Before the pros and cons, here are the basics Patty gets asked about most: how big Alpine is, how high it sits, and where everyday services are. Alpine is a small incorporated town in Lincoln County, at the north end of Star Valley where US 26 and US 89 meet near Palisades Reservoir.
Fact | Alpine, WY |
|---|
County | Lincoln County |
Population, 2020 Census | About 1,220 (up from 828 in 2010) |
Median age | About 34 (ACS 5-year estimate) |
Median household income | About $99,000 (ACS 5-year estimate, with a wide margin of error) |
Elevation | About 5,660 feet |
ZIP code and area code | 83128; area code 307 |
Public schools | Lincoln County School District #2 |
Nearest emergency room | Star Valley Health, 37 Wintergreen Dr, Alpine (open 24/7) |
Town hall | 250 River Circle, Alpine; (307) 654-7757 |
Sources: U.S. Census Bureau 2020 Census and American Community Survey 5-year estimates (as published by Census Reporter); U.S. Geological Survey elevation data at the town's mapped center; Town of Alpine; Star Valley Health (all accessed November 2026). Census figures for a town this size carry wide margins of error.
Pros of Living in Alpine, WY
Spectacular Natural Beauty
Living in Alpine, you'll be immersed in the breathtaking natural beauty of the Rocky Mountains. This small town is nestled between the Salt River Range and the Palisades Reservoir, providing an ideal location for those who appreciate outdoor activities and the great outdoors. Whether you enjoy hiking, fishing, skiing, or simply basking in the beauty of nature, Alpine's pristine surroundings offer an unparalleled experience.
A Tight-Knit Community
Alpine's small size and close-knit community foster a welcoming and friendly atmosphere. You'll quickly become a part of this tight-knit community, where neighbors know each other by name. This sense of belonging and camaraderie is one of the town's most cherished attributes, making it an excellent choice for families and individuals seeking genuine connections.
Recreational Opportunities
If you're an outdoor enthusiast, Alpine, WY, is a dream come true. The town is surrounded by opportunities for hiking, biking, fishing, boating, and winter sports. With the Snake River and the Greys River nearby, anglers will find themselves in paradise. Winter enthusiasts can explore the nearby Jackson Hole Mountain Resort for world-class skiing and snowboarding.
Beautiful Seasons
Alpine experiences four distinct seasons, each with its unique charm. Summers offer warm, sunny days for outdoor activities, while fall showcases the stunning foliage transformation. Winters are a snowy wonderland, and spring brings life back to the land. If you enjoy experiencing the beauty of all four seasons, Alpine's climate will not disappoint.
Strong Sense of Community
The tight-knit community in Alpine extends to its strong sense of community involvement. Residents often come together for local events, festivals, and fundraisers. This spirit of togetherness fosters a sense of belonging and makes it easy to become an active part of the town's culture.
Relatively Affordable Real Estate
Compared to some of the more well-known towns in the nearby Jackson Hole area, Alpine offers more affordable real estate options. You'll find a range of properties, from cozy cabins to larger family homes, and even undeveloped land for those looking to build their dream home. This affordability can be an attractive feature for those considering a move to the region.
Cons of Living in Alpine, WY
Limited Economic Opportunities
Alpine is a small town with limited economic opportunities. Employment options may be scarce compared to bigger cities, and many residents commute to Jackson Hole or other nearby areas for work. While some individuals may find remote work or self-employment options, those seeking a wide range of job opportunities may find more results in neighboring cities.
Remote Location
Alpine's remote location can be both a pro and a con, depending on your perspective. While the isolation offers peace and tranquility, it also means that essential services and amenities may be located some distance away. You'll need to plan your trips to the nearest city, Jackson, which is about 35 miles away, for shopping, medical care, and more.
Healthcare and Schools: What's Actually Close By
Remote doesn't mean far from everything. Star Valley Health, the public hospital district for northern Lincoln County, runs an emergency department in Alpine that's open around the clock, so a medical emergency no longer means a drive through the canyon to Jackson. Schools are part of Lincoln County School District #2, which serves Star Valley and Cokeville.
In Alpine
Star Valley Health, 37 Wintergreen Dr
24/7 emergency room, urgent care weekdays 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., family practice, women's health, orthopedics, day surgery and a cardiac catheterization lab.
In Afton
Star Valley Health, 901 Adams St
The district's 22-bed critical access hospital, with its own emergency room and an urgent care clinic.
Grades | Closest public school to Alpine | Town |
|---|
K to 3 | Thayne Elementary | Thayne |
4 to 6 | Etna Elementary | Etna |
7 to 8 | Star Valley Middle School | Afton |
9 to 12 | Star Valley High School | Afton |
Source:
Town of Alpine, Schools (accessed November 2026). The district covers about 2,843 square miles and enrolls more than 2,600 K-12 students. Confirm school assignments for a specific address with the district.
Chilly Winters
While some people revel in Alpine's snowy winters, others may find the chilly weather a drawback. With significant snowfall and cold temperatures, residents need to be prepared for winter driving and snow removal. However, if you enjoy winter sports and a true winter wonderland, this will be a pro for you.
Winter Driving and the Snake River Canyon
If you'll commute to Jackson, the drive matters more than the cold. The main route is US 26/89 through the Snake River Canyon between Alpine Junction and Hoback Junction, and that stretch closes from time to time for avalanches, mudslides and landslides. Some closures last a few hours. A 2011 landslide shut the canyon for days, and WYDOT restricted trailers on Teton Pass during commute hours so drivers could get around it.
Check the road before you go
The Wyoming Department of Transportation posts closures, conditions and webcams on
WYDOT's 511 travel site. Locals check it the way other people check the weather.
Sources: Jackson Hole News&Guide; Star Valley Independent; Wyoming Department of Transportation releases (2011 to 2026).
A winter-ready checklist for Alpine
- ✓Snow tires or a capable all-wheel-drive vehicle, plus a kit with blankets, water and a shovel.
- ✓A backup plan for Jackson workdays when the canyon is closed, whether that's remote work or a flexible schedule.
- ✓Snow removal sorted before the first storm: your own equipment, a plow service, or an HOA that handles it.
- ✓When you're touring homes in Alpine, ask about driveway slope, garage space, roof snow load and how the home is heated.
Limited Dining and Entertainment Options
Alpine, being a small town, has limited dining and entertainment options compared to larger urban areas. If you're a foodie or enjoy a vibrant nightlife, you may find the choices here somewhat limited. But with bigger cities nearby, you’re never far from more choices.
Seasonal Tourism Traffic
While tourism is a significant source of income for the town, it can bring an influx of visitors during peak seasons. This may lead to increased traffic, and some residents might find the town busier during the summer and winter months.
Make Alpine Your Home
In weighing the honest pros and cons of living in Alpine, WY, potential residents must consider their own preferences, lifestyle, and priorities. This picturesque mountain town offers spectacular natural beauty, a tight-knit community, and numerous outdoor recreational opportunities. For residents currently living here, they can attest that the pros far outweigh any potential drawbacks.
Patty Speakman, a dedicated Alpine real estate agent, is here to guide you through the process of finding your ideal home in Alpine. It's essential to determine which factors align with your goals and lifestyle. Whether you're seeking a peaceful mountain retreat or a close-knit community for your family, Alpine, Wyoming, offers a unique living experience that may be just right for you.
Contact Patty Speakman today to explore available real estate options in Alpine, Wyoming, and take the first step towards your dream of living in this charming mountain town. Patty is ready to assist you in finding your perfect home in Alpine!
If the pros outweigh the cons for you, the next step is seeing what's on the market. Patty Speakman and the Speakman Realty Group team can walk you through current Alpine, WY homes for sale, from cabins near the river to building lots.
Living in Alpine, WY: FAQs
Is Alpine, Wyoming a good place to live?
It depends on what you want. Alpine offers mountain and reservoir scenery, a small-town pace and lower prices than Jackson, plus a 24/7 emergency room in town. The trade-offs are a limited local job market, cold snowy winters and a commute to Jackson that runs through a canyon prone to closures.
What is the population of Alpine, WY?
The 2020 Census counted about 1,220 people in the town of Alpine, up from 828 in 2010. Two unincorporated areas just outside town, Alpine Northeast and Alpine Northwest, are counted separately.
What is the elevation of Alpine, Wyoming?
About 5,660 feet at the town's mapped center, based on U.S. Geological Survey elevation data.
Does Alpine have a hospital or emergency room?
Alpine has a 24/7 emergency room run by Star Valley Health at 37 Wintergreen Drive, along with urgent care, family practice and day surgery. The district's 22-bed hospital is in Afton.
What schools serve Alpine?
Alpine is part of Lincoln County School District #2. The closest schools are Thayne Elementary (K-3), Etna Elementary (4-6), and Star Valley Middle and High Schools in Afton.
How do people get from Alpine to Jackson?
Most drive US 26/89 through the Snake River Canyon. Check WYDOT's 511 site before you leave, because avalanches and slides close the canyon from time to time.
How much do homes cost in Alpine?
Prices change with every listing, so the best answer is a live one. Browse current
Alpine homes for sale or ask our team for recent sales.
Sources: U.S. Census Bureau (via Census Reporter); U.S. Geological Survey; Town of Alpine; Star Valley Health; Jackson Hole News&Guide; WYDOT (accessed November 2026).
Thinking about a move to Alpine?
Tell us what matters most, whether that's a short drive to the canyon, room for a shop, or a view of the reservoir, and we'll show you what fits.
