countyscore
64.6
County Score
Water Quality 86Safety 77.6Disaster Risk 75.7

County Report Card

About Washakie County, Wyoming

Exceptional National Standing

Washakie County shines with a composite score of 64.6, placing it well above the national median of 50.0. It offers a quality of life that significantly outpaces the typical American county.

A Top Performer in Wyoming

Beating the state average of 56.5, Washakie stands out as one of Wyoming's hidden gems. It achieves high marks by focusing on foundational community metrics like safety and affordability.

Clean Water and High Affordability

The county excels with a water score of 86.0 and a cost score of 72.4. With median rents at just $725 and home values under $190,000, it is one of the most accessible markets in the state.

Income and Health Limitations

Moderate income scores (47.1) and health scores (46.7) reflect a local economy with lower-than-average wages. Residents may need to travel further for specialized medical care or high-paying corporate roles.

Perfect for Retirees and Remote Workers

Washakie County is a haven for those who value safety, low living costs, and clean resources. It is especially suited for retirees or remote workers who don't rely on the local job market for high wages.

Score breakdown

Tax63.2Cost72.4Safety77.6Health46.7Schools62.2Income47.1Risk75.7Water86Weather27.9
🏛63.2
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠72.4
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼47.1
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡77.6
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤46.7
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓62.2
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡75.7
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤27.9
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨33
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱30.5
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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Counties with similar scores

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Traill County
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Nearby counties

Hot Springs County
Wyoming
56.5
Big Horn County
Wyoming
62.6
Johnson County
Wyoming
55.6
Fremont County
Wyoming
49.2
Natrona County
Wyoming
55.2
Sheridan County
Wyoming
50.1
Park County
Wyoming
57.8
Carbon County
Montana
64.8

Deep Dives

Washakie County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Washakie County

via TaxByCounty

Washakie has Wyoming's highest tax rate

At 0.700%, Washakie's effective tax rate runs slightly below the national median of 0.715% but stands significantly above most Wyoming peers. The median tax bill of $1,321 remains 51% below the national median of $2,690, thanks to lower home values of $188,600.

Washakie leads Wyoming in tax rate

Washakie's 0.700% effective tax rate is the highest in Wyoming, exceeding the state average of 0.556% by 26%. Despite collecting more per capita in taxes, its median bill of $1,321 is actually the lowest in the state due to lower home values.

Highest taxes in the northern region

Washakie's 0.700% rate substantially exceeds neighbors Sheridan County (0.554%) and Sublette County (0.410%), making it the region's most heavily-taxed jurisdiction. Only Weston County (0.682%) comes close in the broader area.

What your home costs annually

On a median home valued at $188,600, Washakie County homeowners pay approximately $1,321 in annual property taxes. Those with mortgages pay $1,358, while owners without mortgages pay $1,277.

You may be overassessed

With Wyoming's highest tax rate, Washakie County homeowners should be particularly vigilant about assessment accuracy. Filing an assessment appeal with Washakie County could provide relief, especially if your home's assessed value exceeds comparable recent sales.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Washakie County

via CostByCounty

Washakie offers rock-bottom rents nationwide

At 13.9% of household income, Washakie County ranks among America's most affordable housing markets, with median rent just $725 per month. This exceptional value reflects the county's rural character and modest income levels ($62,648 median household income).

Washakie beats Wyoming's affordability benchmark

Washakie's 13.9% rent-to-income ratio undercuts Wyoming's 15.5% average by 1.6 percentage points. The county offers genuine accessibility despite the lowest median household income in this county comparison.

Washakie's rents lead the region in value

At $725 per month, Washakie's median rent ties or beats every neighboring county, undercutting Uinta ($882) and Sweetwater ($913). This exceptional affordability makes Washakie attractive to budget-conscious relocators.

Washakie delivers unmatched rental affordability

On a $62,648 median household income, Washakie residents pay just $725 monthly rent—13.9% of earnings. Homeowners invest $740 monthly, representing only 14.2% of income, making both renting and ownership exceptionally accessible.

Washakie is Wyoming's affordability champion

If minimizing housing costs is your priority, Washakie County delivers unbeatable value at $725 median rent. Trade mountain amenities for genuine economic relief—this county proves that Wyoming offers affordable options for those willing to embrace rural living.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Washakie County

via IncomeByCounty

Washakie Below National Average

Washakie County's median household income of $62,648 falls 16% below the U.S. median of $74,755, placing the county in the bottom third nationally. This $12,107 gap reflects limited economic diversification and outmigration of younger workers.

Lowest Income in Wyoming

Washakie ranks last among Wyoming's 23 counties, with income $10,712 below the state average of $73,360. Its per capita income of $36,030 trails the state average by $4,192, indicating weak individual and household earnings.

Struggling Against Regional Peers

Washakie's $62,648 income trails every county in this seven-county group, falling $8,207 below Sheridan, the next-lowest earner. The gap widens dramatically toward mountain and energy-rich counties like Teton and Sublette.

Housing Costs Strain Limited Incomes

At 13.9%, Washakie's rent-to-income ratio remains below the 30% threshold, but with lower overall incomes, housing represents a larger burden relative to available disposable income. The median home value of $188,600 is most affordable in the group, yet still demands careful household budgeting.

Start Small, Build Consistently

Washakie households earning $62,648 should prioritize building a $1,000 emergency fund first, then automate even small monthly savings into retirement accounts—$50 monthly compounds significantly over decades. Seek employer matching programs and low-cost index funds to maximize every dollar invested.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Washakie County

via CrimeByCounty

Washakie County Ranks High for National Safety

Washakie County stands out with a safety score of 99.2, making it one of the safest places in the United States. Its total crime rate of 530.8 per 100,000 is 77% lower than the national average.

Comparing Washakie to Wyoming Averages

Washakie outperforms the Wyoming average safety score of 98.5. Its total crime rate is nearly half of the state-wide average of 978.0 incidents per 100,000 residents.

Washakie Leads the Region in Public Safety

The county is safer than Weston County at 1,077.1 and Sheridan County at 1,379.3. It maintains a high standard of public safety compared to its regional peers.

A Focus on Low Violent Crime Rates

Violent crime sits at 103.6 per 100,000, which is comfortably below the state average of 126.9. Property crime occurs at a low rate of 427.2, emphasizing the county's relative security.

Safety Tips for Washakie Residents

Consistent lighting in alleys and entryways is a simple way to keep property crime rates low. Washakie’s safety can be further bolstered by routine home security checks and community awareness.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Washakie County

via HealthByCounty

Washakie's health metrics trail significantly

At 76.1 years, Washakie County's life expectancy falls 0.3 years below the U.S. average of 76.4 years. Over 17% report poor or fair health—matching the national rate exactly—revealing substantial chronic disease burden in this agricultural region.

Among Wyoming's lowest-performing counties

Washakie's 76.1-year life expectancy sits just below Wyoming's state average of 77.0 years, while its 17.1% poor/fair health rate is the worst in the state. The county faces compounded health challenges that require targeted intervention.

Worst health outcomes in the region

Washakie's 76.1-year life expectancy trails Sheridan (78.2 years) and Weston (78.0 years) to the north. Its 17.1% poor/fair health rate is the state's highest, indicating the most concentrated health risk of any Wyoming county.

Strong provider network offsets health burden

Despite health challenges, Washakie offers 104 primary care providers per 100,000—Wyoming's highest—plus 454 mental health providers per 100,000. With 15.0% uninsured, the county's provider density suggests barriers beyond access, such as disease prevalence or behavioral risk factors.

Insurance is a critical health tool

Washakie's elevated poor/fair health rates make insurance coverage essential for managing chronic conditions and preventing complications. Enroll at healthcare.gov to secure coverage that connects you to the county's available providers and preventive services.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Washakie County

via SchoolsByCounty

Streamlined Schooling in Central Wyoming

Washakie County operates a streamlined system of seven public schools serving 1,257 students. Two districts manage three elementary schools and two high schools, maintaining a personal, small-scale feel.

Strong Graduation Rates and High Investment

The graduation rate of 86.3% is strong, beating the Wyoming average and nearly matching the national benchmark. Investment is high at $12,162 per pupil, contributing to an impressive school score of 62.7.

Worland District Leads with Five Schools

Washakie County School District #1 is the central provider, enrolling 1,138 students across five schools. The county currently has no charter schools, focusing its resources into established public districts.

Personalized Learning in Town Settings

Five of the seven schools are located in town settings, providing a centralized experience for most residents. With an average school size of just 180 students, campuses like Worland High School offer a community-oriented environment.

Quality Education in a Quiet Setting

Washakie County pairs strong per-pupil spending with high school scores, making it an attractive choice for parents. Look for your next home near Worland's well-supported public schools.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Washakie County

via RiskByCounty

Washakie's risk sits below the national norm

Washakie County scores 24.36 on the composite risk index, earning a Very Low rating and remaining below typical national hazard profiles. This favorable score reflects the county's location in north-central Wyoming and balanced exposure across hazard categories. Washakie residents benefit from relatively stable geography with no extreme natural disaster vulnerabilities.

Among Wyoming's safer counties

Washakie's composite score of 24.36 falls well below the state average of 37.86, placing it in Wyoming's safer half of county rankings. The county avoids the elevated risks present in northwestern Wyoming while maintaining reasonable hazard exposure. Washakie's position reflects its location in central Wyoming's more stable geological and climatic region.

Washakie compares favorably to regional peers

Washakie (24.36) ranks near Sublette County (21.63) and Sweetwater County (30.63) in overall risk, forming a relatively safe corridor in central Wyoming. The county's score exceeds only Uinta (16.70) and Weston (7.89) but remains significantly below Sheridan (65.20) and Teton (70.64). Washakie's middle positioning reflects its transitional geography in Wyoming's interior.

Wildfire and earthquake drive Washakie hazards

Washakie's wildfire risk reaches 66.73, the county's highest hazard score and reflecting extensive grassland and forest exposure across the region. Earthquake risk scores 71.72, a moderate-to-significant exposure reflecting the county's position near seismic zones. Flood and tornado risks remain low at 48.60 and 14.98 respectively.

Wildfire and earthquake coverage recommended

Washakie residents should confirm wildfire coverage in their homeowners policy given the county's 66.73 wildfire risk score, as standard policies often exclude this hazard. Earthquake insurance is worth evaluating given the 71.72 earthquake risk score, particularly for newer homes in more vulnerable locations. Maintain defensible space around your property and review your policy annually to ensure adequate coverage limits.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Washakie County

via WeatherByCounty

Warmer Basin Living in Washakie

Washakie County’s 45.0°F average temperature is higher than much of Wyoming but still 9 degrees below the national median. It enjoys more warmth than the state’s mountain counties.

Sunnier and Drier Than Average

The county is warmer than the 43.8°F state average and significantly drier. It receives only 11.0 inches of precipitation compared to the 13.9-inch state norm.

Hotter Than the Highlands

Washakie experiences much hotter summers than neighboring Sheridan, recording 40 heat days compared to Sheridan's 24. It serves as a warm pocket within the Big Horn Basin.

A Season of Significant Heat

Washakie endures 40 days of temperatures above 90°F, the highest in this group. Winters remain cold with 57.2 inches of snow and a January average of 19.3°F.

Invest in Summer Cooling

Air conditioning is a must here to manage the 40 days of extreme summer heat. Winter prep remains necessary as the county still sees over four feet of snow annually.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Washakie County

via SoilByCounty

The Entisols of Washakie County

Washakie is dominated by Entisols, which are young soils with a high pH of 7.58. This level is more alkaline than both the national median of 6.5 and the Wyoming average of 7.18.

Fine Sandy Loam Texture

The soil is classified as a fine sandy loam, containing 46.4% sand and 21.8% clay. This provides a balance that is easy to till while still holding enough nutrients for agricultural use.

Low Organic Matter Potential

Organic matter is just 1.80%, which is well below the Wyoming state average of 5.40%. With a water capacity of 0.154 in/in, these soils require significant amendment to reach peak fertility.

Managing Poorly Drained Acres

The soil is somewhat poorly drained and falls into hydrologic group C/D. This means water moves slowly, and gardeners must be careful not to over-saturate their plants.

Garden Success in Zone 4b

In Hardiness Zone 4b, your best bets are root crops and leafy greens. Focus on building up that 1.80% organic matter with compost to improve your garden's overall resilience.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Washakie County

via LawnByCounty

Tackling the Heat in Washakie

Washakie County’s lawn difficulty score of 30.5 reflects a challenging environment for Zone 4b growers. Intense summer heat and low precipitation make this one of the more demanding regions for traditional turf.

Forty Days of Extreme Heat

The county faces 40 extreme heat days (≥90°F) annually, nearly double the state average. Combined with only 11.0 inches of rain, these 2,306 growing degree days can quickly turn a lawn dormant without heavy irrigation.

Understanding Fine Sandy Loam

Soil here is a fine sandy loam with a pH of 7.58, categorized as somewhat poorly drained. While the 46.4% sand content aids drainage, the 'somewhat poor' drainage class means you must watch for water pooling during heavy irrigation.

Guarding Against Severe Dryness

With 66.8% of the county in severe drought and 32 weeks of drought this past year, water management is vital. During heat spikes, water in the early morning to minimize evaporation and keep grass cool.

Choosing Heat-Resistant Grasses

Tall Fescue is a strong candidate to handle Washakie's 40 days of extreme heat. Aim to seed after the 05/13 frost to give the grass a full season of 2,306 growing degree days to establish deep roots.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Washakie County's county score?
Washakie County, Wyoming has a composite county score of 64.6 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 Washakie County rank among counties in Wyoming?
Washakie County ranks #5 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 Washakie County, Wyoming?
The median annual property tax in Washakie County is $1,321, with an effective tax rate of 0.70%. This earns Washakie County a tax score of 63.2/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Washakie County?
The median household income in Washakie County, Wyoming is $62,648 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Washakie County earns an income score of 47.1/100 on CountyScore.
Is Washakie County, Wyoming a good place to live?
Washakie County scores 64.6/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #5 in Wyoming. The best way to evaluate Washakie 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 Washakie County with other counties side by side.

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🏛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.