Is Laramie Safe, Pros and cons of living in Laramie

Laramie, Wyoming, nestled in the picturesque high plains between the Snowy Range and Laramie Mountain ranges, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and small-town charm. Known as the “Gem City of the Plains,” it sits at an elevation of 7,200 feet, providing a stunning backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking a connection with nature. The city’s rich history, dating back to its origins as a railroad town, is evident in its well-preserved downtown and its place in women’s suffrage history.

As the home of the University of Wyoming, Laramie possesses a vibrant academic and cultural scene, complemented by a growing presence in technology, industry, and agriculture. This diverse economic base contributes to a dynamic community that balances its historical roots with forward-looking development. The city’s proximity to natural attractions like the Medicine Bow National Forest and Vedauwoo Recreation Area further enhances its appeal for those who appreciate outdoor recreation and scenic landscapes.

Is it Safe to Live in Laramie?

Laramie’s overall crime rate is lower than the national average, with a total crime rate that is 39% lower per 100,000 residents (as reported by AreaVibes). This translates to approximately 1.15 daily crimes, including 0.12 violent crimes and 1.03 property crimes. Violent crime in Laramie is reported at 64% below the national average, with a rate of 1.1 per 1,000 residents (as reported by AreaVibes and Reolink). Property crime is also significantly lower than the national average, at 34% less per 100,000 residents (as reported by AreaVibes).

While Laramie is generally considered safe, crime rates can vary by neighborhood. Residents often consider the northeast part of the city to be the safest, with a lower chance of being a victim of crime compared to central neighborhoods. The chance of being a victim of crime in Laramie varies, ranging from 1 in 23 in central neighborhoods to 1 in 67 in the northeast (as reported by AreaVibes). The city has a strong police presence and implements residential and student safety programs (as reported by Reolink).

Housing Market and Cost of Living

The cost of living in Laramie is approximately 7% lower than the national average (as reported by PayScale and Apartments.com). Housing expenses are particularly affordable, being about 18% lower than the national average (as reported by PayScale and Apartments.com). The median listing price for a home in Laramie is around $402,700 (as reported by Redfin). The median rental price in Laramie is approximately $1,171 per month (as reported by Zumper).

For renters, the cost of living is about 13% lower than the national average. Average monthly rent for a studio apartment is around $743, for a one-bedroom is $790, and for a two-bedroom is $980 (as reported by Apartments.com). These figures suggest that Laramie offers a more budget-friendly housing market compared to many other cities in the United States.

Job Market and Economy

Laramie’s economy is robust and diverse, with a significant portion of its workforce employed in educational services, healthcare, and accommodation and food services (as reported by Data USA). The University of Wyoming is a major employer, contributing to the city’s academic and research sectors (as reported by Data USA and Zippia). Other key industries include utilities, mining, and finance (as reported by Data USA).

The average salary in Laramie is approximately $52,928 per year, or $25.45 per hour (as reported by ZipRecruiter). However, other sources indicate a slightly different average, with one reporting $63,190 per year or $30 per hour (as reported by ERI SalaryExpert), and another stating $46,000 per year or $22 per hour (as reported by Zippia). The unemployment rate in Laramie was 3.40% as of recently (as reported by YCharts), which is higher than its long-term average but reflects a dynamic job market.

Climate and Weather

Laramie experiences a semi-arid climate characterized by long, cold, dry winters and short, warm summers. Temperatures typically range from a low of around 9°F in winter to a high of about 82°F in summer (as reported by myPerfectWeather). The city receives an average of 14 inches of precipitation annually, with approximately 71 inches of snowfall (as reported by myPerfectWeather).

The area experiences considerable sunshine, with an average of about 250 days of sunshine annually (as reported by University of Wyoming). May is typically the wettest month, while January sees the fewest wet days. Winter travel can be challenging due to frequent winter conditions on highways, but the state provides updated travel information for residents (as reported by University of Wyoming).

Education and Demographics

Laramie is home to a diverse population, with White individuals forming the largest ethnic group at approximately 78.4% (as reported by Laramie Demographics). Hispanic or Latino individuals constitute about 11.4% of the population, followed by those of Two or More Races at 4.6% (as reported by Laramie Demographics). The median age in Laramie is 26.9 years, which is significantly younger than the national median (as reported by Laramie, Wyoming Population 2026).

Public schools in Laramie generally perform well, with average math and reading proficiency scores exceeding the state average (as reported by Best Public Schools in Laramie, WY). Laramie High School has been recognized as a top-ranked high school in Wyoming (as reported by KSL.com). The city’s educational landscape is further enriched by the University of Wyoming and other educational institutions, contributing to a youthful demographic and a strong academic environment.