The $100,000 Salary Analysis for Rock Springs, WY

This guide strips away the hype. $100,000 is a benchmark salary, but your actual financial health depends on net income and local costs. We analyze what this salary means for Rock Springs specifically.

1. The Verification Test

Gross salary is not what hits your bank account. Here is the math on a $100,000 annual salary (filing single, standard deduction).

• Federal Tax: ~$14,000
• FICA (SocSec/Medicare): ~$7,650
• Wyoming State Tax: $0 (WY has no individual income tax)

Estimated Net Pay: $78,350 per year ($6,529 monthly).

Note: This assumes no 401k contributions or pre-tax health premiums, which would lower your taxable income.

2. Smart Budget (50/30/20)

Using the Net Pay of $78,350, here is how the standard budget breakdown applies to Rock Springs.

Needs (50%): $39,175 / year ($3,264 / month)

• Rent (1BR): $None (Data not provided by user).
• Utilities: Expect to pay $200 - $300 (Electricity, heating, water).
• Groceries: $400 - $600.
• Transport: $300 (Gas is generally cheaper here, but vehicle insurance is required).

Wants (30%): $23,505 / year ($1,958 / month)

• This bucket covers dining out, entertainment, and subscriptions. In Rock Springs, options are limited compared to major metros, which naturally curbs spending.

Savings (20%): $15,670 / year ($1,305 / month)

• This is your wealth-building engine. In a low-cost area like WY, this percentage is easier to maintain than in high-cost states.

3. Rock Springs Tax Context

Wyoming is a "Low-Tax" state.

• vs. California/NY: You are saving roughly $6,000 - $8,000 annually in state income tax compared to earning $100k in those states.
• vs. Texas/Florida: You are roughly equal regarding state income tax (both $0). However, Wyoming generally has higher property taxes to compensate for the lack of income tax.

Purchasing Power:
In Rock Springs, a $100,000 salary has significantly more purchasing power than in Denver or Salt Lake City. However, do not expect the "California discount" (where salaries are often 30% higher). You are likely paid a local market rate.

4. FAQ

"Is $100k good here?"
Yes. It is significantly above the median household income for the area. You will live comfortably and have surplus cash flow for savings, provided you manage housing costs.

"Local income tax?"
No. Rock Springs does not levy a local income tax. You only pay Federal taxes and FICA.

"What about housing?"
Without a specific rent number, we cannot calculate exact affordability. However, if rent exceeds $1,800 for a 1BR, it will severely impact your ability to follow the 50/30/20 rule.