Wyoming, in the Mountain West, is called the “Equality State” because it was the first state to grant women the right to vote. Wyoming is the least populous state with 580,000 residents. Cheyenne is both the capital and largest city, known for its cowboy culture and proximity to national parks.
10 Largest Cities in Wyoming
1. Cheyenne (Wyoming)
City Facts
- County: Laramie County
- Area: 26.9 square miles
- Population: 65,132 (2023 estimate)
- Area Code: 307
- Zip Codes: 82001–82010
- Latitude: 41.139981
- Longitude: -104.820246
Location and History:
Cheyenne, Wyoming’s capital and largest city, is located in southeastern Wyoming near the Colorado border. Founded in 1867 as a Union Pacific Railroad hub, Cheyenne quickly became a key part of the transcontinental railroad. Named after the Cheyenne Native American tribe, the city grew due to its position on the railway and became the state capital when Wyoming gained statehood in 1890. Its strategic position also made it a military hub, with F.E. Warren Air Force Base established in the late 1800s. Today, Cheyenne is a blend of historic architecture, modern government institutions, and vibrant cultural traditions.
Major Landmarks:
- Wyoming State Capitol: Historic government building with a stunning gold-leaf dome.
- Cheyenne Depot Museum: Former Union Pacific Railroad depot now serving as a museum.
- Cheyenne Frontier Days Old West Museum: Celebrating the famous Cheyenne Frontier Days rodeo.
- F.E. Warren Air Force Base: One of the oldest continuously active military installations in the U.S.
Major Highways:
Cheyenne is served by several major highways, including Interstate 25, which runs north to south, connecting it to Colorado and the rest of Wyoming. Interstate 80 runs east to west, making it a key east-west route. U.S. Highways 30 and 85 also pass through, facilitating regional and local traffic. These highways make Cheyenne a transportation hub in the Rocky Mountain region.
2. Casper (Wyoming)
City Facts
- County: Natrona County
- Area: 28.6 square miles
- Population: 59,038 (2023 estimate)
- Area Code: 307
- Zip Codes: 82601-82609
- Latitude: 42.850076
- Longitude: -106.325174
Location and History:
Located in central Wyoming, Casper is known as “The Oil City” due to its early 20th-century oil boom. Founded in 1888 near Fort Caspar, the city is named after Lieutenant Caspar Collins, who died during the Indian Wars. As the oil industry flourished, so did Casper, transforming into a major hub for energy production, including oil, natural gas, and coal. The city’s history is deeply tied to the development of the energy sector, making it an economic powerhouse in Wyoming.
Major Landmarks:
- National Historic Trails Interpretive Center: Showcasing the history of the Oregon, Mormon, and California trails.
- Fort Caspar Museum: A reconstructed frontier military post honoring the region’s military and pioneer history.
- Casper Events Center: A large venue for concerts, sports events, and community gatherings.
- Garden Creek Falls: A natural waterfall located in Rotary Park at the base of Casper Mountain.
Major Highways:
Casper is a key intersection for several highways, with Interstate 25 running north to south through the city, connecting it with Cheyenne to the south. U.S. Highways 20 and 26 also converge here, providing vital east-west connections across Wyoming. Wyoming Highway 220 links Casper to nearby smaller communities and natural attractions, making the city a transportation hub in the state.
3. Laramie (Wyoming)
City Facts
- County: Albany County
- Area: 17.7 square miles
- Population: 32,743 (2023 estimate)
- Area Code: 307
- Zip Codes: 82070-82073
- Latitude: 41.312927
- Longitude: -105.587251
Location and History:
Laramie is located in southeastern Wyoming along the Laramie River and is home to the University of Wyoming. Founded in 1868, the city emerged during the construction of the Union Pacific Railroad. Named after French trapper Jacques LaRamie, the city grew quickly as a railroad town and a center for education when the University of Wyoming was established in 1886. Today, Laramie is a blend of historic and modern influences, serving as a cultural and academic hub for the state.
Major Landmarks:
- University of Wyoming: The state’s flagship university, established in 1886.
- Laramie Plains Museum: Located in the historic Ivinson Mansion, showcasing local history.
- Wyoming Territorial Prison State Historic Site: A former prison-turned-museum dating back to 1872.
- Vedauwoo Recreation Area: A scenic area known for its unique rock formations and hiking opportunities.
Major Highways:
Laramie is bisected by Interstate 80, a major east-west route across Wyoming. U.S. Highway 287 runs north-south, connecting the city to Fort Collins, Colorado, to the south, and central Wyoming to the north. These highways make Laramie accessible and serve as key routes for both local and interstate travel.
4. Gillette (Wyoming)
City Facts
- County: Campbell County
- Area: 21.0 square miles
- Population: 33,403 (2023 estimate)
- Area Code: 307
- Zip Codes: 82716-82718
- Latitude: 44.291091
- Longitude: -105.502220
Location and History:
Gillette is located in northeastern Wyoming and is known as the “Energy Capital of the Nation.” Founded in 1891, it became a vital town with the arrival of the railroad and quickly grew with the discovery of coal, oil, and natural gas. Gillette’s location within the Powder River Basin, one of the most productive coal fields in the world, makes it a key player in the U.S. energy industry.
Major Landmarks:
- Rockpile Museum: Featuring exhibits on local history and the mining industry.
- CAM-PLEX Multi-Event Facilities: A large complex hosting rodeos, concerts, and fairs.
- Eagle Butte Coal Mine: A working coal mine offering educational tours.
- Dalbey Memorial Park: A large recreational area featuring a lake, playgrounds, and sports fields.
Major Highways:
Gillette is served by Interstate 90, which runs east-west, connecting the city to Rapid City, South Dakota, and Sheridan, Wyoming. Wyoming Highway 59 is a major north-south route that connects Gillette to Douglas and other towns. These highways support the movement of coal, goods, and people across the region.
5. Rock Springs (Wyoming)
City Facts
- County: Sweetwater County
- Area: 19.4 square miles
- Population: 22,378 (2023 estimate)
- Area Code: 307
- Zip Codes: 82901-82902
- Latitude: 41.587464
- Longitude: -109.202074
Location and History:
Rock Springs is situated in southwestern Wyoming and has a rich history tied to coal mining and the Union Pacific Railroad. Founded in 1888, it became a crucial coal mining town, especially for the railroad industry. The influx of immigrant workers, particularly from Southern and Eastern Europe, shaped the town’s diverse cultural heritage. Today, Rock Springs remains an important center for mining and energy development.
Major Landmarks:
- Rock Springs Historical Museum: A museum located in the city’s former City Hall building.
- Pilot Butte Wild Horse Scenic Loop: A scenic drive where visitors can observe wild horses in their natural habitat.
- Flaming Gorge Reservoir: A large reservoir offering boating, fishing, and camping opportunities.
- Bunning Park: A community park with a bandstand, playground, and picnic areas.
Major Highways:
Interstate 80 is the primary highway serving Rock Springs, running east-west across Wyoming and connecting the city to Green River and Rawlins. U.S. Highway 191 also runs through the city, providing access to nearby natural attractions such as the Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area. These highways make Rock Springs a key transit point in southwestern Wyoming.
6. Sheridan (Wyoming)
City Facts
- County: Sheridan County
- Area: 12.9 square miles
- Population: 18,209 (2023 estimate)
- Area Code: 307
- Zip Codes: 82801
- Latitude: 44.797194
- Longitude: -106.958143
Location and History:
Sheridan is located in northern Wyoming, near the Big Horn Mountains and Montana border. Founded in 1882, it was named after Union General Philip Sheridan. Its proximity to the historic Bozeman Trail and Fort Phil Kearny contributed to its early development. With the arrival of the railroad in 1892, Sheridan grew as a supply town for ranchers and miners in the surrounding areas. Today, Sheridan’s economy is driven by ranching, tourism, and outdoor recreation, while its historic downtown preserves its Wild West heritage.
Major Landmarks:
- Trail End State Historic Site: A mansion showcasing Sheridan’s rich history, built by John B. Kendrick.
- Fort Phil Kearny: A historic military post that played a key role during the Indian Wars.
- Sheridan Inn: A historic hotel known for its connection to Buffalo Bill Cody.
- Bighorn National Forest: An extensive forest with hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing.
Major Highways:
Sheridan is intersected by Interstate 90, which runs north-south and connects it to Gillette and Billings, Montana. U.S. Highway 14 heads west towards Yellowstone National Park, and U.S. Highway 87 runs parallel to I-90, serving as a local route. These highways make Sheridan a gateway to the Big Horn Mountains and the surrounding region.
7. Green River (Wyoming)
City Facts
- County: Sweetwater County
- Area: 14.1 square miles
- Population: 12,210 (2023 estimate)
- Area Code: 307
- Zip Codes: 82935
- Latitude: 41.515207
- Longitude: -109.462474
Location and History:
Green River is located in southwestern Wyoming along the Green River, from which it takes its name. The city was originally founded in 1868 as a supply station for the Union Pacific Railroad. However, it wasn’t until 1875, when the railroad returned, that the city began to grow. Green River became a prominent stop for coal and trona mining, industries that remain important today. The town is also known for its connection to early river expeditions, such as John Wesley Powell’s exploration of the Green and Colorado rivers in the late 1800s.
Major Landmarks:
- Expedition Island: A park that celebrates John Wesley Powell’s famous expeditions down the Green River.
- Green River Wild Horse Corrals: Offering a glimpse of Wyoming’s wild horses.
- Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area: A short drive from Green River, offering boating, fishing, and hiking.
- Sweetwater County Historical Museum: Showcasing the region’s history, particularly its railroad and mining past.
Major Highways:
Green River is located on Interstate 80, a major east-west route that connects it to Rock Springs and Evanston. Wyoming Highway 530 runs south toward the Flaming Gorge Reservoir, making the city a gateway to outdoor recreation in the region.
8. Evanston (Wyoming)
City Facts
- County: Uinta County
- Area: 10.3 square miles
- Population: 11,614 (2023 estimate)
- Area Code: 307
- Zip Codes: 82930
- Latitude: 41.268318
- Longitude: -110.963716
Location and History:
Evanston is located in southwestern Wyoming, near the Utah border. Founded in 1868, it was established as a railroad town on the Union Pacific line. Named after railroad surveyor James A. Evans, Evanston grew rapidly due to its role as a service center for the railroad. The discovery of oil in nearby areas further boosted the town’s economy. Today, Evanston retains much of its historic charm, with preserved buildings and ties to its railroad and oil heritage.
Major Landmarks:
- Bear River State Park: A popular destination for wildlife viewing and outdoor activities.
- Chinese Joss House Museum: A museum highlighting the contributions of Chinese immigrants to Evanston’s history.
- Evanston Roundhouse: A restored railroad facility that once served Union Pacific trains.
- Uinta County Museum: Featuring exhibits on local history and the region’s railroad past.
Major Highways:
Interstate 80 runs through Evanston, providing an important connection to Salt Lake City, Utah, to the west and Rock Springs to the east. Wyoming Highway 150 runs south toward Utah, while U.S. Highway 189 heads north toward Kemmerer, making Evanston a crossroads for travel between Wyoming and Utah.
9. Riverton (Wyoming)
City Facts
- County: Fremont County
- Area: 9.87 square miles
- Population: 10,826 (2023 estimate)
- Area Code: 307
- Zip Codes: 82501
- Latitude: 43.024146
- Longitude: -108.395648
Location and History:
Riverton is located in central Wyoming and was founded in 1906 as part of an agricultural development project. Situated near the Wind River Reservation, the city grew as a hub for farming, ranching, and mineral exploration. Riverton’s name derives from its location near the confluence of the Wind River and Little Wind River. Today, Riverton is known for its role in Wyoming’s energy sector, including oil and uranium production, as well as its proximity to outdoor recreation.
Major Landmarks:
- Wind River Heritage Center: A museum highlighting the natural and cultural history of the Wind River Basin.
- Central Wyoming College: A community college that serves as an educational and cultural hub.
- Sinks Canyon State Park: A short drive from Riverton, known for its unique geological features and hiking trails.
- Riverton Museum: Focusing on the history of Riverton and Fremont County.
Major Highways:
Riverton is served by U.S. Highway 26, which runs east-west, connecting the city to Casper and Jackson. Wyoming Highway 789 provides a north-south connection, linking Riverton to Lander and the Wind River Reservation. These highways make Riverton a key transportation and commercial hub in central Wyoming.
10. Jackson (Wyoming)
City Facts
- County: Teton County
- Area: 2.91 square miles
- Population: 10,630 (2023 estimate)
- Area Code: 307
- Zip Codes: 83001-83002
- Latitude: 43.479930
- Longitude: -110.762428
Location and History:
Jackson is nestled in the Jackson Hole Valley in northwestern Wyoming, near Grand Teton National Park and Yellowstone National Park. Founded in 1914, Jackson initially served as a ranching town before becoming a popular destination for tourism and outdoor recreation. The town’s proximity to ski resorts and national parks has made it one of Wyoming’s premier tourist destinations. Jackson’s rustic charm and natural beauty attract visitors year-round.
Major Landmarks:
- Jackson Hole Mountain Resort: A world-class ski destination.
- Grand Teton National Park: Just north of Jackson, known for its stunning mountain scenery and outdoor activities.
- National Museum of Wildlife Art: Showcasing works focused on wildlife from around the world.
- Jackson Town Square: Famous for its elk antler arches and vibrant local shops.
Major Highways:
Jackson is connected by U.S. Highway 191, which runs north to Grand Teton National Park and south toward Pinedale. U.S. Highway 26 heads east toward Riverton, and Wyoming Highway 22 connects Jackson to the Idaho border. These routes provide access to the national parks and outdoor attractions surrounding the town.