Cost of Living in Natrona County, Wyoming
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Natrona County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Natrona County ranks #1,082 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 34%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Natrona County, Wyoming
Natrona: Slightly Above National Affordability
Natrona County's rent-to-income ratio of 16.4% sits comfortably within the national comfort zone, though median household income of $71,247 runs 5% below the national average of $74,755. Renters here face moderate pressure, neither exceptionally strained nor exceptionally comfortable by national standards.
Near-Average Affordability for Wyoming
Natrona County's 16.4% rent-to-income ratio ranks just slightly above Wyoming's state average of 15.5%, placing it firmly in the state's middle tier. Among the eight surveyed counties, Natrona represents the typical Wyoming housing market experience.
Market Rates in a Mid-Size County
Natrona's median rent of $973/month runs just 4% above the state average and reflects its position as Wyoming's second-largest metro area, anchored by Casper. Home values of $260,400 sit at the middle of the regional range, with ownership costs of $1,099/month pulling above renting by a substantial margin.
Natrona's Housing-Income Balance
Renters dedicate $973 monthly while homeowners carry $1,099, with median household income of $71,247 meaning families allocate 16.4% to rent—slightly strained but sustainable. The ownership premium of $126/month positions Natrona's housing market between pure affordability and true scarcity.
Natrona Offers Wyoming's Middle Ground
Natrona County delivers mid-market housing costs in Wyoming's second-largest job center, making it a smart option if you want regional opportunity without Laramie's premium pricing. Run the numbers against smaller counties like Platte or Lincoln to see if the extra metro amenities justify the slightly higher cost structure.
Cost of Living Advisory: Natrona County
Affordability Verdict
Natrona County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $973/month representing approximately 16.4% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 27.0%.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Natrona County pay $973/month on average, compared to $1,099/month for homeowners. This market favors renters by about 11%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $38,920/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $47,100/year. With a median household income of $71,247, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 27.0% of renter households in Natrona County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Wyoming, Natrona County is more affordable than Sweetwater County by roughly 7% ($973/mo vs $913/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Natrona County
Rent Burden
16.4%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,662
per month
Owner Cost Burden
18.5%
of gross income
The median home in Natrona County may be a stretch
Median home value is $260,400. Estimated monthly cost: $2,079 vs. your max of $1,662.
Rent Affordability Guide
Income Needed Calculator
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Based on the 30% rule for rent and 28% rule for housing costs (mortgage + owner costs). Mortgage estimate assumes 20% down, 7.2% interest, 30-year fixed.
Frequently Asked Questions
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See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.
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