countyscore
59.2
County Score
Disaster Risk 92.1Income & Jobs 90.5Soil Quality 86

County Report Card

About Weston County, Wyoming

Strong National Ranking

Weston County’s composite score of 59.2 comfortably exceeds the national median of 50.0. It offers a high degree of livability, particularly for those seeking financial and environmental stability.

Outperforming the Wyoming Average

Weston ranks above the state average of 56.5, making it a competitive choice within Wyoming. It balances high earnings with moderate costs, creating a high-value proposition for residents.

Economic Power and Natural Safety

With a risk score of 92.1 and an income score of 90.5, Weston is both safe and wealthy. A high median household income of $87,545 combined with low disaster risk makes it a very secure place to live.

Water Infrastructure and Safety

The county's water score of 40.0 and safety score of 52.0 represent its primary areas for improvement. While not critical, these metrics suggest room for growth in public utilities and community protection.

A Haven for Stability Seekers

Weston County is ideal for families looking for high wages and protection from natural disasters. It offers a rare combination of economic strength and low-cost living for the high-income earner.

Score breakdown

Tax65.1Cost61.9Safety52Health55.5Schools53Income90.5Risk92.1Water40Weather31.9
🏛65.1
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠61.9
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼90.5
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡52
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤55.5
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓53
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡92.1
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧40
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤31.9
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨86
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱41.7
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

Lawrence County
South Dakota
43.9
Crook County
Wyoming
64.6
Custer County
South Dakota
50.7
Niobrara County
Wyoming
51.9
Fall River County
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Campbell County
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46.4
Butte County
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43.5
Converse County
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58.8

Deep Dives

Weston County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Weston County

via TaxByCounty

Weston's rate ranks near the top

At 0.682%, Weston's effective tax rate runs 5% below the national median of 0.715% but significantly exceeds most Wyoming counties. The median tax bill of $1,460 remains 46% below the national median of $2,690 due to more modest home values.

Second-highest tax rate in Wyoming

Weston's 0.682% effective tax rate is the second-highest in Wyoming, exceeded only by Washakie County at 0.700%. The county's rate runs 23% above the state average of 0.556%, placing it among the state's most heavily-taxed jurisdictions.

Higher taxes than surrounding counties

Weston's 0.682% rate exceeds neighbors Sheridan County (0.554%) and Sublette County (0.410%), rivaling only Washakie County (0.700%) as the region's highest-tax area. The county collects significantly more per capita in property taxes than most surrounding jurisdictions.

What your home costs annually

On a median home valued at $214,000, Weston County homeowners pay approximately $1,460 in annual property taxes. Those with mortgages pay $1,585, while owners without mortgages pay $1,209.

You may be overassessed

As one of Wyoming's higher-tax counties, assessment errors can cost Weston homeowners more than average. Consider requesting a professional review of your property's assessed value or filing an appeal with Weston County—even modest corrections can yield meaningful savings.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Weston County

via CostByCounty

Weston County has the nation's best rent ratio

Weston County renters spend just 9.5% of household income on housing—among the lowest burdens in the United States. This exceptional affordability combines modest median rent ($694/month) with strong household earnings ($87,545), creating genuine economic security.

Weston dominates Wyoming's affordability rankings

At 9.5%, Weston's rent-to-income ratio crushes Wyoming's 15.5% state average by 6 percentage points. The county stands alone as the state's most affordable market by a decisive margin.

Weston's rents are Wyoming's lowest with strong income

Weston's $694 median rent ranks lowest statewide, undercutting even Washakie's $725, while its $87,545 household income leads most regional peers. This combination creates unmatched affordability with actual earnings potential.

Weston maximizes economic efficiency for residents

On $87,545 median household income, Weston renters allocate just $694 monthly—only 9.5% of earnings—leaving substantial resources for savings and other needs. Homeowners pay $938 monthly, representing 12.9% of household income, exceptionally reasonable for owner-occupied housing.

Weston County: affordability meets solid income

Relocating to Weston delivers the nation's best housing affordability paired with genuine earning potential. At 9.5% rent-to-income ratio, the county outperforms every peer in this analysis—the ultimate choice for economically conscious movers.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Weston County

via IncomeByCounty

Weston Tops National Average

Weston County's median household income of $87,545 exceeds the U.S. median of $74,755 by $12,790, placing the county in the top 30% nationally. This 17% advantage reflects a stable energy-and-mining economy with strong employment.

Weston Ranks Fifth in State

Weston ranks fifth among Wyoming's 23 counties with income $14,185 above the state average of $73,360. Its per capita income of $41,745 exceeds the state average of $40,222 by $1,523, indicating broadly distributed individual earnings.

Second-Highest in Seven-County Group

Weston's $87,545 trails only Teton County in this cohort and exceeds Sublette County by $754—the two rank nearly identically. This positions Weston as Wyoming's most consistent income generator after the resort-driven Teton economy.

Outstanding Housing Cost Balance

At 9.5%, Weston's rent-to-income ratio is the lowest among all seven counties, making housing the most affordable relative to earnings. The median home value of $214,000 is similarly the most accessible, enabling strong homeownership rates.

Maximize Weston's Financial Foundation

Weston households earning $87,545 enjoy an exceptional platform for wealth building—the county's low housing burden frees 25% or more of income for retirement and investment savings. Prioritize maxing out 401(k) contributions and diversifying into index funds to build lasting security.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Weston County

via CrimeByCounty

Weston County Surpasses National Safety Marks

Weston County is safer than the national average, scoring 98.3 for overall safety. Its total crime rate of 1,077.1 per 100,000 is less than half the U.S. rate of 2,385.5.

Weston Performance Near State Averages

Weston sits very close to the state average safety score of 98.5. Its total crime rate of 1,077.1 is slightly above the Wyoming state average of 978.0.

Weston Compared to Neighboring Counties

Weston is safer than neighboring Sheridan County, which has a rate of 1,379.3. However, it sees about double the crime rate of Washakie County at 530.8.

Breakdown of Violent and Property Incidents

Violent crime is recorded at 131.0 per 100,000, nearly matching the Wyoming state average. Property crimes account for 946.1 incidents per 100,000 residents, well below the national mark.

Securing Property in Weston County

Most local incidents are property-related, so securing outdoor equipment is essential. Basic home security cameras can provide extra peace of mind in this largely safe community.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Weston County

via HealthByCounty

Weston slightly above national life expectancy

At 78.0 years, Weston County residents live 1.6 years longer than the U.S. average of 76.4 years. However, 16.5% report poor or fair health—below the national rate of 17%—a mixed picture suggesting areas of strength and concern.

Solid standing in statewide health ranking

Weston's 78.0-year life expectancy ranks above Wyoming's state average of 77.0 years, placing it in the healthier half of the state. Its 16.5% poor/fair health rate trails state median, indicating moderate chronic disease management in this northeastern county.

Healthier than Washakie, comparable to Sheridan

Weston's 78.0-year life expectancy exceeds Washakie (76.1 years) and Sheridan (78.2 years) performs marginally better. The county's 16.5% poor/fair health rate sits between Sheridan's 13.4% and Washakie's 17.1%, indicating mid-range chronic disease burden.

Limited providers despite decent health metrics

Weston faces a provider shortage, with only 30 primary care doctors per 100,000—among the state's lowest—and 176 mental health providers per 100,000. The 14.6% uninsured rate sits near state average, yet sparse local capacity forces residents to seek care outside the county.

Insurance bridges provider gaps

With minimal local providers, Weston residents benefit greatly from coverage that extends beyond county borders. Explore healthcare.gov plans that allow you to access specialists and comprehensive care in nearby regional centers.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Weston County

via SchoolsByCounty

Seven Schools Supporting Two Local Districts

Weston County provides education through seven public schools and two districts for a total of 1,503 students. The infrastructure is evenly split among three elementary, two middle, and two high schools.

Steady Academic Results in Line with State

The 81.9% graduation rate aligns almost perfectly with the Wyoming state average of 82.0%. A per-pupil expenditure of $11,251 and a school score of 58.4 indicate a system that consistently meets state expectations.

Newcastle and Upton District Success

Weston County School District #1 is the larger of the two districts, serving 778 students. No charter schools operate in the county, ensuring all 1,503 students are served by traditional public institutions.

A Comfortable Blend of Town and Rural

The county features a mix of four town and three rural schools, with an average enrollment of 215 students. Upton Elementary is the largest individual school with 478 students, nearly double the size of the largest high school.

Small-Town Values and Stable Schools

Weston County offers steady academic performance and a range of small-town school options. Explore properties in Newcastle and Upton to find a home near these community-centric schools.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Weston County

via RiskByCounty

Weston ranks as nation's safest counties

Weston County scores just 7.89 on the composite risk index, earning a Very Low rating and placing it among the lowest-risk counties in the entire United States. This exceptionally low score reflects Weston's location in northeastern Wyoming with minimal exposure to major natural hazard zones. The county benefits from favorable geography across nearly all hazard categories.

Wyoming's safest county overall

Weston's composite score of 7.89 ranks it as Wyoming's lowest-risk county by a significant margin, roughly 79% below the state average of 37.86. The county's exceptional safety position reflects its location away from fire-prone forests, major seismic zones, and flood corridors. Weston stands alone as Wyoming's premier low-risk county.

Weston enjoys exceptional regional advantage

Weston (7.89) ranks dramatically safer than all nearby counties, with only Uinta County (16.70) approaching its favorable risk profile in Wyoming. The county's low score distinguishes it from Sheridan (65.20), Washakie (24.36), and all other regional peers. Weston's geographic isolation and terrain create an unusually protective natural setting.

Wildfire is Weston's primary hazard concern

Wildfire risk in Weston County reaches 83.75, the county's only significant hazard score despite its overall very low composite ranking. Earthquake risk scores 31.27, a notably low exposure reflecting Weston's distance from major seismic zones. Flood (8.21) and tornado (22.26) risks remain minimal, making wildfire the only meaningful natural hazard.

Verify wildfire coverage, then relax

Weston residents should simply confirm wildfire coverage in their homeowners policy—the county's 7.89 composite risk score means standard insurance provides excellent protection for most natural disaster scenarios. Check that your wildfire coverage adequately addresses the 83.75 wildfire risk score, then focus on routine home maintenance rather than extensive disaster preparation. Weston's exceptional safety profile makes it one of Wyoming's best locations for property security.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Weston County

via WeatherByCounty

High Plains Warmth in Weston

Weston County averages 45.3°F, making it one of the warmer spots in Wyoming, though it remains 8 degrees below the national median. Its location on the eastern plains invites more summer heat.

Leading the State in Temperature

Weston exceeds the state average temperature of 43.8°F by 1.5 degrees. It also receives 16.0 inches of precipitation, making it slightly wetter than the Wyoming average.

A Warm Eastern Neighbor

Weston is warmer and drier than Sheridan County to its west. It records 33 days of extreme heat, significantly more than the high-altitude counties in the state's interior.

Hot Summers and Brisk Snow

July averages 72.2°F with 33 days reaching over 90°F annually. Winters bring a January average of 22.2°F and a manageable 42.6 inches of annual snowfall.

Prepare for Both Extremes

Residents should plan for a month of extreme summer heat and cold winter nights averaging 23.2°F. Proper home insulation and cooling systems are both necessary for year-round comfort.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Weston County

via SoilByCounty

Weston's Near-Neutral Soil Profile

Weston County features an impressively balanced pH of 6.68, very close to the national median of 6.5. This makes it significantly more neutral than the typical Wyoming soil average of 7.18.

Ideal Mineral Mix for Structure

The soil contains 35.0% sand and 18.9% clay, creating a stable and productive texture. This ratio provides enough clay for nutrient retention while ensuring the sand prevents compaction.

State-Leading Organic Matter Levels

Weston boasts a massive 11.87% organic matter, more than double the Wyoming average of 5.40%. Its water capacity of 0.201 in/in also beats the state average, signaling elite growing potential.

Superior Moisture Management

While specific drainage classes aren't recorded, the high organic matter suggests excellent water retention and drainage. These soils are naturally designed to sustain plants through dry spells.

Start Your Dream Garden

Even in the 4b hardiness zone, this rich soil is a gardener’s dream. You have the best natural soil base in the region, so start planting your hardy vegetables today!

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Weston County

via LawnByCounty

Weston's Edge in Wyoming Lawns

Weston County leads this group with a 41.7 difficulty score, far exceeding the state average of 32.6. While Zone 4b winters are still cold, the overall conditions are more favorable for local lawn enthusiasts.

A Productive but Hot Season

The county receives 16.0 inches of annual precipitation and provides 2,321 growing degree days. However, 33 days of extreme heat mean you will still need to supplement rainfall to keep your turf healthy through July.

Working with Ideal Soil pH

The soil pH here is a near-perfect 6.68, falling right into the ideal 6.0-7.0 range for most grasses. With a balanced mix of 35.0% sand and 18.9% clay, your foundation is more fertile than most neighboring counties.

Monitoring Moisture Levels

The county is currently 100% abnormally dry and has experienced 34 weeks of drought over the past year. Use your soil's good structure to your advantage by watering deeply to store moisture in the root zone.

Maximizing the Growing Season

Kentucky Bluegrass thrives in this pH, while Tall Fescue can better handle the 33 days of extreme heat. Seed after the 05/20 spring frost to take advantage of the generous 2,321 growing degree days available here.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Weston County's county score?
Weston County, Wyoming has a composite county score of 59.2 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 Weston County rank among counties in Wyoming?
Weston County ranks #9 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 Weston County, Wyoming?
The median annual property tax in Weston County is $1,460, with an effective tax rate of 0.68%. This earns Weston County a tax score of 65.1/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Weston County?
The median household income in Weston County, Wyoming is $87,545 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Weston County earns an income score of 90.5/100 on CountyScore.
Is Weston County, Wyoming a good place to live?
Weston County scores 59.2/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #9 in Wyoming. The best way to evaluate Weston 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 Weston 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.