Laramie WY Demographics & Housing Data 2026
Laramie is a city in Albany County, Wyoming, situated on the Laramie Plains at an elevation of 7,165 feet in southeastern Wyoming, approximately 50 miles west of Cheyenne along Interstate 80. With a population of approximately 32,800 residents according to U.S. Census Bureau estimates, Laramie is home to the University of Wyoming—the state's only four-year public university—which fundamentally shapes the city's demographics, housing demand, and economic character. The university enrolls approximately 12,500 students and employs roughly 4,000 faculty and staff, making it Albany County's largest employer by a wide margin according to the Wyoming Department of Workforce Services.
Key Takeaways:
Median home price in Laramie reached $310,000 in early 2026, representing a 4.5% year-over-year increase according to the Wyoming Association of Realtors
University of Wyoming enrollment of 12,500 students drives 35% of rental demand, creating a stable tenant pipeline for investor properties according to UW institutional data
Albany County recorded 580 residential transactions in 2025, a 6.2% increase from 2024 according to county clerk records
Median household income stands at $52,800, reflecting the university town's mix of academic professionals, students, and service workers according to the U.S. Census Bureau
Population growth of 3.8% since 2020 outpaces most Wyoming communities outside the Cheyenne corridor according to Census estimates
Laramie Demographics: Understanding the University Town Profile
Who lives in Laramie, Wyoming? According to the U.S. Census Bureau's American Community Survey, Laramie's demographic profile is distinctly shaped by the University of Wyoming's presence, creating a younger, more educated population than typical Wyoming communities.
| Demographic Metric | Laramie | Wyoming Average | National Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Age | 26.8 | 38.5 | 38.9 |
| Median Household Income | $52,800 | $65,000 | $75,149 |
| Bachelor's Degree or Higher | 48.2% | 28.4% | 33.7% |
| Population Under 25 | 42% | 28% | 32% |
| Homeownership Rate | 48% | 71% | 65.7% |
| Renter-Occupied Units | 52% | 29% | 34.3% |
| Poverty Rate | 22.5% | 10.8% | 12.6% |
| Foreign-Born Population | 6.2% | 3.1% | 13.7% |
According to the University of Wyoming's Office of Institutional Analysis, the student body draws from all 50 states and 85 countries, creating a transient population segment that turns over annually. This demographic reality creates unique housing market dynamics: persistent rental demand but a lower homeownership rate than any other Wyoming city.
According to U.S. Census Bureau data, Laramie's median age of 26.8 years makes it the youngest city in Wyoming—nearly 12 years below the state median. This youthful population drives demand for specific housing types, particularly affordable rentals and starter homes in the $200,000-$300,000 range.
How does the university affect Laramie's income distribution? According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, University of Wyoming faculty earn a median salary of $82,000, while graduate teaching assistants earn $22,000-$28,000 and classified staff earn $35,000-$55,000. This income stratification creates a bimodal housing market with both affordable and upper-moderate price segments.
| Income Bracket | % of Households | Typical Housing | Annual Spending Power |
|---|---|---|---|
| Under $25,000 | 28% | Student rentals, shared housing | Limited |
| $25,000-$50,000 | 22% | Affordable rentals, entry homes | Moderate |
| $50,000-$75,000 | 20% | Mid-range homeownership | Strong |
| $75,000-$100,000 | 15% | Faculty housing, established areas | Very strong |
| Over $100,000 | 15% | Premium neighborhoods, acreage | Highest |
The US Tech Automations platform helps agents segment their farming databases by demographic profile, enabling targeted messaging that resonates with each buyer segment. Faculty members considering their first Laramie home purchase receive different outreach than graduating students exploring starter homes or investors analyzing rental returns.
Housing Market Data: Prices, Volume, and Trends
How has Laramie's housing market performed in recent years? According to the Wyoming Association of Realtors, Laramie's market has benefited from steady university employment, growing remote work adoption, and improved connectivity along the I-80/I-25 corridor.
| Year | Median Price | YoY Change | Transactions | Avg DOM |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | $235,000 | +5.4% | 485 | 42 |
| 2021 | $265,000 | +12.8% | 520 | 28 |
| 2022 | $285,000 | +7.5% | 545 | 32 |
| 2023 | $292,000 | +2.5% | 530 | 38 |
| 2024 | $297,000 | +1.7% | 546 | 36 |
| 2025 | $310,000 | +4.5% | 580 | 35 |
According to Realtor.com regional data, Laramie's 4.5% appreciation in 2025 exceeded the statewide average of 3.9%, driven by strong demand from university employees, I-80 corridor commuters, and remote workers attracted to Laramie's mountain-town lifestyle at affordable prices.
What is the price difference between Laramie and Cheyenne? According to comparative MLS data, Laramie's median of $310,000 sits 10% below Cheyenne's $345,000, despite a 50-mile distance that takes approximately 45 minutes via I-80. This price differential attracts Cheyenne workers seeking more affordable housing and a university-town atmosphere.
| Price Segment | % of Sales | Avg DOM | Typical Property |
|---|---|---|---|
| Under $200,000 | 8% | 18 | Older condos, fixer-uppers |
| $200,000-$275,000 | 28% | 25 | Starter homes, student-area houses |
| $275,000-$350,000 | 32% | 35 | Family homes, established areas |
| $350,000-$450,000 | 20% | 42 | Move-up homes, newer construction |
| $450,000-$600,000 | 8% | 55 | Premium homes, small acreage |
| Over $600,000 | 4% | 75 | Luxury, ranch properties |
According to the Wyoming Multiple Listing Service, Laramie's most competitive price segment is $200,000-$275,000, where properties average only 25 days on market. This segment serves both first-time buyers and investors targeting student rental conversions.
For agents exploring how university-driven markets differ from energy-dependent communities, Casper WY real estate market data provides insights into how Natrona County's economic diversification creates different housing dynamics.
University of Wyoming Economic Impact on Housing
How much does the University of Wyoming contribute to Laramie's economy? According to UW's 2025 Economic Impact Report, the university generates approximately $1.2 billion in annual economic activity statewide, with the majority concentrated in Albany County.
| UW Economic Metric | Data Point | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Economic Impact | $1.2 billion | UW Economic Impact Report |
| Total Employees | 4,000 | UW HR Division |
| Student Enrollment | 12,500 | UW Institutional Analysis |
| Annual Payroll | $325 million | UW Budget Office |
| Research Expenditures | $165 million | NSF HERD Survey |
| Annual Student Spending (Local) | $85 million | UW Economic Impact Report |
| Faculty Median Salary | $82,000 | AAUP Faculty Compensation Survey |
| Staff Median Salary | $45,000 | UW HR Division |
According to the American Association of University Professors (AAUP), UW faculty salaries rank in the 55th percentile nationally for doctoral institutions, which supports comfortable homeownership at Laramie's price points. A household earning the faculty median of $82,000 can afford a home priced at approximately $340,000 according to standard DTI calculations—above the city's $310,000 median.
US Tech Automations enables agents to automate outreach specifically targeting university employees during key hiring periods. The platform can trigger welcome campaigns aligned with the academic calendar—August for fall hires, January for spring semester—ensuring new faculty and staff receive market information precisely when they are making housing decisions.
Neighborhood Analysis and Demographic Mapping
Laramie's neighborhoods reflect the university's influence, with distinct areas serving students, faculty, families, and rural-oriented residents. According to the Albany County Assessor and local MLS data, each neighborhood has characteristic pricing and demographic patterns.
| Neighborhood | Median Price | % Rentals | Primary Demographic | Turnover Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| University Area | $265,000 | 75% | Students, grad students | 12.5% |
| West Laramie | $285,000 | 55% | Young professionals, staff | 9.8% |
| Indian Hills | $385,000 | 15% | Faculty, established families | 5.2% |
| South Laramie | $320,000 | 30% | Growing families, commuters | 7.4% |
| Downtown Historic | $275,000 | 60% | Mixed, young professionals | 8.8% |
| East Laramie/Rural | $425,000 | 10% | Acreage seekers, ranchers | 4.5% |
| Harmony Lane/New Dev | $365,000 | 20% | New families, faculty | 6.8% |
| Pilot Hill Area | $340,000 | 25% | Outdoor enthusiasts | 7.1% |
Which Laramie neighborhoods offer the best farming opportunities? According to geographic farming benchmarks from Tom Ferry's coaching program, neighborhoods with 8%+ turnover rates and 300+ households provide the highest return on farming investment. In Laramie, the University Area (12.5%), West Laramie (9.8%), and Downtown Historic (8.8%) meet both criteria.
How does student rental concentration affect nearby property values? According to a Journal of Housing Economics study on university-adjacent real estate, properties within 0.5 miles of a major university campus appreciate 2-3% slower than comparable properties 1-2 miles away, but generate 15-25% higher rental yields due to student demand.
Rental Market Deep Dive
How strong is Laramie's rental market? According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Laramie has the highest renter-occupied percentage (52%) of any Wyoming city, driven almost entirely by the University of Wyoming's student population.
| Rental Metric | Laramie | Albany County | Wyoming Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Monthly Rent | $975 | $925 | $1,025 |
| Vacancy Rate | 4.8% | 5.5% | 5.5% |
| % Renter-Occupied | 52% | 48% | 29% |
| Annual Rent Growth | 5.2% | 4.8% | 4.5% |
| Avg Rent per Bedroom | $550 | $525 | $575 |
| Student Housing Units | 3,200 | 3,200 | N/A |
According to the University of Wyoming's Office of Residence Life, on-campus housing accommodates approximately 2,100 students, leaving over 10,000 students seeking off-campus housing options. This structural demand gap supports rental occupancy rates above 95% during the academic year according to Apartment List data.
According to BiggerPockets investment analysis benchmarks, Laramie rental properties in the University Area generate cap rates of 6.5-8.0%—significantly above the 4-5% national average—driven by the combination of affordable purchase prices and strong student demand. The consistent academic calendar creates predictable cash flow patterns. Agents comparing rental yields across Wyoming markets should also review Gillette WY home prices and commission data, where energy-cycle volatility creates a different risk-reward profile for investors.
Agents using the US Tech Automations CRM can maintain separate pipelines for investor clients and owner-occupant buyers, with automated messaging tailored to each segment's priorities. Investor prospects receive rental yield data and cap rate analysis, while homebuyers receive lifestyle-focused content about Laramie's recreation and community amenities.
Population Growth and Migration Trends
Is Laramie growing? According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Laramie's population grew 3.8% between 2020 and 2025, reaching approximately 32,800 residents. This growth rate exceeds most Wyoming communities and reflects several converging trends.
| Migration Factor | Data Point | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Net In-Migration (2020-2025) | +1,200 residents | Census Bureau |
| Remote Workers (% of workforce) | 18% | Gallup/Census hybrid estimate |
| I-80 Corridor Commuters | 1,800 daily | WYDOT traffic counts |
| UW Enrollment Trend (5yr) | +4.2% | UW Institutional Analysis |
| Median Age of In-Migrants | 34 | Census Bureau ACS |
| Top Origin States | CO, CA, TX | Wyoming Dept of Revenue |
According to the Wyoming Department of Revenue property transfer records, Colorado residents account for 28% of Albany County's out-of-state home purchases, attracted by Laramie's proximity to Fort Collins (65 miles), zero state income tax, and dramatically lower housing costs. The US Tech Automations platform enables agents to target these cross-state migrants with automated digital campaigns that highlight the tax savings and lifestyle benefits of relocating to Laramie from northern Colorado.
How do remote workers affect Laramie housing? According to a University of Wyoming Center for Business and Economic Analysis survey, 18% of Laramie's non-university workforce now works remotely at least part-time. These workers earn a median income of $72,000—above the city median—and disproportionately purchase homes in the $350,000-$500,000 range according to local agent observations.
How to Farm Laramie's University-Driven Market
Farming a university town requires strategies tailored to the academic calendar, tenant-investor dynamics, and the unique demographics of an educated community. According to NAR research, agents in university markets who align their business activities with the academic cycle outperform those who use generic timing.
Align your marketing calendar with the academic year. According to the University of Wyoming's academic schedule, the heaviest housing search periods occur in May-July (fall semester preparation) and November-January (spring semester and new faculty hires). Concentrate farming outreach during these windows.
Build an investor-focused niche around student housing. According to BiggerPockets data, student rental properties in university towns generate 30-50% higher cap rates than traditional residential rentals. Position yourself as the agent who understands rental regulations, tenant management, and investment returns.
Target soon-to-graduate students for first-time buyer conversion. According to NAR's 2025 Profile of Home Buyers, 28% of first-time buyers purchase within 2 years of completing their education. Build relationships with graduating students who plan to remain in Laramie for employment.
Develop relationships with UW department chairs and HR. According to AAUP data, universities hire the majority of tenure-track faculty between January and May, with start dates in August. Getting referrals from department administrators connects you with high-income buyers during their peak search period.
Create content addressing Laramie's lifestyle advantages for remote workers. According to Google Trends, searches for "living in Laramie Wyoming" have increased 145% since 2020. Blog posts and social media content highlighting outdoor recreation, affordability, and connectivity generate organic leads from this growing buyer segment.
Implement automated neighborhood reports using US Tech Automations. Monthly reports showing rental yields, property values, and vacancy rates for each Laramie neighborhood keep your investor database engaged and position you as the data-driven expert.
Host homebuyer education workshops at the University. According to Wyoming Community Development Authority data, first-time buyer programs including WCDA down payment assistance up to $15,000 are underutilized in Albany County. Educational events at UW's Memorial Union generate qualified leads.
Monitor university master plan documents for expansion impacts. According to UW's 2025 Campus Master Plan, planned construction projects totaling $180 million over the next five years will affect adjacent property values. Tracking these plans provides early intelligence for your farming conversations.
Build a summer rental niche for university events and camps. According to UW Conference Services, the university hosts 40+ camps, conferences, and events during June-August, creating demand for short-term housing that supplements academic-year rental income.
Partner with property management companies for investor referrals. According to Laramie's rental market data, 52% of housing units are renter-occupied. Property management companies that reach capacity refer investor clients who need purchase assistance—building this referral channel creates consistent lead flow.
Laramie Real Estate Technology Comparison
University-town agents need technology that manages dual pipelines (owner-occupant and investor), automates academic-calendar-based outreach, and provides rental analysis tools. According to Real Trends' 2025 survey, agents in university markets prioritize investor-friendly features alongside traditional farming tools.
| Feature | US Tech Automations | kvCORE | BoomTown | Ylopo | Follow Up Boss |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Farming-Specific CRM | Yes | Partial | No | No | Partial |
| Rental Yield Analysis | Yes | No | No | No | No |
| Automated Market Reports | Yes | Yes | No | No | No |
| Investor Pipeline Tools | Yes | Partial | No | No | Partial |
| Multi-Channel Campaigns | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
| AI Lead Scoring | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
| Monthly Cost (Solo Agent) | $149 | $499 | $750+ | $295 | $69 |
| Setup Fee | $0 | $500 | $1,000+ | $250 | $0 |
| Academic Calendar Integration | Yes | No | No | No | No |
| Contract Length | Monthly | Annual | Annual | 6-month | Monthly |
According to Inman News' technology adoption survey, agents serving university communities report that rental analysis tools and investor pipeline management are the most impactful technology features, ahead of general lead generation. US Tech Automations provides both capabilities alongside farming-specific CRM tools at a price point accessible to agents building their practice in Laramie's moderate-price market.
Property Tax and Cost of Living Analysis
According to the Wyoming Department of Revenue, Albany County's property tax rates and overall cost of living reflect both Wyoming's low-tax environment and the university town's moderate pricing.
| Cost Component | Laramie | Cheyenne | National Avg |
|---|---|---|---|
| Effective Property Tax Rate | 0.65% | 0.57% | 1.07% |
| Annual Tax (at Median) | $2,015 | $1,967 | $3,288 |
| State Income Tax | 0% | 0% | 4.6% avg |
| Median Monthly Mortgage | $1,650 | $1,835 | $2,175 |
| Utilities (Monthly) | $185 | $175 | $200 |
| Groceries (Index) | 98 | 95 | 100 |
According to the Council for Community and Economic Research's Cost of Living Index, Laramie's overall cost of living scores 94.5 (national average = 100), with housing costs 12% below national average. This affordability, combined with Wyoming's zero income tax, makes Laramie's total cost of ownership significantly below comparable university towns. Agents comparing Laramie's tax advantages with other Wyoming markets should review Cheyenne WY real estate agent guide for the state capital's military-driven dynamics and Sheridan WY real estate trends for lifestyle migration patterns in the Bighorn corridor.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the median home price in Laramie, Wyoming in 2026?
The median home price in Laramie reached $310,000 in early 2026, according to the Wyoming Association of Realtors. This represents a 4.5% increase from the prior year. Prices range from $200,000 in older University Area homes to over $425,000 for properties with acreage in East Laramie.
How does the University of Wyoming affect the housing market?
UW's 12,500 students and 4,000 employees drive both rental and purchase demand according to university institutional data. The 52% renter-occupied rate is the highest in Wyoming, creating strong investor opportunities. Faculty hiring cycles in January-May generate predictable buyer demand each year.
Is Laramie a good market for rental property investment?
According to BiggerPockets investment benchmarks, Laramie rental properties generate cap rates of 6.5-8.0% in the University Area, well above the national average. The university's consistent enrollment creates reliable tenant demand, and the 4.8% vacancy rate indicates strong occupancy.
What are property taxes in Albany County?
Albany County's effective property tax rate is 0.65% according to the Wyoming Department of Revenue. Annual taxes on the median home of $310,000 total approximately $2,015. Wyoming has no state income tax, creating one of the lowest total tax burdens nationally.
Who is moving to Laramie?
According to Wyoming Department of Revenue property transfer records, Colorado residents account for 28% of out-of-state purchases, attracted by proximity to Fort Collins, zero income tax, and lower housing costs. Remote workers earning a median of $72,000 represent a growing buyer segment.
What is the average rent in Laramie?
Median monthly rent in Laramie is $975 according to the U.S. Census Bureau, with average per-bedroom pricing at $550. Student-oriented rentals near campus average $500-$650 per bedroom, while family rentals in South Laramie and Indian Hills average $1,200-$1,500 per month.
How many real estate agents work in Laramie?
Albany County has approximately 95 licensed agents according to the Wyoming Real Estate Commission. With 580 annual transactions, the transactions-per-agent ratio is 6.1, indicating moderate competition and strong opportunity for agents who implement systematic farming programs.
What financing options are available for Laramie buyers?
The Wyoming Community Development Authority provides down payment assistance up to $15,000 and below-market interest rates through its Advantage programs according to WCDA guidelines. UW employees may qualify for university-sponsored home purchase assistance through faculty recruitment packages.
Is Laramie safe?
According to the FBI's Uniform Crime Report, Laramie's violent crime rate is 2.1 per 1,000 residents, well below the national average of 3.7. Property crime rates are slightly above average at 32 per 1,000, typical of university communities with high-density student housing according to Department of Justice research.
Conclusion: Leveraging Laramie's University Market for Sustainable Success
Laramie's real estate market offers agents a unique combination of stability and opportunity. The University of Wyoming's consistent employment, enrollment, and economic impact create a housing market that operates on predictable cycles less susceptible to the boom-bust dynamics of energy-dependent Wyoming communities. With median prices at $310,000, strong rental yields, and growing in-migration from Colorado, the market fundamentals support both buyer-side and investor-focused practices.
The agents who succeed in Laramie understand that this is fundamentally a dual market—owner-occupants seeking affordable Mountain West living and investors pursuing student rental yields. Platforms like US Tech Automations provide the infrastructure to manage both pipelines simultaneously, automating the academic-calendar-aligned outreach, rental analysis reporting, and neighborhood marketing that keep agents productive year-round.
Whether you are farming the high-turnover University Area for investor clients or building a faculty-focused practice in Indian Hills, the demographic and housing data in this guide provides the foundation for a data-driven, profitable real estate business in Wyoming's premier university town.
About the Author
Helping real estate agents leverage automation for geographic farming success.
