Cost of Living in Delaware [2025]

Planning to move to Delaware? The First State is known for small-town charm next to urban accessibility, thanks to its proximity to cities like Philadelphia, Baltimore, and Washington, D.C. Whether you're spending weekends along the Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk or commuting into the growing Wilmington business sector, Delaware delivers convenience and character. Its mild seasonal climate and scenic landscapes—from farmland to coastline—only add to the appeal.

While the cost of living in Delaware is slightly higher than the national average, it’s still more affordable than neighboring states like New Jersey and Maryland. Housing costs, for example, remain competitive, with the median home value significantly lower than that of cities like Washington, D.C. Although residents may pay more for healthcare and groceries, they benefit from the absence of a state sales tax and low property tax rates. For those concerned about affordability, cities like Dover offer below-average living costs, making it easier to manage a budget without sacrificing quality of life.

As you explore more about living in Delaware—whether you're looking at rent prices, job prospects, or utility expenses—you'll find a state that offers both economic advantages and lifestyle perks. Keep reading to discover how Delaware stacks up across key cost-of-living categories.

Cost of Living in Delaware

What Is the Cost of Living in Delaware?

Delaware offers a moderate cost of living, with an overall index of 103.5, indicating that expenses are approximately 3.5% higher than the national average. While housing costs are slightly above average, with a median home value of $326,800, they remain more affordable compared to neighboring states. Utilities and groceries also contribute to the higher living costs, with indices of 105.2 and 105.9, respectively. However, transportation costs are lower, with an index of 95.8, providing some relief to residents.

Where Is the Cost of Living Highest in Delaware?

Rehoboth Beach is one of the most expensive places to live in Delaware, with a cost of living index of 108.1, 8.1% higher than the national average and 4.4% higher than the state average. This elevated cost is primarily driven by housing, where the median home price is $1.24 million, significantly surpassing both the state and national medians.

Where Is the Cost of Living Most Affordable in Delaware?

Dover, Delaware’s capital city, is one of the most affordable places in the state, with an overall index of 99.0—approximately 4.5% lower than the Delaware average of 103.5 and 1% below the national average of 100. Housing costs primarily drive this affordability, as the median home price in Dover is significantly lower than both the state and national medians.

How Much Is Rent in Delaware?

As of 2025, rent prices in Delaware vary widely by city. Wilmington offers the most affordable median rents among the listed cities, with one-bedroom apartments at $998 and two-bedroom apartments at $1,146. Dover follows closely, with a one-bedroom median of $1,047 and two-bedroom units averaging $1,185. On the higher end, Newark and Middletown have similar one-bedroom rents—$1,391 and $1,390, respectively—while two-bedroom rents reach $1,513 in Newark and $1,615 in Middletown.

Claymont presents a unique case, with a median one-bedroom rent of $1,274 but a more affordable two-bedroom median of $1,223. These differences highlight the importance of comparing rent types across cities rather than assuming larger apartments always cost more.

How Much Is a One-Bedroom Apartment in Delaware?

The median rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Delaware ranges from $998 in Wilmington to $1,391 in Newark. Meanwhile, rent in Dover costs $1,047, Middletown $1,390, and Claymont $1,274, illustrating how location and local demand can influence costs.

How Much Is a Two-Bedroom Apartment in Delaware?

The median rent for a two-bedroom apartment in Delaware also varies depending on the city. Wilmington is the most affordable at $1,146. In contrast, Middletown is one of the most expensive at $1,615. The median rent in Newark is $1,513; in Dover, it is $1,185; and in Claymont, it is $1,223.

How Much Is Housing in Delaware?

Home prices in Delaware vary significantly by location, offering options for a range of budgets. Although some cities like Middletown and Newark have higher median home values at $399,500 and $357,600, respectively, more affordable options can be found in Wilmington ($224,500), Dover ($248,500), and Claymont ($262,900).

What Salary Do I Need to Live in Delaware?

To cover basic living expenses in Delaware, a single adult needs to earn at least $23.43 per hour, or $48,743 per year, according to the MIT Living Wage Calculator. For a family of four with two working adults and two children, the required income jumps to $26.82 per hour per adult, or $111,571 per year. These estimates reflect the minimum needed for essentials like housing, food, and healthcare—they don’t account for travel, debt payments, or savings.

Using the 30% rule, which recommends spending no more than 30% of your gross income on rent, a household would need to earn $45,840 per year to afford Wilmington’s median rent of $1,146, and $47,400 per year for Dover’s $1,185. Newark’s higher rent of $1,513 would require an annual income of $60,520, Middletown’s $1,615 calls for $64,600, and Claymont’s $1,223 would mean earning at least $48,920 annually. That translates to monthly incomes ranging from $3,820 to $5,383, or hourly wages of $22.06 to $30.48, depending on the city.

Delaware’s median household income is $82,855, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, which is slightly higher than the national median of $79,538. This suggests that many households earn enough to cover typical rent expenses, especially in cities like Wilmington, Dover, and Claymont. To better understand what rent you can afford based on your income, try using our rent calculator.

How Much Is Transportation in Delaware?

Transportation costs in Delaware can be a significant expense, with an annual estimate of $10,249 for a single adult and $17,191 for a family of four comprising two working adults and two children. These figures encompass expenses such as fuel, vehicle maintenance, insurance, and public transportation fares.

Traffic congestion is a notable concern in Delaware. Commuters spend an average of 26.1 minutes traveling to work, which is slightly below the national average. Major highways like I-95 and Route 1 often experience heavy traffic, especially during peak hours and summer weekends. This congestion can result in longer commute times and higher transportation costs for residents.

In Wilmington, the state's largest city, the transportation infrastructure offers moderate accessibility. The city boasts a Walk Score of 74, indicating that many errands can be accomplished on foot. However, public transportation options are limited, reflected in a Transit Score of 48. Cycling is feasible, with a Bike Score of 52, but the city's layout and traffic conditions pose challenges for cyclists.

How Much Are Groceries in Delaware?

Delaware’s food scene has Mid-Atlantic roots, with popular local meals including crab cakes, fried oysters, and boardwalk-style fries. The state is known for its fresh seafood, with many residents enjoying classic dishes like chicken and slippery dumplings or peach pie, a nod to Delaware’s agricultural history. While these meals are often made at home, they’re also featured at local restaurants, adding to the appeal—and the cost—of dining out.

Eating out regularly can be expensive. In Wilmington, for example, a three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant typically costs around $75. While occasional outings may fit within a budget, relying on restaurants for meals can quickly push food expenses beyond average expectations. Balancing restaurant visits with home-cooked meals is often necessary to stay within budget.

According to the MIT Living Wage Calculator, annual grocery costs in Delaware are about $4,405 for a single adult and $12,912 for a family of four. These estimates assume that meals are prepared at home using cost-effective grocery shopping methods. In Wilmington, basic food items like a gallon of milk average $4.73, while a loaf of fresh white bread costs around $3.25. Individual prices can vary depending on location and brand, but planning ahead and shopping smart can help households stay on track.

How Much Is Child Care in Delaware?

Child care in Delaware costs approximately $9,867 per year for one child and $20,227 for two children. While slightly below the national average of $11,582 per year, these costs still place a considerable financial burden on many families.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recommends that families spend no more than 7% of their annual income on child care. However, for a family earning Delaware’s median household income of $82,855, the cost of care for one child already represents nearly 12% of their income, well above the recommended threshold.

How Much Is Healthcare in Delaware?

Healthcare in Delaware costs an average of $3,235 per year for a single adult and $10,110 for a family of four, according to the MIT Living Wage Calculator. The state has a robust healthcare system, featuring institutions like ChristianaCare and Nemours Children's Health. ChristianaCare operates Christiana Hospital in Newark, a 906-bed facility that serves as Delaware's only adult Level I trauma center and includes specialized centers for heart and vascular health, cancer, and women's and children's health.

Nemours Children's Hospital in Wilmington provides comprehensive pediatric care across more than 30 specialties and is recognized for its excellence in areas such as cardiology, oncology, and orthopedics. While these facilities offer high-quality care, access to services can vary.

How Much Are Utilities in Delaware?

Utility costs in Delaware are generally moderate, with residents in Wilmington—the state’s largest city—paying an average of $126.92 per month for basic services such as electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage for a 915-square-foot apartment. Internet service typically costs around $71.15 per month, while a mobile phone plan with 10 GB of data or more averages $44.10 per month.

Delaware’s seasonal climate can also impact utility bills. Cold winters and humid summers mean residents may spend more on heating in the winter and cooling during peak summer months. This seasonal variation is especially noticeable in cities like Wilmington, where temperatures can swing significantly between January and July. If you're moving to Delaware or adjusting your budget, it's wise to leave room for fluctuating utility costs throughout the year.

Delaware Fitness and Entertainment

Wilmington has a mix of affordable fitness and entertainment options for its residents. A gym membership for one adult averages $33.50 per month, making it a relatively affordable option for those seeking to stay active. For moviegoers, catching a new international release costs around $12 per ticket—perfect for a weekend outing or date night. These types of paid activities are common ways for locals to unwind while staying within a reasonable budget.

For those seeking free options, Wilmington doesn’t disappoint. Residents can enjoy scenic walks or bike rides along the Christina Riverfront, explore contemporary art exhibits at The Delaware Contemporary, or attend seasonal community events and outdoor festivals. The city also hosts free music events like the Clifford Brown Jazz Festival, which draws large crowds to Rodney Square each summer.

How Much Are Taxes in Delaware?

Delaware's tax structure contributes to its overall affordability. The state employs a graduated individual income tax system with rates ranging from 2.20% to 6.60%, with the top rate applying to incomes over $60,000. Additionally, residents of Wilmington are subject to a local income tax of 0.76%. Notably, Delaware does not impose a state or local sales tax, making it one of only five states without a general sales tax. The state also boasts a low effective property tax rate of approximately 0.48% on owner-occupied housing, ranking among the lowest in the nation. ​

These tax policies help ease the cost of living in Delaware, particularly benefiting residents with higher incomes and homeowners. The absence of a sales tax reduces the overall cost of goods and services, while the low property tax rate lessens the financial burden on homeowners. Consequently, Delaware's tax environment is a significant factor for individuals seeking a more affordable living situation.

Delaware Job Market

Delaware's job market in early 2025 remains steady, with a seasonally adjusted unemployment rate of 3.6% in February, holding steady from January and below the national average of 4.1%. The state added 6,400 nonfarm jobs over the past year, marking a 1.3% growth rate that aligns with national trends. Key sectors contributing to this growth include private education and health services, professional and business services, and construction. However, the labor force participation rate has declined to 59%, the lowest among neighboring states, reflecting demographic shifts such as an aging population and fewer younger workers entering the workforce.

Economist Dr. Anirban Basu notes that Delaware's economy is well diversified, with strengths in professional services, healthcare, logistics, and construction. The state's strategic location and infrastructure, including the Port of Wilmington and Interstate 95, support its logistics industry. However, challenges such as limited affordable housing options may hinder the state's ability to attract and retain a younger workforce, potentially impacting future labor market dynamics.

Find Your Next Apartment in Delaware

Delaware’s mix of coastal charm, tax-friendly policies, and proximity to major metropolitan areas like Philadelphia and Baltimore makes it a desirable place to live, work, and explore. Whether you’re drawn to Wilmington’s vibrant riverfront, Newark’s college-town energy, or the quieter communities in Dover or Middletown, there’s a neighborhood that fits your lifestyle and budget.

Ready to find a new apartment? Get started on your Delaware apartment search with Apartment List. With us, you’ll spend five minutes and save 50 hours searching.

FAQs: Cost of Living in Delaware

Is Delaware a good place to live?

Delaware is a great place to live for many reasons—affordability, coastal charm, and access to major cities like Philadelphia and Baltimore all contribute to its appeal. The state offers a moderate cost of living, no sales tax, and relatively low property taxes, making it more budget-friendly than neighboring states like New Jersey. From bustling Wilmington to scenic Dover and laid-back beach towns, Delaware has something for everyone. For a deeper look at the best areas to call home, check out our guide to the 12 best places to live in Delaware.

Is rent in Delaware expensive?

Rent in Delaware is generally more affordable than in nearby states, such as New Jersey, but prices vary by city. As of 2025, the median rent for a one-bedroom apartment ranges from $998 in Wilmington to $1,391 in Newark. Dover offers a middle ground at $1,047, while Middletown and Claymont follow closely at $1,390 and $1,274, respectively.

Is Delaware cheap to live in?

Delaware isn’t the cheapest state in the U.S., but it does offer a relatively affordable cost of living, especially when compared to nearby states like New Jersey and New York. While some expenses like healthcare and groceries run slightly above the national average, Delaware’s lack of a sales tax, low property tax rate, and reasonable housing costs help balance the budget.

What is the population of Delaware?

As of 2025, Delaware has a population of approximately 1,051,917 people, making it the sixth-least populous state in the United States.

What is the minimum wage in Delaware?

As of January 1, 2025, Delaware's minimum wage has increased to $15 per hour. This rate is notably higher than the federal minimum wage of $7.25 per hour.