Wyoming is a state known for its natural beauty, low taxes, and friendly people. However, not all towns in Wyoming are equally attractive to live in. Some towns have seen a decline in population, economy, and quality of life in recent years. Here are five Wyoming towns that people are fleeing as soon as possible.
1. Rawlins
Rawlins is a town in south-central Wyoming, with a population of about 8,500. It used to be a thriving railroad and mining town, but now it suffers from high unemployment, crime, and poverty. The median household income in Rawlins is $48,000, which is below the national average. The poverty rate is 17%, and the crime rate is 50% higher than the national average. Rawlins also has a harsh climate, with cold winters and hot summers. The average annual snowfall is 38 inches, and the average annual temperature is 43°F. Many residents have left Rawlins in search of better opportunities elsewhere.
2. Rock Springs
Rock Springs is another town in south-central Wyoming, with a population of about 23,000. It is also a former railroad and mining town, but unlike Rawlins, it has not diversified its economy. Rock Springs relies heavily on the coal and natural gas industries, which have been declining in recent years due to environmental regulations and market forces. The unemployment rate in Rock Springs is 7.5%, which is higher than the state and national averages3. Rock Springs also has a high cost of living, with a median home value of $216,000, which is above the national average4. Rock Springs has a reputation for being a rough and unfriendly town, with a history of racial tensions and violence. Many people have moved away from Rock Springs to find more stable and diverse jobs and communities.
3. Riverton
Riverton is a town in central Wyoming, with a population of about 10,500. It is located on the Wind River Indian Reservation, which is home to the Eastern Shoshone and Northern Arapaho tribes. Riverton has a complex and contentious relationship with the reservation, as it was originally part of the reservation land but was later annexed by the state of Wyoming. Riverton faces many social and economic challenges, such as high rates of substance abuse, domestic violence, and suicide. The poverty rate in Riverton is 20%, and the crime rate is 80% higher than the national average. Riverton also has a low educational attainment, with only 18% of adults having a bachelor’s degree or higher. Many people have left Riverton to escape the poverty and violence that plague the town.
4. Thermopolis
Thermopolis is a town in north-central Wyoming, with a population of about 2,800. It is famous for being the home of the world’s largest mineral hot spring, which attracts many tourists and visitors. However, Thermopolis has not been able to capitalize on its natural attraction, as it has failed to develop a vibrant and diverse economy. Thermopolis relies mostly on agriculture and tourism, which are seasonal and low-paying industries. The median household income in Thermopolis is $41,000, which is below the national average. The poverty rate is 15%, and the unemployment rate is 6.5%. Thermopolis also has a declining and aging population, with a median age of 49, which is much higher than the national average of 38. Many young people have left Thermopolis to pursue higher education and better careers elsewhere.
5. Wheatland
Wheatland is a town in southeastern Wyoming, with a population of about 3,600. It is the county seat of Platte County, which is one of the most sparsely populated counties in the state. Wheatland is a rural and agricultural town, with wheat, corn, and cattle being the main products. Wheatland has a slow and stagnant economy, with little growth and diversification. The median household income in Wheatland is $46,000, which is below the national average. The poverty rate is 13%, and the unemployment rate is 5.5%. Wheatland also has a lack of amenities and entertainment options, as it has few restaurants, shops, and cultural venues. Wheatland has a low quality of life, with limited opportunities and choices for its residents. Many people have left Wheatland to seek more urban and dynamic lifestyles elsewhere.
Conclusion
Wyoming is a state that offers many benefits and advantages to its residents, such as low taxes, natural beauty, and friendly people. However, not all towns in Wyoming are equally appealing and desirable to live in. Some towns have seen a decline in population, economy, and quality of life in recent years, due to various factors such as industry changes, environmental issues, social problems, and personal preferences. These towns are Rawlins, Rock Springs, Riverton, Thermopolis, and Wheatland. These are the five Wyoming towns that people are fleeing as soon as possible.