The $100,000 Salary Analysis for Evanston, WY

This analysis strips away marketing hype. We look at raw purchasing power in Evanston, Wyoming. Numbers are estimates; consult a CPA for your specific situation.

1. The Verification Test

A $100,000 salary is not $100,000 in your bank account. We calculate net pay to determine actual purchasing power.

• Gross Salary: $100,000
• Federal Tax (Est.): -$14,000 (Standard deduction, single filer, effective rate ~14%).
• FICA (Social Security/Medicare): -$7,650 (Mandatory 7.65%).
• Wyoming State Tax: $0 (WY has no state income tax).
• Estimated Net Pay (Annual): $78,350
• Estimated Net Pay (Monthly): $6,529

2. Smart Budget (50/30/20)

Based on a monthly net of $6,529:

• Needs (50% - $3,264):
  • Housing: Local rent averages are volatile due to the energy sector. A 1BR runs approx. $1,000 - $1,300. A 2BR runs $1,400 - $1,800.
  • Utilities: High. Expect $200 - $350 (Electric/Gas/Water) due to cold winters.
  • Groceries/Transport: The remainder covers fuel (likely a truck/SUV) and food.
• Wants (30% - $1,958): Dining out, entertainment, subscriptions. This buffer is tight if you carry high car payments.
• Savings/Debt (20% - $1,305): This is your safety net. It is sufficient for a modest emergency fund, but slow for aggressive investing.

3. Evanston Tax Context

Wyoming is a "Zero Income Tax" state. This is the primary financial advantage.

• vs. High-Tax (CA/NY): You keep roughly $6,000 - $8,000 more per year than you would in California or New York City on the same salary.
• vs. Low-Tax (TX/FL): You are in the same tier regarding income tax.
• The Catch: WY makes up for lost revenue through high property taxes and sales taxes. Your $1,305 monthly savings number is vulnerable if you buy a home here.

4. FAQ

"Is $100k good here?"
It is a livable wage, but not a "wealth" wage. You will live comfortably alone or as a couple. However, it does not stretch far if you support a family or carry significant debt. The recent housing cost spike in Uinta County has eroded the advantage WY once had.

"Local income tax?"
None. You do not file a Wyoming state income tax return.