Utah vs Wyoming: Which Is Better to Live In?
Utah ranks #6 of 50 overall and Wyoming #2 as of the latest release. Wyoming is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 92.7 vs 98.9), has no income tax, and has a 24% lower violent crime rate. Wyoming scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 5.
- Total tax burden is 39% lower in Wyoming (5.79% vs. 9.46% in Utah).
- Typical home value is 30% lower in Wyoming ($371,854 vs. $534,582 in Utah).
- Property crime rate is 27% lower in Wyoming (1,038 vs. 1,416 in Utah).
| Measure | UtahUT | WyomingWY | GapUT−WY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -4.5 pts | 75.4#6 of 50 · A | 79.9#2 of 50 · A+ | -4.5 pts | — | WY |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +6.2 pts (+7%) · US 100 | 98.9#31 of 50 | 92.7#16 of 50 | +6.2 pts+7% | 100 | WY |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$17,878 · US -$11,758 | -$24,178#36 of 50 | -$6,300#20 of 50 | -$17,878 | -$11,758 | WY |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$162,728 (+44%) · US $368,697 | $534,582#45 of 50 | $371,854#27 of 50 | +$162,728+44% | $368,697 | WY |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +3.67 pts · US 8.74% | 9.46%#37 of 50 | 5.79%#2 of 50 | +3.67 pts | 8.74% | WY |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +56 (+31%) · US 328 | 236#17 of 50 | 180#5 of 50 | +56+31% | 328 | WY |
| Median household incomeGap +$21,126 (+28%) · US $80,903 | $96,658#9 of 50 | $75,532#32 of 50 | +$21,126+28% | $80,903 | UT |
| High school graduation rateGap +6.4 pts · US 85.62% | 88.2%#13 of 50 | 81.8%#42 of 50 | +6.4 pts | 85.62% | UT |
| Life expectancyGap +2.2 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.0#9 of 50 | 76.8#28 of 50 | +2.2 yrs | 76.9 | UT |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +2,977 · US -33 | +3,164#17 of 50 | +187#26 of 50 | +2,977 | -33 | UT |
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 Utah or Wyoming better to live in?
Wyoming scores higher overall: 79.9 to 75.4 out of 100, #2 of 50 against #6. Utah leads 5 of 11 categories, Wyoming leads 6, and 0 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | UtahUT | WyomingWY | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap +15.3 | 15% | 65.6#5 · A+ | 50.3#20 · B | +15.3 pts | UT |
| Safety12% of scoregap -10.1 | 12% | 76.0#20 · B | 86.1#6 · A | -10.1 pts | WY |
| Health12% of scoregap +17.8 | 12% | 69.2#12 · B+ | 51.4#29 · C+ | +17.8 pts | UT |
| Education12% of scoregap +11.5 | 12% | 76.8#3 · A+ | 65.3#16 · B+ | +11.5 pts | UT |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -13.3 | 10% | 63.2#28 · C+ | 76.5#18 · B+ | -13.3 pts | WY |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -8 | 8% | 71.4#7 · A | 79.4#1 · A+ | -8 pts | WY |
| Growth7% of scoregap +7.5 | 7% | 50.0#11 · B+ | 42.5#22 · B | +7.5 pts | UT |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +12.1 | 7% | 59.7#4 · A+ | 47.6#31 · C+ | +12.1 pts | UT |
| Livability7% of scoregap -30.8 | 7% | 19.7#48 · D | 50.5#3 · A+ | -30.8 pts | WY |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -57.4 | 6% | 38.3#15 · B+ | 95.7#2 · A+ | -57.4 pts | WY |
| Environment4% of scoregap -18.1 | 4% | 28.5#42 · C | 46.6#18 · B+ | -18.1 pts | WY |
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 Utah cheaper than Wyoming?
Wyoming is cheaper: cost of living index 92.7 vs 98.9 in Utah (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $17,878 more a year in Wyoming after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | UtahUT | WyomingWY | GapUT−WY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +6.2 pts (+7%) · US 100 | 98.9#31 of 50 | 92.7#16 of 50 | +6.2 pts+7% | 100 | WY |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +1 pts (+1%) · US 100 | 96.4#25 of 50 | 95.4#9 of 50 | +1 pts+1% | 100 | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap -0.31¢ (-2%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 13.07¢/kWh#7 of 50 | 13.38¢/kWh#13 of 50 | -0.31¢-2% | 17.84¢/kWh | Even |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$1.55 (-13%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $10.19/Mcf#6 of 50 | $11.74/Mcf#15 of 50 | -$1.55-13% | $15.83/Mcf | UT |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.21 (+7%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.33/gal#34 of 50 | $3.12/gal#17 of 50 | +$0.21+7% | $3.32/gal | WY |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$1,413 (+11%) · US $15,633 | $14,533#23 of 50 | $13,120#16 of 50 | +$1,413+11% | $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 | UtahUT | WyomingWY | GapUT−WY | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$10,412 | +$24,094costs $50,906 | +$34,506costs $40,494 | -$10,412 | WY |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$12,834 | +$12,730costs $62,270 | +$25,564costs $49,436 | -$12,834 | WY |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$17,878 | -$24,178costs $99,178 | -$6,300costs $81,300 | -$17,878 | WY |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$11,583 | +$26,794costs $48,205 | +$38,377costs $36,623 | -$11,583 | 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 | UtahUT | WyomingWY | GapUT−WY | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$10,658 | $35,378 | $24,720 | +$10,658 | WY |
| ChildcareGap +$2,826 | $29,066 | $26,240 | +$2,826 | WY |
| UtilitiesGap +$297 | $4,747 | $4,450 | +$297 | Even |
| GroceriesGap +$113 | $10,858 | $10,745 | +$113 | Even |
| TransportationGap +$660 | $10,466 | $9,806 | +$660 | WY |
| State and local taxesGap +$3,324 | $8,663 | $5,339 | +$3,324 | WY |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Utah or Wyoming?
Wyoming collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 5.79% vs 9.46%. Utah 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 | UtahUT | WyomingWY | GapUT−WY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +3.67 pts · US 8.74% | 9.46%#37 of 50 | 5.79%#2 of 50 | +3.67 pts | 8.74% | WY |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +4.55 pts · US 5.46% | 4.55%#19 of 50 | none#2 of 50 | +4.55 pts | 5.46% | WY |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.03 pts · US 1.02% | 0.55%#6 of 50 | 0.58%#12 of 50 | -0.03 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +1.86 pts · US 6.66% | 7.42%#31 of 50 | 5.56%#8 of 50 | +1.86 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 Utah or Wyoming?
Homes cost 44% more in Utah: a typical home value of $534,582 in Utah vs $371,854 in Wyoming. Buying the typical home takes about $133,317 of income in Utah and $95,729 in Wyoming; the median household earns $96,658 and $75,532.
| Measure | UtahUT | WyomingWY | GapUT−WY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$162,728 (+44%) · US $368,697 | $534,582#45 of 50 | $371,854#27 of 50 | +$162,728+44% | $368,697 | WY |
| Home value change, one yearGap +0.1 pts · US +1.2% | +1.5%#32 of 50 | +1.4%#33 of 50 | +0.1 pts | +1.2% | Even |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$109 (+7%) · US $1,948 | $1,641#22 of 50 | $1,532#17 of 50 | +$109+7% | $1,948 | WY |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$37,588 (+39%) · US $100,006 | $133,317#42 of 50 | $95,729#26 of 50 | +$37,588+39% | $100,006 | WY |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.6x (+12%) · US 4.6x | 5.5x#39 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.
| UT | WY | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $2,750 | $1,913 |
| Income needed vs. median | +38% | +27% |
| Five-year change | +13.8% | +25.1% |
| Market temperature | Cold | Warm |
| Largest metro | Salt Lake 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 Utah or Wyoming?
Utah pays more: median household income $96,658 vs $75,532, with unemployment at 3.6% in Utah and 3.4% in Wyoming. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Utah's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 20 after adjusting for local costs and Wyoming's in 0.
| Measure | UtahUT | WyomingWY | GapUT−WY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$21,126 (+28%) · US $80,903 | $96,658#9 of 50 | $75,532#32 of 50 | +$21,126+28% | $80,903 | UT |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.2 pts · US 3.95% | 3.6%#17 of 50 | 3.4%#10 of 50 | +0.2 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap -$10,079 (-14%) · US $64,333 | $62,444#23 of 50 | $72,523#12 of 50 | -$10,079-14% | $64,333 | WY |
| Real GDP growthGap +5 pts · US +1.91% | +3.5%#3 of 50 | -1.5%#50 of 50 | +5 pts | +1.91% | UT |
| Population growthGap +0.68 pts · US +0.51% | +1.03%#5 of 50 | +0.35%#32 of 50 | +0.68 pts | +0.51% | UT |
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 | UT | WY | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lawyers | $154,705$146,970 in Salt Lake City | $134,581$122,469 in Cheyenne | UT |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $223,527$212,351 in Salt Lake City | $203,633$185,306 in Cheyenne | UT |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $110,967$105,419 in Salt Lake City | $95,089$86,531 in Cheyenne | UT |
| Software Developers | $141,301$134,236 in Salt Lake City | $128,625$117,049 in Cheyenne | UT |
| Registered Nurses | $88,476$84,052 in Salt Lake City | $77,469$70,497 in Cheyenne | UT |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $77,691$73,806 in Salt Lake City | $66,726$60,721 in Cheyenne | UT |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $68,495$65,070 in Salt Lake City | $59,243$53,911 in Cheyenne | UT |
| General & Operations Managers | $104,626$99,395 in Salt Lake City | $96,752$88,044 in Cheyenne | UT |
| Accountants & Auditors | $85,746$81,459 in Salt Lake City | $77,879$70,870 in Cheyenne | UT |
| Secondary School Teachers | $68,679$65,245 in Salt Lake City | $61,856$56,289 in Cheyenne | UT |
| Construction Laborers | $46,431$44,109 in Salt Lake City | $39,819$36,235 in Cheyenne | UT |
| Mental Health Counselors | $57,287$54,423 in Salt Lake City | $51,243$46,631 in Cheyenne | UT |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $58,598$55,668 in Salt Lake City | $52,707$47,963 in Cheyenne | UT |
| Electricians | $63,815$60,624 in Salt Lake City | $57,929$52,715 in Cheyenne | UT |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $69,647$66,165 in Salt Lake City | $64,019$58,257 in Cheyenne | UT |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $54,477$51,753 in Salt Lake City | $49,484$45,030 in Cheyenne | UT |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $48,860$46,417 in Salt Lake City | $44,963$40,916 in Cheyenne | UT |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $55,009$52,259 in Salt Lake City | $51,290$46,674 in Cheyenne | UT |
| Civil Engineers | $95,153$90,395 in Salt Lake City | $91,746$83,489 in Cheyenne | UT |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $34,208$32,498 in Salt Lake City | $31,541$28,702 in Cheyenne | UT |
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 Utah safer than Wyoming?
Wyoming is safer: 180 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 236 in Utah (FBI). Property crime runs 1,416 and 1,038 per 100,000.
| Measure | UtahUT | WyomingWY | GapUT−WY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +56 (+31%) · US 328 | 236#17 of 50 | 180#5 of 50 | +56+31% | 328 | WY |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +378 (+36%) · US 1,535 | 1,416#23 of 50 | 1,038#7 of 50 | +378+36% | 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.
- Riverton, UT62 violent per 100K
- Laramie, WY93 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Utah or Wyoming?
Utah scores higher for education (#3 of 50 vs #16), with high school graduation rates of 88.2% and 81.8%. Utah scores higher for health (#12 vs #29); life expectancy is 79.0 years in Utah and 76.8 in Wyoming.
| Measure | UtahUT | WyomingWY | GapUT−WY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +4 · US 273 | 282#4 of 50 | 278#12 of 50 | +4 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +1 · US 257 | 261#8 of 50 | 260#15 of 50 | +1 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +6.4 pts · US 85.62% | 88.2%#13 of 50 | 81.8%#42 of 50 | +6.4 pts | 85.62% | UT |
| Life expectancyGap +2.2 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.0#9 of 50 | 76.8#28 of 50 | +2.2 yrs | 76.9 | UT |
| Adults with obesityGap -1.5 pts · US 34.03% | 31%#9 of 50 | 32.5%#17 of 50 | -1.5 pts | 34.03% | UT |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -2 pts · US 7.6% | 8.3%#33 of 50 | 10.3%#43 of 50 | -2 pts | 7.6% | UT |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +9 pts (+26%) · US 38.8 | 44#45 of 50 | 35#10 of 50 | +9 pts+26% | 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).
- Layton, UTeducation score 94.2
- 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: Utah #3, Wyoming #16. Health: Utah #12, Wyoming #29.
Are more people moving from Utah to Wyoming, or from Wyoming to Utah?
820 households moved from Utah to Wyoming and 958 moved from Wyoming to Utah in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 138 households for Utah. Movers to Wyoming reported an average income of $62,617; movers to Utah reported $63,730. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 1,429 people (±821) moving from Utah to Wyoming and 1,242 (±820) 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 | UtahUT | WyomingWY | GapUT−WY | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +33,161 (+261%) | 45,863#29 of 50 | 12,702#49 of 50 | +33,161+261% | UT |
| Households moving outIRSGap +30,184 (+241%) | 42,699#20 of 50 | 12,515#2 of 50 | +30,184+241% | WY |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +2,977 | +3,164#17 of 50 | +187#26 of 50 | +2,977 | UT |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +0.6 | +0.9#20 of 50 | +0.3#24 of 50 | +0.6 | UT |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$241 (0%) | $80,129#22 of 50 | $79,888#23 of 50 | +$2410% | Even |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$5,728 (+8%) | $74,887#22 of 50 | $69,159#33 of 50 | +$5,728+8% | UT |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -1.6 | +0.9#27 of 50 | +2.5#15 of 50 | -1.6 | 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, Utah or Wyoming?
Wyoming is the better fit for families, retirees, remote workers, and outdoor enthusiasts; 2 of the six lifestyle indexes are within 4 places. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | UtahUT | WyomingWY | GapUT−WY | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +9 places | #11score 78.9 | #2score 86.8 | +9 places | WY |
| RetireesGap +11 places | #12score 72.7 | #1score 85.6 | +11 places | WY |
| Remote WorkersGap +10 places | #11score 60.5 | #1score 83.6 | +10 places | WY |
| Young ProfessionalsGap -1 places | #7score 68.8 | #8score 67.5 | -1 places | Even |
| Small BusinessGap -1 places | #5score 78.2 | #6score 77.9 | -1 places | Even |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +16 places | #17score 55.1 | #1score 95 | +16 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 #11)
- RetireesWyoming (#1 vs #12)
- Remote WorkersWyoming (#1 vs #11)
- Young ProfessionalsEven (#7 vs #8)
- Small BusinessEven (#5 vs #6)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsWyoming (#1 vs #17)
Which cities stand out in Utah and Wyoming?
Utah has 20 tracked cities and Wyoming has 20; the largest are Salt Lake City and Cheyenne. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | UtahUT | WyomingWY |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Salt Lake City208,007 people | Cheyenne65,239 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | South Jordanscore 67.3 | Jacksonscore 70.9 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Riverton62 violent per 100K | Laramie93 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Logancost index 95.9 | Gillettecost index 91.6 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Murraywalkability 14.7 of 20 | Torringtonwalkability 12.8 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | St. Georgecounty median AQI 44 | Rawlinscounty median AQI 8 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Layton94.2% graduation rate | Powell97% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | South Jordanmedian income $134,047 | Ranchettesmedian income $121,445 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Eagle Mountain+8.5% growth | Cheyenne+1.1% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Utah and Wyoming compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Utah carries AAA credit rating and Wyoming AAA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | UtahUT | WyomingWY | GapUT−WY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -18 pts · US 29.34% | 15%#27 of 50 | 33%#18 of 50 | -18 pts | 29.34% | WY |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -9.7 (-26%) · US 29.6 | 28.3#27 of 50 | 38.0#35 of 50 | -9.7-26% | 29.6 | UT |
| Public land shareGap +16.7 pts · US 17.16% | 64.9%#2 of 50 | 48.2%#6 of 50 | +16.7 pts | 17.16% | UT |
| Mean travel time to workGap +3.5 min · US 25.2 min | 23.2 min#14 of 50 | 19.7 min#4 of 50 | +3.5 min | 25.2 min | WY |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.8 pts · US 2.29% | 1.9%#16 of 50 | 1.1%#23 of 50 | +0.8 pts | 2.29% | UT |
| Workers working from homeGap +6 pts · US 12.28% | 15.7%#8 of 50 | 9.7%#37 of 50 | +6 pts | 12.28% | UT |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +4.2 pts · US 92.67% | 94.1%#11 of 50 | 89.9%#48 of 50 | +4.2 pts | 92.67% | UT |
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 | UtahUT | WyomingWY | GapUT−WY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 100#3 of 50 | 100#1 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -30.7 pts · US 12.39% | 14.5%#11 of 50 | 45.2%#2 of 50 | -30.7 pts | 12.39% | WY |
| Pension funded ratioGap +15 pts · US 74.3% | 92%#5 of 50 | 77%#20 of 50 | +15 pts | 74.3% | UT |
| State debt per capitaGap +$760 (+54%) · US $3,506 | $2,180#12 of 50 | $1,420#2 of 50 | +$760+54% | $3,506 | WY |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -1.3 pts · US +4.66% | +7.2%#9 of 50 | +8.5%#4 of 50 | -1.3 pts | +4.66% | WY |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Utah AAA, 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).
Utah vs Wyoming: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Utah is ahead on 17 of 51, Wyoming on 23, and 11 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | UtahUT | WyomingWY | GapUT−WY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +2,950,151 (+501%) · US 6.8 million | 3.5 million#30 of 50 | 588,753#50 of 50 | +2,950,151+501% | 6.8 million | UT |
| Median household incomeGap +$21,126 (+28%) · US $80,903 | $96,658#9 of 50 | $75,532#32 of 50 | +$21,126+28% | $80,903 | UT |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.2 pts · US 3.95% | 3.6%#17 of 50 | 3.4%#10 of 50 | +0.2 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| Population growthGap +0.68 pts · US +0.51% | +1.03%#5 of 50 | +0.35%#32 of 50 | +0.68 pts | +0.51% | UT |
| GDP per capitaGap -$10,079 (-14%) · US $64,333 | $62,444#23 of 50 | $72,523#12 of 50 | -$10,079-14% | $64,333 | WY |
| Real GDP growthGap +5 pts · US +1.91% | +3.5%#3 of 50 | -1.5%#50 of 50 | +5 pts | +1.91% | UT |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +56 (+31%) · US 328 | 236#17 of 50 | 180#5 of 50 | +56+31% | 328 | WY |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +378 (+36%) · US 1,535 | 1,416#23 of 50 | 1,038#7 of 50 | +378+36% | 1,535 | WY |
| High school graduation rateGap +6.4 pts · US 85.62% | 88.2%#13 of 50 | 81.8%#42 of 50 | +6.4 pts | 85.62% | UT |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -2 · US 237 | 242#5 of 50 | 243#2 of 50 | -2 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +4 · US 273 | 282#4 of 50 | 278#12 of 50 | +4 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -3 · US 214 | 219#7 of 50 | 222#2 of 50 | -3 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +1 · US 257 | 261#8 of 50 | 260#15 of 50 | +1 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +2.2 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.0#9 of 50 | 76.8#28 of 50 | +2.2 yrs | 76.9 | UT |
| Adults with obesityGap -1.5 pts · US 34.03% | 31%#9 of 50 | 32.5%#17 of 50 | -1.5 pts | 34.03% | UT |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -2 pts · US 7.6% | 8.3%#33 of 50 | 10.3%#43 of 50 | -2 pts | 7.6% | UT |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$162,728 (+44%) · US $368,697 | $534,582#45 of 50 | $371,854#27 of 50 | +$162,728+44% | $368,697 | WY |
| Home value change, one yearGap +0.1 pts · US +1.2% | +1.5%#32 of 50 | +1.4%#33 of 50 | +0.1 pts | +1.2% | Even |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$109 (+7%) · US $1,948 | $1,641#22 of 50 | $1,532#17 of 50 | +$109+7% | $1,948 | WY |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$37,588 (+39%) · US $100,006 | $133,317#42 of 50 | $95,729#26 of 50 | +$37,588+39% | $100,006 | WY |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +6.2 pts (+7%) · US 100 | 98.9#31 of 50 | 92.7#16 of 50 | +6.2 pts+7% | 100 | WY |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.6x (+12%) · US 4.6x | 5.5x#39 of 50 | 4.9x#34 of 50 | +0.6x+12% | 4.6x | WY |
| Residential electricity priceGap -0.31¢ (-2%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 13.07¢/kWh#7 of 50 | 13.38¢/kWh#13 of 50 | -0.31¢-2% | 17.84¢/kWh | Even |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$1.55 (-13%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $10.19/Mcf#6 of 50 | $11.74/Mcf#15 of 50 | -$1.55-13% | $15.83/Mcf | UT |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.21 (+7%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.33/gal#34 of 50 | $3.12/gal#17 of 50 | +$0.21+7% | $3.32/gal | WY |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +1 pts (+1%) · US 100 | 96.4#25 of 50 | 95.4#9 of 50 | +1 pts+1% | 100 | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$1,413 (+11%) · US $15,633 | $14,533#23 of 50 | $13,120#16 of 50 | +$1,413+11% | $15,633 | WY |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +3.67 pts · US 8.74% | 9.46%#37 of 50 | 5.79%#2 of 50 | +3.67 pts | 8.74% | WY |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +4.55 pts · US 5.46% | 4.55%#19 of 50 | none#2 of 50 | +4.55 pts | 5.46% | WY |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.03 pts · US 1.02% | 0.55%#6 of 50 | 0.58%#12 of 50 | -0.03 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +1.86 pts · US 6.66% | 7.42%#31 of 50 | 5.56%#8 of 50 | +1.86 pts | 6.66% | WY |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 100#3 of 50 | 100#1 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -30.7 pts · US 12.39% | 14.5%#11 of 50 | 45.2%#2 of 50 | -30.7 pts | 12.39% | WY |
| Pension funded ratioGap +15 pts · US 74.3% | 92%#5 of 50 | 77%#20 of 50 | +15 pts | 74.3% | UT |
| State debt per capitaGap +$760 (+54%) · US $3,506 | $2,180#12 of 50 | $1,420#2 of 50 | +$760+54% | $3,506 | WY |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -1.3 pts · US +4.66% | +7.2%#9 of 50 | +8.5%#4 of 50 | -1.3 pts | +4.66% | WY |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +9 pts (+26%) · US 38.8 | 44#45 of 50 | 35#10 of 50 | +9 pts+26% | 38.8 | WY |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -18 pts · US 29.34% | 15%#27 of 50 | 33%#18 of 50 | -18 pts | 29.34% | WY |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -9.7 (-26%) · US 29.6 | 28.3#27 of 50 | 38.0#35 of 50 | -9.7-26% | 29.6 | UT |
| Public land shareGap +16.7 pts · US 17.16% | 64.9%#2 of 50 | 48.2%#6 of 50 | +16.7 pts | 17.16% | UT |
| Mean travel time to workGap +3.5 min · US 25.2 min | 23.2 min#14 of 50 | 19.7 min#4 of 50 | +3.5 min | 25.2 min | WY |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.8 pts · US 2.29% | 1.9%#16 of 50 | 1.1%#23 of 50 | +0.8 pts | 2.29% | UT |
| Workers working from homeGap +6 pts · US 12.28% | 15.7%#8 of 50 | 9.7%#37 of 50 | +6 pts | 12.28% | UT |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +4.2 pts · US 92.67% | 94.1%#11 of 50 | 89.9%#48 of 50 | +4.2 pts | 92.67% | UT |
| Households moving inIRSGap +33,161 (+261%) · US 78,682 | 45,863#29 of 50 | 12,702#49 of 50 | +33,161+261% | 78,682 | UT |
| Households moving outIRSGap +30,184 (+241%) · US 78,715 | 42,699#20 of 50 | 12,515#2 of 50 | +30,184+241% | 78,715 | WY |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +2,977 · US -33 | +3,164#17 of 50 | +187#26 of 50 | +2,977 | -33 | UT |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +0.6 · US +0.4 | +0.9#20 of 50 | +0.3#24 of 50 | +0.6 | +0.4 | UT |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$241 (0%) · US $77,690 | $80,129#22 of 50 | $79,888#23 of 50 | +$2410% | $77,690 | Even |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$5,728 (+8%) · US $77,024 | $74,887#22 of 50 | $69,159#33 of 50 | +$5,728+8% | $77,024 | UT |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -1.6 · US +1.1 | +0.9#27 of 50 | +2.5#15 of 50 | -1.6 | +1.1 | WY |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$17,878 · US -$11,758 | -$24,178#36 of 50 | -$6,300#20 of 50 | -$17,878 | -$11,758 | WY |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$10,412 · US +$31,418 | +$24,094#42 of 50 | +$34,506#17 of 50 | -$10,412 | +$31,418 | WY |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$11,583 · US +$35,970 | +$26,794#41 of 50 | +$38,377#21 of 50 | -$11,583 | +$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 Utah and Wyoming numbers say when read together.
Wyoming ranks higher overall
Wyoming leads 6 of the 11 categories to Utah's 5, with 0 even; Utah is ahead on health and economy. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Utah is ahead on 17 and Wyoming on 23.
Wyoming is cheaper day to day
Wyoming's cost of living index is 92.7 against 98.9 in Utah (US = 100). The typical home costs $534,582 in Utah and $371,854 in Wyoming. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$24,178 a year after typical costs in Utah and -$6,300 in Wyoming.
Wyoming takes a smaller share in taxes
Utah collects 9.46% 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).
Utah pays more
Median household income is $96,658 in Utah and $75,532 in Wyoming, with unemployment at 3.6% and 3.4%. Violent crime runs 236 per 100,000 residents in Utah and 180 in Wyoming.
Moves between the two run about even
1,429 people moved from Utah to Wyoming and 1,242 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Wyoming fits families and retirees better
For families, Utah ranks #11 of 50 and Wyoming #2; for retirees, Utah ranks #12 and Wyoming #1.
Utah vs Wyoming: frequently asked questions
Is Utah or Wyoming better to live in?
Utah ranks #6 of 50 overall and Wyoming #2 as of the latest release. Wyoming is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 92.7 vs 98.9), has no income tax, and has a 24% lower violent crime rate. Wyoming scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 5.
Is Utah cheaper than Wyoming?
Wyoming is cheaper than Utah: cost of living index 92.7 vs 98.9 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$24,178 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Utah, and -$6,300 in Wyoming. The typical home value is $534,582 in Utah and $371,854 in Wyoming.
Which has lower taxes, Utah or Wyoming?
Wyoming has the lower tax burden: 5.79% of income in state and local taxes vs 9.46% in Utah. Utah's top income tax rate is 4.55%, its effective property tax rate 0.55% and its combined sales tax 7.42%; Wyoming's are zero, 0.58% and 5.56%.
Is Utah safer than Wyoming?
Wyoming is safer: 180 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 236 in Utah, per the FBI. Utah ranks #17 of 50 for violent crime and Wyoming #5. Property crime is 1,416 per 100,000 in Utah and 1,038 in Wyoming. The safest tracked cities are Riverton, UT, and Laramie, WY.
Are homes more expensive in Utah or Wyoming?
Homes are 44% more expensive in Utah: the typical home value is $534,582 in Utah and $371,854 in Wyoming. Buying the typical home takes about $133,317 of household income in Utah and $95,729 in Wyoming, against median incomes of $96,658 and $75,532.
Do people earn more in Utah or Wyoming?
Utah pays more: median household income is $96,658 vs $75,532 in Wyoming, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 3.6% in Utah and 3.4% in Wyoming. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Utah's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 20 after adjusting for local costs and Wyoming's in 0.
Are more people moving from Utah to Wyoming or from Wyoming to Utah?
820 households moved from Utah to Wyoming and 958 moved from Wyoming to Utah in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 138 households for Utah. Movers to Wyoming reported an average income of $62,617; movers to Utah reported $63,730. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 1,429 people (±821) moving from Utah to Wyoming and 1,242 (±820) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Utah or Wyoming?
Wyoming is the better fit for retirees: #1 of 50 on the retiree index vs #12 for Utah. Utah 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 +$26,794 left after typical costs in Utah and +$38,377 in Wyoming.
Which is better for families, Utah or Wyoming?
Wyoming is the better fit for families: #2 of 50 on the families index vs #11 for Utah. Center-based infant care costs $14,533 a year in Utah and $13,120 in Wyoming. High school graduation rates are 88.2% and 81.8%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$24,178 after typical costs in Utah and -$6,300 in Wyoming.
Is Wyoming better than Utah?
Yes: Wyoming ranks higher than Utah overall, #2 of 50 vs #6, with a composite score of 79.9 to 75.4. Wyoming leads 6 of 11 categories and Utah leads 5, including health and economy. Which is better for you depends on how you weigh cost, safety, schools, taxes and pay.
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Why this pair is featured: bordering states.