.09), Johnson (19.31), and Platte (25.73) counties. The county's unique risk profile stems from extreme tornado exposure (88.36) combined with wildfire (91.86) and earthquake (69.97) risks that dwarf those of surrounding areas.

Tornadoes and wildfires create double threat

Tornado risk reaches 88.36 in Laramie County—the highest in Wyoming and among the nation's most dangerous areas—while wildfire exposure also peaks at 91.86. Together, these hazards account for the county's elevated overall risk, though floods (66.95) and earthquakes (69.97) also require attention.

Prepare for severe weather and fire

Laramie County residents must prioritize comprehensive coverage including tornado/hail, wildfire, and flood insurance—standard policies often exclude or limit these perils. Consider a storm shelter or reinforced safe room given the county's extreme tornado exposure; this infrastructure investment can save lives during the most dangerous storms.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Laramie County

via WeatherByCounty

A Sunny but Cold Plateau

Laramie County averages 46.7°F annually, placing it significantly below the national median temperature. Despite the chill, it receives 15.9 inches of annual precipitation, making it slightly wetter than many of its Wyoming neighbors.

One of Wyoming's Warmest Spots

The county's 46.7°F average is nearly three degrees warmer than the state average of 43.8°F. It ranks among the top tier of Wyoming counties for annual warmth due to its lower relative elevation on the plains.

Warmer Than the Mountain Interior

Laramie County is noticeably warmer than neighboring Albany County and maintains a climate similar to Platte County to the north. Its 55.7 inches of snowfall is higher than many nearby plains regions.

Vigorous Winters and Gentle Summers

The county experiences 55.7 inches of annual snow, often driven by high winds on the open plains. Summers are relatively mild with only 20 days of extreme heat above 90°F and a July average of 69.9°F.

Prepare for Snow and Wind

Robust insulation and snow-rated roofing are vital for the 55-inch annual snow load. While heat is less frequent than in the state's interior, residents should still prepare for the 20 days of 90-degree weather.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Laramie County

via SoilByCounty

High Plains Soil Identity

While specific taxonomic orders are unlisted, Laramie County's soils typically mirror the state's average pH of 7.18. This alkaline lean contrasts with the national 6.5 median, impacting which nutrients are available to plants.

Unmapped Textures on the Prairie

Composition data for sand and clay percentages is not currently available for this specific area. Gardeners often find a mix of silty loams that require careful management to avoid compaction.

Aiming for State Benchmarks

With no recorded local average, residents should aim to match the state's 5.40% organic matter levels through regular mulching. High fertility is the best defense against the county's windy and dry conditions.

Hydrology on the High Plains

Dominant drainage classes are currently unmapped, but the region's flat topography often leads to slow water movement. Careful site planning is required to ensure gardens and buildings stay dry during heavy rains.

Laramie County’s Zone 5b Climate

The county sits in Hardiness Zone 5b, allowing for a diverse range of hardy perennials and fruit trees. Start your garden with confidence by choosing wind-resistant plants that love the Wyoming sun.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Laramie County

via LawnByCounty

Laramie County's Arid Lawn Challenge

Laramie County presents a tough environment for lawns with a difficulty score of 30.4. This is lower than the Wyoming state average of 32.6, indicating that residents here work harder for their green space than most. In hardiness zone 5b, the winter is manageable, but the dryness is the primary obstacle.

Better Moisture but High Demands

The county sees 15.9 inches of annual precipitation, which is higher than the state average but still well below the national ideal of 30 inches. With 2,155 growing degree days and 20 extreme heat days, the growing window is active but moisture-intensive. Mowing heights should be kept high to shade the soil and reduce water evaporation.

Understanding Your Garden Foundation

Precise soil data for pH and clay content is currently limited for this area. It is vital to perform a local soil test to determine if your soil is too alkaline for standard turf varieties. Many high-plains soils benefit from organic top-dressing to improve structure and water retention.

Severe Drought Grips the Region

Laramie County has endured 43 weeks in drought over the past year, and 100% of the area currently experiences severe drought. These conditions require strict water conservation strategies, such as using smart irrigation controllers. Your lawn needs deep watering once or twice a week rather than light daily sprinkling.

Planting for Resilience in 5b

Drought-tolerant varieties like Tall Fescue or Crested Wheatgrass are excellent choices for the Laramie climate. Aim to plant after the last frost on May 14 to maximize the spring growth window. Rapid establishment is key, as the first fall frost typically arrives by September 27.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Laramie County's county score?
Laramie County, Wyoming has a composite county score of 40.1 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 Laramie County rank among counties in Wyoming?
Laramie County ranks #23 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 Laramie County, Wyoming?
The median annual property tax in Laramie County is $1,893, with an effective tax rate of 0.58%. This earns Laramie County a tax score of 76.2/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Laramie County?
The median household income in Laramie County, Wyoming is $77,884 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Laramie County earns an income score of 81.4/100 on CountyScore.
Is Laramie County, Wyoming a good place to live?
Laramie County scores 40.1/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #23 in Wyoming. The best way to evaluate Laramie 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 Laramie County with other counties side by side.

ByCounty Network

🏛Property Tax🏠Cost of Living💼Income & Jobs🛡Safety❤Health🎓Schools⚡Disaster Risk💧Water Quality🌤Weather & Climate🪨Soil Quality🌱Lawn Care🛒Farmers Markets

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