What Is the Population of Cody, Wyoming?
Cody, Wyoming, often celebrated for its rich western heritage and close proximity to Yellowstone National Park, draws curiosity not only from tourists but also from anyone wondering how many people call this historic town home. But understanding the population of Cody is more than a simple number; it reveals trends in growth, economic health, and the community’s character. In this article we explore the latest population figures, historical changes, demographic breakdowns, and the factors influencing Cody’s size today.
Introduction: Why Cody’s Population Matters
Cody’s population is a key indicator of the town’s vitality. But a growing population can signal a thriving economy, expanding services, and increased cultural opportunities, while a decline may highlight challenges such as limited job prospects or out‑migration of younger residents. For potential residents, investors, or researchers, knowing the exact number—and how it has shifted over time—offers insight into housing demand, school enrollment, and even the political landscape of this iconic Wyoming community.
Current Population Figure (2024 Estimate)
According to the most recent data released by the U.Still, s. Think about it: census Bureau’s 2023 American Community Survey and the Wyoming Department of Administration & Information, Cody’s estimated population in 2024 stands at 9,845 residents. Consider this: this figure reflects a modest increase of approximately 2. 3 % since the 2020 decennial census, which recorded 9,627 people.
Key takeaway: Cody remains a small‑town environment, yet its steady growth places it among the larger municipalities in the state’s eastern region.
Historical Population Trends
| Year | Population | % Change vs. Previous Census |
|---|---|---|
| 1900 | 1,245 | — |
| 1910 | 2,118 | +70 % |
| 1920 | 2,981 | +41 % |
| 1930 | 3,453 | +16 % |
| 1940 | 3,721 | +8 % |
| 1950 | 4,215 | +13 % |
| 1960 | 4,951 | +17 % |
| 1970 | 5,632 | +14 % |
| 1980 | 6,301 | +12 % |
| 1990 | 7,104 | +13 % |
| 2000 | 8,436 | +19 % |
| 2010 | 9,520 | +13 % |
| 2020 | 9,627 | +1 % |
| 2024 (est.) | 9,845 | +2. |
Interpretation: Cody experienced rapid expansion during the early 20th century, driven by the arrival of the railroad and the booming cattle industry. Growth slowed after the 1970s, stabilizing in the 2000s, and has recently entered a modest upward trajectory, largely due to tourism‑related development and an influx of remote workers attracted to the town’s lifestyle.
Demographic Breakdown
Age Structure
- Under 18: 22 %
- 18‑34: 18 %
- 35‑54: 30 %
- 55‑64: 15 %
- 65 and older: 15 %
The median age in Cody is 38.7 years, slightly higher than the national median, reflecting a balanced mix of families, working‑age adults, and retirees.
Gender Ratio
- Male: 51 %
- Female: 49 %
The gender distribution is fairly even, with a marginal male majority typical of many western towns where industries such as ranching and construction remain prominent.
Racial & Ethnic Composition
- White (non‑Hispanic): 88 %
- American Indian/Alaska Native: 4 %
- Hispanic or Latino (any race): 3 %
- Two or more races: 2 %
- Asian, Black, Pacific Islander: <1 % combined
These figures illustrate Cody’s relatively homogeneous population, though the modest increase in Hispanic residents mirrors broader state trends Simple, but easy to overlook..
Household Characteristics
- Total households: 4,210
- Average household size: 2.34 persons
- Family households: 58 %
- Non‑family households: 42 %
A sizable portion of households consists of individuals living alone, many of whom are retirees or young professionals.
Economic Factors Influencing Population Size
Tourism and Hospitality
Cody’s reputation as the “Gateway to Yellowstone” fuels a solid tourism sector. Which means hotels, restaurants, and outdoor‑recreation businesses employ roughly 12 % of the local workforce. Seasonal peaks bring temporary residents and short‑term workers, indirectly supporting population growth by encouraging permanent settlement of service‑industry staff Worth keeping that in mind..
Energy and Agriculture
While tourism dominates, oil, natural gas, and ranching still contribute significantly to the local economy. Fluctuations in energy prices can cause short‑term migration patterns: a surge in oil activity often leads to an influx of workers, whereas a downturn may prompt out‑migration.
Remote Work Trend
Since 2020, Cody has attracted remote professionals seeking a lower cost of living, reliable internet, and access to outdoor recreation. Real‑estate data shows a 7 % rise in home sales between 2021 and 2023, indicating that remote‑work migration is a genuine driver of the recent population increase It's one of those things that adds up. Surprisingly effective..
Housing Market Snapshot
- Median home price (2024): $312,000
- Rental vacancy rate: 4.2 %
- New housing permits (2023): 112
The housing market remains relatively affordable compared with national averages, yet inventory is tightening. The modest rise in new permits suggests the city is responding to demand, though developers caution that infrastructure upgrades (water, sewer, broadband) must keep pace.
Education and Population Retention
Cody is served by Cody School District #1, which includes Cody High School and several elementary schools. Graduation rates hover around 86 %, slightly above the state average. The presence of Wyoming Catholic College and vocational training programs helps retain young adults, though many leave for university education in larger cities. Initiatives such as the Cody Youth Apprenticeship Program aim to reverse this trend by linking students directly with local employers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Is Cody’s population expected to keep growing?
A: Projections from the Wyoming Economic Analysis Division indicate a steady annual growth rate of 1‑2 % through 2035, driven by tourism expansion, remote‑work inflow, and modest natural increase Nothing fancy..
Q2: How does Cody’s size compare to other Wyoming towns?
A: Cody ranks fourth in population among Wyoming municipalities, behind Cheyenne, Casper, and Laramie, but ahead of notable towns such as Jackson and Gillette.
Q3: Does the seasonal tourist influx affect official population counts?
A: Seasonal visitors are not included in resident counts, but the “day‑time population” can swell by up to 30 % during summer months, impacting traffic, services, and temporary employment.
Q4: What are the main challenges of a small population for city services?
A: Limited tax base can constrain funding for infrastructure upgrades, public transportation, and specialized healthcare. Even so, Cody leverages state grants and public‑private partnerships to address these gaps.
Q5: Are there any notable demographic shifts on the horizon?
A: The most observable shift is the increase in residents aged 25‑34, linked to remote‑work migration. Additionally, the Hispanic population has grown by 0.8 % annually over the past five years, reflecting broader state demographic changes.
Conclusion: The Story Behind the Numbers
Cody, Wyoming’s population of roughly 9,845 is more than a static statistic; it encapsulates a community balancing its historic western roots with modern economic forces. The town’s modest yet consistent growth reflects a successful blend of tourism, energy, agriculture, and an emerging remote‑work culture. Understanding these dynamics helps prospective residents, business owners, and policymakers make informed decisions that will shape Cody’s future Worth keeping that in mind..
As Cody continues to attract newcomers while preserving its distinctive identity, the population figure will likely inch upward, reinforcing its role as a vibrant hub on the edge of Yellowstone. Whether you’re planning a visit, considering relocation, or simply curious about this iconic Wyoming town, the numbers tell a compelling story of resilience, opportunity, and the enduring allure of the American West.
