Cheapest Places to Live in Delaware

Delaware, the second smallest state in the United States, is known for its charming coastal towns, historic sites, and business-friendly environment. Notable landmarks include the historic town of Lewes, Rehoboth Beach, and the Nemours Mansion and Gardens. The state's economy is bolstered by industries such as finance, healthcare, and agriculture. Delaware's tax structure is quite favorable, with no state sales tax and relatively low property taxes, which can enhance the overall affordability for residents. Despite recent inflation and rising food costs, Delaware remains one of the more affordable states in the Mid-Atlantic region, especially in its smaller towns and rural areas. The combination of a favorable tax environment and manageable living costs makes Delaware an attractive place for those seeking affordability.

Affordable living in Delaware can often be found in smaller towns and rural communities where housing costs and everyday expenses are lower. These areas offer a more manageable cost of living, which is essential for residents who need to maintain their financial stability. Affordability is a key factor in livability, as it allows individuals and families to enjoy a comfortable standard of living without undue financial strain. Factors contributing to the cheapest places to live in Delaware include lower housing demand in less populated areas, efficient local governance, and strong community support systems. Utilizing C2ER's cost of living data helps to identify these affordable regions, ensuring that potential residents can make informed decisions about where to live in Delaware. In a state known for its historical significance and scenic beauty, finding affordable living options can significantly enhance one's quality of life.

Seaford Population: 7,897 9% cheaper than Delaware average

Med. Home Value: $167,700 Med. Rent: $868 Med. Household Inc.: $52,840

With a cost of living index that is 9% cheaper than the state average, Seaford is the cheapest place to live in Delaware. This area offers residents a remarkable blend of relatively low housing costs, budget-friendly grocery prices, affordable utilities, and economical health care services, making it an attractive destination for those seeking to stretch their dollars further. Whether you're a young professional, a growing family, or someone looking to enjoy a more relaxed pace of life, Seaford provides an inviting and cost-effective environment to call home.

Dover Population: 37,872 6% cheaper than Delaware average

Med. Home Value: $182,100 Med. Rent: $1,066 Med. Household Inc.: $48,500

The second most affordable city in Delaware is Dover and stands out for its cost-effective lifestyle. With an overall cost of living that is 6% cheaper than the Delaware average, overall goods and services, housing, utilities, transportation and health care costs fall within a reasonable range. Median household income levels are steady and come in at , which helps to increase the purchasing power of the local residents.

Wilmington Manor Population: 8,335 5% cheaper than Delaware average

Med. Home Value: $173,300 Med. Rent: $1,013 Med. Household Inc.: $59,145

Wilmington Manor lands in the #3 spot for the cheapest cities to live in Delaware, with a cost of living that is 5% cheaper than the state average. With home prices averaging and rental rates coming in around , it helps that household income levels average about , which assists with paying the mortgage or your monthly rent. Its robust public school system and accessible health care further enhance its appeal, making it a great place to settle down. The strong community spirit and ample recreational opportunities add to its charm.

Wilmington Population: 70,655 5% cheaper than Delaware average

Med. Home Value: $173,500 Med. Rent: $1,030 Med. Household Inc.: $45,139

The cost of everyday grocery items, goods & services and of course housing, can have a significant impact on the overall cost of living in any area. Wilmington offers a picturesque and affordable living environment, with a cost of living that is 5% cheaper than the state average. Everyday items like ground beef , eggs , coffee and pizza are all fairly reasonable compared to most other cities, which helps reduce those grocery bills. Home prices are also fairly affordable (compared to the state average), coming in at around .

Elsmere Population: 5,814 4% cheaper than Delaware average

Med. Home Value: $177,800 Med. Rent: $1,083 Med. Household Inc.: $62,377

For those wanting to live well on a budget, Elsmere is ideal, with a cost of living that is 4% cheaper than the state average. Reasonable housing prices (compared to the Delaware average) of and rental prices of are paired with economical goods and services and a range of free or low-cost recreational activities. The city's proactive economic development initiatives also ensure a steady stream of job opportunities, making it a smart choice for those prioritizing financial ease.

Milford Population: 11,463 4% cheaper than Delaware average

Med. Home Value: $199,600 Med. Rent: $1,003 Med. Household Inc.: $45,948

Milford comes in at #6 on our list of the cheapest cities in Delaware and is a haven for those seeking affordability without sacrificing convenience. The city is known for its discount shopping centers and budget-friendly dining options and has a cost of living that is 4% cheaper than Delaware. The city's local markets provide fresh produce and other groceries at reduced prices, while parks and community centers offer free entertainment and leisure. This city is perfect for enjoying a high quality of life at a low cost.

Smyrna Population: 11,694 2% cheaper than Delaware average

Med. Home Value: $210,300 Med. Rent: $1,183 Med. Household Inc.: $59,830

With its cost-effective lifestyle, Smyrna is an attractive destination for those looking to live affordably. The city boasts suitable housing costs, affordable healthcare, and a variety of budget-friendly dining options. The community is welcoming and vibrant, providing residents with a rich social life at a fraction of the cost. Median income levels come in at , which provides financial stability, purchasing power and increases the quality of life in the city.

Georgetown Population: 7,436 1% cheaper than Delaware average

Med. Home Value: $222,300 Med. Rent: $1,088 Med. Household Inc.: $41,943

A lower cost of living allows individuals to manage their expenses more effectively, reducing the risk of financial stress and debt. When essential costs such as housing, food, transportation, and healthcare are more affordable, people can achieve greater financial stability and resilience. Georgetown fits that mold and has a cost of living that is 1% cheaper than Delaware.

Claymont Population: 9,343 1% cheaper than Delaware average

Med. Home Value: $209,400 Med. Rent: $1,117 Med. Household Inc.: $57,348

Lower living costs can lead to a higher quality of life by making it easier for people to afford comfortable housing, nutritious food, and access to healthcare. It can also provide opportunities for better education, recreational activities, and community engagement, contributing to overall well-being. Claymont is one of the most affordable cities in Delaware, and has a cost of living that is 1% cheaper than the state average.

Brookside Population: 13,741 equal to Delaware average

Med. Home Value: $205,500 Med. Rent: $1,246 Med. Household Inc.: $58,728

With a cost of living that is equal to Delaware, Brookside comes in at #10 on our list of the cheapest places to live in Delaware. Financial stress is a significant factor affecting mental and physical health. By lowering the cost of living, individuals can experience reduced anxiety related to meeting monthly expenses, thereby improving overall health and well-being. The ability to afford basic necessities without constant worry contributes to a more balanced and fulfilling life.

Full list of the cheapest places in Delaware

Rank	Location	Population	COL Index	Med. Home Value	Med. Household Inc.
1	Seaford	7,897	99	$167,700	$52,840
2	Dover	37,872	102	$182,100	$48,500
3	Wilmington Manor	8,335	102	$173,300	$59,145
4	Wilmington	70,655	103	$173,500	$45,139
5	Elsmere	5,814	104	$177,800	$62,377
6	Milford	11,463	104	$199,600	$45,948
7	Smyrna	11,694	106	$210,300	$59,830
8	Georgetown	7,436	107	$222,300	$41,943
9	Claymont	9,343	107	$209,400	$57,348
10	Brookside	13,741	108	$205,500	$58,728
11	New Castle	5,302	110	$211,700	$72,951
12	Edgemoor	6,483	111	$234,900	$62,500
13	Bear	21,397	112	$222,700	$76,920
14	Pike Creek Valley	11,346	114	$248,700	$76,429
15	Newark	33,822	117	$277,700	$60,767
16	Middletown	22,350	117	$294,800	$91,663
17	Glasgow	15,399	117	$274,500	$93,416
18	Pike Creek	6,987	128	$335,700	$121,750
19	North Star	7,546	138	$446,300	$142,955
20	Hockessin	14,172	143	$456,100	$153,879

Methodology

To formulate the list of the cheapest places to live in Delaware, AreaVibes utilized comprehensive data from the Council for Community and Economic Research (C2ER) cost of living index. The report is released annually and offers a detailed comparison of living expenses across various urban areas. The data is meticulously gathered by over 300 independent researchers, ensuring a high level of accuracy and reliability. The C2ER index encompasses more than 60 goods and services, categorized into six essential areas that significantly impact the cost of living. These categories and their respective weightings in the index are as follows: goods and services (33%), groceries (13%), health care (5%), housing (30%), transportation (9%), and utilities (10%).

Map of Cost of Living by State

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The map above is a great way to help you discover the most affordable states across the U.S. By highlighting states with the lowest cost of living, this map provides an in-depth look at where you can get the most value for your money. By visually representing this data, the map allows users to easily compare different regions and make informed decisions about potential relocations or investments. Additionally, it provides valuable insights into the economic conditions and lifestyle factors that influence these cost of living statistics. Whether you're planning a move, considering a new job, or simply curious about the economic landscape, this map is a useful resource for understanding and navigating the financial implications of living in different states.