Idaho vs Wyoming: Which Is Better to Live In?
Idaho ranks #4 of 50 overall and Wyoming #2 as of the latest release. Wyoming is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 92.7 vs 95.5), has no income tax, and has a 17% lower violent crime rate. Overall they are 1.5 points apart, too close to call: Idaho leads 4 of 11 categories, Wyoming leads 5.
- Property crime rate is 42% lower in Idaho (605 vs. 1,038 in Wyoming).
- Total tax burden is 23% lower in Wyoming (5.79% vs. 7.54% in Idaho).
- Typical home value is 22% lower in Wyoming ($371,854 vs. $478,744 in Idaho).
| Measure | IdahoID | WyomingWY | GapID−WY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -1.5 pts | 78.4#4 of 50 · A+ | 79.9#2 of 50 · A+ | -1.5 pts | — | Even |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +2.8 pts (+3%) · US 100 | 95.5#23 of 50 | 92.7#16 of 50 | +2.8 pts+3% | 100 | WY |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$5,591 · US -$11,758 | -$11,891#26 of 50 | -$6,300#20 of 50 | -$5,591 | -$11,758 | WY |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$106,890 (+29%) · US $368,697 | $478,744#39 of 50 | $371,854#27 of 50 | +$106,890+29% | $368,697 | WY |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +1.75 pts · US 8.74% | 7.54%#10 of 50 | 5.79%#2 of 50 | +1.75 pts | 8.74% | WY |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +37 (+21%) · US 328 | 217#11 of 50 | 180#5 of 50 | +37+21% | 328 | WY |
| Median household incomeGap +$5,634 (+7%) · US $80,903 | $81,166#21 of 50 | $75,532#32 of 50 | +$5,634+7% | $80,903 | ID |
| High school graduation rateGap -1.9 pts · US 85.62% | 79.9%#47 of 50 | 81.8%#42 of 50 | -1.9 pts | 85.62% | WY |
| Life expectancyGap +1.6 yrs · US 76.9 | 78.4#12 of 50 | 76.8#28 of 50 | +1.6 yrs | 76.9 | ID |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +5,624 · US -33 | +5,811#12 of 50 | +187#26 of 50 | +5,624 | -33 | ID |
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 Idaho or Wyoming better to live in?
Idaho scores 78.4 and Wyoming scores 79.9 out of 100, a 1.5-point gap this site treats as even. Idaho leads 4 of 11 categories, Wyoming leads 5, and 2 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | IdahoID | WyomingWY | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap +0.6 | 15% | 50.9#19 · B | 50.3#20 · B | +0.6 pts | Even |
| Safety12% of scoregap +0.5 | 12% | 86.6#5 · A+ | 86.1#6 · A | +0.5 pts | Even |
| Health12% of scoregap +10.5 | 12% | 61.9#16 · B+ | 51.4#29 · C+ | +10.5 pts | ID |
| Education12% of scoregap -10.1 | 12% | 55.2#32 · C+ | 65.3#16 · B+ | -10.1 pts | WY |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -4.4 | 10% | 72.1#24 · B | 76.5#18 · B+ | -4.4 pts | WY |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -8.4 | 8% | 71.0#9 · A | 79.4#1 · A+ | -8.4 pts | WY |
| Growth7% of scoregap +30.1 | 7% | 72.6#1 · A+ | 42.5#22 · B | +30.1 pts | ID |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +8.2 | 7% | 55.8#10 · A | 47.6#31 · C+ | +8.2 pts | ID |
| Livability7% of scoregap -10.9 | 7% | 39.6#15 · B+ | 50.5#3 · A+ | -10.9 pts | WY |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -45.5 | 6% | 50.2#6 · A | 95.7#2 · A+ | -45.5 pts | WY |
| Environment4% of scoregap +23.4 | 4% | 70.0#4 · A+ | 46.6#18 · B+ | +23.4 pts | ID |
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 Idaho cheaper than Wyoming?
Wyoming is cheaper: cost of living index 92.7 vs 95.5 in Idaho (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $5,591 more a year in Wyoming after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | IdahoID | WyomingWY | GapID−WY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +2.8 pts (+3%) · US 100 | 95.5#23 of 50 | 92.7#16 of 50 | +2.8 pts+3% | 100 | WY |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +0.9 pts (+1%) · US 100 | 96.3#21 of 50 | 95.4#9 of 50 | +0.9 pts+1% | 100 | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap -1.56¢ (-12%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 11.82¢/kWh#2 of 50 | 13.38¢/kWh#13 of 50 | -1.56¢-12% | 17.84¢/kWh | ID |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$4.05 (-34%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $7.69/Mcf#1 of 50 | $11.74/Mcf#15 of 50 | -$4.05-34% | $15.83/Mcf | ID |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.23 (+7%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.35/gal#39 of 50 | $3.12/gal#17 of 50 | +$0.23+7% | $3.32/gal | WY |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$2,233 (-17%) · US $15,633 | $10,887#7 of 50 | $13,120#16 of 50 | -$2,233-17% | $15,633 | ID |
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 | IdahoID | WyomingWY | GapID−WY | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$7,869 | +$26,637costs $48,363 | +$34,506costs $40,494 | -$7,869 | WY |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$8,445 | +$17,119costs $57,881 | +$25,564costs $49,436 | -$8,445 | WY |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$5,591 | -$11,891costs $86,891 | -$6,300costs $81,300 | -$5,591 | WY |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$7,563 | +$30,814costs $44,187 | +$38,377costs $36,623 | -$7,563 | 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 | IdahoID | WyomingWY | GapID−WY | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$7,010 | $31,730 | $24,720 | +$7,010 | WY |
| ChildcareGap -$4,466 | $21,774 | $26,240 | -$4,466 | ID |
| UtilitiesGap +$134 | $4,584 | $4,450 | +$134 | Even |
| GroceriesGap +$101 | $10,846 | $10,745 | +$101 | Even |
| TransportationGap +$723 | $10,529 | $9,806 | +$723 | WY |
| State and local taxesGap +$2,089 | $7,428 | $5,339 | +$2,089 | WY |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Idaho or Wyoming?
Wyoming collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 5.79% vs 7.54%. Idaho 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 | IdahoID | WyomingWY | GapID−WY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +1.75 pts · US 8.74% | 7.54%#10 of 50 | 5.79%#2 of 50 | +1.75 pts | 8.74% | WY |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +5.7 pts · US 5.46% | 5.7%#27 of 50 | none#2 of 50 | +5.7 pts | 5.46% | WY |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.02 pts · US 1.02% | 0.56%#10 of 50 | 0.58%#12 of 50 | -0.02 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +0.47 pts · US 6.66% | 6.03%#14 of 50 | 5.56%#8 of 50 | +0.47 pts | 6.66% | Even |
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 Idaho or Wyoming?
Homes cost 29% more in Idaho: a typical home value of $478,744 in Idaho vs $371,854 in Wyoming. Buying the typical home takes about $118,073 of income in Idaho and $95,729 in Wyoming; the median household earns $81,166 and $75,532.
| Measure | IdahoID | WyomingWY | GapID−WY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$106,890 (+29%) · US $368,697 | $478,744#39 of 50 | $371,854#27 of 50 | +$106,890+29% | $368,697 | WY |
| Home value change, one yearGap +0.6 pts · US +1.2% | +2%#27 of 50 | +1.4%#33 of 50 | +0.6 pts | +1.2% | ID |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$387 (+25%) · US $1,948 | $1,919#33 of 50 | $1,532#17 of 50 | +$387+25% | $1,948 | WY |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$22,344 (+23%) · US $100,006 | $118,073#37 of 50 | $95,729#26 of 50 | +$22,344+23% | $100,006 | WY |
| Home value to income ratioGap +1x (+20%) · US 4.6x | 5.9x#43 of 50 | 4.9x#34 of 50 | +1x+20% | 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.
| ID | WY | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $2,463 | $1,913 |
| Income needed vs. median | +46% | +27% |
| Five-year change | +6.2% | +25.1% |
| Market temperature | Warm | Warm |
| Largest metro | Boise City | 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 Idaho or Wyoming?
Idaho pays more: median household income $81,166 vs $75,532, with unemployment at 3.7% in Idaho and 3.4% in Wyoming. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Idaho's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 16 after adjusting for local costs and Wyoming's in 0.
| Measure | IdahoID | WyomingWY | GapID−WY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$5,634 (+7%) · US $80,903 | $81,166#21 of 50 | $75,532#32 of 50 | +$5,634+7% | $80,903 | ID |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.3 pts · US 3.95% | 3.7%#18 of 50 | 3.4%#10 of 50 | +0.3 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap -$21,757 (-30%) · US $64,333 | $50,766#46 of 50 | $72,523#12 of 50 | -$21,757-30% | $64,333 | WY |
| Real GDP growthGap +4.5 pts · US +1.91% | +3%#8 of 50 | -1.5%#50 of 50 | +4.5 pts | +1.91% | ID |
| Population growthGap +1.09 pts · US +0.51% | +1.44%#2 of 50 | +0.35%#32 of 50 | +1.09 pts | +0.51% | ID |
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 | ID | WY | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lawyers | $145,444$132,354 in Boise City | $134,581$122,469 in Cheyenne | ID |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $211,918$192,845 in Boise City | $203,633$185,306 in Cheyenne | ID |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $74,170$67,495 in Boise City | $66,726$60,721 in Cheyenne | ID |
| Software Developers | $135,305$123,128 in Boise City | $128,625$117,049 in Cheyenne | ID |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $57,605$52,421 in Boise City | $51,290$46,674 in Cheyenne | ID |
| Registered Nurses | $83,721$76,186 in Boise City | $77,469$70,497 in Cheyenne | ID |
| Civil Engineers | $97,456$88,685 in Boise City | $91,746$83,489 in Cheyenne | ID |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $100,132$91,120 in Boise City | $95,089$86,531 in Cheyenne | ID |
| Electricians | $62,723$57,078 in Boise City | $57,929$52,715 in Cheyenne | ID |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $54,186$49,309 in Boise City | $49,484$45,030 in Cheyenne | ID |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $63,548$57,829 in Boise City | $59,243$53,911 in Cheyenne | ID |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $56,668$51,568 in Boise City | $52,707$47,963 in Cheyenne | ID |
| General & Operations Managers | $100,669$91,609 in Boise City | $96,752$88,044 in Cheyenne | ID |
| Construction Laborers | $42,880$39,021 in Boise City | $39,819$36,235 in Cheyenne | ID |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $65,962$60,025 in Boise City | $64,019$58,257 in Cheyenne | Even |
| Mental Health Counselors | $53,174$48,388 in Boise City | $51,243$46,631 in Cheyenne | ID |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $32,795$29,843 in Boise City | $31,541$28,702 in Cheyenne | ID |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $45,982$41,844 in Boise City | $44,963$40,916 in Cheyenne | Even |
| Accountants & Auditors | $77,057$70,122 in Boise City | $77,879$70,870 in Cheyenne | Even |
| Secondary School Teachers | $61,521$55,984 in Boise City | $61,856$56,289 in Cheyenne | Even |
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 Idaho safer than Wyoming?
Wyoming is safer: 180 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 217 in Idaho (FBI). Property crime runs 605 and 1,038 per 100,000.
| Measure | IdahoID | WyomingWY | GapID−WY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +37 (+21%) · US 328 | 217#11 of 50 | 180#5 of 50 | +37+21% | 328 | WY |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -433 (-42%) · US 1,535 | 605#1 of 50 | 1,038#7 of 50 | -433-42% | 1,535 | ID |
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.
- Moscow, ID37 violent per 100K
- Laramie, WY93 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Idaho or Wyoming?
Wyoming scores higher for education (#16 of 50 vs #32), with high school graduation rates of 79.9% and 81.8%. Idaho scores higher for health (#16 vs #29); life expectancy is 78.4 years in Idaho and 76.8 in Wyoming.
| Measure | IdahoID | WyomingWY | GapID−WY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -0 · US 273 | 278#14 of 50 | 278#12 of 50 | -0 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +1 · US 257 | 261#9 of 50 | 260#15 of 50 | +1 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -1.9 pts · US 85.62% | 79.9%#47 of 50 | 81.8%#42 of 50 | -1.9 pts | 85.62% | WY |
| Life expectancyGap +1.6 yrs · US 76.9 | 78.4#12 of 50 | 76.8#28 of 50 | +1.6 yrs | 76.9 | ID |
| Adults with obesityGap +0.2 pts · US 34.03% | 32.7%#18 of 50 | 32.5%#17 of 50 | +0.2 pts | 34.03% | Even |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -1.1 pts · US 7.6% | 9.2%#38 of 50 | 10.3%#43 of 50 | -1.1 pts | 7.6% | ID |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -1 pts (-3%) · US 38.8 | 34#6 of 50 | 35#10 of 50 | -1 pts-3% | 38.8 | Even |
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).
- Coeur d'Alene, IDeducation score 92
- 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: Idaho #32, Wyoming #16. Health: Idaho #16, Wyoming #29.
Are more people moving from Idaho to Wyoming, or from Wyoming to Idaho?
511 households moved from Idaho to Wyoming and 645 moved from Wyoming to Idaho in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 134 households for Idaho. Movers to Wyoming reported an average income of $56,558; movers to Idaho reported $72,118. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 223 people (±324) moving from Idaho to Wyoming and 699 (±504) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
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 | IdahoID | WyomingWY | GapID−WY | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +23,129 (+182%) | 35,831#34 of 50 | 12,702#49 of 50 | +23,129+182% | ID |
| Households moving outIRSGap +17,505 (+140%) | 30,020#14 of 50 | 12,515#2 of 50 | +17,505+140% | WY |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +5,624 | +5,811#12 of 50 | +187#26 of 50 | +5,624 | ID |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +2.6 | +2.9#5 of 50 | +0.3#24 of 50 | +2.6 | ID |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$1,360 (+2%) | $81,248#19 of 50 | $79,888#23 of 50 | +$1,360+2% | Even |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$5,098 (-7%) | $64,061#43 of 50 | $69,159#33 of 50 | -$5,098-7% | WY |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +7.4 | +9.9#2 of 50 | +2.5#15 of 50 | +7.4 | ID |
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, Idaho or Wyoming?
Idaho is the better fit for young professionals and small business; Wyoming is the better fit for families; 3 of the six lifestyle indexes are within 4 places. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | IdahoID | WyomingWY | GapID−WY | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +5 places | #7score 80.6 | #2score 86.8 | +5 places | WY |
| RetireesGap +1 places | #2score 84.8 | #1score 85.6 | +1 places | Even |
| Remote WorkersGap +2 places | #3score 80.2 | #1score 83.6 | +2 places | Even |
| Young ProfessionalsGap -6 places | #2score 77.2 | #8score 67.5 | -6 places | ID |
| Small BusinessGap -4 places | #2score 80.2 | #6score 77.9 | -4 places | ID |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +3 places | #4score 78.6 | #1score 95 | +3 places | Even |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesWyoming (#2 vs #7)
- RetireesEven (#2 vs #1)
- Remote WorkersEven (#3 vs #1)
- Young ProfessionalsIdaho (#2 vs #8)
- Small BusinessIdaho (#2 vs #6)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsEven (#4 vs #1)
Which cities stand out in Idaho and Wyoming?
Idaho has 20 tracked cities and Wyoming has 20; the largest are Boise and Cheyenne. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | IdahoID | WyomingWY |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Boise237,242 people | Cheyenne65,239 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Meridianscore 64.7 | Jacksonscore 70.9 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Moscow37 violent per 100K | Laramie93 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Pocatellocost index 88.9 | Gillettecost index 91.6 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Boisewalkability 13.6 of 20 | Torringtonwalkability 12.8 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Idaho Fallscounty median AQI 22 | Rawlinscounty median AQI 8 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Coeur d'Alene92% graduation rate | Powell97% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Eaglemedian income $122,894 | Ranchettesmedian income $121,445 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Star+14.8% growth | Cheyenne+1.1% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Idaho and Wyoming compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Idaho carries AA+ credit rating and Wyoming AAA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | IdahoID | WyomingWY | GapID−WY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap +37 pts · US 29.34% | 70%#5 of 50 | 33%#18 of 50 | +37 pts | 29.34% | ID |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -16.3 (-43%) · US 29.6 | 21.7#18 of 50 | 38.0#35 of 50 | -16.3-43% | 29.6 | ID |
| Public land shareGap +14.3 pts · US 17.16% | 62.5%#3 of 50 | 48.2%#6 of 50 | +14.3 pts | 17.16% | ID |
| Mean travel time to workGap +2.5 min · US 25.2 min | 22.2 min#9 of 50 | 19.7 min#4 of 50 | +2.5 min | 25.2 min | WY |
| Commuters using public transitGap -0.6 pts · US 2.29% | 0.5%#39 of 50 | 1.1%#23 of 50 | -0.6 pts | 2.29% | WY |
| Workers working from homeGap +3 pts · US 12.28% | 12.7%#23 of 50 | 9.7%#37 of 50 | +3 pts | 12.28% | ID |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +2.9 pts · US 92.67% | 92.8%#25 of 50 | 89.9%#48 of 50 | +2.9 pts | 92.67% | ID |
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 | IdahoID | WyomingWY | GapID−WY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -5 pts · US 92.7 | 95#18 of 50 | 100#1 of 50 | -5 pts | 92.7 | WY |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -30.4 pts · US 12.39% | 14.8%#9 of 50 | 45.2%#2 of 50 | -30.4 pts | 12.39% | WY |
| Pension funded ratioGap +14 pts · US 74.3% | 91%#6 of 50 | 77%#20 of 50 | +14 pts | 74.3% | ID |
| State debt per capitaGap +$160 (+11%) · US $3,506 | $1,580#4 of 50 | $1,420#2 of 50 | +$160+11% | $3,506 | WY |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -1 pts · US +4.66% | +7.5%#8 of 50 | +8.5%#4 of 50 | -1 pts | +4.66% | WY |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Idaho 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).
Idaho vs Wyoming: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Idaho is ahead on 19 of 51, Wyoming on 21, and 11 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | IdahoID | WyomingWY | GapID−WY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +1,440,980 (+245%) · US 6.8 million | 2 million#37 of 50 | 588,753#50 of 50 | +1,440,980+245% | 6.8 million | ID |
| Median household incomeGap +$5,634 (+7%) · US $80,903 | $81,166#21 of 50 | $75,532#32 of 50 | +$5,634+7% | $80,903 | ID |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.3 pts · US 3.95% | 3.7%#18 of 50 | 3.4%#10 of 50 | +0.3 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| Population growthGap +1.09 pts · US +0.51% | +1.44%#2 of 50 | +0.35%#32 of 50 | +1.09 pts | +0.51% | ID |
| GDP per capitaGap -$21,757 (-30%) · US $64,333 | $50,766#46 of 50 | $72,523#12 of 50 | -$21,757-30% | $64,333 | WY |
| Real GDP growthGap +4.5 pts · US +1.91% | +3%#8 of 50 | -1.5%#50 of 50 | +4.5 pts | +1.91% | ID |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +37 (+21%) · US 328 | 217#11 of 50 | 180#5 of 50 | +37+21% | 328 | WY |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -433 (-42%) · US 1,535 | 605#1 of 50 | 1,038#7 of 50 | -433-42% | 1,535 | ID |
| High school graduation rateGap -1.9 pts · US 85.62% | 79.9%#47 of 50 | 81.8%#42 of 50 | -1.9 pts | 85.62% | WY |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -5 · US 237 | 238#21 of 50 | 243#2 of 50 | -5 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -0 · US 273 | 278#14 of 50 | 278#12 of 50 | -0 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -6 · US 214 | 216#18 of 50 | 222#2 of 50 | -6 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +1 · US 257 | 261#9 of 50 | 260#15 of 50 | +1 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +1.6 yrs · US 76.9 | 78.4#12 of 50 | 76.8#28 of 50 | +1.6 yrs | 76.9 | ID |
| Adults with obesityGap +0.2 pts · US 34.03% | 32.7%#18 of 50 | 32.5%#17 of 50 | +0.2 pts | 34.03% | Even |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -1.1 pts · US 7.6% | 9.2%#38 of 50 | 10.3%#43 of 50 | -1.1 pts | 7.6% | ID |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$106,890 (+29%) · US $368,697 | $478,744#39 of 50 | $371,854#27 of 50 | +$106,890+29% | $368,697 | WY |
| Home value change, one yearGap +0.6 pts · US +1.2% | +2%#27 of 50 | +1.4%#33 of 50 | +0.6 pts | +1.2% | ID |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$387 (+25%) · US $1,948 | $1,919#33 of 50 | $1,532#17 of 50 | +$387+25% | $1,948 | WY |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$22,344 (+23%) · US $100,006 | $118,073#37 of 50 | $95,729#26 of 50 | +$22,344+23% | $100,006 | WY |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +2.8 pts (+3%) · US 100 | 95.5#23 of 50 | 92.7#16 of 50 | +2.8 pts+3% | 100 | WY |
| Home value to income ratioGap +1x (+20%) · US 4.6x | 5.9x#43 of 50 | 4.9x#34 of 50 | +1x+20% | 4.6x | WY |
| Residential electricity priceGap -1.56¢ (-12%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 11.82¢/kWh#2 of 50 | 13.38¢/kWh#13 of 50 | -1.56¢-12% | 17.84¢/kWh | ID |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$4.05 (-34%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $7.69/Mcf#1 of 50 | $11.74/Mcf#15 of 50 | -$4.05-34% | $15.83/Mcf | ID |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.23 (+7%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.35/gal#39 of 50 | $3.12/gal#17 of 50 | +$0.23+7% | $3.32/gal | WY |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +0.9 pts (+1%) · US 100 | 96.3#21 of 50 | 95.4#9 of 50 | +0.9 pts+1% | 100 | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$2,233 (-17%) · US $15,633 | $10,887#7 of 50 | $13,120#16 of 50 | -$2,233-17% | $15,633 | ID |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +1.75 pts · US 8.74% | 7.54%#10 of 50 | 5.79%#2 of 50 | +1.75 pts | 8.74% | WY |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +5.7 pts · US 5.46% | 5.7%#27 of 50 | none#2 of 50 | +5.7 pts | 5.46% | WY |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.02 pts · US 1.02% | 0.56%#10 of 50 | 0.58%#12 of 50 | -0.02 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +0.47 pts · US 6.66% | 6.03%#14 of 50 | 5.56%#8 of 50 | +0.47 pts | 6.66% | Even |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -5 pts · US 92.7 | 95#18 of 50 | 100#1 of 50 | -5 pts | 92.7 | WY |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -30.4 pts · US 12.39% | 14.8%#9 of 50 | 45.2%#2 of 50 | -30.4 pts | 12.39% | WY |
| Pension funded ratioGap +14 pts · US 74.3% | 91%#6 of 50 | 77%#20 of 50 | +14 pts | 74.3% | ID |
| State debt per capitaGap +$160 (+11%) · US $3,506 | $1,580#4 of 50 | $1,420#2 of 50 | +$160+11% | $3,506 | WY |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -1 pts · US +4.66% | +7.5%#8 of 50 | +8.5%#4 of 50 | -1 pts | +4.66% | WY |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -1 pts (-3%) · US 38.8 | 34#6 of 50 | 35#10 of 50 | -1 pts-3% | 38.8 | Even |
| Renewable share of electricityGap +37 pts · US 29.34% | 70%#5 of 50 | 33%#18 of 50 | +37 pts | 29.34% | ID |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -16.3 (-43%) · US 29.6 | 21.7#18 of 50 | 38.0#35 of 50 | -16.3-43% | 29.6 | ID |
| Public land shareGap +14.3 pts · US 17.16% | 62.5%#3 of 50 | 48.2%#6 of 50 | +14.3 pts | 17.16% | ID |
| Mean travel time to workGap +2.5 min · US 25.2 min | 22.2 min#9 of 50 | 19.7 min#4 of 50 | +2.5 min | 25.2 min | WY |
| Commuters using public transitGap -0.6 pts · US 2.29% | 0.5%#39 of 50 | 1.1%#23 of 50 | -0.6 pts | 2.29% | WY |
| Workers working from homeGap +3 pts · US 12.28% | 12.7%#23 of 50 | 9.7%#37 of 50 | +3 pts | 12.28% | ID |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +2.9 pts · US 92.67% | 92.8%#25 of 50 | 89.9%#48 of 50 | +2.9 pts | 92.67% | ID |
| Households moving inIRSGap +23,129 (+182%) · US 78,682 | 35,831#34 of 50 | 12,702#49 of 50 | +23,129+182% | 78,682 | ID |
| Households moving outIRSGap +17,505 (+140%) · US 78,715 | 30,020#14 of 50 | 12,515#2 of 50 | +17,505+140% | 78,715 | WY |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +5,624 · US -33 | +5,811#12 of 50 | +187#26 of 50 | +5,624 | -33 | ID |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +2.6 · US +0.4 | +2.9#5 of 50 | +0.3#24 of 50 | +2.6 | +0.4 | ID |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$1,360 (+2%) · US $77,690 | $81,248#19 of 50 | $79,888#23 of 50 | +$1,360+2% | $77,690 | Even |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$5,098 (-7%) · US $77,024 | $64,061#43 of 50 | $69,159#33 of 50 | -$5,098-7% | $77,024 | WY |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +7.4 · US +1.1 | +9.9#2 of 50 | +2.5#15 of 50 | +7.4 | +1.1 | ID |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$5,591 · US -$11,758 | -$11,891#26 of 50 | -$6,300#20 of 50 | -$5,591 | -$11,758 | WY |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$7,869 · US +$31,418 | +$26,637#37 of 50 | +$34,506#17 of 50 | -$7,869 | +$31,418 | WY |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$7,563 · US +$35,970 | +$30,814#36 of 50 | +$38,377#21 of 50 | -$7,563 | +$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 Idaho and Wyoming numbers say when read together.
Neither state is better overall
Idaho (78.4, #4) and Wyoming (79.9, #2) are within 2 composite points. Idaho leads 4 categories, Wyoming leads 5, and 2 are even. The answer depends on which categories matter to you.
Wyoming is cheaper day to day
Wyoming's cost of living index is 92.7 against 95.5 in Idaho (US = 100). The typical home costs $478,744 in Idaho and $371,854 in Wyoming. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$11,891 a year after typical costs in Idaho and -$6,300 in Wyoming.
Wyoming takes a smaller share in taxes
Idaho collects 7.54% 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).
Idaho pays more
Median household income is $81,166 in Idaho and $75,532 in Wyoming, with unemployment at 3.7% and 3.4%. Violent crime runs 217 per 100,000 residents in Idaho and 180 in Wyoming.
Moves between the two run about even
223 people moved from Idaho to Wyoming and 699 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Wyoming is the better fit for families
For families, Idaho ranks #7 of 50 and Wyoming #2; for retirees, Idaho ranks #2 and Wyoming #1.
Idaho vs Wyoming: frequently asked questions
Is Idaho or Wyoming better to live in?
Idaho ranks #4 of 50 overall and Wyoming #2 as of the latest release. Wyoming is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 92.7 vs 95.5), has no income tax, and has a 17% lower violent crime rate. Overall they are 1.5 points apart, too close to call: Idaho leads 4 of 11 categories, Wyoming leads 5.
Is Idaho cheaper than Wyoming?
Wyoming is cheaper than Idaho: cost of living index 92.7 vs 95.5 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$11,891 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Idaho, and -$6,300 in Wyoming. The typical home value is $478,744 in Idaho and $371,854 in Wyoming.
Which has lower taxes, Idaho or Wyoming?
Wyoming has the lower tax burden: 5.79% of income in state and local taxes vs 7.54% in Idaho. Idaho's top income tax rate is 5.7%, its effective property tax rate 0.56% and its combined sales tax 6.03%; Wyoming's are zero, 0.58% and 5.56%.
Is Idaho safer than Wyoming?
Wyoming is safer: 180 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 217 in Idaho, per the FBI. Idaho ranks #11 of 50 for violent crime and Wyoming #5. Property crime is 605 per 100,000 in Idaho and 1,038 in Wyoming. The safest tracked cities are Moscow, ID, and Laramie, WY.
Are homes more expensive in Idaho or Wyoming?
Homes are 29% more expensive in Idaho: the typical home value is $478,744 in Idaho and $371,854 in Wyoming. Buying the typical home takes about $118,073 of household income in Idaho and $95,729 in Wyoming, against median incomes of $81,166 and $75,532.
Do people earn more in Idaho or Wyoming?
Idaho pays more: median household income is $81,166 vs $75,532 in Wyoming, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 3.7% in Idaho and 3.4% in Wyoming. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Idaho's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 16 after adjusting for local costs and Wyoming's in 0, with 4 even.
Are more people moving from Idaho to Wyoming or from Wyoming to Idaho?
511 households moved from Idaho to Wyoming and 645 moved from Wyoming to Idaho in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 134 households for Idaho. Movers to Wyoming reported an average income of $56,558; movers to Idaho reported $72,118. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 223 people (±324) moving from Idaho to Wyoming and 699 (±504) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Idaho or Wyoming?
Idaho and Wyoming are close for retirees: #2 and #1 of 50 on the retiree index. Idaho 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 +$30,814 left after typical costs in Idaho and +$38,377 in Wyoming.
Which is better for families, Idaho or Wyoming?
Wyoming is the better fit for families: #2 of 50 on the families index vs #7 for Idaho. Center-based infant care costs $10,887 a year in Idaho and $13,120 in Wyoming. High school graduation rates are 79.9% and 81.8%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$11,891 after typical costs in Idaho and -$6,300 in Wyoming.
Which has better schools, Idaho or Wyoming?
Wyoming scores higher for education: #16 of 50 vs #32 for Idaho. Eighth graders average 278 in NAEP math in Idaho and 278 in Wyoming. High school graduation rates are 79.9% in Idaho and 81.8% in Wyoming, and the education category scores are 55.2 and 65.3 out of 100. Among tracked cities, Coeur d'Alene and Powell have the strongest school metrics.
Compare a different pair
Swap either state, or jump to the matchups people open alongside Idaho vs Wyoming.
Why this pair is featured: bordering states.