Thinking of relocating to a quiet city on the Jones River? Then you'll love living in Dover. Dover is the state capital and the largest city in Delaware. Named after a town in Kent, England, Dover was originally founded by William Penn as a court town for the newly established Kent County in Delaware in 1683. Although it was not officially incorporated as a city until 1717.
Aside from being the state capital, Dover is known for its historic attractions and fun events like music festivals and NASCAR races. Today, Dover DE is a good place to live, offering a family-friendly atmosphere and active lifestyle. Here's what you should know before moving to Dover, Delaware.
Dover, Delaware, is in Kent County in the Delaware River coastal plain. It's the principal city in the Dover metro statistical area and part of the Philadelphia-Wilmington-Camden combined statistical area. It's located on the St. Jones River, which flows into the Delaware Bay and eventually the Atlantic Ocean.
Several major thoroughfares run through Dover, including Route 1 and Route 13, offering easy access to other parts of the state. Other nearby towns and CDPs include Camden, Rodney Village, Little Creek, Leipsic, Cheswold, Parsons Corners, and more.
It’s 50 miles or a 52-minute drive from Wilmington, DE, and it’s about 27 miles or a 30 minute drive from Middletown DE to Dover DE.
The Dover population is 39,421, according to the 2020 census. Dover is a calm, laidback city with a suburban feel that features a population density of 1664.8 residents per square mile. Many new residents are moving to Dover Delaware every day. It's one of the fastest-growing cities in the state due to its affordable cost of living, and the population has increased by 6.8% since 2010.
Dover is a relatively young and diverse city with plenty to offer residents of all different backgrounds. The median age is 34.4, which is 20% lower than the amount in the state, and 19% of residents are in their 20s. The racial and ethnic breakdown is 44.2% white (41.5% non-Hispanic), 40.5% Black or African American, 8.5% Hispanic or Latino, 2.4% Asian, and 9.7% two or more races.
Other Dover DE Demographics
Overall, Dover is very safe, although, like many cities, it does suffer from a higher rate of crime than the rest of the country. The total crime rate is 4,887 incidents per 100,000 residents, which is 104% higher than the rest of the state and 108% higher than the rest of the country.
The violent crime rate is 856 per 100,000 residents, which is 98% higher than the state and 120.7% higher than the US overall. The property crime rate is 4,031, which is 105% higher than the state and the country. However, most residents report that most crime is isolated to certain neighborhoods, and as long as you pay attention to your surroundings, Dover is very safe.
The City of Dover Police Department controls crime in Dover with the help of 123 employees, including 92 sworn officers and 31 civilian employees.
If you're considering moving to Dover, Delaware you'll likely want to know how expensive it is. A good way to get a handle on the cost of living in Dover DE is to look at the cost of living index, which compares the price of average consumer goods to the rest of the US, represented by 100. The COLI for the Dover metro area is 104.6, which indicates it's 4.6% more expensive than the rest of the US.
The Family Budget Calculator created by the Economic Policy Institute indicates that the average family of four with two adults and two children would need to make $86,134 to afford to live in the Dover metro area.
Typical Dover Living Expenses:
Source: Numbeo
The Dover real estate market is also very affordable for the quality of life the city offers. Redin indicates that the median listing price of homes for sale in Dover, DE, is $300,000, which is 30% lower than the rest of the US. The median price per square foot of Dover, DE, real estate is $163.
Living in Dover also has a lot to offer tenants as well. The average rent in Dover, DE, is around $1,650 per month. Rentcafe states that rent in Dover ranges from around $500 for a studio or 1-bedroom and goes up to $3,800 for 3+ bedrooms. Around 51% of Dover real estate is rented out, while 49% is owner-occupied.
Dover has plenty of fantastic neighborhoods offering affordable living, prime real estate, and plenty of amenities. You can find a wide range of great Dover Delaware apartment complexes, homes, condominiums, townhouses, and more. Here are the best areas to check out.
Quails Nest is a quiet neighborhood offering spacious lots and one to two-story homes with easy access to downtown Dover and both the south and northbound highways.
Mayfair is a popular Dover neighborhood located just a short distance from downtown that features a safe, family-friendly environment, multiple parks, and direct access to Route 13.
Verona Woods is a brand new 55+ community developed by builder Ryan Homes that offers spacious single-family homes up to 1750 square feet in size and gorgeous views of the water.
According to the Koppen classification system, Dover has a humid subtropical climate, which indicates hot, humid summers and mild winters. The weather in Dover, DE, ranges in temperature from about 27°F to 86°F, although it rarely goes below 14°F or above 94°F. That means the best time to visit Dover is typically June through August.
Dover also gets a decent amount of precipitation. The city averages about 15 inches of snowfall and 45 inches of rain per year. So bring a jacket and snow boots if you plan on moving to Dover Delaware.
Residents will find a variety of things to do in Dover, DE, ranging from museums to NASCAR events. There is plenty of great shopping down at Dover Commons, the North Dover Center, and the Gateway West Shopping Center. Here are a few other Dover DE attractions.
The Air Mobility Command Museum is an aviation museum dedicated to military aircraft, located on the Dover Air Force Base. It's a fun thing to do in Dover with kids and features interesting exhibits and vintage aircraft.
1301 Heritage Rd, Dover AFB, DE 19902 (302) 677-5938
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The Dover Motor Speedway is a professional race track that hosts NASCAR events and has featured at least one Cup Series race every year since 1969.
1131 N Dupont Hwy, Dover, DE 19901 (800) 441-7223
Silver Lake Park is a lake and park located in Dover that features picnic tables, walking paths, a children's play area, barbecue pits, and a lake stocked with different types of fish.
Washington St, Dover, DE 19901 (302) 736-7050
If you're looking for more fun things to do in Dover, the city's Park and Recreation Department tends to the public spaces in the community and has an events calendar on its website.
Restaurants in Dover, DE, are some of the best in the Mid-Atlantic and offer everything from American fare to Asian fusion. Here are the best places to eat in Dover DE.
The Grey Fox Grille and Public House is a veteran-owned local eatery serving steaks and one of the best restaurants in Dover, DE, if you want classic American cuisine in a comfortable setting.
140 S State St, Dover, DE 19901 (302) 734-1234
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Flavor of India is an authentic Indian restaurant serving fine South Asian food made with passion, including menu items like Chicken Pakora and Lamb Korma.
348 N Dupont Hwy, Dover, DE 19901 (302) 677-0121
Delicious Fusion is one of the best restaurants in Dover if you want sushi and other Asian specialties like crab wontons and Mongolian lamb.
50 N Dupont Hwy Unit 14 & 15, Dover, DE 19901 (302) 264-9007
Dover has a very stable economy supported by industries like government, military, health care, manufacturing, construction, and finance. The state of Delaware is the largest employer, and the Dover Air Force Base is another significant job creator. The economy of Dover has a gross metro product of $8.1 billion and a job growth rate of 0.4%.
Some of the largest private employers in Dover are:
According to Payscale, the average hourly rate paid by jobs in Dover, DE, is $18.50 per hour. The average salary for a Delaware state worker is $49,000 per year. Here are a few salary ranges for common Dover jobs with the state:
Employment seekers will find a variety of great Dover, DE jobs ranging from CAT scan tech to flight monitoring specialist. The City of Dover also has plenty of job openings as well.
Three school districts serve students living in Dover. The main Dover school district is the Capital School District, although Caesar Rodney School District covers the southern part of the city. The Polytech District also serves as an overlap district for vocational-technical students.
Caesar Rodney High School is generally considered the best Dover area high school and ranks among the top 5,000 high schools in the country and 11th in Delaware, according to US News and World Report.
Dover is also home to Delaware State University, the state's only historically black college, and satellite campuses of the University of Delaware and Wilmington University. Residents living in Dover can check out the Dover Public Library for media and community events.
Use this map to explore attractions, restaurants, and fun things to do in the Dover, DE zip code.
Ready for an easy and laidback relocation? Trust our reliable Dover movers to take you where you need to go. Call 302-703-9981 for a free, personalized moving quote.
Rehoboth Beach is a beautiful city located along the coast of Delaware. Rehoboth Beach is known for being the “Nation’s Summer Capital” and is a popular vacation destination for people living in Washington D.C. and Philadelphia who own summer houses in the city. In addition to visitors from these nearby cities, Rehoboth Beach is visited every year by thousands of people from across the globe.
While Rehoboth Beach is wonderful as a vacation spot, it is also a good place to live all year round. The beautiful beaches, top-rated restaurants, and close proximity to other major cities make living in Rehoboth Beach a wonderful experience.
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Rehoboth Beach is in Sussex County and is bordered on the east by the Atlantic Ocean. The city is bordered on the north by Henlopen Acres, on the west and south by unincorporated areas of Sussex County, and on the north by Cape Henlopen State Park.
After moving to Rehoboth Beach, there are many wonderful opportunities for day trips. The distances to a few of the closest cities are:
During the summer months, DART operates a bus to Rehoboth Beach. This bus service has routes to and from the city as well as to other Delaware beaches and Ocean City, Maryland. BestBus also offers a summer bus service to and from Washington D.C. and Manhattan, New York.
The population of Rehoboth Beach, DE is 1,392, however, the population over the summer expands to over 25,000 within the city limits. Many notable individuals own summerhouses in the area, including President Joe Biden. Rehoboth Beach is popular among retired individuals, and the median age in the city is 63.5. Of the 778 households in Rehoboth Beach, 64% of them are occupied by married couples and the average household size is 1.8.
Rehoboth Beach is a very affluent city, and the median household income is $137,783. This is nearly double the amount of the Delaware average of $72,724.
Additional Rehoboth Beach Demographics:
Rehoboth Beach is also known as one of the coast’s most popular LGBT-friendly getaways as there are many LGBT-owned and operated businesses in the city.
Is Rehoboth Beach safe? Here is a breakdown of the Rehoboth Beach crime rate:
As you can see, the crime rates in Rehoboth Beach are on the higher end. While the crime rates are high, most of the crime is committed in very specific areas where tourist activity is high. Based on the map below, you can see that the dangerous areas (in red) only make up a small part of the city.
Overall, Rehoboth Beach is a safe place to live, and the residential areas see little to no crime at all. The Rehoboth Beach Police Department and the Rehoboth Beach Fire Department serve residents living in Rehoboth Beach, DE.
Is Rehoboth Beach expensive? The Rehoboth Beach Cost of Living Index is 130.1, making it 30.1% more expensive than the national average of 100. Housing and groceries are the highest contributors to Rehoboth Beach’s high cost of living.
Source: Numbeo
According to the Economic Policy Institute, a family of four would need to earn $86,325 per year to live in Rehoboth Beach.
Are you searching for homes for sale in Rehoboth Beach, DE? The Rehoboth Beach real estate market is somewhat competitive. According to Redfin, the average home price in Rehoboth Beach is $622,000, which is up 12.1% from last year and is higher than the national average of $421,000.
There are also plenty of Rehoboth Beach apartments for those looking to rent. A few popular complexes include Seaglass Apartments and Walls Apartments. According to Numbeo, the average rent in Rehoboth Beach is $1,600.
Here are a few of the best areas to live in Rehoboth Beach.
Sawgrass North is a gated community of luxury homes in Rehoboth Beach. The homes in this community are very large and range from $899,000 to $1.69 million.
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South Rehoboth is where all of the action is at. This area contains the Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk as well as many of the Rehoboth Beach hotels. The homes in this area are mostly townhomes, many of which have waterfront views.
North Shores is a beautiful residential area in Rehoboth Beach with homes starting in the $200,000s. This neighborhood offers a laid-back style of living with many parks and recreational areas. The Rehoboth Beach Farmers Market is hosted in North Shores every Tuesday.
The Rehoboth Beach climate is one of the best reasons to move to the city. According to the Köppen Classification, Rehoboth Beach has a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and cool winters. Summers in the city are beautiful, with an average high Rehoboth Beach temperature of 83ºF. The average summer water temperature at Rehoboth Beach is 73ºF.
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Does it snow in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware? The Rehoboth Beach annual snowfall is only 12 inches, and the snowiest month is February. Large amounts of snow are not common, so you likely won’t need a snow shovel when moving to Rehoboth Beach.
When living in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, there are many exciting things to do. You can enjoy Rehoboth Beach shopping at Penny Lane Mall and Tanger Outlets Rehoboth Beach. You will have convenient access to grocery stores such as The Fresh Market and Safeway. Here are just a few of the best things to do in Rehoboth Beach, DE.
Funland is one of the best things to do in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware for kids. This amusement park has an arcade as well as many fun rides.
6 Delaware Ave, Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971, 302-227-1921
When you are done exploring the beaches in Rehoboth, then head over to the boardwalk. There are many fun shops and restaurants for you to check out!
8 Rehoboth Ave, Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971
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Gordons Pond State Park Area is one of the most fun things to do in Rehoboth Beach for nature lovers. This gorgeous area has walking, biking, and hiking trails along the coastline.
61 Ocean Dr, Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971
If you still aren’t sure of what to do in Rehoboth Beach, then check out the city calendar for upcoming events in the area, or take a look at the parks that are managed by the Rehoboth Beach Parks and Recreation Department.
Check out these picks for the best restaurants in Rehoboth Beach.
This upscale venue is one of the best restaurants in Rehoboth Beach. The restaurant features a raw bar, specialty beers, and fancy seafood dishes.
50 Wilmington Ave, Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971, 302-260-9193
Summer House is one of the most popular restaurants in Rehoboth Beach, DE among the locals. This casual joint serves up burgers, salads, and other American dishes.
228 Rehoboth Ave, Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971, 302-493-3364
This British-themed fish and chips joint is one of the most well-known Rehoboth Beach, Delaware restaurants.
24 Rehoboth Ave, Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971, 302-226-1044
Are you interested in Rehoboth Beach jobs? Because Rehoboth Beach sees so many visitors every year, the Rehoboth Beach economy relies mostly on tourism. Rehoboth Beach nightlife, restaurants, and hotels are enough to keep the economy stable throughout the year. If you don’t want to work in tourism, both the real estate and financial industries are also popular among residents.
According to Payscale, the average salary in Rehoboth Beach is $64,000.
Because of the limited jobs in Rehoboth Beach, many residents commute to Dover for work. Some of the top employers in Dover include:
If you are searching for jobs in Rehoboth Beach, then check out the city job board or take a look on Indeed.
If you are moving to Rehoboth with kids, then your children will be served by the Cape Henlopen School District. The district contains nine schools and serves 5,892 students.
Students living in Rehoboth Beach will attend Rehoboth Elementary School, Beacon Middle School, and Cape Henlopen High School. Rehoboth Elementary School was recently renovated in 2019 on a $33 million budget. This school is ranked by US News as the #1 elementary school in the district and the 11th-best elementary school in all of Delaware.
There are no colleges in Rehoboth Beach, but popular nearby options include the University of Delaware College of Earth, Ocean, and Environment (9.4 miles away) and Delaware Technical Community College (20.7 miles away).
The Rehoboth Beach Library is conveniently located in downtown Rehoboth Beach.
Find more things to do by checking out this map of Rehoboth Beach.
Does living in Rehoboth Beach sound great to you? Our experienced Rehoboth Beach movers will make your moving experience a great one! Give First-Rate Movers a call today at 302-703-9981 to get started with a free quote.
Is living in Delaware in your future? Known for its historic landmarks and gorgeous coastline and beaches, Delaware is a great place to live but you may have an important question: is it expensive to live in Delaware?
Cost of living is a major concern when relocating. The good news is the cost of living in Delaware isn’t much higher than the national average, offering affordability within one of the country’s largest metro areas.
Here’s what you can expect with the Delaware cost of living with an in-depth look at the Delaware living cost by metro area and city and how it compares to the national average.
A good place to start learning about the cost of living is by comparing the Delaware cost of living index (COLI) to the national average.
The Delaware cost of living index is 108 according to C2ER’s 2021 Cost of Living Index data. That means the state is about 8% more expensive than the national average.
Here’s how the average cost of living in Delaware breaks down in comparison to the national average (100). Note that the weight is added to each index or category – this is based on consumer expenditures in the region, or the share of the typical household budget, for executive and professional households.
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Delaware Cost of Living Comparison |
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| Index + Weight | Delaware | Wilmington metro | Dover metro |
| Cost of Living Index | 108 | 111.2 | 104.6 |
| Grocery Index | 114 | 115.3 | 112.8 |
| Housing Index | 103 | 112.1 | 94.2 |
| Utilities Index | 97 | 89.6 | 103.5 |
| Transportation Index | 113 | 122.5 | 103.1 |
| Health Care Index | 106 | 118.6 | 93.9 |
| Misc. Goods & Services Index | 112 | 111.4 | 113.1 |
How Much Does it Cost to Live in Delaware? | Average Living Expenses & More
To put the Delaware cost of living in better perspective, it helps to understand how much you need to earn to afford the Delaware living cost and what you’ll pay for common expenses and goods.
According to the Bureau of Economic Analysis, here are Delaware personal consumption expenditures for 2021, the most recent year available.
|
Delaware Consumer Expenditures (Per Capita) |
|
| Total annual consumer expenditures | $51,113 |
| Motor vehicles and parts | $2,308 |
| Furniture, appliances, tools, and durable home goods | $1,604 |
| Recreational goods and vehicles | $1,804 |
| Other durable goods (jewelry, etc) | $967 |
| Food and beverages (groceries) | $3,645 |
| Clothing and shoes | $1,427 |
| Gasoline and energy costs | $1,349 |
| Other non-durable goods (tobacco, personal care, etc) | $4,001 |
| Housing and utilities | $9,270 |
| Health care | $9,064 |
| Transportation services | $1,083 |
| Food services (restaurants and food/drinks outside the home) | $3,449 |
| Financial services and insurance | $3,783 |
| Other services (household maintenance, education, etc) | $4,494 |
It may be helpful to see how average prices in Delaware compare to where you live now. Here are the cost of typical expenses according to C2ER’s Cost of Living Index.
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Delaware Living Cost Comparison – Average Cost of Goods |
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| Dover metro | Wilmington metro | United States | |
| 1 lb ribeye steak | $12.44 | $11.87 | $12.82 |
| Half-gallon milk | $2.76 | $2.91 | $2.22 |
| Dozen eggs | $1.85 | $1.89 | $1.57 |
| Loaf of bread | $3.72 | $4.08 | $3.47 |
| Home payment (principal + interest) | $1,062 | $1,184 | $1,245 |
| Electricity | $91.58 | $89.24 | $100.83 |
| Total energy/utility bill | $186.75 | $144.41 | $69.67 |
Doxo offers more insight into the Delaware cost of living with average monthly bills by region. Wilmington residents spend $2,127 per month on bills, 6.2% more than the national average, with an average utility bill of $335. In Newark, households pay $2,170/month in bills and $342/month for utilities while Milford residents pay just slightly more at $2,185/month. The cities with the most affordable cost of living in Delaware in terms of bills? Dover ($1,925/month) and Smyrna ($2,012/month).
How much do you need to earn to afford the Delaware cost of living? According to the MIT Living Wage calculator, a single adult working full time needs to earn $17.36 an hour to support himself. The Living Wage is much lower in Sussex County ($15.85) and close in Kent County ($17.33), New Castle County ($17.99), and the Dover metro area ($17.17).
With one child, the Delaware Living Wage increases to $35.73. In a household with two working adults and two children, the Living Wage each adult needs to earn is $24.97.
The Economic Policy Institute’s Family Budget Calculator offers another way to look at the average cost of living in Delaware. For a modest standard of living, a family of four needs $7,178 per month ($86,134 per year) in the Salisbury metro area, Dover metro area, and Kent County. The cost of living in New Castle County is higher: $7,799 per month ($93,590/year).
As a home buyer in Delaware, what can you expect? The average home price in Delaware is $457,875 according to Redfin, almost 9% higher than the U.S. average home price of $421,715. Prices are up 4.2% year-over-year but sales have dropped 33%. While the Wilmington cost of living is generally higher than the rest of the state, it has the most affordable median home price, but most homes sold are townhomes, not single-family homes.
What’s the cheapest place to live in Delaware and buy a home? Here are median home prices throughout the state to help you decide where to live in Delaware.
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Delaware Home Prices |
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| Median Home Price | Price Per Square Foot | |
| Delaware (state) | $457,875 | $203 |
| Rehoboth Beach | $995,000 | $297 |
| Lewes | $632,000 | $282 |
| Sussex County | $508,900 | $236 |
| Middletown | $447,900 | $195 |
| Newark | $447,450 | $184 |
| New Castle County | $400,000 | $191 |
| Kent County | $391,500 | $185 |
| Dover | $275,000 | $168 |
| Wilmington | $259,900 | $194 |
How much is rent in Delaware? The Delaware average rent of $1,613 is about 5% lower than the US average of $1,702 according to Rentcafe. The average Delaware apartment of 916 square feet is also slightly larger than the national average so your money goes even farther.
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Average Rent in Delaware |
|
| U.S. Average Rent | $1,702 |
| Delaware Average Rent | $1,613 |
| Average Rent in Newark Delaware | $1,606 |
| Average Rent in Dover Delaware | $1,600 |
| Average Rent in New Castle Delaware | $1,508 |
| Average Rent in Wilmington Delaware | $1,506 |
Delaware may have below-average rent, but a 2023 report ranked it one of the worst states for rent hikes. Delaware rent prices rose 14.5% year-over-year by the end of 2022. That’s the 5th highest annual rent increase in the country.
Nationwide, rent prices have finally been declining after reaching an all-time high exceeding $2,000 in May of 2022 and remaining there for over a year. December 2022 was the first time in 17 months the annual rent growth rate dropped below 5%.
Rent hikes in Delaware are at least easing. In July 2023, the average rent in Delaware was up 3.37% year-over-year.
According to the Out of Reach report, the Delaware Housing Wage is $26.09 for a two-bedroom apartment or $21.39 for a one-bedroom apartment. The annual income needed is $44,490 for a one-bedroom rental or $54,269 for a two-bedroom unit. That’s how much the NLIHC estimates a full-time worker must earn to afford a modest 2-bedroom apartment in Delaware at HUD’s Fair Market Rent (FMR) without spending more than 30% of their income on housing.
By comparison, the US Housing Wage is $23.67 for a one-bedroom and $28.58 for a two-bedroom rental.
HUD publishes FMRs regularly which estimate the cost of gross rent (including utilities) on 40% of rental units in an area.
Like most of the country, apartments for rent in Delaware are more affordable than buying a home, despite rising rent prices. Mortgage rates have doubled from 2022 which have increased mortgage payments for home buyers by around 50%.
Cost of living information doesn’t take you too far if you don’t know typical earnings! According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average hourly wage in Delaware is $30.50 with average weekly earnings of $1,431 for the first quarter of 2023. That gives you an average salary in Delaware of $74,412. By comparison, the U.S. average hourly wage is $29.76 with an average weekly wage of $1,465.
Delaware average income varies widely by region though! New Castle County is the most affluent area of Delaware with one of the highest weekly wages in the 11-county Philadelphia metro area. Here’s BLS wage and income data for Delaware and how it compares to the national average.
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Delaware Cost of Living – Average Income in Delaware |
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| Mean hourly wage | Average weekly wage | Mean annual income | |
| U.S. | $29.76 | $1,465 | $76,180 |
| Delaware | $30.50 | $1,431 | $74,412 |
| Wilmington area | $31.01 | $1,557 | $80,964 |
| New Castle County | $31.01 | $1,621 | $84,292 |
| Kent County | $24.90 | $1,019 | $52,988 |
| Sussex County | $24.34 | $1,028 | $53,456 |
Taxes are an important but often overlooked aspect of the cost of living in Delaware. With no state or local income tax, moderate income tax rates, and one of the country’s lowest effective property tax rates, the Delaware cost of living is even more affordable than you may think!
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Taxes in Delaware at a Glance |
|
| Sales Tax (State + Local) | N/A |
| Delaware Income Tax | 2.20% to 6.60% + local income taxes |
| Effective Property Tax Rate | 0.59% |
| Cigarette Tax | $2.10 per 20-pack |
| Delaware Gasoline Tax | $0.23 per gallon |
| Delaware Beer Tax | $0.26 per gallon (4.7% ABV beer in 12 oz containers) |
| Distilled Spirits Tax | $4.50 per 40% ABV spirits (750ml)* |
*Delaware applies different tax rates to distilled spirits based on production location, container size, and alcohol content
Tax benefits of living in Delaware go beyond low property taxes and no sales tax. Delaware is famously tax-friendly, not only for businesses but also seniors and workers. It’s one of just five states with no sales tax and one of seven states without tangible personal property tax on goods like automobiles.
Here’s why retiring in Delaware is so popular:
The low Delaware property tax rate also makes the state appealing for home buyers. The effective property tax rate of 0.59% is the 9th lowest in the country! This tax rate is based on American Community Survey (ACS) data from the Census Bureau.
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Delaware Property Tax |
||
| Delaware | United States | |
| Effective tax rate | 0.59% | 1.10% |
| Median property tax bill | $1,570 | $2,690 |
| Average property tax bill | $2,185 | $3,803 |
Above, you can see how the effective Delaware property tax rate compares to the national average. Note that these numbers were based on median property taxes paid and median home prices according to the 2021 ACS. The average tax bill is based on current average home prices – not median prices.
The Delaware cost of living may be a bit higher than average, but you’ll enjoy low taxes, big-city amenities, and some of the best beaches in the Mid-Atlantic! If you’re ready to make Delaware your home, give the Delaware movers at First-Rate Movers a call today for a free moving quote!
Although Milford is a small town, it has a rich history and was once a shipbuilding hub. Milford was first settled in 1680 and incorporated in 1807. Many of Milford’s buildings are listed on the National Register of Historic Places, including Abbott's Mill, the Milford Railroad Station, the Milford Shipyard Area Historic District, the Mispillion Lighthouse and Beacon Tower, and the Old Fire House.
Today, Milford is a vibrant community where you’ll find galleries, local businesses, performance venues, and outdoor spaces. Notable people from Milford include 7 former governors, the most recent being Ruth Ann Minner from 2001 to 2009. Milford DE is a good place to live.
Here’s what you have to look forward to after moving to Milford, Delaware!
Milford is located in Kent and Sussex counties and is split north and south by the Mispillion River. The city is about 100 miles south of Philadelphia and about 96 miles east of Baltimore, and 95 miles east of Washington D.C. Milford is bordered by Slaughter Beach to the east, Lincoln to the south, Houston to the west, and Frederica to the north.
According to the 2020 census, the Milford population is 11,190. Per the 2010 census, a 17% jump from 2010. The median household income in Milford is $47,849. By comparison, the average household income in Delaware is $72,724. The racial makeup of Milford is 62% White, 26% African American, 0.6% Native American, 1.4% Asian, 0.3% Pacific Islander, and 4.5% from 2 or more races. Notable people from Milford include baseball player Jeff Baldwin and Harold Peterman, a state legislator.
Milford DE demographics:
The violent crime rate in Milford is 650 per 100,000, which is higher than the national average. Milford property crime rate is 4,119 per 100,000. It’s important to note that most crime takes place in certain areas that can be avoided. Those living in Milford generally feel it is a safe place to live. The Milford Police Department is dedicated to serving and protecting the citizens of Milford.
The cost of living in Milford is 95.4, meaning it’s 6% cheaper than the national average. One Milford typical living expense, housing, is 7% lower. The cost of goods and services, groceries, transportation, and utilities are all 3% to 13% higher than the U.S. average, but healthcare and housing are about 7% to 8% lower.
Housing is affordable in Milford. The Milford housing market is somewhat competitive, and the median sale price of a home in Milford is $342,000, up 8.9% since last year. By comparison, the median sale price of a home in Delaware is $327,300. The median sale price per square foot is $191, an increase of 5.2% since last year. Check out homes for sale Milford DE to get an idea of how much it will cost when moving to Milford.
If you are planning to rent in Milford, the average rent is $1,608 a month, according to RentCafe. For more in-depth of typical living expenses in Milford, take a look at the Economic Policy’s Family Budget Calculator.
Source: Numbeo, Philadelphia Metro
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Milford is a small city but offers a variety of neighborhoods for you to choose from. Here are some of the best neighborhoods in Milford, depending on what you’re looking for:
The Country Club Estates neighborhood of Milford offers smaller, single-family homes at affordable prices. These homes are great for new families and young married couples. Most homes range in size from around 1,300 square feet to over 1,400 square feet. The average price for a home in Shawnee Acres is $299,900 to $325,000. The homeowner’s association charges a small monthly fee of about $3.
Lighthouse Estates is one of Milford’s newest neighborhoods. Homes here were built between 2020 and 2023 and feature various styles, including Colonial and traditional, on quarter-acre lots. Homes start at about 1,600 square feet and go up to about 2,100 square feet. The average price for a home in Lighthouse Estates is $399,000.
The Heath is one of the most expensive neighborhoods in Milford. Homes there average about 3,500 square feet, and the median price for a home in the community is $789,000. Many of the homes here offer waterfront living on Haven Lake. You’ll find Spanish-style architecture in the neighborhood with large lots.
The Mildford DE weather has summers that are warm and muggy, while the winters are very cold, snowy, and windy. The hot season runs from June through mid-September. The hottest month of the year is July. The average temperature in Milford is 86°F and a low of 69°F in summer. Winter typically runs from December to early March. The coldest month is January, with an average low of 29°F and a high of 43°F. In Milford, you’ll get about 45 inches of rain per year and about 12 inches of snow. The best time to visit Milford is May.
Milford has a variety of activities and interesting places to visit for all ages. You’ll also find convenient shopping in Milford Village, Milford Plaza, and Milford Commons. Here are some of the best things to do in Milford:
The 376-acre Milford Mill Nature Center is part of Abbott’s Millponds Nature Preserve that offers over 5 miles of trails where visitors hike through Atlantic White Cedar woodlands. A boardwalk takes you over streams and into wide open meadows with a picnic area. The visitor center hosts opportunities to see live animals and taxidermy animal displays up close. Abbott’s Pond includes a public boat ramp.
15411 Abbott’s Pond Road, Milford, DE 19963, 302-422-0847
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For craft beer lovers, Mispillion River Brewing has been a staple in Milford for over 9 years. The brewery, complete with a tasting room, is the place to come for delicious locally brewed beers. Try one of their popular “War” series beers, such as the War Badger, War Goose, War Possum, or War Llama. The beers have unique colors and flavors, including mixed berry, grape, and fruit punch.
255 Mullett Run St, Milford, DE 19963, (302) 491-6623
Gallery 37 is a local art gallery featuring work from 45 artists and artisans from around the country. The gallery was voted the Best Gallery downstate in 2015 by DE Today Magazine. Displays include fine art, wood-turned vessels, high-end pottery, Arden Bardol polymer clay jewelry, Ceramic horseshoe crabs, Silas Kopf marquetry furniture, fibers and glass art, and more.
8 South Walnut Street Milford, DE 19963, (302) 265-2318
Still looking for things to do in Milford? Milford has a variety of parks that feature outdoor spaces, picnic areas, basketball courts, boat docks, walking trails, and more. The City of Milford Parks and Recreation Department manages 12 parks. Check out more fun things to do with Milford’s city event calendar.
Milford has plenty of tasty choices when it comes to places to eat. From casual to upscale dining, you can find something for every taste. Here are some of the top-rated restaurants in Milford:
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If you’re looking for a delicious bite to eat in the mornings before you head to work, Surf Bagel is where it’s at! This local favorite serves breakfast and lunch on their bagels, including sandwiches, plain bagels, and more.
204 NE Front St #1, Milford, DE 19963, (302) 503-3629
Mama Maria’s is a family-owned Italian restaurant that has been serving traditional Italian cuisine in Milford for over 34 years. The menu includes pizza, homemade pasta, sandwiches, and traditional Italian dishes such as Lasagna, Ravioli di Aragosta, Manicotti, Vitello alla Parmigiana, and more.
945 N Dupont Blvd, Milford, DE, 19963, 302-422-2661
Surf and Turf Milford DE is the restaurant for All American casual dining. They use fresh products sourced from local vendors to create the best homemade food in Milford. Try their signature pancakes and burgers or their flavorful chicken dinners. At Westside, you can feel at home because they treat you like family.
947 N Dupont Blvd, Milford, DE 19963, (302) 503-5555
The average salary in Milford is $60,000 a year, according to PayScale. The largest industries in Milford are Manufacturing, Health Care & Social Assistance, and Construction. The highest paying industries are Public Administration, Educational Services, and Educational Services, & Health Care & Social Assistance.
Major employers in Milford include:
If you’re ready to explore your career opportunities in Milford, check out Milford City jobs and employment on Indeed or other job search sites.
The Milford School District serves the city of Milford with 6 schools: Milford High, Milford Central Academy, Banneker Elementary, Mispillion Elementary, Ross Elementary, and Morris Early Childhood Center. Milford Christian School is the only private school in Milford.
There are 159 colleges within 100 miles of Milford due to its proximity to Philadelphia, Baltimore, and Washington D.C. Delaware Technical and Community College Owens in Georgetown is the closest college to Milford, 14.7 miles away. The top-rated school in the area is Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore. The largest college in the area is the University of Maryland, with 55,323 students. Baltimore City Community College in Baltimore is the most affordable school. The tuition is $2,640 per year. Students and people of all ages can also enjoy the free Milford Public Library.
Check out other fun attractions, events, and restaurants with this map of Milford.
If you’re moving to Milford, give First Rate Movers a call at 302-703-9981 for a free moving estimate today! Our top-rated Milford movers will exceed all your expectations and give you the stress-free move you deserve.
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