📍 About CPR & Casper
Casper Tower is located at the Casper–Natrona County International Airport in Casper, WY. Known for its wide-open spaces, low cost of living, and rugged natural beauty, Casper offers a laid-back lifestyle, access to world-class outdoor recreation, and a welcoming community — ideal for controllers looking for balance and affordability.
🏡 Where to Live
Best Neighborhoods – Singles & Couples
- Downtown Casper – Walkable, historic charm, cafes and restaurants.
- Paradise Valley – Affordable homes, quiet and safe.
- The Heights – Newer developments, scenic views of Casper Mountain.
Best for Families
- Mesa – Suburban community, good schools, family-friendly.
- Bar Nunn – Small-town feel just north of airport, affordable housing.
- Evansville – Budget-friendly, growing area with parks and schools.
🚗 Commute Times to CPR (Casper Airport)
- 5–15 min: Bar Nunn, Paradise Valley, Mesa
- 15–25 min: Downtown Casper, Evansville
- 25–35 min: Mills, Vista West
🎓 Top School Districts
- Natrona County School District #1 – Public school system covering Casper and surrounding communities
- St. Anthony Tri-Parish Catholic School – Private PreK–8 option
- Casper Mountain Academy – Small independent private school
🧳 Things to Do – Within 2 Hours, Year-Round
🌲 Outdoor Activities
- Hiking & Biking: Casper Mountain Trails, Bridle Trail, Rotary Park
- Fishing: North Platte River – Blue-ribbon trout fishing
- Skiing: Hogadon Basin Ski Area (25 min from downtown)
- Camping & Climbing: Alcova Reservoir, Fremont Canyon, Casper Mountain
🏛️ Indoor & Cultural
- Nicolaysen Art Museum: Contemporary art in downtown Casper
- National Historic Trails Interpretive Center: Interactive pioneer exhibits
- Casper Events Center: Concerts, rodeos, expos, and sports
- David Street Station: Year-round events, splash pad, ice rink
- Breweries: Gruner Brothers, Frontier Brewing, Oil City Beer Co.
✈️ Nearby Airports
- Casper–Natrona County International Airport (CPR): On-site — commercial flights via United and Delta
- Denver International Airport (DEN): ~4 hours drive — major international hub
- Riverton Regional Airport (RIW): ~2 hours west — limited regional service
🧭 Helpful Resources for Newcomers
🛡️ Crime & Safety + Town Websites
- Casper: Crime rates below the national average for violent crime. Safe areas include Paradise Valley, The Heights, and Bar Nunn.
- Bar Nunn: Small, safe suburb north of the airport.
- Evansville: Affordable with improving safety and services.
🔗 Town Websites
💰 Cost of Living
- Home Prices: Median around $275,000
- Rent: 1-bedroom averages $850–$1,100/month
- Utilities: ~$150–$200/month for apartments
- Groceries: Close to national average (milk ~$3.60, eggs ~$2.90)
- Gasoline: ~$3.40/gallon
- Taxes: No state income tax in Wyoming
🌆 Neighborhood Highlights
- Downtown Casper: Riverwalk, shops, restaurants, museums
- Paradise Valley: Affordable homes near schools and parks
- The Heights: Newer construction, elevated views of city and mountains
☀️ Seasonal Weather
- Winter: Cold and snowy, prepare for snow tires and freezing temps
- Spring: Mild but can be windy and chilly
- Summer: Warm, dry, great for outdoor activities
- Fall: Crisp air, colorful foliage, early snow possible
🚇 Public Transportation & Traffic
- Casper Area Transit: Bus service with fixed routes and dial-a-ride
- Driving: Easy commutes with minimal traffic throughout the city
- Parking: Abundant and usually free
🏥 Healthcare & Urgent Care
- Banner Wyoming Medical Center: Full-service hospital in central Casper
- Community Health Center of Central Wyoming: Primary and dental care
- Immediate Care Clinics: Multiple urgent care options available
🫂 Social Life & Community
- Young Professionals: Brewery scene, community concerts, rec leagues
- Families: Local festivals, youth sports, museum programs
- Faith/Volunteering: Many churches, Rotary Club, food pantries
🍽️ Dining & Food Scene
- Casper Restaurants: FireRock Steakhouse, Eggington’s, Racca’s Pizzeria
- Breweries: Oil City Beer Co., Frontier Brewing
- Local Flavor: Wyoming-style steakhouses, Mexican, diners
🛫 ATC-Specific Tips
- Living nearby: Bar Nunn or Paradise Valley keep commute under 10 mins
- Shifts: Expect rotating shifts, invest in blackout curtains
- Community: Small tight-knit group of controllers – easy to get involved
📦 Moving Tips
- Winter prep: Get snow tires, winter gear, and a reliable vehicle
- Rental truck demand: Reserve early if arriving in summer or winter PCS season
- Best time to move: May–September for milder weather
❓ FAQs
- Is Casper affordable?
Yes. Housing and daily expenses are well below the national average. - Do I need AWD or 4WD?
It’s very helpful in winter, especially outside city limits. - Is Casper a good place to raise a family?
Yes. Safe neighborhoods, good schools, and family-friendly amenities.