Cost of Living in Cheyenne, WY: A Complete Renter's Guide (2026)
Average rent runs between $1,117 and $1,247 a month, roughly 6–31% below the national average
Most renters can live comfortably on $3,500–$5,500 a month in total expenses. Combine that with Wyoming's zero state income tax, and Cheyenne is one of the most affordable state capitals in the country to rent in which is exactly why so many people moving here from Denver or Fort Collins are surprised by how far their paycheck goes.
If you're weighing a move to Cheyenne, here's what your budget actually looks like.
How Much Does It Cost to Live in Cheyenne, WY?
Overall, the cost of living in Cheyenne is close to the national average for most categories, but rent is where renters see the biggest savings. According to Apartments.com's cost-of-living data, a renter's monthly cost of living in Cheyenne runs about 6.8% below the national average. Utilities run roughly 11% below the national average, and groceries sit close to the national average (about 0.3% higher).
Apartments in Cheyenne, WY: What to Expect
Whether you're searching "apartments in Cheyenne WY," "apartments for rent Cheyenne WY," or just "apartments Cheyenne," rent varies depending on unit size and community per RentHop's Cheyenne rent data:
- One-bedroom apartments: roughly $900–$1,129/month, depending on location and finish level.
- Two-bedroom apartments: roughly $1,100–$1,400/month.
- Downtown/central Cheyenne tends to run slightly higher than outlying areas.
At Pointe Plaza, you can choose the layout and privacy level that fits your lifestyle, The Lofts offer open-concept, loft-style living, The Commons offer traditional one- and two-bedroom apartment homes, and The Villas Lakeside offer townhome-style units with more space and privacy. See our full community comparison or contact our leasing team for current availability and pricing.
Utilities, Groceries, and Transportation
Budget roughly $140–$180/month for utilities in a typical Cheyenne apartment according to RentCafe's cost-of-living calculator, depending on unit size and the season — winter heating costs run higher (see our Winterizing Your Apartment in Cheyenne, WY guide at /blog/winterizing-apartment-cheyenne-wy for ways to cut that bill). Groceries and transportation costs track close to the national average, so the real savings in Cheyenne come from rent and taxes, not day-to-day spending.
Why Wyoming's No Income Tax Matters for Renters
Wyoming has no state income tax, a savings that applies to every paycheck, not just homeowners. For a renter earning $50,000–$65,000 a year, that can mean thousands of dollars back in your pocket annually compared to living in a state like Colorado. It's one of the most underrated reasons Cheyenne outperforms nearby cities on real, take-home affordability.
What Salary Do You Need to Live Comfortably in Cheyenne?
For a single renter, a comfortable lifestyle in Cheyenne typically requires $65,000–$75,000 a year before taxes, covering a two-bedroom rental, utilities, groceries, transportation, and discretionary spending. A more modest, one-bedroom lifestyle can work on a smaller budget, closer to $3,500/month in total expenses.
Cheyenne vs. Denver: How Much You Save
Renters relocating from Denver typically see meaningfully lower rent in Cheyenne, plus the added benefit of no state income tax — a combination that can add up to significant annual savings, especially for dual-income households commuting or working remotely.
Frequently Asked Questions
