Want to move. Considering Wy (Laramie, Sheridan: real estate, rentals, job market)

[Ct_bow]

I live in Connecticut (about an hour from NYC) and am lucky enough to be eligable to retire at 46 (but still need to work even part-time if need be). I allways liked the idea of moving to Wyoming. I like to hunt, fish and snowmobile. I'm not looking for isolation but I certainly dont want the crowds and traffic that I'm used to.

I hope to make a couple of trips out there this summer and check out different areas of the state and was wondering if you folks could fill me in on what it's like in different parts of the state (northwest, soutwest, center, etc). Things like climate, job market's, real estate, terrain etc. I'm just trying to get a feel for the state right now so I have a better idea where I might focus. I'll do a little more fine tuning when I narrow down whereabouts I would like to live. Thanks.

Dave

[sunsprit]

May I suggest that you take the time to read through the Wyoming threads of the last year on these issues? There's a wealth of information posted in response to your concerns by others already here ....

Please note that Wyoming is in a down market right now; tourism is down this winter and jobs in the extractive industries have been cut back in many areas. It may be awhile before the job market comes back, and this is a big issue in light of the tight housing market (esp rentals) in the historically "boom town" areas of the state.

[WyoNewk]

Congratulations on your early retirement. Wyoming is a nice place to live.

Climate in Wyoming is greatly dictated by elevation. The higher the elevation, the cooler (or colder) and windier. Generally the southern part of the state has higher elevation and stronger winds, but local topography can also play a major part of determining winds.

Lander, in central Wyoming, is at the base of the highest mountains in the state and is somewhat protected by those mountains. I'd rate it #1 for hunting, fishing, snowmobiling and overall livability.

If you have substantial investment money for housing, Jackson would be right up there with Lander. It's certainly a beautiful area, but the high cost of living and summer tourist traffic keep it from my list. You should check it out, however.

Tied for 2nd place: Cody in the NW, Buffalo, Story and Sheridan in the NC, Sundance in the NE. These are all at the foot of mountains (or the Black Hills for Sundance).

Across southern Wyoming you might consider Laramie and Saratoga, and in the west Alpine, just southwest of Jackson.

Enjoy your vacation!

[Ct_bow]

Thanks Wyonewk. That's good info. I'll check them out and add them to my list of places to visit.

[Froggie Legs]

Originally Posted by Ct_bow

I'm not looking for isolation but I certainly dont want the crowds and traffic that I'm used to.

Dave

Well there certainly aren't as many crowded places...but I do remember seeing the occasional Wyoming Traffic Jam when I lived there