Wyoming's 10 Best Retirement Towns Ranked
Wyoming is often known for its rugged landscapes and cowboy culture, but over the past few years, it has become a dream destination for retirees looking to embrace a peaceful, nature-filled lifestyle during their golden years. Retirees who settle down in the Cowboy State will enjoy the lowest income tax rate among all the Rocky Mountain states, reasonable living and housing costs, and many outdoor activities to stay active and engaged. If you seek a place with the perfect balance of safety, affordability, and scenic beauty, look no further than these ten small towns in Wyoming.
Cody
Cody sits about an hour from the east entrance of Yellowstone National Park and is a top retirement destination named after Wild West icon Buffalo Bill Cody. With a population of just over 10,000, this small town celebrates its rich Western heritage front and center. The Buffalo Bill Center of the West is a glorious cowboy museum filled with artifacts, sculptures, and interesting exhibits. Downtown Cody has nightly gunfight reenactments, summer rodeos, and a host of locally owned businesses, cafes, and bars that will make you feel you are wandering through an Old West cowtown.
Outdoor enthusiasts will want to explore the nearby Shoshone National Forest, which has many hiking, biking, and wildlife-viewing opportunities. Fishing is a year-round activity in Cody, and the local guides can direct you to the best spots to catch the perfect trout. During the winter months, ample skiing or snowmobiling opportunities exist.
According to realtor.com, the median home listing price in Cody is $580,200. While the overall cost of living is less than the national average by 16% (according to the Economic Research Institute), it is just slightly below the rest of the state. Healthcare is anchored by Cody Regional Health, which provides complete medical care facilities. Additionally, Absaroka Senior Living is an excellent assisted living facility in the heart of Cody, with excellent reviews should this option be needed.
Sheridan
Sheridan is the sixth most populous city in the state, offering a blend of historic charm and modern amenities. Conveniently situated about halfway between Mt. Rushmore and Yellowstone, the community is the gateway to the Bighorn Mountain range, with exquisite scenic views and ample hiking, horseback riding, fishing, and wildlife-watching opportunities.
The town has the historic Sheridan Inn, a legendary hotel founded by the Chicago, Burlington, and Quincy Railroad in 1893 at the urging of Buffalo Bill Cody. The inn is filled with Old West mementos, artifacts, and displays. In addition, the downtown historic district features various shows, eateries, coffee shops, and bars that will keep seniors engaged and active.
Residents have access to quality healthcare at Sheridan Memorial Hospital, which has served the local community since 1922. As of January 2025, the median home listing price is around $540,000. With living costs about 11% under the national average (according to the Economic Research Institute) and nearly 23% of the locals in Sheridan aged 65 or over (according to Census.gov), this small town of 19,000 townsfolk offers plenty for senior adults.
Lander
Lander is an ideal retirement destination nestled at the base of the Wind River Range. The small community of 7,500 residents offers breathtaking scenery and year-round opportunities for hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. One of the most scenic spots is Sinks Canyon State Park, with stunning vistas and ample hiking. During winter, Beaver Creek Nordic Ski Area is a short drive away and an ideal place for cross-country skiing. Retirees who enjoy an active lifestyle will find many trails, parks, and open spaces to explore. Those who prefer a quieter pace can take in the town's historic downtown, filled with locally owned shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions like the Museum of the American West.
Lander also offers quality healthcare services, with SageWest Health Care providing essential medical support to residents. The cost of living is reasonable compared to national averages, and according to realtor.com, the median home listing price for a home is $550,000.
Buffalo
Buffalo is a fantastic place to retire for those who appreciate small-town charm, stunning natural beauty, and a relaxed pace of life. Nestled at the foothills of the Bighorn Mountains, Buffalo offers retirees easy access to outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing, making it perfect for those who love nature. The town is rich in history, with attractions like the Jim Gatchell Memorial Museum and the historic Occidental Hotel, where residents can step back in time and experience the Old West. Every July, the town celebrates its sheep-herding roots with the free Sheep and Wool Festival, where residents enjoy live folk music, food, vendors, and educational demonstrations of its sheep culture.
Buffalo has nearly 27% of the residents are over 65. The community enjoys excellent healthcare services through the Johnson County Healthcare Center, ensuring that retirees can access quality medical care. Expect to spend about $514,500, the median home listing price in January 2025.
Evanston
Evanston is a hidden gem for retirees seeking an affordable and scenic place to enjoy their golden years. Located near the Utah border, the small town of 11,784 residents offers breathtaking mountain views, crisp, clean air, and easy access to outdoor recreation. The nearby Uinta Mountains provide countless opportunities for hiking, fishing, and wildlife watching, while Bear River State Park offers paved walking trails and picnic areas perfect for relaxing afternoons. The town’s historic downtown is home to charming shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions, including the Uinta County Museum, which showcases the area's prosperous railroad and frontier history.
Housing remains relatively affordable compared to other parts of Wyoming (the median home listing price in Evanston is $403,600). Seniors can stretch a few more dollars from their monthly budgets because living costs are lower than in many larger cities. (According to according to the Economic Research Institute, living costs are nearly 18% less than the national average.) Finally, Evanston Regional Hospital anchors the healthcare with a 42-bed facility offering inpatient and outpatient services.
Powell
If you enjoy breathtaking mountain views, year-round outdoor activities, and a strong community base for support, this small college town in the Big Horn Basin might be the perfect place to retire. Retirees can enjoy fishing and boating at nearby Buffalo Bill Reservoir, explore the scenic Beartooth Highway, or take day trips to Yellowstone National Park, just a short drive away. While winters can be pretty brutal in Wyoming, Powell enjoys a slightly less severe winter season than the rest of the state. Local attractions like the Homesteader Museum and a vibrant downtown district offer plenty of activities for seniors to explore.
Powell is an attractive option for those looking to stretch their retirement budget. The cost of living is relatively low, and housing remains affordable, with median home listing prices around $524,500 as of January 2025. Powell Valley Healthcare manages the local hospital and long-term care facility, and Northwest College offers tuition-free classes for retirees who enjoy keeping their minds active.
Worland
Worland is another community in the heart of the Big Horn Basin, offering residents breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Outdoor enthusiasts will love the easy access to the Big Horn Mountains to explore miles of scenic hiking trails, enjoy tranquil camping spots, or cast a line into the pristine waters of the Big Horn River. The Washakie Museum and Cultural Center provides engaging exhibits, educational programs, and a deep dive into the region's rich history for those seeking cultural enrichment. If you enjoy the aroma of smoke-kissed ribs, one of the best festivals is the state's Pepsi Wyoming BBQ Championship, which is held in Worland during the summer.
Housing and living costs are very reasonable (the median home listing price was $272,000 in January 2025) for retirees looking to stretch their retirement budget. With healthcare provided by Washakie Medical Center, this small, simple community can help seniors experience a fulfilling and enjoyable retirement.
Jackson
Jackson is widely regarded as one of the premier retirement destinations in the nation, thanks to its stunning natural beauty and proximity to Grand Teton National Park. However, it also ranks among the most expensive places to live, both in Wyoming and across the country, with median home listing prices a whopping $3.8 million. While retirees can enjoy breathtaking mountain vistas, world-class outdoor recreation, and a vibrant cultural scene, living costs are approximately 39% higher than the state average.
Despite its high cost, Jackson offers unparalleled benefits for retirees, including a wealth of amenities and exceptional healthcare. The town ensures top-tier medical care with St. John's Health, voted one of the best hospitals in the US by Newsweek.
Newcastle
Newcastle is a small town of about 3,500 residents in the Black Hills region near the South Dakota state line. Nearby attractions include the Black Hills National Forest and Keyhole State Park, which offer ample opportunities for hiking or fishing. The city's historic downtown adds to its appeal, and history buffs will want to visit the Anna Miller Museum to view detailed exhibits on the local heritage.
Housing costs are affordable, with the median listing price of a home around $275,000 (in January, 2025). Living costs for food and fuel are about 2% lower than in other communities in the state. Weston County Health Services anchors the medical care for the region, operating a small 12-bed hospital and 58-bed nursing facility.
Laramie
Laramie is one of the larger towns in the state, with a population of over 31,000. Home to the University of Wyoming, it offers retirees access to lifelong learning, cultural events, and a lively arts and music scene. The historic downtown is filled with unique shops, local restaurants, and museums, including the Wyoming Territorial Prison State Historic Site. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the nearby Snowy Range Mountains and Medicine Bow National Forest, which provide year-round recreation such as hiking, fishing, and cross-country skiing.
While housing availability in Laramie tends to be limited during the academic year, primarily due to demand from university staff and students, the median home listing price is reasonable, at $425,000. Healthcare services are top-notch, with Ivinson Memorial Hospital operating a well-equipped 99-bed facility that provides comprehensive medical care. Additionally, the community offers strong support services for retirees, including several excellent senior living options, such as the Regency Retirement Residence.
Wyoming's top ten small towns for retirement offer a perfect blend of safety, scenic beauty, affordability, and strong community support. Whether you are drawn to the historic charm of Buffalo, the outdoor adventures in Lander, or the luxurious high life of Jackson, each town provides benefits that cater to a fulfilling retirement lifestyle. If you are looking for a place to settle down that combines Western charm with modern conveniences, Wyoming's small towns are a top-notch choice for retirement.
