Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Ranchester, WY
Considering a move to Ranchester, WY? This friendly town of about 1,150 residents offers a relaxed, small-town lifestyle with low crime—just 92 violent crimes per 100k—and affordable housing, where median home prices are around $257,000 and average rent is $900. Commutes are short, schools are well-regarded, and you’ll enjoy 62% sunny days annually with scenic mountain views. With a cost of living below the national average, Ranchester is an inviting spot for families and anyone seeking Wyoming’s quieter pace of life.
Demographics - Ranchester, WY
Demographics - Ranchester, WY
Ranchester is a small, close-knit community of around 1,150 residents, with a median age of 35.6 and a balanced gender ratio. The town is predominantly White, with small Native American and Hispanic or Latino populations, and a density that offers both neighborly connections and personal space. A modest percentage of non-English speakers adds some cultural diversity to the area.
Population:
1,150
Density:
1,025 per sq mi
Median Age:
35.6
Gender Ratio:
97 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
5.3%
Ethnic Composition
White:
92.7%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Ranchester, WY?
Ranchester's cost of living is notably affordable, with a median home value of $257,000 and average rent at $900, both well below national averages. Utilities and groceries are reasonably priced, and Wyoming's 0% state income tax makes it financially attractive for new residents. The overall cost of living index is 93, indicating costs are lower than in many U.S. cities.
Median House Value:
$257,000
Gross Rent:
$900
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,125
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,210
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$410
State Taxes:
Low:
0%
|
High:
0%
Cost Of Living Index:
93.0
Grocery:
96.5
Housing:
80.4
Utilities:
95.3
Transportation:
92.1
Health Care:
94.8
Miscellaneous:
90.7
Crime
Is Ranchester, WY a safe place to live?
This town is recognized for its safety, with only 92 violent crimes per 100,000 people and a low chance of being affected by property crime. Residents appreciate the peace of mind that comes with these low crime rates. Ranchester is a great option for families and individuals seeking a secure environment.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
92
Property Crimes Per 100k:
770
Crime Index:
862
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 1,087
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 130
Weather
What is the weather like in Ranchester, WY year-round?
Ranchester experiences all four seasons, with mild summers reaching up to 86°F and chilly winters averaging lows of 15°F. The area receives about 15.2 inches of annual rainfall and enjoys around 62% sunny days, ideal for those who appreciate clear skies and outdoor activities. Seasonal changes bring variety to daily life throughout the year.
Winter
Min:
15°F
Max:
36°F
Spring
Min:
32°F
Max:
61°F
Summer
Min:
51°F
Max:
86°F
Fall
Min:
30°F
Max:
63°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
15.2 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
62%
Neighbors
Residents of Ranchester benefit from a friendly community with a median household income of $66,800 and a low poverty rate of 7.2%. Most neighbors have at least a high school diploma, and commutes are manageable at around 24 minutes. The area attracts those seeking a supportive, small-town atmosphere with strong local connections.
Median Income:
$29,400
Household Income:
$66,800
Family Income:
$76,200
Per Capita Income:
$28,900
Income Male:
$42,000
Income Female:
$35,000
Poverty Rate:
7.2%
Non English Speakers:
5.3%
Rent:
$900
Unemployment Rate:
3.7%
Public Transport Usage:
0.5%
Commute Time:
24.1 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
93.9%
Bachelors or More:
22.4%
Education
How are the schools in Ranchester, WY?
Families in Ranchester benefit from well-regarded public schools with low student-teacher ratios, such as Tongue River High, Middle, and Elementary schools. There are no private schools in town, but Sheridan College is only 15 miles away, offering higher education options. The area is known for its supportive learning environment and strong educational resources.
Public Schools
Name:
Tongue River Elementary School
Street:
111 West 5th Avenue
Phone:
307-655-9541
Students:
205
Student Teacher Ratio:
12:1
Name:
Tongue River Middle School
Street:
289 US-14
Phone:
307-655-9566
Students:
120
Student Teacher Ratio:
10:1
Name:
Tongue River High School
Street:
189 US-14
Phone:
307-655-2334
Students:
200
Student Teacher Ratio:
11:1
Colleges
Name:
Sheridan College
City:
Sheridan
State:
WY
Distance:
15 miles
Students:
2,000
Healthcare
Access to healthcare is solid, with Sheridan Memorial Hospital nearby providing emergency and general medical services. The town has 2.2 physicians per 1,000 residents and over 91% health insurance coverage, ensuring most people have access to care. The healthcare index of 77.2 reflects reliable medical options for locals.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Sheridan Memorial Hospital
Address:
1401 W 5th St, Sheridan, WY 82801
Phone:
(307) 672-1000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.2
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.7%
Health Care Index:
77.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Ranchester, WY?
Ranchester's housing market is stable and accessible, with a median home price of $257,000 and average two-bedroom rents at $900. The majority of homes are owner-occupied, and low foreclosure and vacancy rates indicate a healthy, competitive market. Steady 4.2% appreciation means investment in local real estate is promising.
Median Home Price:
$257,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$900
Owner Occupied Rate:
73.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.4%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.2%
New Construction Rate:
1.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.2%
DMV Information
Wyoming residents handle vehicle and licensing needs through the Wyoming Department of Transportation - Driver Services, located in Cheyenne. The department offers comprehensive DMV services, and information is easily accessible via their official website or by phone. This streamlined process helps newcomers settle quickly into life in Ranchester.
State:
Wyoming
Department:
Wyoming Department of Transportation - Driver Services
Address:
5300 Bishop Blvd, Cheyenne, WY 82009
Phone:
(307) 777-4375
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.