Jackson Hole Living Wage Guide: What You Need to Know

If you’re thinking about moving to Jackson Hole or already work there, the first question is usually: can I afford to live on a regular paycheck? The answer depends on the "living wage" – the amount a worker needs to cover basic expenses without debt. Below we break down how the living wage is set, what the current numbers look like for Jackson Hole, and how you can stretch your dollars.

How the Living Wage Is Calculated

Most living‑wage calculators start with the local cost of housing, food, transportation, healthcare, and taxes. They add a small cushion for unexpected costs and aim to keep a person or family out of poverty. In Jackson Hole, housing swings the biggest – median rent for a one‑bedroom apartment easily tops $1,800 per month. Food and groceries are a bit higher than the national average because many items travel a long way to get up in the mountains.

To turn those figures into a yearly wage, the calculator adds up the monthly costs, multiplies by 12, and then divides by the typical full‑time work hours (about 2,080 hours a year). The result is the hourly rate you need just to break even. If you’re supporting a family, the calculator adds another adult’s share and the cost of childcare if needed.

Real‑World Numbers for Jackson Hole

According to the latest data, a single adult in Jackson Hole needs roughly $22.50 per hour to meet basic expenses. That translates to about $46,800 a year before taxes. For a family of two adults and two kids, the number jumps to around $33 per hour per adult, or $68,640 total before taxes.

These figures are higher than Wyoming’s state minimum wage ($7.25 federal floor) and even higher than the $12‑$13 range many cities aim for. The gap shows why many residents either work multiple jobs or look for remote work that pays a national rate while enjoying the outdoor lifestyle.

What does this mean for you? If you earn the local average salary of $55,000, you’ll be close to the living‑wage target for a single person but may need to trim housing costs or get a roommate. If you’re on a lower wage, consider sharing rent, using public transit, or buying staple foods in bulk to keep costs down.

Another tip: keep an eye on seasonal employment. Summer tourism brings higher‑pay gigs in hotels and restaurants, which can help boost your annual earnings. Planning to work a few months at a higher rate and then switching to a lower‑pay winter job is a common strategy in the area.

Lastly, remember that the living wage isn’t a guarantee of a comfortable life; it’s a baseline. If you want to save for a down‑payment on a home or fund college, aim for a higher hourly rate or side‑hustle income.

Jackson Hole offers stunning scenery and a tight‑knit community, but it also demands a realistic look at money. Use the living‑wage numbers as a starting point, track your spending, and adjust your job search or budgeting plan accordingly. With the right approach, you can enjoy the mountains without constantly worrying about bills.