Thinking about moving to Delaware in 2025? With its beautiful beaches, bustling cities and low tax rates, this small state on the east coast offers something to everyone and could be your perfect new home in 2025!
Whether you are captivated by the coastal charms of Rehoboth Beach or the suburban feels of Newark for your future home, it is crucial to understand the housing costs of the cities first. So, here’s our guide for you to explore Delaware’s top cities and find the right home that fits your budget and lifestyle.
Why You Should Consider Moving to Delaware in 2025
Delaware may be one of the smaller states, however it offers major advantages for those looking to relocate to a place with career opportunities, affordable living as well as a relaxed beach lifestyle. Here’s why Delaware should be your next pick–
Affordable Living and Easy Commutes
One of Delaware’s biggest financial perks is its no sales taxes making day-to-day purchases more affordable. Additionally, property taxes in Delaware are one of the lowest in the entire country ( average rate of 0.56%) which allows homeownership to be more affordable and cost-effective compared to other states in the east coast (New Jersey 2.23% and Pennsylvania 1.58%).
Delaware also offers easy commutes with shorter travel time, well connected highways, less traffic congestion, and close proximity to major cities like Philadelphia, Baltimore, and Washington D.C.
Career Opportunities and Quality of Education
The state boasts a strong and diverse economy, offering its residents career opportunities in varieties of industries including finance, education, technology, healthcare, manufacturing, and agriculture.
Additionally, it is home to United States’ top-ranked schools and universities such as the University of Delaware ( among the top 100 Public Universities in the U.S.), Delaware State University, and Wilmington University making it an excellent place for families and students.
Scenic Beauty and Outdoor Recreation
Delaware has tons of scenic destinations to explore, from over 380 miles of coastline with pristine beaches, to peaceful trails of state parks of the Fenwick Island State Park and Brandywine Creek State Park. With wildlife refuges, hiking trails, swimming and boating spots or just simply a relaxing beach getaway, outdoor enthusiasts will never run out of places to explore.
Delaware Housing Market 2025
As of 2025, Delaware’s housing market shows stable growth with median home prices ranging between $343,300 to $388,199
Forecasts showcase that Delaware’s home prices are expected to remain stable without any significant downturns in the next few years. For homebuyers, the low mortgage rate of 5.85%, higher number of housing inventory (up to 14.2%) and a drop in home prices present favourable opportunities
Housing prices across different Cities
|
City |
Housing Price (Approx.) |
Per Square Foot |
Average Rent ( Per month) |
Highlights of The Location |
|
Wilmington |
$330,000 |
$200 |
$1529-$1805 |
Largest City of the state, thriving job market |
|
Dover |
$320,000 |
$171 |
$1143-$1839 |
Capital of the state, affordable living and cultural attractions |
|
Lewes |
$589,000 |
$277 |
$1626-$2200 |
Cape Henlopen State Park, rich history, maritime heritage |
|
Newark |
$375,000 |
$217 |
$1447-$2012 |
Home to University of Delaware, downtown, excellent schools |
|
Rehoboth Beach |
$765,000 |
$357 |
$1950-$3171 |
Scenic Beaches, broadwalk, nightlife |
|
Middletown |
$565,000 |
$250 |
$1645-$2700 |
Quiet suburbs, new housings |
Factors to Consider While Choosing a City
While choosing a city, it is essential to keep in mind that it’s more than just about owning a home, rather it’s also about finding the right place that fits yours and your family’s lifestyle.
So, first and foremost, housing cost should be taken into consideration to make sure it aligns with your budget. If you have children, be sure to research good educational institutes in the locality as well as career opportunities in the fields you are interested in.
Easy commutes, a well connected transportation system, proximity to amenities like shopping, grocery, healthcare and entertainment are also equally important for your daily life. Lastly, don’t forget to consider the quality of aspects and overall affordability of the city.
Best Cities in Delaware
To help you make the best decision, here’s our top picks for you considering budget, lifestyle, and job market—
1. Dover—Budget Friendly with a Strong Job Market
The capital of the state is the most affordable option among other cities with a median housing price of $320,000 and average rent of $1143-$1839/month for apartments. It is mostly suitable for budget-conscious homebuyers, military families and government workers as the job market is strongly driven by government roles and military installations.
2. Wilmington— Ideal for Urban Living
Delaware’s largest city, offering a thriving job market in finance, healthcare, and technology. With an average home price of $330,000 and $1529-$1850/month for rental apartments, it makes a great choice for those who want city amenities without steep costs like other bigger cities. It’s suitable for young professionals, easy commuters, and urban-lifestyle enthusiasts.
3. Newark— College Town with Suburban Feels
Newark is home to the University of Delaware, combining the peacefulness of suburban living with the vibrant energy of a college town. Newark has an average house price of $375,000 and rental apartments averaging $1447-$2012/month, making housing prices affordable despite it being a college town!
It also offers other top-rated schools and a strong job market particularly in healthcare, education, and research making it an ideal place for families, students, and university staff.
4. Rehoboth Beach— Premium Living by the Coast
For those looking for a luxury living with relaxing beach getaways on a budget, Rehoboth Beach might be the best fit for you!
With an average home price of $765,000 and $1950-$3171/month for rentals, the property prices are more or so on a higher side. However, with its vibrant nightlife by the beach, broadwalk, and scenic beaches by the Atlantic, this coastal city offers a lively yet laid back lifestyle suitable for those looking to enjoy a luxury coastal living without compromising the quality of life.
Delaware has a variety to offer, whether you’re seeking affordability, a suburban escape, or a beachside retreat. However, before making your final move, it is recommended to consider the mentioned factors such as prices, education quality, commute times, career opportunities, healthcare system and other amenities to find the best match for your lifestyle. Happy Moving!
