In the heart of Star Valley, Afton, Wyoming, is a hidden gem that offers breathtaking landscapes, a close-knit community, and a lifestyle that blends adventure with tranquility. Whether you’re searching for a peaceful retreat, a thriving place to raise a family, or an investment in an up-and-coming area, Afton has something to offer. Here’s everything you need to know about relocating to this charming town.
Why Choose Afton?
Afton embodies the essence of small-town living, where neighbors know each other by name and community spirit runs deep. With a population of just over 2,000, residents enjoy a tight-knit atmosphere, strong local values, and a sense of belonging that is hard to find elsewhere. The town’s scenic beauty, abundant outdoor activities, and high quality of life make it a desirable place to settle down. Here’s why people are making the move to Afton:
A Strong Sense of Community: Whether it’s helping a neighbor, gathering for local events, or supporting small businesses, Afton thrives on the warmth and generosity of its residents.
A Great Place to Raise a Family:Â With excellent schools, safe neighborhoods, and endless outdoor activities, Afton provides an idyllic setting for children to grow up.
Outdoor Recreation: Enjoy year-round activities, including hiking, fishing, hunting, snowmobiling, and skiing—right in your backyard.
Quality of Life:Â Low crime rates, friendly neighbors, and a welcoming environment create a peaceful and fulfilling lifestyle.
Proximity to Jackson Hole: Just an hour south of Jackson Hole, Afton offers access to world-class skiing, shopping, and dining—without the high price tag.
Rich History & Culture: Home to the world’s largest elk horn arch and a deep-rooted Western heritage, Afton is rich in tradition and local pride.
Housing & Real Estate
Afton provides a range of real estate options, from cozy single-family homes to sprawling ranch properties. Whether you’re looking for a charming cabin in the woods or a modern home with panoramic mountain views, you’ll find something to suit your lifestyle and budget.
If you’re considering settling in Afton, Painted Hills is the premier subdivision to explore. This luxury development features 35 spacious lots, each thoughtfully designed to maximize views and provide unique building opportunities. With paved roads, power, fiber optics, and light protective covenants, Painted Hills offers a rare chance to own a piece of Wyoming’s western paradise. The stunning landscapes combined with well-planned infrastructure make this one of the most sought-after neighborhoods in Star Valley.
Cost of Living
Compared to nearby Jackson Hole, Afton offers a more affordable cost of living while still providing a high quality of life. Housing prices, property taxes, and general expenses are significantly lower, making it an attractive option for those looking to escape high-priced resort towns without sacrificing modern amenities.
Employment & Business Opportunities
Afton’s economy thrives on industries such as ranching, tourism, healthcare, and small businesses. Additionally, the growing presence of fiber-optic internet makes it an ideal location for remote workers. Whether you're launching a new venture or looking for a place to work from home while enjoying breathtaking scenery, Afton offers unique business opportunities.
Schools & Education
Afton is served by Lincoln County School District #2, which offers excellent educational opportunities for students from elementary through high school. The district is known for small class sizes, strong community involvement, and robust extracurricular programs.
Star Valley High School and Star Valley Middle School are both located in Afton, serving students across the valley. Families living in Alpine should note that students in 7th grade and up may have up to a 40-minute commute to get to school, which influences some families to choose Afton or the upper valley for convenience.
Healthcare & Medical Services
Afton is home to Star Valley Health, the primary medical center serving the entire valley. This full-service hospital provides emergency care, family medicine, and specialized medical services, ensuring residents have access to top-tier healthcare without having to travel long distances.
Real Estate Investment Opportunities
Beyond its charm, Afton presents a strong real estate investment opportunity. The town’s steady growth and increasing appeal make it a smart choice for buyers looking for long-term value in property ownership.
Afton’s real estate market is on the rise, with a steady influx of buyers seeking both primary residences and vacation homes. The area’s affordability compared to Jackson Hole, combined with its growing infrastructure and high quality of life, makes it a desirable location for investors. Property values in Afton have shown consistent appreciation, making now an ideal time to invest before demand drives prices even higher.
For those looking to develop land, subdivisions like Painted Hills offer premium lots with modern amenities while maintaining the beauty of Wyoming’s rugged landscape. Whether you’re purchasing a home to live in, a rental property for additional income, or land for future development, Afton offers solid investment potential.
If you're considering relocating to Afton, take the time to visit, explore the town, and discover what makes this community so special. Connect with a local real estate expert to find the perfect home or property that fits your needs.
Lifestyle & Community
Afton’s lifestyle is built around a strong community spirit and appreciation for the great outdoors. Residents enjoy annual festivals, local rodeos, farmers' markets, and a variety of town events that bring people together. Whether you’re looking to participate in community traditions or simply enjoy the natural beauty of Star Valley, Afton provides a vibrant, active lifestyle.
Local businesses are the heartbeat of the town, offering everything from cozy cafés and family-owned restaurants to boutique shops and essential services. There’s a deep sense of pride in supporting one another, making Afton an inviting place for newcomers to feel at home quickly.
Final Thoughts
Relocating to Afton, WY, means experiencing the beauty of Star Valley while enjoying a welcoming, vibrant community. Whether you seek adventure, tranquility, or a great place to raise a family, Afton has it all. And with Painted Hills offering a premier luxury living experience, there has never been a better time to make the move!
