Colorado vs Wyoming: Which Is Better to Live In?
Colorado ranks #18 of 50 overall and Wyoming #2 as of the latest release. Wyoming is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 92.7 vs 103.1), has no income tax, and has a 57% lower violent crime rate. Wyoming scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 3.
- Violent crime rate is 57% lower in Wyoming (180 vs. 422 in Colorado).
- Property crime rate is 52% lower in Wyoming (1,038 vs. 2,144 in Colorado).
- Center-based infant care, per year is 37% lower in Wyoming ($13,120 vs. $20,978 in Colorado).
| Measure | ColoradoCO | WyomingWY | GapCO−WY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -15.2 pts | 64.7#18 of 50 · B+ | 79.9#2 of 50 · A+ | -15.2 pts | — | WY |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +10.4 pts (+11%) · US 100 | 103.1#39 of 50 | 92.7#16 of 50 | +10.4 pts+11% | 100 | WY |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$29,030 · US -$11,758 | -$35,330#43 of 50 | -$6,300#20 of 50 | -$29,030 | -$11,758 | WY |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$160,894 (+43%) · US $368,697 | $532,748#44 of 50 | $371,854#27 of 50 | +$160,894+43% | $368,697 | WY |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +2.94 pts · US 8.74% | 8.73%#25 of 50 | 5.79%#2 of 50 | +2.94 pts | 8.74% | WY |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +242 (+134%) · US 328 | 422#43 of 50 | 180#5 of 50 | +242+134% | 328 | WY |
| Median household incomeGap +$21,581 (+29%) · US $80,903 | $97,113#8 of 50 | $75,532#32 of 50 | +$21,581+29% | $80,903 | CO |
| High school graduation rateGap +0.5 pts · US 85.62% | 82.3%#40 of 50 | 81.8%#42 of 50 | +0.5 pts | 85.62% | CO |
| Life expectancyGap +1.7 yrs · US 76.9 | 78.5#11 of 50 | 76.8#28 of 50 | +1.7 yrs | 76.9 | CO |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +11,154 · US -33 | +11,341#8 of 50 | +187#26 of 50 | +11,154 | -33 | CO |
Cost of living index from the Bureau of Economic Analysis (US = 100). Left after costs from the America's Dashboard affordability engine for a family of four earning $75,000. Typical home value from Zillow Research. Tax burden from WalletHub. Violent crime from the FBI, per 100,000 residents. Income and graduation from the Census Bureau and NCES. Life expectancy from the CDC. Net households from IRS Statistics of Income. US column is the 50-state average or median.
Is Colorado or Wyoming better to live in?
Wyoming scores higher overall: 79.9 to 64.7 out of 100, #2 of 50 against #18. Colorado leads 3 of 11 categories, Wyoming leads 6, and 2 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | ColoradoCO | WyomingWY | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap +10 | 15% | 60.3#9 · A | 50.3#20 · B | +10 pts | CO |
| Safety12% of scoregap -35.7 | 12% | 50.4#46 · D | 86.1#6 · A | -35.7 pts | WY |
| Health12% of scoregap +24 | 12% | 75.4#7 · A | 51.4#29 · C+ | +24 pts | CO |
| Education12% of scoregap 0 | 12% | 65.3#18 · B+ | 65.3#16 · B+ | 0 pts | Even |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -23.4 | 10% | 53.1#38 · C | 76.5#18 · B+ | -23.4 pts | WY |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -19 | 8% | 60.4#22 · B | 79.4#1 · A+ | -19 pts | WY |
| Growth7% of scoregap -11.5 | 7% | 31.0#33 · C+ | 42.5#22 · B | -11.5 pts | WY |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +13.8 | 7% | 61.4#3 · A+ | 47.6#31 · C+ | +13.8 pts | CO |
| Livability7% of scoregap -16.3 | 7% | 34.2#24 · B | 50.5#3 · A+ | -16.3 pts | WY |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -51.2 | 6% | 44.5#9 · A | 95.7#2 · A+ | -51.2 pts | WY |
| Environment4% of scoregap -0.7 | 4% | 45.9#20 · B | 46.6#18 · B+ | -0.7 pts | Even |
Scores run 0 to 100 within each category; weight is the category's share of the composite. Grades follow rank (1–5 A+, 6–10 A, 11–18 B+, 19–26 B, 27–34 C+, 35–42 C, 43–48 D, 49–50 F). Methodology →
Is Colorado cheaper than Wyoming?
Wyoming is cheaper: cost of living index 92.7 vs 103.1 in Colorado (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $29,030 more a year in Wyoming after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | ColoradoCO | WyomingWY | GapCO−WY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +10.4 pts (+11%) · US 100 | 103.1#39 of 50 | 92.7#16 of 50 | +10.4 pts+11% | 100 | WY |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +3.3 pts (+3%) · US 100 | 98.7#36 of 50 | 95.4#9 of 50 | +3.3 pts+3% | 100 | WY |
| Residential electricity priceGap +2.47¢ (+18%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.85¢/kWh#30 of 50 | 13.38¢/kWh#13 of 50 | +2.47¢+18% | 17.84¢/kWh | WY |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$0.57 (-5%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $11.17/Mcf#11 of 50 | $11.74/Mcf#15 of 50 | -$0.57-5% | $15.83/Mcf | CO |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.01 (0%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.13/gal#19 of 50 | $3.12/gal#17 of 50 | +$0.010% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$7,858 (+60%) · US $15,633 | $20,978#42 of 50 | $13,120#16 of 50 | +$7,858+60% | $15,633 | WY |
Cost of living index and the price level for goods from the Bureau of Economic Analysis regional price parities (US = 100). Electricity, natural gas and gasoline prices from the EIA; center-based infant care from Child Care Aware of America. Lower is ahead.
| Measure | ColoradoCO | WyomingWY | GapCO−WY | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$9,341 | +$25,165costs $49,836 | +$34,506costs $40,494 | -$9,341 | WY |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$10,974 | +$14,590costs $60,410 | +$25,564costs $49,436 | -$10,974 | WY |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$29,030 | -$35,330costs $110,331 | -$6,300costs $81,300 | -$29,030 | WY |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$9,891 | +$28,486costs $46,514 | +$38,377costs $36,623 | -$9,891 | WY |
Income left after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and state and local taxes for four household types earning $75,000, from the affordability engine. Negative means typical costs exceed take-home pay.
| Measure | ColoradoCO | WyomingWY | GapCO−WY | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$10,217 | $34,937 | $24,720 | +$10,217 | WY |
| ChildcareGap +$15,716 | $41,956 | $26,240 | +$15,716 | WY |
| UtilitiesGap +$499 | $4,949 | $4,450 | +$499 | Even |
| GroceriesGap +$372 | $11,117 | $10,745 | +$372 | Even |
| TransportationGap +$31 | $9,837 | $9,806 | +$31 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap +$2,196 | $7,535 | $5,339 | +$2,196 | WY |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Colorado or Wyoming?
Wyoming collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 5.79% vs 8.73%. Colorado has low property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack; Wyoming has no income tax, low property tax, low sales tax.
| Measure | ColoradoCO | WyomingWY | GapCO−WY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +2.94 pts · US 8.74% | 8.73%#25 of 50 | 5.79%#2 of 50 | +2.94 pts | 8.74% | WY |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +4.4 pts · US 5.46% | 4.4%#17 of 50 | none#2 of 50 | +4.4 pts | 5.46% | WY |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.09 pts · US 1.02% | 0.49%#3 of 50 | 0.58%#12 of 50 | -0.09 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +2.33 pts · US 6.66% | 7.89%#35 of 50 | 5.56%#8 of 50 | +2.33 pts | 6.66% | WY |
Total tax burden (state and local taxes as a share of personal income) from WalletHub; top marginal income tax rate, effective property tax rate and combined state and local sales tax from the Tax Foundation. Lower is ahead.
Are homes more expensive in Colorado or Wyoming?
Homes cost 43% more in Colorado: a typical home value of $532,748 in Colorado vs $371,854 in Wyoming. Buying the typical home takes about $138,758 of income in Colorado and $95,729 in Wyoming; the median household earns $97,113 and $75,532.
| Measure | ColoradoCO | WyomingWY | GapCO−WY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$160,894 (+43%) · US $368,697 | $532,748#44 of 50 | $371,854#27 of 50 | +$160,894+43% | $368,697 | WY |
| Home value change, one yearGap -2.8 pts · US +1.2% | -1.4%#47 of 50 | +1.4%#33 of 50 | -2.8 pts | +1.2% | WY |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$390 (+25%) · US $1,948 | $1,922#34 of 50 | $1,532#17 of 50 | +$390+25% | $1,948 | WY |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$43,029 (+45%) · US $100,006 | $138,758#43 of 50 | $95,729#26 of 50 | +$43,029+45% | $100,006 | WY |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.6x (+12%) · US 4.6x | 5.5x#40 of 50 | 4.9x#34 of 50 | +0.6x+12% | 4.6x | WY |
Typical home value, one-year change, largest-metro rent and income needed to buy from Zillow Research (a modeled estimate, not a median). Price-to-income ratio divides that typical home value by ACS median household income. Lower is ahead.
| CO | WY | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $2,741 | $1,913 |
| Income needed vs. median | +43% | +27% |
| Five-year change | +6.8% | +25.1% |
| Market temperature | Cool | Warm |
| Largest metro | Denver | Cheyenne |
Income needed vs. median: how far the income required to buy the typical home sits above (+) or below (−) the state's median household income. Temperature blends price cuts, days to pending and inventory against the national market (Zillow).
Do people earn more in Colorado or Wyoming?
Colorado pays more: median household income $97,113 vs $75,532, with unemployment at 4% in Colorado and 3.4% in Wyoming. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Colorado's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 20 after adjusting for local costs and Wyoming's in 0.
| Measure | ColoradoCO | WyomingWY | GapCO−WY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$21,581 (+29%) · US $80,903 | $97,113#8 of 50 | $75,532#32 of 50 | +$21,581+29% | $80,903 | CO |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.6 pts · US 3.95% | 4%#26 of 50 | 3.4%#10 of 50 | +0.6 pts | 3.95% | WY |
| GDP per capitaGap +$2,501 (+3%) · US $64,333 | $75,024#7 of 50 | $72,523#12 of 50 | +$2,501+3% | $64,333 | CO |
| Real GDP growthGap +4.1 pts · US +1.91% | +2.6%#11 of 50 | -1.5%#50 of 50 | +4.1 pts | +1.91% | CO |
| Population growthGap +0.05 pts · US +0.51% | +0.4%#28 of 50 | +0.35%#32 of 50 | +0.05 pts | +0.51% | Even |
Median household income from the Census Bureau ACS; unemployment from BLS LAUS; GDP per capita and real GDP growth from the BEA; population growth from Census Bureau estimates.
Show all 20 occupations
| Occupation | CO | WY | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family Medicine Physicians | $247,948$250,427 in Denver | $203,633$185,306 in Cheyenne | CO |
| Software Developers | $150,821$152,329 in Denver | $128,625$117,049 in Cheyenne | CO |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $115,156$116,308 in Denver | $95,089$86,531 in Cheyenne | CO |
| Registered Nurses | $97,192$98,164 in Denver | $77,469$70,497 in Cheyenne | CO |
| Lawyers | $151,994$153,514 in Denver | $134,581$122,469 in Cheyenne | CO |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $83,477$84,312 in Denver | $66,726$60,721 in Cheyenne | CO |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $79,322$80,115 in Denver | $64,019$58,257 in Cheyenne | CO |
| General & Operations Managers | $109,441$110,535 in Denver | $96,752$88,044 in Cheyenne | CO |
| Electricians | $70,316$71,019 in Denver | $57,929$52,715 in Cheyenne | CO |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $71,333$72,046 in Denver | $59,243$53,911 in Cheyenne | CO |
| Civil Engineers | $101,074$102,085 in Denver | $91,746$83,489 in Cheyenne | CO |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $61,912$62,531 in Denver | $52,707$47,963 in Cheyenne | CO |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $54,050$54,590 in Denver | $44,963$40,916 in Cheyenne | CO |
| Construction Laborers | $48,799$49,287 in Denver | $39,819$36,235 in Cheyenne | CO |
| Mental Health Counselors | $59,750$60,347 in Denver | $51,243$46,631 in Cheyenne | CO |
| Accountants & Auditors | $86,184$87,046 in Denver | $77,879$70,870 in Cheyenne | CO |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $59,367$59,961 in Denver | $51,290$46,674 in Cheyenne | CO |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $56,578$57,144 in Denver | $49,484$45,030 in Cheyenne | CO |
| Secondary School Teachers | $67,748$68,425 in Denver | $61,856$56,289 in Cheyenne | CO |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $36,415$36,779 in Denver | $31,541$28,702 in Cheyenne | CO |
BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, latest release: the median wage in each state's best-paying metro, adjusted for that metro's cost of living (BEA regional price parities). Sorted by the size of the gap.
Is Colorado safer than Wyoming?
Wyoming is safer: 180 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 422 in Colorado (FBI). Property crime runs 2,144 and 1,038 per 100,000.
| Measure | ColoradoCO | WyomingWY | GapCO−WY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +242 (+134%) · US 328 | 422#43 of 50 | 180#5 of 50 | +242+134% | 328 | WY |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +1,106 (+107%) · US 1,535 | 2,144#49 of 50 | 1,038#7 of 50 | +1,106+107% | 1,535 | WY |
FBI state crime estimates, offenses per 100,000 residents, latest release. Florida and North Dakota use the FBI's prior-year estimate because the latest year is based on limited data. Lower is ahead.
- Castle Rock, CO30 violent per 100K
- Laramie, WY93 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Colorado or Wyoming?
Colorado and Wyoming are close on education (#18 and #16 of 50), with high school graduation rates of 82.3% and 81.8%. Colorado scores higher for health (#7 vs #29); life expectancy is 78.5 years in Colorado and 76.8 in Wyoming.
| Measure | ColoradoCO | WyomingWY | GapCO−WY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -0 · US 273 | 278#15 of 50 | 278#12 of 50 | -0 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +5 · US 257 | 265#3 of 50 | 260#15 of 50 | +5 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +0.5 pts · US 85.62% | 82.3%#40 of 50 | 81.8%#42 of 50 | +0.5 pts | 85.62% | CO |
| Life expectancyGap +1.7 yrs · US 76.9 | 78.5#11 of 50 | 76.8#28 of 50 | +1.7 yrs | 76.9 | CO |
| Adults with obesityGap -7.5 pts · US 34.03% | 25%#1 of 50 | 32.5%#17 of 50 | -7.5 pts | 34.03% | CO |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -2.4 pts · US 7.6% | 7.9%#30 of 50 | 10.3%#43 of 50 | -2.4 pts | 7.6% | CO |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +7 pts (+20%) · US 38.8 | 42#35 of 50 | 35#10 of 50 | +7 pts+20% | 38.8 | WY |
High school graduation rate from NCES; life expectancy from the CDC National Center for Health Statistics; median air quality index from EPA AirData (lower is cleaner).
- Pueblo, COeducation score 93
- Powell, WYeducation score 97
City education scores blend graduation rate, student-teacher ratio and per-pupil spending (NCES). State education scores combine NAEP math and reading with the graduation rate; health scores combine life expectancy, adult obesity and the uninsured rate. Education: Colorado #18, Wyoming #16. Health: Colorado #7, Wyoming #29.
Are more people moving from Colorado to Wyoming, or from Wyoming to Colorado?
2,280 households moved from Colorado to Wyoming and 1,874 moved from Wyoming to Colorado in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 406 households for Wyoming. Movers to Wyoming reported an average income of $78,596; movers to Colorado reported $69,329. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 5,552 people (±2,229) moving from Colorado to Wyoming and 1,491 (±645) the other way, a net gain of about 4,061 people for Wyoming beyond the margin of error.
Bars show people (Census ACS, latest release, with 90% margins of error). IRS counts tax-filing households and reports the movers' average income; pairs outside a state's top ten origins and destinations are not published.
| Measure | ColoradoCO | WyomingWY | GapCO−WY | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +108,688 (+856%) | 121,390#11 of 50 | 12,702#49 of 50 | +108,688+856% | CO |
| Households moving outIRSGap +97,534 (+779%) | 110,049#39 of 50 | 12,515#2 of 50 | +97,534+779% | WY |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +11,154 | +11,341#8 of 50 | +187#26 of 50 | +11,154 | CO |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +1.6 | +1.9#11 of 50 | +0.3#24 of 50 | +1.6 | CO |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$2,644 (+3%) | $82,532#16 of 50 | $79,888#23 of 50 | +$2,644+3% | CO |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$15,381 (+22%) | $84,540#13 of 50 | $69,159#33 of 50 | +$15,381+22% | CO |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -4.5 | -2.0#42 of 50 | +2.5#15 of 50 | -4.5 | WY |
Each state's total inbound and outbound households and the movers' average income from IRS Statistics of Income; net domestic migration per 1,000 residents from Census Bureau population estimates. Latest releases.
Which is better for retirees, families or remote workers, Colorado or Wyoming?
Wyoming is the better fit for families, retirees, remote workers, young professionals, small business, and outdoor enthusiasts. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | ColoradoCO | WyomingWY | GapCO−WY | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +20 places | #22score 66.1 | #2score 86.8 | +20 places | WY |
| RetireesGap +15 places | #16score 67 | #1score 85.6 | +15 places | WY |
| Remote WorkersGap +22 places | #23score 53.8 | #1score 83.6 | +22 places | WY |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +12 places | #20score 56.7 | #8score 67.5 | +12 places | WY |
| Small BusinessGap +14 places | #20score 59.8 | #6score 77.9 | +14 places | WY |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +14 places | #15score 55.8 | #1score 95 | +14 places | WY |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesWyoming (#2 vs #22)
- RetireesWyoming (#1 vs #16)
- Remote WorkersWyoming (#1 vs #23)
- Young ProfessionalsWyoming (#8 vs #20)
- Small BusinessWyoming (#6 vs #20)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsWyoming (#1 vs #15)
Which cities stand out in Colorado and Wyoming?
Colorado has 20 tracked cities and Wyoming has 20; the largest are Denver and Cheyenne. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | ColoradoCO | WyomingWY |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Denver718,877 people | Cheyenne65,239 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Broomfieldscore 68.1 | Jacksonscore 70.9 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Castle Rock30 violent per 100K | Laramie93 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Pueblocost index 91.8 | Gillettecost index 91.6 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Boulderwalkability 14.6 of 20 | Torringtonwalkability 12.8 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Pueblocounty median AQI 45 | Rawlinscounty median AQI 8 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Pueblo93% graduation rate | Powell97% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Highlands Ranchmedian income $159,307 | Ranchettesmedian income $121,445 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Grand Junction+1.8% growth | Cheyenne+1.1% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Colorado and Wyoming compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Colorado carries AA+ credit rating and Wyoming AAA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | ColoradoCO | WyomingWY | GapCO−WY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap +6 pts · US 29.34% | 39%#14 of 50 | 33%#18 of 50 | +6 pts | 29.34% | CO |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -20.1 (-53%) · US 29.6 | 17.9#16 of 50 | 38.0#35 of 50 | -20.1-53% | 29.6 | CO |
| Public land shareGap -12 pts · US 17.16% | 36.2%#9 of 50 | 48.2%#6 of 50 | -12 pts | 17.16% | WY |
| Mean travel time to workGap +6 min · US 25.2 min | 25.7 min#24 of 50 | 19.7 min#4 of 50 | +6 min | 25.2 min | WY |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.6 pts · US 2.29% | 1.7%#18 of 50 | 1.1%#23 of 50 | +0.6 pts | 2.29% | CO |
| Workers working from homeGap +10.2 pts · US 12.28% | 19.9%#1 of 50 | 9.7%#37 of 50 | +10.2 pts | 12.28% | CO |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +5 pts · US 92.67% | 94.9%#5 of 50 | 89.9%#48 of 50 | +5 pts | 92.67% | CO |
Renewable share of electricity from the EIA; natural disaster risk from FEMA's National Risk Index; public land share from USGS PAD-US; mean travel time to work, transit and work-from-home shares from the Census Bureau ACS; households with a broadband subscription from the Census Bureau ACS.
| Measure | ColoradoCO | WyomingWY | GapCO−WY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -5 pts · US 92.7 | 95#24 of 50 | 100#1 of 50 | -5 pts | 92.7 | WY |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -32 pts · US 12.39% | 13.2%#14 of 50 | 45.2%#2 of 50 | -32 pts | 12.39% | WY |
| Pension funded ratioGap -10 pts · US 74.3% | 67%#37 of 50 | 77%#20 of 50 | -10 pts | 74.3% | WY |
| State debt per capitaGap +$1,700 (+120%) · US $3,506 | $3,120#29 of 50 | $1,420#2 of 50 | +$1,700+120% | $3,506 | WY |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -5 pts · US +4.66% | +3.5%#34 of 50 | +8.5%#4 of 50 | -5 pts | +4.66% | WY |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Colorado AA+, Wyoming AAA), rainy-day fund and budget balance as a share of spending (Pew, NASBO), pension funded ratio (Pew) and state debt per capita (Census Bureau).
Colorado vs Wyoming: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Colorado is ahead on 17 of 51, Wyoming on 27, and 7 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | ColoradoCO | WyomingWY | GapCO−WY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +5,423,808 (+921%) · US 6.8 million | 6 million#20 of 50 | 588,753#50 of 50 | +5,423,808+921% | 6.8 million | CO |
| Median household incomeGap +$21,581 (+29%) · US $80,903 | $97,113#8 of 50 | $75,532#32 of 50 | +$21,581+29% | $80,903 | CO |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.6 pts · US 3.95% | 4%#26 of 50 | 3.4%#10 of 50 | +0.6 pts | 3.95% | WY |
| Population growthGap +0.05 pts · US +0.51% | +0.4%#28 of 50 | +0.35%#32 of 50 | +0.05 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$2,501 (+3%) · US $64,333 | $75,024#7 of 50 | $72,523#12 of 50 | +$2,501+3% | $64,333 | CO |
| Real GDP growthGap +4.1 pts · US +1.91% | +2.6%#11 of 50 | -1.5%#50 of 50 | +4.1 pts | +1.91% | CO |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +242 (+134%) · US 328 | 422#43 of 50 | 180#5 of 50 | +242+134% | 328 | WY |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +1,106 (+107%) · US 1,535 | 2,144#49 of 50 | 1,038#7 of 50 | +1,106+107% | 1,535 | WY |
| High school graduation rateGap +0.5 pts · US 85.62% | 82.3%#40 of 50 | 81.8%#42 of 50 | +0.5 pts | 85.62% | CO |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -4 · US 237 | 239#18 of 50 | 243#2 of 50 | -4 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -0 · US 273 | 278#15 of 50 | 278#12 of 50 | -0 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -1 · US 214 | 221#5 of 50 | 222#2 of 50 | -1 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +5 · US 257 | 265#3 of 50 | 260#15 of 50 | +5 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +1.7 yrs · US 76.9 | 78.5#11 of 50 | 76.8#28 of 50 | +1.7 yrs | 76.9 | CO |
| Adults with obesityGap -7.5 pts · US 34.03% | 25%#1 of 50 | 32.5%#17 of 50 | -7.5 pts | 34.03% | CO |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -2.4 pts · US 7.6% | 7.9%#30 of 50 | 10.3%#43 of 50 | -2.4 pts | 7.6% | CO |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$160,894 (+43%) · US $368,697 | $532,748#44 of 50 | $371,854#27 of 50 | +$160,894+43% | $368,697 | WY |
| Home value change, one yearGap -2.8 pts · US +1.2% | -1.4%#47 of 50 | +1.4%#33 of 50 | -2.8 pts | +1.2% | WY |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$390 (+25%) · US $1,948 | $1,922#34 of 50 | $1,532#17 of 50 | +$390+25% | $1,948 | WY |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$43,029 (+45%) · US $100,006 | $138,758#43 of 50 | $95,729#26 of 50 | +$43,029+45% | $100,006 | WY |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +10.4 pts (+11%) · US 100 | 103.1#39 of 50 | 92.7#16 of 50 | +10.4 pts+11% | 100 | WY |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.6x (+12%) · US 4.6x | 5.5x#40 of 50 | 4.9x#34 of 50 | +0.6x+12% | 4.6x | WY |
| Residential electricity priceGap +2.47¢ (+18%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.85¢/kWh#30 of 50 | 13.38¢/kWh#13 of 50 | +2.47¢+18% | 17.84¢/kWh | WY |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$0.57 (-5%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $11.17/Mcf#11 of 50 | $11.74/Mcf#15 of 50 | -$0.57-5% | $15.83/Mcf | CO |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.01 (0%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.13/gal#19 of 50 | $3.12/gal#17 of 50 | +$0.010% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +3.3 pts (+3%) · US 100 | 98.7#36 of 50 | 95.4#9 of 50 | +3.3 pts+3% | 100 | WY |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$7,858 (+60%) · US $15,633 | $20,978#42 of 50 | $13,120#16 of 50 | +$7,858+60% | $15,633 | WY |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +2.94 pts · US 8.74% | 8.73%#25 of 50 | 5.79%#2 of 50 | +2.94 pts | 8.74% | WY |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +4.4 pts · US 5.46% | 4.4%#17 of 50 | none#2 of 50 | +4.4 pts | 5.46% | WY |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.09 pts · US 1.02% | 0.49%#3 of 50 | 0.58%#12 of 50 | -0.09 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +2.33 pts · US 6.66% | 7.89%#35 of 50 | 5.56%#8 of 50 | +2.33 pts | 6.66% | WY |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -5 pts · US 92.7 | 95#24 of 50 | 100#1 of 50 | -5 pts | 92.7 | WY |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -32 pts · US 12.39% | 13.2%#14 of 50 | 45.2%#2 of 50 | -32 pts | 12.39% | WY |
| Pension funded ratioGap -10 pts · US 74.3% | 67%#37 of 50 | 77%#20 of 50 | -10 pts | 74.3% | WY |
| State debt per capitaGap +$1,700 (+120%) · US $3,506 | $3,120#29 of 50 | $1,420#2 of 50 | +$1,700+120% | $3,506 | WY |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -5 pts · US +4.66% | +3.5%#34 of 50 | +8.5%#4 of 50 | -5 pts | +4.66% | WY |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +7 pts (+20%) · US 38.8 | 42#35 of 50 | 35#10 of 50 | +7 pts+20% | 38.8 | WY |
| Renewable share of electricityGap +6 pts · US 29.34% | 39%#14 of 50 | 33%#18 of 50 | +6 pts | 29.34% | CO |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -20.1 (-53%) · US 29.6 | 17.9#16 of 50 | 38.0#35 of 50 | -20.1-53% | 29.6 | CO |
| Public land shareGap -12 pts · US 17.16% | 36.2%#9 of 50 | 48.2%#6 of 50 | -12 pts | 17.16% | WY |
| Mean travel time to workGap +6 min · US 25.2 min | 25.7 min#24 of 50 | 19.7 min#4 of 50 | +6 min | 25.2 min | WY |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.6 pts · US 2.29% | 1.7%#18 of 50 | 1.1%#23 of 50 | +0.6 pts | 2.29% | CO |
| Workers working from homeGap +10.2 pts · US 12.28% | 19.9%#1 of 50 | 9.7%#37 of 50 | +10.2 pts | 12.28% | CO |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +5 pts · US 92.67% | 94.9%#5 of 50 | 89.9%#48 of 50 | +5 pts | 92.67% | CO |
| Households moving inIRSGap +108,688 (+856%) · US 78,682 | 121,390#11 of 50 | 12,702#49 of 50 | +108,688+856% | 78,682 | CO |
| Households moving outIRSGap +97,534 (+779%) · US 78,715 | 110,049#39 of 50 | 12,515#2 of 50 | +97,534+779% | 78,715 | WY |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +11,154 · US -33 | +11,341#8 of 50 | +187#26 of 50 | +11,154 | -33 | CO |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +1.6 · US +0.4 | +1.9#11 of 50 | +0.3#24 of 50 | +1.6 | +0.4 | CO |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$2,644 (+3%) · US $77,690 | $82,532#16 of 50 | $79,888#23 of 50 | +$2,644+3% | $77,690 | CO |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$15,381 (+22%) · US $77,024 | $84,540#13 of 50 | $69,159#33 of 50 | +$15,381+22% | $77,024 | CO |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -4.5 · US +1.1 | -2.0#42 of 50 | +2.5#15 of 50 | -4.5 | +1.1 | WY |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$29,030 · US -$11,758 | -$35,330#43 of 50 | -$6,300#20 of 50 | -$29,030 | -$11,758 | WY |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$9,341 · US +$31,418 | +$25,165#39 of 50 | +$34,506#17 of 50 | -$9,341 | +$31,418 | WY |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$9,891 · US +$35,970 | +$28,486#39 of 50 | +$38,377#21 of 50 | -$9,891 | +$35,970 | WY |
Every metric in the registry, direction-aware: ahead means better for a resident. Ranks are among the states with data. Sources are listed at the foot of the page.
Key takeaways
What the Colorado and Wyoming numbers say when read together.
Wyoming ranks higher overall
Wyoming leads 6 of the 11 categories to Colorado's 3, with 2 even; Colorado is ahead on health and transportation. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Colorado is ahead on 17 and Wyoming on 27.
Wyoming is cheaper day to day
Wyoming's cost of living index is 92.7 against 103.1 in Colorado (US = 100). The typical home costs $532,748 in Colorado and $371,854 in Wyoming. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$35,330 a year after typical costs in Colorado and -$6,300 in Wyoming.
Wyoming takes a smaller share in taxes
Colorado collects 8.73% of income in state and local taxes (low property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack); Wyoming collects 5.79% (no income tax, low property tax, low sales tax).
Colorado pays more
Median household income is $97,113 in Colorado and $75,532 in Wyoming, with unemployment at 4% and 3.4%. Violent crime runs 422 per 100,000 residents in Colorado and 180 in Wyoming.
People move to Wyoming on net
5,552 people moved to Wyoming from Colorado in the latest Census release, against 1,491 going the other way.
Wyoming fits families and retirees better
For families, Colorado ranks #22 of 50 and Wyoming #2; for retirees, Colorado ranks #16 and Wyoming #1.
Colorado vs Wyoming: frequently asked questions
Is Colorado or Wyoming better to live in?
Colorado ranks #18 of 50 overall and Wyoming #2 as of the latest release. Wyoming is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 92.7 vs 103.1), has no income tax, and has a 57% lower violent crime rate. Wyoming scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 3.
Is Colorado cheaper than Wyoming?
Wyoming is cheaper than Colorado: cost of living index 92.7 vs 103.1 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$35,330 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Colorado, and -$6,300 in Wyoming. The typical home value is $532,748 in Colorado and $371,854 in Wyoming.
Which has lower taxes, Colorado or Wyoming?
Wyoming has the lower tax burden: 5.79% of income in state and local taxes vs 8.73% in Colorado. Colorado's top income tax rate is 4.4%, its effective property tax rate 0.49% and its combined sales tax 7.89%; Wyoming's are zero, 0.58% and 5.56%.
Is Colorado safer than Wyoming?
Wyoming is safer: 180 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 422 in Colorado, per the FBI. Colorado ranks #43 of 50 for violent crime and Wyoming #5. Property crime is 2,144 per 100,000 in Colorado and 1,038 in Wyoming. The safest tracked cities are Castle Rock, CO, and Laramie, WY.
Are homes more expensive in Colorado or Wyoming?
Homes are 43% more expensive in Colorado: the typical home value is $532,748 in Colorado and $371,854 in Wyoming. Buying the typical home takes about $138,758 of household income in Colorado and $95,729 in Wyoming, against median incomes of $97,113 and $75,532.
Do people earn more in Colorado or Wyoming?
Colorado pays more: median household income is $97,113 vs $75,532 in Wyoming, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4% in Colorado and 3.4% in Wyoming. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Colorado's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 20 after adjusting for local costs and Wyoming's in 0.
Are more people moving from Colorado to Wyoming or from Wyoming to Colorado?
2,280 households moved from Colorado to Wyoming and 1,874 moved from Wyoming to Colorado in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 406 households for Wyoming. Movers to Wyoming reported an average income of $78,596; movers to Colorado reported $69,329. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 5,552 people (±2,229) moving from Colorado to Wyoming and 1,491 (±645) the other way, a net gain of about 4,061 people for Wyoming beyond the margin of error.
Which is better for retirees, Colorado or Wyoming?
Wyoming is the better fit for retirees: #1 of 50 on the retiree index vs #16 for Colorado. Colorado has low property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack; Wyoming has no income tax, low property tax, low sales tax. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$28,486 left after typical costs in Colorado and +$38,377 in Wyoming.
Which is better for families, Colorado or Wyoming?
Wyoming is the better fit for families: #2 of 50 on the families index vs #22 for Colorado. Center-based infant care costs $20,978 a year in Colorado and $13,120 in Wyoming. High school graduation rates are 82.3% and 81.8%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$35,330 after typical costs in Colorado and -$6,300 in Wyoming.
Is Wyoming better than Colorado?
Yes: Wyoming ranks higher than Colorado overall, #2 of 50 vs #18, with a composite score of 79.9 to 64.7. Wyoming leads 6 of 11 categories and Colorado leads 3, including health and transportation. Which is better for you depends on how you weigh cost, safety, schools, taxes and pay.
Compare a different pair
Swap either state, or jump to the matchups people open alongside Colorado vs Wyoming.
Why this pair is featured: bordering states, major moving corridor (2,280 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).