Category / Metric	Gillette	Phoenix
Financial Overview
Median Income	$90,699	$79,664
Unemployment Rate	3.4%	4.1%
Housing Market
Median Home Price	$359,900	$457,000
Price per SqFt	$123	$278
Monthly Rent (1BR)	$921	$1,599
Housing Cost Index	111.5	124.3
Cost of Living
Groceries Index	95.1	98.4
Gas Price (Gallon)	$3.40	$3.40
Safety & Lifestyle
Violent Crime (per 100k)	234.2	691.8
Bachelor's Degree+	23.1%	33.5%
Air Quality (AQI)	36	39

Phoenix vs. Gillette: The Ultimate Relocation Showdown

By Your Relocation Expert & Data Journalist

So you're standing at a crossroads. On one side, you've got Phoenix, Arizona—the sprawling, sun-drenched metropolis of the Southwest. On the other, Gillette, Wyoming—the rugged, tight-knit energy hub of the Mountain West. It's a classic big-city hustle versus small-town soul showdown. But which one actually wins for you? Buckle up. We're about to dive deep into the data, the vibes, and the real-life pros and cons to help you decide where to plant your roots.

The Vibe Check: Desert Oasis vs. Mountain Town

Let's start with the unquantifiable stuff—the feeling you get walking down the street. This is where the two cities diverge completely.

Phoenix is a beast of a city. It’s the fifth-largest city in the U.S. by population, and it feels like it. The vibe is fast-paced, diverse, and sun-worshipping. Think endless suburbs, a booming downtown skyline, and a cultural scene that punches above its weight. It’s a city for people who crave anonymity, endless dining options, major league sports, and the ability to disappear into a crowd. The "Arizona lifestyle" is real: patio culture, hiking in the nearby mountains, and a distinct Southwestern flair. It’s for the ambitious professional, the growing family looking for space, or the retiree who wants an active social calendar and golf courses at their doorstep.

Gillette, on the other hand, is the definition of a company town. With a population barely over 33,000, it’s a place where faces are familiar and community is everything. The vibe is laid-back, industrious, and deeply connected to the land. Life revolves around the energy industry (coal, oil, and natural gas) and the great outdoors. It’s a hub for hunters, hikers, and ATV enthusiasts. You’re not anonymous here; you’re part of the fabric. This city is for the outdoor adventurer, the energy sector worker, or the family seeking a safe, tight-knit community with a slower pace of life. It’s a place where you know your neighbors and the biggest decision of the day might be which trail to hit after work.

Verdict: If you need city lights and endless options, Phoenix wins. If you crave community and wide-open spaces, Gillette is your spot.

The Dollar Power: Where Does Your Money Work Harder?

Let's talk cold, hard cash. The median income tells only half the story. The real question is purchasing power: how much house, groceries, and comfort can you get for your salary?

First, a crucial caveat: Wyoming has no state income tax, while Arizona has a progressive tax system (ranging from 2.59% to 4.50%). This is a massive factor. On a $100,000 salary, an Arizonan could pay around $3,000 in state income tax, while a Wyomingite keeps the entire amount. That's a significant head start for Gillette.

But Phoenix's median income is lower. So, let's break it down.

Cost of Living & Salary Showdown

Category	Phoenix, AZ	Gillette, WY	Winner
Median Income	$79,664	$90,699	Gillette
Median Home Price	$457,000	$359,900	Gillette
Rent (1BR)	$1,599	$921	Gillette
Housing Index	124.3 (Above U.S. Avg.)	111.5 (Above U.S. Avg.)	Gillette
State Income Tax	2.59% - 4.50%	0%	Gillette

The Salary Wars & Purchasing Power:

In Gillette: The combination of a higher median income ($90,699), no state income tax, and a lower cost of living is a powerful trifecta. Your $100,000 salary here feels like $110,000+ in Phoenix after tax savings alone. You can afford a home more easily, and your day-to-day expenses are lighter. The "sticker shock" is minimal.
In Phoenix: You're earning less on paper, paying state income tax, and facing a higher cost of living. However, the job market is vastly larger and more diverse. While your money goes less far, your earning potential ceiling is much higher. A tech or finance professional in Phoenix could potentially out-earn their Gillette counterpart significantly over a career, offsetting the higher costs.

Insight: For immediate purchasing power and lower financial stress, Gillette is the clear winner. For long-term earning potential in a diverse economy, Phoenix has an edge.

The Housing Market: Buy vs. Rent & The Competition

Phoenix's Housing Market: It's a seller's market, fiercely competitive. The median home price of $457,000 is a sticker shock for many, but it's a reality in a metro of 1.6 million people. Inventory is tight, and bidding wars are common. Renting is also expensive, with a 1BR averaging $1,599. This is a market for those with stable, higher incomes or who are willing to start with a smaller condo or townhome.

Gillette's Housing Market: It's more balanced, leaning slightly toward a buyer's market. The median home price of $359,900 is $97,100 less than Phoenix. Rent is a bargain at $921. Availability is better, and while prices have risen with the energy sector, you get significantly more square footage and land for your money. The competition is less cutthroat, making the entry point for homeownership much more accessible.

Verdict: For affordability and easier entry into homeownership, Gillette dominates. Phoenix is for those with deeper pockets or a long-term view on appreciation.

The Dealbreakers: Quality of Life Factors

These are the non-negotiables that can make or break your daily happiness.

Traffic & Commute

Phoenix: Traffic is real. As a massive sprawl, the average commute can be 25-35 minutes. Rush hour on Loop 101 or I-17 can be brutal. You'll rely on a car; public transit exists but isn't comprehensive.
Gillette: Traffic is a non-issue. The average commute is under 15 minutes. You can get across town in 10 minutes flat. This is a huge quality-of-life win for families and those who value their time.

Weather & Climate

This is the biggest lifestyle divider.

Phoenix: Extreme heat is the headline. Summers regularly see 110°F+ for weeks on end. Winters are mild (55°F average), sunny, and perfect for outdoor activities. It's a dry heat, which many prefer, but it's still intense. You live by the pool and air conditioner from June to September.
Gillette: True four-season climate. Summers are pleasant (avg. 52°F is misleading—that's annual; summer highs are in the 80s). Winters are cold and snowy (50-70 inches of snow annually). You need to be prepared for snow removal, winter driving, and cold. The payoff is beautiful, crisp falls and vibrant springs.

Crime & Safety

Phoenix: 691.8 violent crimes per 100k people. This is above the national average and significantly higher than Gillette. While many suburbs are very safe, crime is a reality of any major metro.
Gillette: 234.2 violent crimes per 100k people. This is well below the national average and reflects the small-town, community-oriented feel. It's a statistically safer environment.

Verdict: For safety and commute, Gillette wins. For weather, it's a matter of preference: do you hate cold and snow, or do you fear extreme heat?

The Final Verdict: Which City Wins for YOU?

After crunching the numbers and weighing the vibes, here’s the straight talk.

Winner for Families: Gillette

Why: Safety, community, affordable housing, and commute time are king for families. Gillette offers a safe, tight-knit environment where your kids can roam, excellent schools (funded by a strong energy economy), and a cost of living that doesn't break the bank. You get a house with a yard, not a condo. The outdoor access is a bonus for active families.

Winner for Singles & Young Professionals: Phoenix

Why: Career opportunities and social life. Phoenix’s vast, diverse economy (tech, healthcare, finance, education) offers far more entry points and upward mobility for young professionals. The social scene is vibrant, with endless restaurants, bars, events, and networking opportunities. The dating pool is larger, and the anonymity can be freeing. Gillette’s social scene is limited, and dating can be challenging.

Winner for Retirees: It’s a Draw (Based on Priority)

Phoenix Wins If: You prioritize an active, social, sun-drenched lifestyle. You want golf, pickleball, cultural events, and easy access to healthcare and airport hubs. The mild winters are a huge draw for those fleeing colder climates.
Gillette Wins If: You prioritize peace, safety, and affordability. You want a quiet community, stunning natural beauty, and a lower cost of living to stretch your retirement savings. You're okay with cold winters and value a slower pace.

At a Glance: Pros & Cons

Phoenix, AZ

Pros:

Huge, diverse job market with high earning potential.
Endless entertainment, dining, and cultural options.
Mild, sunny winters; ideal for snowbirds.
Major airport hub for easy travel.
Vibrant, youthful energy and social scene.

Cons:

Extreme summer heat can be oppressive.
High cost of living and competitive housing market.
Traffic congestion and long commutes.
Higher crime rate than national average.
State income tax reduces purchasing power.

Gillette, WY