Statistic Dover Delaware National
Population 37,872 973,764 328,239,523
Population density (sq mi) 1,600 504 91
Median age 33.8 39.6 37.7
Male/Female ratio 0.9:1 0.9:1 1.0:1
Married (15yrs & older) 38% 54% 55%
Families w/ Kids under 18 42% 39% 43%
Speak English 88% 87% 79%
Speak Spanish 5% 7% 13%

Overview of Dover Demographics

Dover demographics provide invaluable insights into the composition, dynamics and needs of urban and rural areas, enabling them to plan, develop, and govern in ways that promote prosperity, equity and well-being for all residents. The Dover population is 37,872 and has a population density of 1,600 people per square mile, compared to the national average of 91. The median age of all residents is 33.8, 38% of people 15 years of age or older are married and 42% have kids under the age of 18. In Dover, 25% of households have a median income that is below $25,000 and 9% of households report a median income above $150,000.

Dover Racial Demographics & Ethnicity

The Dover racial demographics and ethnicity breakdown could be indispensable tools for recognizing and rectifying systemic inequities, fostering social justice and inclusion and cultivating resilient communities. In Dover, the racial breakdown reveals 44% White, 42.1% Black or African American, 3.3% Asian, 0.6% American Indian and 0% Native Hawaiian, with 8% of the population identifying as Hispanic or Latino. Of all households, 88.1% reported speaking English only, while 4.8% reported speaking Spanish only. Moreover, 8.9% of residents were classified as foreign-born.

Dover Population Density

Dover has a population density that is well above-average, which plays a pivotal role in promoting environmental sustainability by reducing per capita energy consumption, greenhouse gas emissions and land use. Its compact urban development encourages energy-efficient buildings, active transportation modes like walking and cycling and the utilization of public transit, fostering sustainable lifestyles and mitigating environmental impact. Additionally, the area's dense population contributes to a vibrant social and cultural scene, featuring a diverse array of cultural events, festivals and community activities. This cultural diversity fuels creativity, innovation and cross-cultural exchange, enhancing the community's social fabric. Dover has a population density of 1,600 people per square mile, exceeding the national average of 91 and positions itself in a good spot to reap the benefits of densely populated areas.

Why are Demographics Important?

Urban Development: Urban planners could use Dover demographic data to design and create areas that accommodate the needs of residents, including housing, transportation and public services, while promoting sustainability and quality of life. Demographic shifts can contribute to gentrification and neighborhood change in urban or rural areas. As neighborhoods attract new residents with different income levels and lifestyle preferences, property values may rise, leading to displacement of long-time residents and changes in the character and identity of the neighborhood. Understanding population density, age distribution, household size and income levels helps inform decisions related to zoning, transportation infrastructure, housing development and public amenities. Lastly, using Dover demographics for planning and development of affordable housing can help prevent displacement.

Healthcare Planning: The examination of Dover demographics can potentially inform healthcare planning and delivery by identifying population health needs, disparities and risk factors. By comprehending demographic trends, healthcare providers and policymakers can allocate resources effectively, develop prevention and intervention programs, and address health inequities within communities. Through the utilization of demographic statistics, healthcare providers and policymakers aim to achieve equitable, accessible, and high-quality healthcare for all individuals and communities. This proactive healthcare planning approach ensures targeted interventions, efficient resource allocation and tailored healthcare services to meet the diverse needs of populations.

Education Allocation: Utilizing census data like Dover demographics can be useful in guiding education planning, as it helps identify student demographics, school enrollment trends and educational needs. This data assists schools and policymakers in allocating resources and devising effective educational programs. It serves as a vital tool for recognizing disparities in educational access and outcomes among various demographic groups, including racial and ethnic minorities, socio-economic status and students with disabilities. By disaggregating data based on demographic factors, education planners can pinpoint areas of inequity and implement targeted interventions to enhance access, support and outcomes for marginalized students. In essence, Dover demographic statistics can play an indispensable role in education by promoting equity, bolstering student success and cultivating inclusive learning environments tailored to meet the needs of all students.

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Demographics Quick Facts

  • The population density in Dover is 217% higher than Delaware
  • The median age in Dover is 15% lower than Delaware
  • In Dover 43.97% of the population is White
  • In Dover 42.09% of the population is Black
  • In Dover 3.32% of the population is Asian

Compare Dover, DE Demographics

      vs

      Dover racial demographics

      Race Dover Delaware National
      White 43.97% 69.22% 73.35%
      Black 42.09% 21.72% 12.63%
      Asian 3.32% 3.68% 5.22%
      American Indian 0.60% 0.37% 0.82%
      Native Hawaiian 0.02% 0.05% 0.18%
      Mixed race 7.90% 2.76% 3.06%
      Other race 2.09% 2.19% 4.75%
      In Dover, 8.0% of people are of Hispanic or Latino origin.
      Please note: Hispanics may be of any race, so also are included in any/all of the applicable race categories above.

      Household income distribution

      Place of birth by citizenship

      Dover age breakdown

      Marital status

      Age of children in married couples

      Source: The Dover, DE demographics data displayed above is derived from the United States Census Bureau American Community Survey (ACS).