Wyoming’s got a natural vibe that just fits barndominium living—think rural charm, affordability, and sturdy builds that handle the state’s weather. From Casper to Sheridan down to Cheyenne, barndo’s in the state are growing, thanks to friendly zoning laws and a general openness to non-traditional homes.
Wyoming’s got a lot going for it if you’re dreaming about barndominium life. The wide-open spaces and friendly building climate make these hybrid homes—part barn, part modern house—a real contender for anyone looking for something both sturdy and comfortable, without breaking the bank.
Building a barndominium in Wyoming usually runs about $266 per square foot, which is roughly $24 less than what you’d pay for a traditional house here.
That price difference, plus the fact that barndos go up faster and don’t need as much upkeep, is pretty appealing. With all that land and a laid-back vibe, Wyoming just feels made for these spacious, flexible buildings.
Cost savings are a big draw. Building a barndominium in Wyoming costs about $266 per square foot, while traditional homes run closer to $290.
Faster construction is a huge plus. Metal post-frame homes can go up in about half the time of a stick-built house, which means less waiting and lower labor costs.
Durability is another win. Steel buildings shrug off mold, rot, and moisture better than wood-framed houses.
Lower maintenance saves you headaches (and money) over the years. Steel just doesn’t need much in the way of repairs.
Design flexibility is real. You can get big, open spaces without a bunch of load-bearing walls in the way.orkshop, or storage—all under one roof. Handy, right?
Rural-friendly regulations make Wyoming a chill place to build. Lots of rural counties have zoning and building codes that don’t throw up a bunch of barriers.
Versatile usage means you can use your barndo as your main home, a getaway spot, or even a rental. The open layouts work for living, working, or both.
Energy efficiency is another plus—steel buildings with good insulation can meet (or beat) today’s energy standards.
Depending on how fancy you want to get, building a barndominium in Wyoming falls somewhere between $75 and $299 per square foot. Materials and design choices play a big part in where you’ll land in that range. Completed barndominiums in Wyoming usually runs about $266 per square foot.
If you want to keep things simple, kit prices are a good way to start—expect $39 to $42 per square foot for the kit alone, though distance from the factory and design tweaks can nudge that number up or down.
What drives the total cost?
A handful of things, honestly:
The price in Wyoming varies based on several key factors:
Metal construction materials require minimal maintenance and offer excellent durability. Most barndominiums maintain their value well due to their steel frame construction and energy efficiency.
Insurance costs often run lower than traditional homes due to fire-resistant metal construction. Many barndominium owners report significant savings on utility bills thanks to modern insulation methods.
The metal structure typically lasts 50+ years with proper maintenance, reducing long-term repair costs compared to traditional wood-frame homes.
Building a barndominium in Wyoming is not that difficult with plenty of experienced builders working locally. You’ll need to follow the International Building Code, and metal kits are tailored for the local climate.
Yes, barndominiums are legal to build in the state of Wyoming. Read below for more information on codes and regulations…
Wyoming has adopted the International Building Code statewide, but local cities and counties can tack on extra requirements.
You’ll need permits before you start. The process covers plan reviews and a series of inspections.
Zoning is a big deal—it decides where you can build. Rural/ag zones are usually more flexible than residential neighborhoods.
Some counties have setback rules, so you’ll want to check how close you can build to property lines.
Wyoming barndominium costs average $266 per square foot, but there’s a lot of wiggle room. Size is the biggie—bigger builds just cost more. On average, you save just about $24 per square foot.
Location matters: land in rural areas is usually cheaper, but getting materials out there can cost extra.
Material choices play a big part. Steel frames are pricier up front than wood, but they’ll last longer and handle Wyoming’s weather better.
Complex designs (think lots of corners or custom features) will bump up your costs. Simpler shapes are easier on the wallet.
Three top Wyoming barndominium builders come to mind, each with their own strengths.
Carney Logan Architects is based in Jackson Hole and brings over 20 years of experience, with a knack for designs that blend in with the landscape. They are our #1 recommendation for custom barndos in Wyoming.
DC Builders works statewide, focusing on quality and tough materials for homes that last.
Boss Hog Barndominiums handles everything from land to build, so you can just focus on the fun stuff.
All of these folks know the ins and outs of Wyoming codes and climate, so you’re in good hands.
Wyoming uses the International Building Code 2021 for new construction. The state went with this code as-is back in September 2021.
Metal barndominiums have to hit certain marks in the code. Chapter 22 Steel deals with metal building components and structural requirements.
Key Code Stuff for Metal Barndos:
The Wyoming State Building Commission oversees code enforcement and offers resources for builders.
You’ll need permits for:
Counties and cities might have extra rules. Laramie County, for example, has some exemptions for non-habitable accessory buildings.
Barndos need to meet insulation standards under Chapter 13 Energy Efficiency. Think proper ventilation and climate control.
If you’re not on city sewer, separate permits are required for septic and well water systems.
Inspections happen at several stages, and if something fails, you’ll have to fix it before moving forward.
https://stateconstruction.wyo.gov/
