Delaware, known as the "The First State", is a moderately priced Mid-Atlantic state with no sales tax advantage. Here is everything you need to know about the cost of living in the The First State — from housing and groceries to taxes, utilities, childcare, and what salary you actually need.
Here is what a typical month costs in Delaware for a single person earning the median income of $69,100/year:
Each category shows how Delaware compares to the national average. Green means cheaper, yellow means similar, orange/red means more expensive.
Adjust your salary to see a detailed monthly budget breakdown for living in Delaware.
Select a state to see how much salary you would need there to maintain the same lifestyle you have in Delaware.
The most popular cities for residents and newcomers in Delaware:
Housing is the single biggest expense in Delaware, as it is everywhere. The median home price in Delaware is $325,000, and the median rent for a one-bedroom apartment is $1,150/month. With a housing cost index of 98, Delaware housing is 2% cheaper than the national average.
Housing in Delaware is a genuine advantage. The low cost of housing frees up income for savings, investments, and discretionary spending that residents of expensive states simply cannot afford.
Delaware has a state income tax rate of 6.6%. On the median household income of $69,100, you will pay approximately $4,561/year in state income tax ($380/month). This is a moderate rate that most households can absorb.
The average single person in Delaware spends approximately $420/month on groceries. A family of four can expect to spend $1,050-$1,260/month. The food cost index of 103 means groceries in Delaware are 3% above the national average.
Gas prices in Delaware average $3.25/gallon. For the average commuter driving 15,000 miles/year at 25 MPG, that is roughly $1,950/year in fuel costs.
Delaware healthcare costs are 9% above the national average (index: 109). The average annual healthcare cost per person in Delaware is approximately $6,540 including premiums and out-of-pocket expenses. Employer-sponsored health insurance covers the majority of working adults.
Infant daycare in Delaware averages $1,050/month ($12,600/year). This is a substantial but manageable expense for dual-income households. Many families in Delaware find that one parent staying home is more cost-effective when two or more children need daycare.
Delaware offers a solid balance of cost, opportunity, and quality of life. With costs near the national average, you get access to growing job markets in Wilmington and Dover, and a cost of living that leaves room for saving and investing.
See all Delaware financial calculators:
Delaware (DE) has a cost of living index of 102, meaning it is 2% more expensive than the US average. Housing is the biggest factor with an index of 98. The median rent is $1,150/month and the median home price is $325,000. Delaware ranks #29 out of 50 states for affordability (1 = cheapest).
For a single person, a comfortable salary in Delaware is approximately $89,830/year ($7,486/month). For a family of four, aim for $152,020/year. This covers housing at 30% of income, groceries ($420/mo), transportation, healthcare, and a 15% savings rate. The median household income in Delaware is $69,100.
The median rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Delaware is approximately $1,150/month. A two-bedroom averages $1,553/month. Rent varies significantly by city: Wilmington, Dover, Newark are the most popular metro areas. Housing in Delaware is affordable compared to the national average.
Delaware offers a balanced lifestyle with costs near the national average. Growing job markets in Wilmington and Dover attract new residents.
The most affordable areas in Delaware are typically smaller cities and rural areas away from the major metros. Within Delaware, costs can vary 20-40% between the most expensive city (Wilmington metro) and more affordable areas. Middletown and Bear tend to offer lower costs while still providing good amenities and job opportunities.
The average monthly grocery bill in Delaware for a single person is approximately $420 ($1,050 for a family of four). Delaware food costs are 3% above the national average. Shopping at Walmart, Aldi, and local discount stores can reduce this by 15-25%.
The average monthly electric bill in Delaware is approximately $145. Total utilities (electric, gas, water, internet) average $319/month. Delaware utilities are 7% above the national average. Utility costs are manageable for most households.
Delaware has a state income tax rate of 6.6%. On the median household income of $69,100, that is approximately $4,561/year in state income tax. This is a moderate rate near the national average.