Where Wyoming’s Immigrants Come From: A Look at the Cowboy State’s Global Ties

Immigrants make up over 14% of the US population today, but America’s immigrant story goes way back. Whether your great-grandparents came through Ellis Island or crossed a land border a few decades ago, most Americans are here thanks to someone who made a big move from somewhere else.

Wyoming might be known for its open skies and rugged terrain, but it’s also home to a surprisingly diverse immigrant population—though small in numbers compared to bigger states. According to the latest US Census Bureau estimates from 2023, people from all over the world are calling the Equality State home.

Here’s a breakdown of where Wyoming’s immigrant community is coming from:

The Top 10 Countries Sending Immigrants to Wyoming:

1. Mexico
   Far and away the largest group: 8,057 residents — that’s nearly 40% of Wyoming’s immigrant population.
2. Canada
   Wyoming’s northern neighbors make up the second biggest group, with 1,192 residents (5.85%).
3. China
   With 846 Chinese-born residents, they account for about 4.15% of the state’s immigrant community.
4. Philippines
   The Filipino community is 800 strong, making up 3.93%.
5. United Kingdom (including Crown Dependencies)
   From the land of tea and scones: 731 residents (3.59%).
6. Germany
   Coming in close behind with 596 residents (2.93%).
7. Guatemala
   525 residents, or 2.58%.
8. India
   473 people (2.32%) hail from the subcontinent.
9. Venezuela
   463 residents (2.27%) have brought their culture and resilience to Wyoming.
10. Ukraine
    Rounding out the top 10: 462 residents, also at 2.27%.

Other Notable Countries:

• Peru: 412 residents
• Colombia: 378
• Russia: 354
• Vietnam: 252
• Thailand: 207
• France: 191
• Japan: 184
• El Salvador: 171
• Australia: 153

The rest of the list includes smaller but still significant communities from places like Nigeria, Poland, Iran, Nepal, Cuba, and even Ireland and Sweden. Some countries, like Argentina or Malaysia, have just a few dozen residents in the state—but each group adds to the cultural mix.

America has a long, complicated relationship with immigration. Every generation of newcomers has faced its share of suspicion and setbacks, whether they came from Ireland, China, Mexico, or elsewhere. Yet time and again, those same immigrants have helped shape the country’s industries, arts, and way of life.

In Wyoming, immigration may not happen on the scale it does in New York or California, but the influence is real—and growing. From Mexican restaurants in Rock Springs to tech talent from India in Laramie, immigrant communities are quietly weaving themselves into the state’s fabric.

Whether they’re escaping conflict, chasing opportunity, or following family, immigrants continue to bring new energy to the state—helping keep the spirit of the American West alive and evolving.

With input from Wyoming News Now.