Wyoming HELOC Rates & Guide: Home Equity Lines of Credit in the Cowboy State (2026)

Wyoming presents one of the most unique HELOC markets in the country. It's the least populous state with just under 600,000 residents, has no [state income tax](/blog/states-with-no-income-tax-investing), and features wildly divergent property markets — from $100,000 homes in smaller towns to multi-million-dollar properties in Jackson Hole. This creates both opportunities and challenges for homeowners seeking a HELOC.

Here's what you need to know about accessing your home equity in Wyoming: the rates, the lenders, the rules, and the strategies that work in this distinctive market.

Wyoming HELOC Market Overview

Wyoming's economy runs on energy (coal, oil, natural gas, wind), tourism (Yellowstone, Grand Teton, Devils Tower), agriculture, and a growing remote-worker population drawn by the tax-friendly environment and outdoor lifestyle.

The statewide median home value sits around $280,000, but that number masks enormous variation:

• Teton County (Jackson Hole): Median prices above $1.5 million, driven by wealthy buyers and extreme scarcity
• Laramie County (Cheyenne): Median around $310,000
• Natrona County (Casper): Median around $250,000
• Sweetwater County (Rock Springs/Green River): Median around $220,000
• Smaller rural communities: Often $150,000-$200,000

Median household income is approximately $72,000, boosted by energy sector wages. The absence of state income tax effectively increases take-home pay, making Wyoming residents stronger borrowers than their gross income might suggest.

The lending landscape is limited. Wyoming's small population means fewer lenders compete for business compared to metro-heavy states. Community banks and credit unions dominate, with national lenders offering less targeted attention. However, the growth of online HELOC lenders has expanded options significantly.

Current HELOC Rates in Wyoming

As of early 2026, Wyoming HELOC rates typically range:

• Introductory rates: 6.75% – 8.00% APR (6-12 month periods)
• Standard variable rates: 8.25% – 11.00% APR
• Fixed-rate conversion options: 8.00% – 10.00% APR

Rates in Wyoming tend to be slightly above the national average for the same reason as other low-population states: fewer lenders competing, smaller credit lines (outside Jackson), and less rate-shopping pressure. Jackson Hole is the exception — high property values create large, profitable credit lines that attract competitive offers.

Your rate depends on credit score, CLTV ratio, property location, and the lender. Borrowers in Cheyenne and Casper with good credit (720+) can generally find rates at the lower end of these ranges by shopping aggressively.

HELOC Requirements in Wyoming

Standard requirements from Wyoming lenders:

• Credit score: 680+ minimum, 720+ for best rates
• Combined loan-to-value (CLTV): 80-85% maximum
• [Debt-to-income ratio](/blog/dti-ratio-explained) (DTI): Under 43%
• Home equity: At least 15-20%
• Income verification: Pay stubs, W-2s, or tax returns
• Property type: Primary residences preferred; second homes possible with stricter terms
• Appraisal: Almost always required — AVMs are less reliable in Wyoming's rural markets where comparable sales can be scarce
• Flood insurance: Required if in a flood zone; some Wyoming river valleys and irrigation areas trigger this requirement

Rural property challenges: If your home is on a large acreage, uses well water and septic, or is in a very remote location, lenders may be more cautious. Some lenders limit HELOCs to properties within city limits or on parcels under a certain size (10-40 acres). The appraisal process for rural Wyoming properties can take longer due to limited comparable sales.

Top Wyoming HELOC Lenders

Local and Regional Lenders

First Interstate Bank — A major regional bank across the Mountain West, with significant Wyoming presence (originally headquartered in Billings, Montana). First Interstate offers HELOCs with competitive rates and understands Wyoming's rural and energy-dependent markets. Rates typically start around 8.00% APR.

Hilltop National Bank — Headquartered in Casper, Hilltop has deep Wyoming roots. They offer HELOCs with local underwriting that understands Wyoming property nuances. A solid choice for central Wyoming homeowners.

Jonah Bank of Wyoming — Based in Casper, Jonah Bank is a newer but well-capitalized community bank focused exclusively on Wyoming. Their HELOC products reflect genuine local market knowledge.

UniWyo Federal Credit Union — The largest credit union in Wyoming, based in Cheyenne. UniWyo offers HELOCs with competitive rates, low fees, and the member-focused approach typical of credit unions. Rates start around 7.75% APR.

WyHy Federal Credit Union — Another Cheyenne-based credit union offering solid HELOC terms. Open to Wyoming residents, with competitive rates and personalized service.

Blue Federal Credit Union — Serving Cheyenne and southeast Wyoming, Blue FCU offers HELOCs with no annual fees and competitive rates. They've expanded into northern Colorado as well.

National Lenders Active in Wyoming

Figure — Their online HELOC process works well for Wyoming borrowers who might be far from a bank branch. Rates start around 7.50% APR with fast funding. However, their AVM-based approach may undervalue some rural Wyoming properties.

U.S. Bank — Has branches in Wyoming and offers HELOCs with competitive terms. Their rate-lock feature is appealing for borrowers who want to fix a portion of their balance.

Wells Fargo — Maintains Wyoming branches and offers HELOCs, though they periodically start and stop new HELOC originations. Check current availability.

Bethpage Federal Credit Union — Nationwide credit union with consistently low HELOC rates. No Wyoming presence but their digital process works anywhere.

Spring EQ — National home equity lender that serves Wyoming and is comfortable with a range of property types and values.

Wyoming HELOC Regulations and Consumer Protections

Wyoming's regulatory framework is relatively business-friendly, but key protections exist:

Mortgage/deed of trust state: Wyoming primarily uses mortgages (not deeds of trust, though both are used). Non-judicial foreclosure is available through a power-of-sale clause, allowing lenders to foreclose without going to court. The process requires public notice and typically takes about 60-90 days. Wyoming also allows judicial foreclosure, which takes longer.

Redemption period: After a non-judicial foreclosure sale, Wyoming provides a 3-month redemption period where the homeowner can buy back the property. After judicial foreclosure, the redemption period can be up to 6 months. This provides a meaningful safety net.

Wyoming Uniform Consumer Credit Code: Governs consumer lending including HELOCs. Requires proper disclosure of terms, fees, and rates.

Right of rescission: Federal 3-day rescission period applies on primary residence HELOCs.

No prepayment penalties: Wyoming doesn't specifically prohibit prepayment penalties by statute, but most HELOC products in the state come without them as a market practice. Always confirm in your agreement.

[Homestead exemption](/blog/homestead-exemption-guide): Wyoming provides a $40,000 homestead exemption (for property up to 10 acres in town or 160 acres rural), protecting that equity from general creditors. This doesn't affect your HELOC lender (who holds a voluntary lien) but protects you from other judgments.

Limited regulation: Wyoming has minimal state-level mortgage lending regulation beyond federal requirements. The state Banking Division provides oversight but with a light touch. This means federal protections (TILA, RESPA) are your primary shield.

Tax Implications of a Wyoming HELOC

Federal taxes: HELOC interest is tax-deductible if the funds are used for home improvements to the securing property. Non-home-improvement uses don't qualify.

No state income tax: Wyoming has no state income tax — one of only seven states with this advantage. This means:

• No state-level [HELOC interest deduction](/blog/heloc-for-rental-property-renovation) exists (because there's no income tax to deduct from)
• Your HELOC interest deduction only matters at the federal level
• You keep more of your gross income, improving your ability to service HELOC payments

Mineral rights consideration: Many Wyoming properties come with mineral rights. If you're receiving royalty income from mineral rights on your property, that income strengthens your [HELOC application](/blog/heloc-application-process-step-by-step) but is taxable at the federal level. It's also worth noting that mineral rights value isn't typically included in the home appraisal for HELOC purposes — the lender is lending against the surface property value.

No estate/inheritance tax: Wyoming has no estate or inheritance tax, which can be relevant for estate planning around HELOC debt.

Wyoming Property Tax Context

Wyoming's property taxes are moderate, and the state uses an unusual assessment system:

• Statewide effective rate: Approximately 0.56%, well below the national average
• Assessment ratio: Wyoming assesses residential property at 9.5% of fair market value, then applies the mill levy to that assessed value
• Teton County: Despite astronomical home values, the effective rate is low (~0.45%), but absolute dollar amounts are high on million-dollar+ properties
• Laramie County (Cheyenne): Effective rate around 0.63%
• Natrona County (Casper): Approximately 0.60%

On a $280,000 home, expect annual property taxes of roughly $1,500-$1,800. That's among the lowest in the nation and leaves plenty of budget headroom for HELOC payments.

Mineral production taxes: Wyoming's government is heavily funded by severance taxes on mineral extraction, which reduces the need for higher property taxes. This benefits all homeowners in the state.

Veteran exemption: Wyoming offers a property tax exemption for veterans (up to $3,000 in assessed value for those who served during recognized conflicts), and a full exemption for 100% disabled veterans.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it hard to get a HELOC on a rural Wyoming property?

It can be challenging. Large-acreage properties, homes with well/septic systems, and very remote locations face additional scrutiny. The biggest hurdle is often the appraisal — limited comparable sales in rural areas can make it difficult to establish an accurate property value. Some lenders restrict HELOCs to properties under 10-40 acres or within municipal boundaries. Work with a local bank that knows your area.

Can I get a HELOC on a Jackson Hole property?

Absolutely — and Jackson Hole's sky-high property values create some of the largest HELOC opportunities in the state. With median prices above $1.5 million, even modest equity percentages translate to substantial credit lines. National lenders actively compete for Jackson-area HELOC business. The catch: many Jackson properties are second homes, which face stricter HELOC terms (lower CLTV limits, higher rates) than primary residences.

How does Wyoming's energy economy affect HELOCs?

Energy industry cycles can affect property values in Wyoming's energy-dependent communities (Casper, Rock Springs, Gillette). During oil/gas downturns, property values can decline, potentially reducing your available equity or causing lenders to freeze credit lines. If your income depends on the energy sector, be conservative with HELOC borrowing — having your income and your collateral value both tied to energy prices doubles your risk.

Are online HELOC lenders a good option in Wyoming?

Yes, often your best bet. Wyoming's limited local lending market means online lenders like Figure and Bethpage can offer rates that beat local options. The trade-off is less personal service and potential issues with automated property valuations in rural areas. For properties in Cheyenne, Casper, or Jackson with good comparable sales data, online lenders work great. For remote or unusual properties, a local lender may be better.

What's the minimum HELOC amount available in Wyoming?

Most lenders require a minimum credit line of $10,000-$25,000. In Wyoming's lower-value markets, this can limit options for homeowners with minimal equity. Credit unions like UniWyo may offer lower minimums than national lenders. If your available equity falls below typical minimums, consider a personal loan or [home improvement loan](/blog/heloc-for-home-office-build) as an alternative.

The Bottom Line

Wyoming's HELOC market is small but functional. The no-income-tax advantage, low property taxes, and affordable housing (outside Jackson Hole) create a favorable environment for borrowing against your home equity. The main challenges are limited local lender competition and potential appraisal difficulties for rural properties.

Your approach should depend on where in Wyoming you are. In Cheyenne or Casper, start with UniWyo or Blue Federal Credit Union, then compare online options like Figure. In Jackson Hole, you'll have more national lender interest — take advantage of the competition. In rural Wyoming, lean on community banks like First Interstate or Hilltop that understand your local market.

Keep an eye on energy market cycles if your income or property value is tied to that sector. And remember that Wyoming's non-judicial foreclosure process is fast — borrow conservatively and maintain comfortable payment margins.

Wyoming's tax-friendly environment means more of your income stays in your pocket, making HELOC payments easier to manage. Combine that with disciplined borrowing and your home equity becomes a reliable financial tool, whether you're upgrading a ranch house in Sheridan or renovating a condo in Jackson.

Related Articles

• Home Appraisal: Complete Guide for Homeowners
• [[Home [Equity Explained](/blog/home-equity-explained)](/blog/what-is-home-equity): What It Is and How to Build It](/blog/home-equity-explained)
• Property Taxes Explained: How They Work and How to Reduce Them