Cost of Living in Delaware in 2025

Delaware Cost of Living: Quick Takeaways

Housing Costs: Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is projected at $1,400 in 2025.
Transportation Expenses: Public transit monthly passes cost about $60, while fuel prices average $3.46 per gallon.
Healthcare Costs: Monthly employer-sponsored health insurance premiums average around $160.58.
Income Levels: Median household income is expected to reach $85,000 in 2025.

Delaware offers a range of living expenses that reflect its unique economic environment. Knowing the breakdown of these costs helps residents and newcomers budget effectively.

This article presents a detailed analysis of Delaware’s cost of living as of 2025, covering key expenses like housing, transportation, utilities and more.

1. Housing Costs in Delaware

Housing remains a major factor driving living expenses. Here's a look at average rent changes for a one-bedroom apartment over time:

2010: Around $900
2015: Increased to $1,050
2020: Approximately $1,200
2024: $1,341
2025: Projected at $1,400

These figures showcase a steady upward trend in rental prices influenced by market demand and economic factors in Delaware.

Understanding local market dynamics is crucial for hospitality businesses setting competitive housing benefits for staff.

Hospitality real estate market trends provide valuable insights for employers balancing labor costs and employee satisfaction.

2. Homeownership and Real Estate Trends in Delaware

For residents interested in buying, the median home prices have climbed as well:

2010: Median price was $200,000
2015: Grew to $250,000
2020: Reached $300,000
2024: $388,000
2025: Projected at $403,858

The rising home prices reflect a strong demand and overall growth in Delaware’s real estate market.

3. Transportation Expenses in Delaware

Transportation options and related costs include:

Public Transit: Single rides cost about $2.00 with monthly passes priced around $60.
Fuel Costs: Gasoline averages $3.46 per gallon in 2025.
Vehicle Maintenance: Typical annual maintenance expenses total approximately $1,200.

These costs depend on commute distances and personal transportation preferences.

4. Utility Costs in Delaware

Monthly utility costs for an average apartment are estimated as follows:

Electricity: $200.00
Internet Services: $50.00
Total Monthly Utilities: $250.00

These expenses vary based on usage behavior and service providers.

5. Grocery and Food Expenses in Delaware

Food costs surpass some national averages. Monthly grocery expenses per person are about $373.75, with dining out prices around:

Casual Meal: $15
Mid-Range Meal: $50

These rates depend on dining choices and frequency.

For hospitality employers, understanding dining trends is essential for menu pricing and staff recruitment strategies.

Check out our restaurant consumer trends spotlight to gain insights on evolving food preferences and spending habits.

6. Healthcare Costs in Delaware

Healthcare expenses include:

Employer-Sponsored Insurance: Average monthly premiums are about $160.58.
Silver Plan Insurance: Monthly premiums for individual plans average $621.

Healthcare costs reflect coverage levels and medical needs of residents.

7. Educational Expenses in Delaware

Education costs vary by institution type:

Public Schools: Funded by taxes and generally free at the point of use.
Private Schools: Average tuition hovers around $10,000 annually.
In-State University Tuition: Costs approximately $12,000 per year.

These values may fluctuate based on institution and program selected.

8. Entertainment and Leisure in Delaware

Delawareans enjoy various entertainment options:

Movie Ticket Prices: $12 per ticket.
Gym Membership: Costs roughly $40 per month.
Mid-Range Restaurant Meal: Around $50 per meal.
Annual Entertainment Expenses: Estimated at $2,000.
Personal Care Services Annually: $600.
Miscellaneous Goods and Services: Approximately $500 per year.

These leisure costs contribute to lifestyle and quality of life.

9. Taxes and Miscellaneous Fees in Delaware

Important tax information includes:

State Income Tax Rate: Ranges between 0% and 6.6% depending on income level.
Sales Tax: Delaware has no state sales tax.
Property Tax Rate: Averages 0.61%, varying by jurisdiction.

These tax policies affect overall living costs for residents.

10. Childcare and Family Expenses in Delaware

Families allocating budgets for children should note:

Daycare Services: Average monthly cost is $946.58.
After-School Programs: Approximately $300 monthly.
Extracurricular Activities: Roughly $100 per month.

These costs are essential considerations for family financial planning.

11. Clothing and Personal Care in Delaware

Monthly expenses in this category include:

Clothing: About $100 per month on average.
Personal Care Products and Services: Approximately $50 monthly.

Spending here reflects personal lifestyle and preferences.

12. Insurance Costs in Delaware

Insurance costs form a key part of household expenses:

Health Insurance: Employer-sponsored premiums average $160.58 monthly.
Auto Insurance: Annual premiums are around $1,351.64.
Homeowners Insurance: Averages $1,000 annually.
Renters Insurance: Costs about $200 per year.

These rates depend on coverage choices and risk assessments.

13. Miscellaneous Expenses in Delaware

Additional costs influencing daily life include:

Entertainment: About $2,000 annually.
Personal Care Services: $600 per year on average.
Miscellaneous Goods and Services: Estimated $500 annually.

Such expenses vary widely with individual habits and preferences.

14. Income and Salaries in Delaware

Income trends have steadily improved over the years:

2010: Median household income was $60,000.
2015: Rose to $65,000.
2020: $70,000 median income.
2023: Approximately $82,855.
2025: Projected to reach $85,000.

This reflects ongoing economic growth and development within Delaware.

For those seeking hospitality careers in Delaware, exploring local salary trends is essential.

See our comprehensive hospitality wages in 2025 spotlight for detailed salary insights.

15. Comparison with National Averages

Delaware’s cost comparisons against national averages reveal:

Overall Cost of Living: About 7.9% higher than the national average.
Housing Costs: On par with national figures.
Utilities: 3.5% below national averages.
Food Expenses: Approximately 14% higher than national average.
Healthcare Costs: 5% above national averages.
Transportation: 8% higher than national norms.
Goods and Services: 4% above typical national costs.

These comparisons highlight aspects where Delaware is more or less expensive than other US regions.

Our Methodology for Delaware Cost of Living Figures

We compile data from trusted sources such as Numbeo, BLS, Zillow, government reports, and other reputable statistics aggregators. Some values may be approximations based on available information when exact data were missing.

Delaware Cost of Living: Conclusion

Delaware’s cost of living in 2025 showcases a balance of rising housing prices and moderate utility costs. Transportation and food expenses tend to be higher than national averages.

Income growth has kept pace with many cost increases, yet budgeting carefully remains important, especially for families managing childcare and healthcare costs.

Understanding these cost drivers assists residents and those planning to move in Delaware in making informed financial decisions and maintaining a comfortable lifestyle.