Cost of Living in Dover, Delaware in 2025

Dover, Delaware Cost of Living: Quick Takeaways

• Housing Costs: The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Dover has gradually increased to about $1,252 in 2025.
• Transportation Expenses: Public transit monthly passes average $59.50, with fuel costs at $3.24 per gallon and annual vehicle maintenance around $1,200.
• Healthcare Costs: Employer-sponsored health insurance averages approximately $140.33 monthly, while silver plan premiums are around $621 per month.
• Income Levels: Median household income stands at approximately $58,336 in 2025.

Dover, Delaware, presents a moderately affordable cost of living compared to national figures, with key expenses like housing and utilities below average levels.

This article breaks down the diverse factors contributing to the cost of living in Dover in 2025, including rent, transportation, food, healthcare and more.

1. Housing Costs in Dover, Delaware

Housing contributes significantly to living expenses in Dover, with a steady rise in rental costs over time:

• 2010: Approximately $900 for a one-bedroom apartment rent
• 2015: Around $1,050
• 2020: About $1,200
• 2024: Reached $1,250
• 2025: Projected at $1,252

This data shows consistent rental price growth indicative of increasing housing demand in the area.

For restaurant and hospitality employers operating in Dover, understanding local housing trends is essential when setting competitive salary packages and benefits to attract and retain quality staff. Learn more about effective restaurant staff hiring strategies to build a successful team.

2. Homeownership and Real Estate Trends in Dover, Delaware

For potential homeowners, median home prices have also appreciated steadily:

• 2010: Median price approximately $150,000
• 2015: Increased to around $200,000
• 2020: Approximately $250,000
• 2024: Reached $279,600
• 2025: Projected at $337,214

This trend highlights Dover's growing real estate market and the increasing investment value of properties.

A flourishing local economy and real estate market can influence the types of hospitality positions employers need to fill. Consider the insights from the hospitality real estate market trends to align your business growth accordingly.

3. Transportation Expenses in Dover, Delaware

Transportation costs in Dover include expenses for public transit, fuel and vehicle maintenance:

• Public Transit: One-way fares average $2.79 with monthly passes costing about $59.50.
• Fuel Costs: The price per gallon is roughly $3.24.
• Vehicle Maintenance: Annual maintenance expenses average approximately $1,200.

These costs fluctuate based on lifestyle and commuting behaviors.

4. Utility Costs in Dover, Delaware

The typical monthly utility bill for housing in Dover includes:

• Electricity: $199.31
• Internet Services: $69.20
• Total Utilities: Approximately $268.51 monthly

Utility expenses are subject to individual consumption and provider rates.

5. Grocery and Food Expenses in Dover, Delaware

Food costs in Dover generally align with national averages:

Monthly grocery expenses per person are estimated near $260.17. Dining out costs range from $20.20 for casual meals to $60.10 for mid-range restaurant meals.

For hospitality businesses, staying competitive with pricing and menu offerings is crucial. Exploring restaurant consumer trends can help adapt to changing customer preferences effectively.

6. Healthcare Costs in Dover, Delaware

Healthcare expenses include insurance premiums and out-of-pocket costs:

On average, employer-sponsored health insurance premiums are approximately $140.33 monthly. Silver health plans cost around $621 per month.

Many hospitality employers seek advice on how to manage healthcare benefits without overwhelming budgets. See our guidance on restaurant owner responsibilities related to employee benefits and cost management.

7. Educational Expenses in Dover, Delaware

Dover provides various educational opportunities with differing cost structures:

• Public Schools: Tuition-free as they are funded by taxes.
• Private Schools: Average annual tuition is approximately $21,476.
• In-State University Tuition: For example, state universities average around $6,381 annually.

Costs vary significantly based on chosen institutions and programs.

8. Entertainment and Leisure in Dover, Delaware

Dover offers a range of leisure activities with associated costs:

• Movie Tickets: Average price around $14.80 each.
• Gym Memberships: Monthly fees average $120.
• Dining Out: Meals at mid-range restaurants cost about $60.10.

Entertainment expenses add to the quality of life and overall budget.

9. Taxes and Miscellaneous Fees in Dover, Delaware

Dover residents encounter specific tax obligations:

• State Income Tax: Ranges from 0% to 6.6% depending on income.
• Sales Tax: Dover has 0% local sales tax.
• Property Tax: Effective rate is approximately 0.61% of property value.

These factors affect disposable income and financial planning.

10. Childcare and Family Expenses in Dover, Delaware

Family-related expenses include:

• Daycare: Monthly costs average about $700.
• After-School Programs: Typically $300 per month.
• Extracurricular Activities: Estimated $100 monthly.

These costs are vital considerations for families budgeting their expenses.

11. Clothing and Personal Care Expenses in Dover, Delaware

Personal expenses cover clothing and personal care products and services:

• Clothing: Monthly spending averages about $115.
• Personal Care: Costs around $54 monthly for grooming and related items.

These expenditures reflect lifestyle choices and consumer preferences.

12. Insurance Costs in Dover, Delaware

Insurance premiums contribute significantly to monthly and annual expenses:

• Health Insurance: Average monthly premium for silver plans is $621.
• Auto Insurance: Annual average premium is approximately $2,364.
• Homeowners Insurance: Costs about $1,951 yearly.
• Renters Insurance: Average annual cost is $180.

Insurance considerations are essential for financial security and compliance.

13. Miscellaneous Expenses in Dover, Delaware

Other living costs encompass entertainment and personal care services:

• Entertainment: Annual spending averages $2,482.
• Personal Care Services: Costs around $768 yearly.
• Miscellaneous Goods and Services: Approximately $707 annually.

These expenses add to residents' overall standard of living and comfort.

14. Income and Salaries in Dover, Delaware

Examining income trends highlights the financial backdrop for residents:

• 2010: Median household income was about $46,000.
• 2015: Increased to around $50,000.
• 2020: Rose further to $55,000.
• 2023 and 2025: Stabilized around $58,336.

This steady growth reflects economic stability and increased earning potential over years.

Hospitality industry employers benefit from understanding local salary ranges when posting job openings. Refer to our detailed restaurant staff hiring and salary insights to attract the best candidates. For role-specific guidance, explore the bartender salary guide or the restaurant manager salary data.

15. Comparison with National Averages

Dover's overall cost of living is approximately 4% lower than the national average, with specific categories showing distinct variance:

• Housing: About 15% cheaper than the national average.
• Utilities: Approximately 4% below average.
• Food: On par with national costs.
• Healthcare: Slightly above national average by 1%.
• Transportation: Approximately 4% higher than average.
• Goods and Services: Equal to national figures.

These differences help residents understand affordability relative to broader trends.

Employers should take note of these differences when setting competitive wages and benefits to reduce turnover. Learn valuable tips on reducing restaurant employee turnover and improving staff retention.

Our Methodology for Dover, Delaware Cost of Living Figures

We compile our data using reliable sources such as Numbeo, Bureau of Labor Statistics, Zillow, official state statistics, and other government resources. In cases where direct data is unavailable, well-informed estimates are applied to ensure comprehensive coverage.

Dover, Delaware Cost of Living: Conclusion

Dover offers a cost of living that remains competitive and moderately affordable when compared nationally. Housing costs and utilities are notably below average, yet transportation expenses tend to be slightly higher.

Healthcare and food costs remain close to or just above national averages, indicating a balanced expenditure profile for residents. Income growth has been steady, supporting local economic resilience.

By understanding these detailed breakdowns, current and prospective Dover residents can better prepare financially and make informed decisions about living in this Delaware city.

Hospitality business owners aiming to thrive in Dover may also benefit from our guide on quick and effective hiring to maintain excellent service levels amid competitive market conditions.