$84k JH vacation, gallon of diesel: 2 things you can’t afford
Inflation takes hold in Wyoming, but is it even noticed in tony Teton County?
JACKSON HOLE, Wyo. — Inflation in Wyoming rose dramatically over the past year…surprise. It’s the same nationwide (+6.2%) in many respects. But a statewide 7.7% rate of inflation hits hard on many struggling families across the Cowboy State.
Transportation costs are fueling (excuse the pun) price index jumps. Price at the pump has skyrocketed since May 2020 when the average gallon of regular gas was $1.86, according to GasBuddy. Today, that same go-go juice will set you back $3.42.
Teton County feels it worst of all. A gallon of diesel in Laramie today averages out to $3.45. In Teton County that same gallon is $4.15. Why? Because they can. Because Teton County.
The Wyoming Cost of Living Index release late last month shows just about everything costs more in Wyoming. In addition to stupefying increases in fuel, other consumer categories are up as well. Recreation and personal care underwent an 8% increase. Housing up 5.5% across the state. Apparel recorded an increase of 4.6%, medical costs jumped 3.6%, and food prices rose 1.9% over the past year.
Sublette, Lincoln, Sweetwater, and Uinta counties experienced the highest inflation at 8.9%.
But no county can touch Teton when it comes to cost of living. Teton County is 65% higher than the statewide average with housing costs far f-a-r FAR outpacing the rest of the state. An apartment in Teton County averages to $2,510 a month, if you can find one. By comparison, an apartment in Natrona County runs about $774 a month.
If you have to ask, you can’t afford it
Still, there will always be the select few undeterred by cost increases. One ultimate ski vacation for two being peddled by the Snake River Sporting Club starts at a mere $84,485, according to Travel & Leisure.
The Luxury Sports and Après Ski Experience offered by the posh golf club/residence south of Jackson includes roundtrip airfare on a private evoJets ‘Heavy Jet,’ 5-night stay at the luxurious lodge, all onsite dining, private heli-skiing for two, black car airport pickup and dropoff, and daily in-room massages. Dog sledding extra.
Pristine champagne powder won’t be the only thing getting shredded on this trip. Your Chase Sapphire Reserve card will take a pretty good hit.
