Moving to Delaware: Pros and Cons in 2025
Considering a move to Delaware? You’re in good company. The First State draws people in with its energetic cities like Wilmington and peaceful small towns, offering a lifestyle that suits just about anyone.
Delaware has a lot going for it, but before you commit to buying a home and moving, it’s wise to consider both the pros and cons.
We’ll cover everything you should know about moving to Delaware so you can decide if it’s the place for you.
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Pros & cons of living in Delaware
While relocating to Delaware offers plenty of advantages, it also brings a few challenges you’ll need to consider.
Explore the key pros and cons of living in the First State to help you decide if it’s the right place for you.
Pros of living in Delaware
- ✓Bountiful recreational opportunities
- ✓High-quality healthcare
- ✓Ample economic opportunity
- ✓Beautiful beaches
- ✓Rich culture
Cons of living in Delaware
- ✖Hurricanes
- ✖High crime rate
- ✖Overcrowding
- ✖High cost of living
- ✖Limited public transportation
Things to do in Delaware
No matter why you’re relocating to Delaware—for a new job, to be closer to loved ones, or just for a change of scenery—you’ll discover a world of exciting opportunities as soon as you get here. With everything from popular hotspots to secret local treasures, Delaware is packed with experiences that make every day an adventure.
If you’re heading out with the whole crew or going solo and eager to meet new people, these destinations deliver. With so many options, you’ll easily find a spot that matches your energy and makes you feel right at home.
Popular Attractions in Delaware
- Dover International Speedway
- Hagley Museum and Library
- Air Mobility Command Museum
- Rehoboth Beach
- Brandywine Zoo
- Nemours Mansion and Gardens
- Cape May-Lewes Ferry
- Winterthur Museum, Garden & Library
- Dogfish Head Craft Brewery
- Jungle Jim’s – River Safari Water Park
Museums in Delaware
- Nemours Estate
- Air Mobility Command Museum
- Hagley Museum And Library
- Johnson Victrola Museum
- Indian River Life-Saving Station Museum at Delaware Seashore State Park
- Biggs Museum of American Art
- Winterthur Museum, Garden & Library
- DiscoverSea Shipwreck Museum
- Rehoboth Art League
- Marvel Carriage Museum
Parks in Delaware
- Glasgow Park
- Battery Park
- First State Heritage Park
- Iron Hill Park
- Browns Branch County Park
- Grove Park
- Beck’s Pond Park
- SIlver Lake Park
- Levels Road Dog Park
- Stockley Street Park
Fun facts about Delaware
Each state has its own distinct personality, shaped by its history, culture, and people. Embracing local customs and unique quirks is the key to fully enjoying life in a new area.
Uncovering these fun facts about Delaware shows what makes the state unique—and could even spark your next move.
- Wilmington was once home to Bob Marley, the godfather of Reggae. Moving into the city in 1965, he resided at 2313 N Tatnall for 12 years together with his mom.
- First settled by the Dutch in 1631, Lewes is the first town in the first state.
- On December 7, 1787, DE became the first state to ratify the constitution of the United States. The state is also nicknamed the “First State”.
- According to legend, Thomas Jefferson called Delaware a “jewel” among states because of its strategic location along the East Coast.
- Delaware is the third most bike-friendly state in the U.S.
- Delaware has the ninth-largest number of millionaires per capita in the United States. Maryland, New Jersey, and Connecticut have the largest number of millionaires per capita respectively.
- It is an interesting fact to note here that in DE there are more than a million registered corporations, meaning there are more corporations than people.
- Delaware Bay is home to the largest population of horseshoe crabs in the world.
- If you pay attention to the geography of the state, Delaware is 96 miles long and varies from 9 to 35 miles in width.
Delaware population and demographics
While you’re thinking about relocating to Delaware, it’s important to look beyond facts and figures to get to the story they tell about the First State.
A more densely populated state, for instance, might offer more job opportunities, entertainment, and infrastructure, while a smaller population could suggest a quieter lifestyle with tight-knit communities.
Average education levels reflect workforce opportunities or access to local schools and colleges, and political breakdowns could hint at a state’s values and priorities.
Understanding who lives in Delaware, how they live, and what they value can make it much easier to decide if it’s the kind of place where you’d feel comfortable and connected.
| Metric | Delaware |
|---|---|
| Population | 1,031,890 |
| Female | 51.6% |
| Male | 48.4% |
| College graduation rate | 35.62% |
| Political leaning | Democratic 57-43 |
| Crime index | 23.48 |
Delaware weather
Weather has a big impact on daily life, so it’s worth thinking about when deciding if Delaware is a good fit for you. Checking the typical highs, lows, and precipitation for each season can give you a sense of how much outdoor time you’ll have, what weather you’ll need to prepare for, and how you’ll handle temperature swings.
Hot summer days can drive up your energy bills and keep you glued to the AC, while chilly winters mean you’ll want to prep your closet—and your heating system. And when it comes to snow, you could be dealing with anything from light dustings to heavy storms that disrupt travel and your daily plans.
Whether you’re chasing sunshine, favor cooler weather, or want to skip the snow, understanding Delaware’s climate can help you decide if it fits your lifestyle and comfort preferences.
| Metric | Delaware |
|---|---|
| Summer high | 87ºF |
| Winter low | 25ºF |
| Annual rain | 45″ |
| Annual snow | 13″ |
Income and cost of living in Delaware
Exploring major industries, average salaries, housing costs, and general living expenses gives you a clear picture of how practical and affordable life in Delaware really is.
Knowing which industries drive the local economy can help you gauge job opportunities and stability in your field. Plus, since housing costs are likely to be a major factor in your decision to rent or buy, they’ll play a big role in your move.
The cost of living index reveals how far your money goes compared to the national average. A lower index means you’ll likely pay less for basics like groceries, transportation, and housing.
These numbers aren’t just stats—they’re here to help you compare your current lifestyle with what Delaware brings to the table, so you can make your move feeling confident and informed.
The main economic industries in the state include:
- Finance and insurance ($21.9 billion)
- Real estate and rental and leasing ($10.6 billion)
- Professional and business services ($8.5 billion)
- Educational services, health care, and social assistance ($6 billion)
- Manufacturing ($4.8 billion)
- Construction ($2.8 billion)
- Retail trade ($2.8 billion)
- Arts, entertainment, recreation, accommodation, and food services ($2.1 billion)
- Wholesale trade ($2 billion)
- Transportation and warehousing ($1.2 billion)
| Metric | Delaware |
|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $1,286 |
| Average home cost | $388,654 |
| Average income (per capita) | $79,325 |
| Cost of living index* | 100 |
| Unemployment rate | 3.0% |
| Average sales tax | Not available |
| State income tax | 6.6% |
*To figure out the cost of living in each state, there’s a 100-point index, known as the cost of living index. This metric starts with a baseline number of 100. States with a number below that are less expensive to live in while states with numbers higher than 100 are more expensive to live in.
Top schools in Delaware
If top-notch schools and universities are important to you, exploring a state’s education system can reveal a lot about its job market and local vibe.
If top-tier schools are important to you—whether you’re heading back to class yourself, have kids nearing graduation, or just want great education options—Delaware deserves a spot at the top of your list.
Here are some of the top schools in Delaware:
- University of Delaware
- Delaware State University
- Wilmington University
- Goldey-Beacom College
Finding the best moving company for your relocation to Delaware
We have reviewed 2,756 moving companies across the country—including 9 right here in Delaware—and gathered real insights from movers and folks like you to spotlight the very best in the business.
Planning a move to the First State? Take a look at the best moving companies that can deliver your belongings safely, no matter where you’re coming from.
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Cost of moving to Delaware
Before you take the leap to Delaware, it’s a good idea to get a handle on moving costs. On average, hiring professional movers will run you about $136 per hour. The total cost depends on how much stuff you have and how far you’re moving. Cross-country moves, for example, will definitely hit your wallet harder than a quick hop across state lines.
The type of move you choose can make a big difference in cost, too.
To keep costs down, choose one of the best moving container companies. You do the packing and loading and they handle the driving for you, so it’s kind of like a middle ground between DIY and full-service.
Want to save even more? The most affordable option is to get a rental truck. With this options, you’ll do all of the heavy lifting, including packing, loading, driving, and unloading.
But if you’d rather not break a sweat, professional interstate movers can do all the work for you. Just keep in mind that this convenience comes at a price. Be sure to get quotes from several different movers to find one that fits your budget and moving needs.
| Company | Quote | Rating |
|---|---|---|
Safeway Moving
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Mayzlin Relocation
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BLVD Moving
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PODS
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American Van Lines
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Cost to bring your car to Delaware
Bringing a car with you? Use our car shipping calculator below to estimate how much it’ll cost to transport your vehicle to Delaware.
Delaware car insurance requirements
Delaware drivers license requirements
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