The $100,000 Salary Analysis for Casper

This analysis strips away the hype and focuses on the raw math of a $100k salary in Casper, Wyoming. We are looking at Purchasing Power, not just the number on your offer letter.

1. The Verification Test

Let's see what a $100,000 salary actually yields in your bank account.

• Gross Annual Income: $100,000
• Federal Tax (Est.): -$14,398 (Based on single filer, standard deduction)
• FICA (Social Security/Medicare): -$7,650
• Wyoming State Tax: $0 (WY has no state income tax on wages)

Estimated Annual Net Pay: $77,952
Estimated Monthly Net Pay: $6,496

Note: Wyoming does not tax earned income, but you will still pay sales tax on purchases and property taxes if you own a home.

2. Smart Budget (50/30/20 Rule)

Using the $6,496 monthly net figure, here is how the standard budget breakdown looks in reality.

Needs (50% = $3,248)

• Rent (1BR Avg): $893
• Utilities (Electric/Heating): $150 (Winters are expensive)
• Groceries: $400
• Car Payment/Gas: $500 (Casper is car-dependent)
• Insurance: $150
• Remaining for Needs: $1,155 (Buffer for health insurance premiums or debt payments)

Wants (30% = $1,949)

• Dining out, entertainment, shopping, subscriptions.
• Reality Check: You have significant flexibility here unless you have a high car note or expensive hobbies.

Savings (20% = $1,299)

• Retirement contributions (401k/IRA), emergency fund, investments.
• Analysis: This is a healthy savings rate for this market.

3. Casper Tax Context

Wyoming is a "Tax Haven" regarding income.

• vs. Texas/Florida: Effectively identical. Both have 0% state income tax. Casper may have slightly lower property taxes than major TX metros.
• vs. California/NY: You are saving roughly $6,000 - $8,000 annually in state income taxes alone compared to these high-tax states.
• The Catch: You pay for it in sales tax. Casper's combined sales tax is roughly 6%. You feel this every time you buy something.

4. FAQ

"Is $100k good here?"
Yes. It is significantly above the local median household income. You will live comfortably, afford a decent apartment, drive a reliable car, and save money. However, do not mistake "rich" for "wealthy." $100k here provides a middle-to-upper-middle class lifestyle, not a luxury one.

"Local income tax?"
No. Casper (Natrona County) adds 0% to your income tax bill. The only "local" tax that matters is the sales tax mentioned above.