Discover the 5 Fastest-Shrinking Counties in Wyoming

Wyoming is known as the Cowboy State, with its wide-open spaces and rodeo-loving population. With seven national parks, the state draws millions of tourists each year. However, Wyoming lost some of its population from 2014 through 2019 due to an energy downturn.

From 2008 to 2019, the state’s natural population growth (births vs. deaths) decreased steadily. While it’s natural for populations within states and their counties to wax and wane for various reasons, data from the U.S. Census Bureau shows that Wyoming, the state with the lowest population, has actually grown since the pandemic. This is partly due to people moving from crowded cities into towns and cities with more space.

However, there are still areas of the state in which the population is declining despite the state’s overall gradual growth. Today, we dive into the data to find the fastest-shrinking counties in Wyoming.

1. Niobrara County

Of Wyoming’s 23 counties, Niobrara is the smallest. Its already meager population of 2,461 has seen a -3.6% growth rate since 2020. By the end of 2024, that population is estimated to further decrease by -0.08%.

Although Niobrara is a small county, it has a rich history that began with the Great Sioux War of 1876. At that time, the government forced Native American tribes off their land as the Black Hills Gold Rush began. Later, pioneer fossil hunters found parts of over 50 Triceratops and other dinosaur skeletons. Today, Niobrara County’s 2,628 square miles are home to residents of Lusk, Manville, Van Tassell, Lance Creek, Keeline, and Riverview.

2. Sweetwater County

Almost twice as large as Connecticut, Sweetwater County is the fourth most populous county in Wyoming. Yet, its 41,813 residents spread over 10,491 square miles makes it one of the fastest-shrinking counties in Wyoming. Sweetwater saw a -2.2% growth rate since 2020. By the end of 2024, the population is estimated to see an additional -0.37% growth rate.

Humans have inhabited Sweetwater County for about 12,000 years. The amazing canyons, buttes, mesas, and scenic stretches of basin brush have made the county a symbol of the vast West. The Wyoming Basin, a diverse and complex ecoregion, is also part of Sweetwater County.

3. Hot Springs County

Thermopolis is the county seat and largest town of Hot Springs County, WY. The county boasts 2,006 square miles for its 4,618 residents. With only a little over 2.3 people per square mile, that’s a lot of space for everybody.

Despite the expansive and scenic area, Hot Springs County has a population growth rate of -0.6%. By the end of 2024, the population will see an estimated growth rate of -0.42% to further decrease the population density. Nevertheless, with the area’s renowned therapeutic natural hot springs, the county will most likely continue to be a popular tourist destination.

4. Natrona County

Natrona County is the second-most populous of Wyoming’s counties. The 2020 census data reported a population of 79,955 residents. The growth rate for the county is -0.4%, however, which makes it the fourth fastest-shrinking county in Wyoming.

The county is home to an abundance of striking geological features, such as Caspar Mountain, Hell’s Half Acre, Teapot Rock, and Devil’s Gate. Caspar is the county’s most populated and the state’s second most populated city with over 59,000 residents. Yet, even with its stunning landscape and large cities, Natrona remains a declining county. By the end of 2024, the county is estimated to have a -0.10% growth rate.

5. Teton County

The federal government owns 97% of Teton County’s 4,008 square miles of land, much of which belongs to the two national parks within in the county. Additionally, 23,323 people live within the county’s eight towns and cities. Yet, Teton County’s annual growth rate is -0.2%.

The Jackson Hole ski area, Yellowstone National Park, and Grand Teton National Park are among the county’s biggest tourist attractions. The gorgeous landscape and amazing attractions generated a 63% population growth between 1990 and 2000. Since 2010, however, the county has declined in population. Nevertheless, Teton County is one of the five fastest-shrinking counties in WY that just may see a turnaround. The estimated 2024 growth rate is an estimated 0.035%.

Summary of the 5 Fastest-Shrinking Counties in Wyoming