Side-by-side comparison of home prices, mortgage payments, and housing costs between Gillette and Laramie, Wyoming. Using Wyoming's 0.61% property tax rate and $1,800/year insurance. Updated for 2026.
Gillette edges out Laramie in affordability, saving you roughly $197/month on total housing costs. Both cities are in Wyoming, so property tax rates and insurance costs are the same — the difference comes down to home prices and what you get for your money in each market.
Estimated PITI payments assuming 10% down, 6.5% rate, 30-year fixed mortgage with PMI. Uses Wyoming's 0.61% property tax rate.
Buying in Gillette saves you approximately $197/month ($2,364/year) compared to Laramie, based on median home prices with identical loan terms.
Gillette is the better choice for first-time buyers, with a median price of $265K versus $295K in Laramie. That's $30K less to save for a down payment. You'd need roughly $9K for an FHA 3.5% down payment in Gillette, compared to $10K in Laramie. Wyoming offers the WCDA Spruce Up Wyoming program (Below-market rate loans) which applies in both cities.
Gillette has the better price-to-rent ratio at 21.0x versus 21.9x in Laramie. A lower ratio generally signals better rental income relative to purchase price. Average rent in Gillette is $1,050/month on a $265K median home, making it a stronger candidate for buy-and-rent investors.
Gillette (pop. 33,403) offers more amenities, schools, and services typical of a larger city, while Laramie (pop. 32,711) may offer a quieter, more community-oriented lifestyle. Gillette offers both more options and lower housing costs, making it attractive for families who want urban amenities without a premium price.