Assisted Living in Wyoming
What It Costs Across Wyoming
The median cost for assisted living in Wyoming is currently around $4,169 per month, placing it at rank #20 nationally. However, recent averages show this cost has increased, with one 2024 report indicating an average of $5,730 per month statewide. These costs can vary significantly depending on the facility's location, the level of care a resident needs, and the amenities provided.
When looking at Wyoming's major cities, you'll find some variations. For example, assisted living costs in Cheyenne have been reported around $4,588 per month in 2021 and $5,538 per month in 2022. Casper has seen averages around $4,844 per month in 2022 and $5,630 monthly in 2024. While some data suggests Casper has the highest costs, other reports show it can be slightly more affordable than Cheyenne. Generally, smaller towns and rural areas tend to be more affordable than larger cities. The cost difference is often due to proximity to healthcare facilities and other services.
Will Medicaid Help Pay?
Yes, Medicaid can help, but it's important to understand the specifics. Wyoming's primary program for assisted living support is the Community Choices Waiver (CCW), which replaced the previous Assisted Living Facility (ALF) waiver that was terminated in 2017. This waiver is designed for adults who require a nursing home level of care but choose to live in an assisted living residence or their own home.
The CCW covers care services and long-term supports, such as personal care assistance, skilled nursing, adult day care, and personal emergency response systems. Crucially, it does not pay for room and board in the assisted living facility. To be eligible, applicants must be Wyoming residents, aged 65 or older, or between 19 and 64 with a verified disability. They must also be assessed by a public health official or nurse and found to require a nursing facility level of care. Financial eligibility in 2026 for a single applicant generally means an income under $2,982 per month and countable assets under $2,000. While the CCW is available statewide, be aware that there are a limited number of approved residences and spaces, meaning approved applicants may face a waitlist for services.
How to Find a Good Facility
Wyoming has approximately 31 licensed assisted living facilities statewide. When looking for a good facility, consider factors like the size of the community, the types of rooms offered, available amenities, and social activities. A good facility should provide a clean and safe environment, assistance with transportation, help obtaining medical care, and appropriate recreational activities. Facilities must have sufficient staff to meet resident needs, with at least one person on duty and awake at all times, and at least one RN, LPN, or CNA on every shift. It's important to note that facilities cannot admit or retain residents who need continuous assistance with transfers, total assistance with feeding or bathing, continuous oxygen monitoring, sterile wound care, or highly restrictive diets, among other high-level needs.
The Wyoming-specific oversight agency is the Wyoming Department of Health, Office of Healthcare Licensing and Surveys (HLS). This agency licenses assisted living facilities and promotes health and safety through on-site inspections and complaint investigations. You can use their online tool to look up inspection reports, which detail any deficiencies and plans for correction, and filter your search by county or city. The HLS also provides a Healthcare Facility Directory for comprehensive information. You can contact HLS at (307) 777-7123 for further assistance.
Last updated: March 2026. Sources: Genworth 2024, state licensing agency.