Gillette, WY: The 2026 Relocation Deep Dive

1. Gillette: The Data Profile (2026)

Gillette represents a specific archetype in the 2026 post-remote economy: the resource-hub city. With a population of 33,278, it is statistically classified as a "smaller city," offering a density that avoids urban sprawl but maintains distinct economic gravity. The primary statistical anomaly—and attraction—is the income-to-cost ratio. The median household income stands at $90,699, which is +21.6% higher than the national median of $74,580.

However, the demographic profile reveals a workforce-driven economy rather than a tech-hub transplant destination. Only 23.1% of the population holds a bachelor's degree or higher, significantly trailing the US average of 33.1%. This suggests a labor market anchored in skilled trades, energy, and logistics rather than white-collar remote work.

Statistical Target Demographic: The data targets the "High-Earning Trades Professional" or the "Remote Worker Seeking Financial Arbitrage." This individual prioritizes raw disposable income over cultural density or educational attainment metrics.

2. Cost of Living Analysis

Gillette’s cost of living index is a statistical outlier. While national inflationary pressures have driven housing and service costs up, Gillette’s aggregate index remains at 100.0, exactly matching the national baseline. This is counter-intuitive given the high median income.

The "Gillette Advantage" is not found in the index, but in the composition of expenses. The most significant deviation is energy costs. Electricity averages 12.47 cents/kWh, compared to the US average of 16.0 cents/kWh. This 22.0% discount on power is a material factor for homeowners, particularly given the region's heating requirements.

Table 1: Cost of Living Breakdown (Monthly Budgets)

Disposable Income Analysis:
With a median income of $90,699, a household takes home approximately $68,000 annually after taxes. The family annual expenditure is roughly $68,280. This creates a razor-thin margin for the median earner. However, the top 25% of earners (likely exceeding $120,000) experience a massive surplus due to the fixed cost structure remaining at the national average while income scales regionally.

3. Housing Market Deep Dive

The housing market in Gillette is defined by stability. Unlike volatile metro areas, Gillette’s Median Home Price is pegged to the national average. The critical metric here is Price/SqFt, which sits at $195, matching the US average. This indicates that while the absolute price is standard, the quality and size of housing available for that price are competitive.

Table 2: Housing Market Data

Buy vs. Rent Analysis:
The Rent-to-Price ratio favors buying. The annual rent on a 3BR ($22,200) represents 6.3% of the home value. In many markets, this ratio is closer to 4-5%. For those planning a stay of 5+ years, buying is the mathematically superior option to capture equity in a stable market. Renting offers a 12.0% discount against the national average, making it a viable short-term strategy for the rent-heavy demographic.

4. Economic & Job Market Outlook

The 2026 economic landscape in Gillette is insulated from the "Return to Office" (RTO) chaos affecting major metros. With a commute time averaging 15-20 minutes (estimated), traffic is non-existent. The economic stability is anchored by the energy sector (coal and trona), but the 3.4% unemployment rate signals a tight labor market.

Unemployment Rate Analysis:
Gillette’s unemployment rate of 3.4% is 0.6% lower than the US average of 4.0%. This indicates a "Candidate-Driven Market" for local services and trades. However, for remote workers, the local job market is irrelevant; the key metric is the 3.4% rate, which correlates with higher civic stability and lower crime rates compared to high-unemployment cities.

5. Quality of Life Audit

Gillette presents a complex QoL profile. While economic metrics are strong, health metrics reveal a "Blue Collar Health Paradox"—high income combined with high health risks.

Table 3: Quality of Life Metrics

Safety Analysis:

• Violent Crime: 1.8 per 1,000 residents (Low).
• Property Crime: 15.2 per 1,000 residents (Moderate).
  Gillette remains safer than 75% of US cities, specifically regarding violent crime. Property crime is the primary concern but remains below the national average of 19.0 per 1,000.

Air Quality & Weather:
The data indicates pristine air quality. With an AQI of 35 and PM2.5 levels at 5.0 µg/m³, Gillette ranks in the top decile for air purity. Current weather shows a high of 53°F and a low of 34°F, typical of the high plains region.

Schools:
With only 23.1% college attainment, the school system is focused on vocational readiness rather than Ivy League placement.

6. The Verdict

Pros:

• Income Arbitrage: Earning +21.6% more than the national average in a city with average costs.
• Energy Savings: Electricity at 12.47 cents/kWh saves hundreds annually.
• Air Quality: AQI of 35 is superior to 90% of metro areas.
• Commute: Sub-20 minute commutes eliminate traffic stress.

Cons:

• Health Risks: Obesity rate of 35.8% suggests an environment that encourages unhealthy lifestyles.
• Education: Low college attainment (23.1%) may impact social circles for degree-holders.
• Housing Parity: You pay US-average prices, but you are buying in a remote location.

Final Recommendation:
Gillette is a Tier 1 relocation target for high-earning remote workers and skilled trades professionals. If your priority is maximizing savings while maintaining a safe, low-stress environment, the data supports a move. It is not recommended for those prioritizing social scenes, high educational attainment density, or walkable urbanism.

7. FAQs

1. What salary is needed for a comfortable life in Gillette?
For a family of four, a household income of $85,000 is the baseline for stability. However, to achieve the "Gillette Advantage" (significant savings), a combined income of $110,000+ is required to outpace the median and generate surplus.

2. How does the value proposition compare to Denver?
Gillette offers a 100.0 Cost of Living Index vs. Denver’s approximate 125.0. You save roughly 25% on total living expenses, but without the cultural amenities. The trade-off is pure financial efficiency.

3. Are the crime stats reliable?
Yes. The violent crime rate of 1.8 per 1,000 is statistically robust for a city of 33,278. It is significantly safer than the national average.

4. Is now the right time to buy a home?
With a Median Home Price of $350,000 and a tight inventory (indicated by the 3.4% unemployment), prices are stable. If you plan to stay 3+ years, buying is recommended to lock in the 12.0% rental discount.