County Crime & Safety

Hot Springs County, WY, maintains a relatively low crime rate compared to national averages. In 2022, the county reported approximately 40 total crimes, including 4 violent crimes and 36 property crimes, according to the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation. The crime rate stands at about 6.1 per 1,000 residents, with burglary and larceny-theft being the most common offenses. Local law enforcement actively encourages crime reporting and community vigilance to enhance safety. Overall, Hot Springs County is considered one of Wyoming’s safer counties for residents and visitors alike.

Demographics

As of 2023, Hot Springs County, Wyoming, has a population of approximately 4,500. The median age is around 49.7 years, reflecting an older demographic. Gender distribution is nearly equal, with about 50.4% male and 49.6% female. The county is predominantly White (over 93%), with smaller populations of Native American (2.5%), Hispanic or Latino (3%), and other races comprising less than 2%. The population has been gradually declining since 2010.

Education, Employment and Housing

Hot Springs County, WY, served by Hot Springs County School District #1, has 3 public schools (an elementary, middle, and Hot Springs County High School). Around 85% of adults hold a high school diploma, but just 18% have a bachelor’s degree or higher. Average test scores are below the Wyoming average. The district emphasizes school safety with security systems and anti-bullying programs. Adult education and vocational offerings are limited locally, but some programs are available through Northwest College partnerships. Overall, the county prioritizes safe learning environments and basic educational achievement, with room for academic improvement.

Hot Springs County, WY, has an employment rate of around 58.4% (2022, ACS). Leading industries include healthcare and social assistance (20%), educational services (13%), and retail trade (11%). Major occupation types are management, business, science, and arts occupations (27%); service (22%); and sales/office (20%). About 79% of workers commute by car, with an average commute time of 11.9 minutes. The majority (over 78%) both live and work within the county, reflecting a largely local workforce.

Hot Springs County, WY, has a homeownership rate near 75%. The median home value is about $180,000, with median rent around $700/month. Property values have risen 5% over the past year. Housing mainly consists of single-family homes, with some apartment complexes in Thermopolis, the largest town. Popular neighborhoods include Downtown Thermopolis and East Thermopolis. Property taxes are low, averaging 0.6% of assessed value, resulting in about $1,080 annually for a median-priced home. The area offers affordable living with a mix of historic and newer homes.

Elections

Hot Springs County, Wyoming had 3,028 registered voters as of 2022, primarily Republican (about 74%), with Democrats at 13% and unaffiliated making up the remainder. Elections include general, primary, local, and special ballots. In the 2020 presidential election, Donald Trump won 77% of the county’s vote. Main polling locations are at the Government Annex and Fair Building in Thermopolis. Voters have cited property taxes and public lands as key issues. Elections are managed by the County Clerk’s office, following state and federal regulations, with robust in-person and absentee options for all eligible residents.