City Profile
Gillette, Wyoming
USA · Comprehensive city data and intelligence
Gillette, Wyoming, often called the 'Energy Capital of the Nation,' is a city deeply intertwined with the extraction and processing of natural resources, particularly coal and natural gas. Its history is marked by rapid growth driven by the boom-and-bust cycles of the energy industry, attracting a workforce seeking opportunities in mining and related sectors. Despite its industrial roots, Gillette offers a frontier spirit and a strong sense of community, appealing to those who appreciate wide-open spaces and a more traditional American lifestyle. The city is situated in the northeastern part of Wyoming, surrounded by the high plains and offering access to outdoor recreational activities. In 2024, Gillette had a population of approximately 33,431 residents.
Wyoming, known as "The Equality State," is characterized by its vast, open landscapes, including the Rocky Mountains and high-elevation prairies, fostering a lifestyle deeply connected to nature and a strong sense of community. The state's economy is primarily driven by mineral extraction, particularly coal, natural gas, oil, and trona, alongside a significant tourism industry centered around national parks like Yellowstone and Grand Teton, and agriculture, mainly livestock and hay. Living in Wyoming generally offers a lower cost of living compared to the national average, with no state income tax. The climate is typically semi-arid and continental, featuring dry, windy conditions with significant temperature extremes, long winters, and short growing seasons, while the lifestyle embraces a slower pace, self-reliance, and abundant outdoor recreational opportunities.
Featured Events
Happening in Gillette
Featured and sponsored events in Gillette.
Local Directory
Businesses in Gillette
Featured local businesses in Gillette.
Performance
Quality Scores
Expenses
Cost of Living
Gillette's cost of living is generally considered to be close to the national average, though specific costs can fluctuate with the energy market. Housing, while more affordable than in many larger metropolitan areas, can see price shifts tied to local employment trends. The median home value in Gillette was $264,500 in 2024, and the median household income was $81,316 in 2024. Utilities and transportation costs are typical for a city of its size and location in the Mountain West region. Residents often find that while some expenses are comparable to national averages, others, like groceries, might be slightly higher due to its remote location.
Income
Salary Insights
The economy of Gillette is predominantly driven by the energy sector, with coal mining, coalbed methane gas production, and power generation forming the backbone of its employment landscape. Major employers include Peabody Energy, Arch Coal, and Campbell County School District. Beyond energy, the city also supports sectors like transportation, retail trade, and healthcare, which serve the local population and the broader Campbell County region. In 2024, the primary industries for residents were Mining, Quarrying, & Oil & Gas Extraction (3,626 people), Retail Trade (2,325 people), and Health Care & Social Assistance (2,249 people).
The average salary in Gillette is $65,000 per year.
Employment
Top Industries
Weather
Climate
Mobility
Transport
Transportation in Gillette is primarily car-dependent, as is common in many cities in Wyoming and the Mountain West. Most residents rely on personal vehicles for commuting and daily errands. The average commute time in Gillette is 19 minutes, which is shorter than the national average of 26.4 minutes. Gillette has an exceptionally drivable score of 100/100.
At a Glance
Pros & Cons
Advantages
Drawbacks
Head to Head
Compare Gillette
Community Q&A
Questions about Gillette
What people ask about living in and moving to Gillette, Wyoming.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Businesses for Sale in Gillette
Explore active acquisition & franchise opportunities .
City Guide
Explore Gillette
Free Quotes
Get quotes from local pros in Gillette
Tell us what you need and we’ll pass it to companies that serve your area. It’s free, and there’s no obligation.
Compare Gillette with any city
See how it stacks up on cost, income, and quality of life.
Start Comparing