5 Wyoming Towns People Are Fleeing as Soon as Possible

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Written By Blue & Gold NLR Team

 

 

Wyoming is renowned for its natural beauty, sparse population, and advantageous tax rates. Nevertheless, not every town within the Cowboy State offers an equally appealing living environment. Certain towns grapple with economic downturns, environmental challenges, or societal issues, rendering them less attractive to potential residents. Below are five Wyoming towns experiencing significant population decline, as indicated by the most recent census data and local accounts.

1. Rock Springs

Located in southwestern Wyoming, Rock Springs was once a thriving coal mining and railroad center. However, the town has been adversely affected by the coal industry’s decline, resulting in job losses and diminished revenue. Since 2010, the town’s population has dwindled by 9.4%, marking it as Wyoming’s fastest-shrinking town. Moreover, Rock Springs contends with a high crime rate, earning the dubious distinction of being the most perilous town in Wyoming in 2020, with 1,027 violent and property crimes per 100,000 individuals.

2. Rawlins

Situated in south-central Wyoming, Rawlins serves as the county seat of Carbon County. The town’s economy primarily relies on the nearby Wyoming State Penitentiary, which employs approximately 500 individuals. Nevertheless, Rawlins grapples with economic monoculture, dwindling population figures, and a steep cost of living. Since 2010, its population has decreased by 6.8%, while the median home value stands at $157,900, a staggering 22% higher than the state average. Furthermore, Rawlins suffers from a high poverty rate, with 16.4% of residents living below the poverty line.

3. Thermopolis

Located in north-central Wyoming, Thermopolis is renowned for its hot springs and dinosaur fossils, attracting tourists to sites like Hot Springs State Park, the Wyoming Dinosaur Center, and the Wind River Canyon. However, the town grapples with dwindling tourism, inadequate infrastructure, and subpar quality of life. Its population has declined by 6.5% since 2010, and the median household income of $41,250 is 24% lower than the state average. Additionally, Thermopolis contends with a high unemployment rate, with 7.2% of residents unemployed.

4. Kemmerer

In western Wyoming lies Kemmerer, the birthplace of J.C. Penney, founder of the retail chain. The town’s economy is heavily reliant on coal mining and power generation. However, the closure of several coal mines and power plants has dealt a severe blow to Kemmerer, resulting in job losses and revenue shortfalls. Since 2010, the town’s population has decreased by 5.9%, with a median household income of $54,583, 10% lower than the state average. Moreover, Kemmerer faces a heavy tax burden, with a 6% sales tax rate and a 0.64% property tax rate.

5. Wheatland

Wheatland, located in southeastern Wyoming and serving as the county seat of Platte County, relies predominantly on agriculture, particularly wheat and cattle production. However, the town grapples with drought, low commodity prices, and competition from larger farms. Since 2010, its population has decreased by 5.3%, with a median home value of $164,600, 25% higher than the state average. Additionally, Wheatland lags in educational attainment, with only 17.8% of residents holding a bachelor’s degree or higher.

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