The $100,000 Salary Analysis for Cheyenne

This guide strips away the hype. A $100,000 salary in Cheyenne is solid, but it is not "rich." Here is the math on what you actually take home and how far it goes.

1. The Verification Test

We start with your gross pay and remove the non-negotiable deductions. This is what actually hits your bank account.

• Gross Salary: $100,000
• Federal Tax (Est.): -$14,200
• FICA (Social Security/Medicare): -$7,650
• Wyoming State Tax: $0 (WY has no state income tax)
• Estimated Net Pay (Annual): $78,150
• Estimated Net Pay (Monthly): $6,513

Note: Your actual paycheck will vary based on 401k contributions, health insurance premiums, and specific W-4 withholdings.

2. Smart Budget (50/30/20)

Using the $6,513 monthly net pay and the local rent data provided.

Needs (50%): Max $3,256

• Rent (1BR): $917
• Utilities (Heat/Electric/Internet): ~$250
• Groceries: ~$500
• Transportation (Gas/Insurance): ~$400
• Remaining for Needs: ~$1,189 (Available for debt payments or higher rent).

Wants (30%): Max $1,954

• This is your discretionary fund. Dining out, hobbies, subscriptions, and travel come from this bucket.

Savings (20%): Max $1,302

• This is your wealth-building layer. Emergency fund, retirement investing (beyond employer match), or saving for a house down payment.

3. Cheyenne Tax Context

Wyoming is a "Zero Income Tax" state. This is your biggest financial advantage.

• Vs. California: A $100k salary in CA nets you roughly $15,000 less per year after state taxes.
• Vs. Texas/Florida: You are in the same tax bracket. No difference on state income tax.

Warning: To offset the lack of income tax, Wyoming relies on high sales tax and property tax. Your cost of living will be front-loaded in consumption, not earnings.

4. FAQ

"Is $100k good here?"
It is a high salary for the area. You will live comfortably and save money. However, do not mistake "high local salary" for "high wealth." You are strictly upper-middle class, not wealthy.

"Local income tax?"
No. Cheyenne and Wyoming levy 0% state income tax on wages.