Dewey Beach, DE Utility & Living Guide

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Dewey Beach, DE Utility & Living Guide

Dewey Beach is an incorporated coastal town in eastern Sussex County, Delaware, United States. As of the 2020 census, Dewey Beach had a population of 353.

Last updated: July 4, 2026
Total Utilities$300/mo
1BR Rent$1061/mo
COL Index110 (+10% above national average)
Family Score7/10
Median Home$812,500
📷 Live Cameras — Dewey Beach
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🌤️ Live Weather — Dewey Beach
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Living in Dewey Beach, summers are hot, with Jul highs around 86.6°F, while winters are chilly, with Jan lows around 33.0°F. With 3424 heating degree days annually, heating costs are moderate. The area receives 45.9 inches of rainfall per year. Within 5 miles: 12 parks, 3 groceries and 71 dining spots. For hospital care, the nearest facility is in a neighboring city. Median household income: $98,500. With a 13.1% poverty rate and 86.1% homeownership, the community reflects a stable residential mix. Nearby cities: Lewes (7mi NW), Millville (10mi S), Bethany Beach (11mi S). Air quality is Moderate — avg AQI 58 over the past week.
📍 City Briefing
Living in Dewey Beach, summers are hot, with Jul highs around 86.6°F, while winters are chilly, with Jan lows around 33.0°F. With 3424 heating degree days annually, heating costs are moderate. The area receives 45.9 inches of rainfall per year. Within 5 miles: 12 parks, 3 groceries and 71 dining spots. For hospital care, the nearest facility is in a neighboring city. Median household income: $98,500. With a 13.1% poverty rate and 86.1% homeownership, the community reflects a stable residential mix. Nearby cities: Lewes (7mi NW), Millville (10mi S), Bethany Beach (11mi S). Air quality is Moderate — avg AQI 58 over the past week.
⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Dewey Beach
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🔌 Utilities
🏠 Housing
📊 Cost of Living
💰 Taxes
👨‍👩‍👧 Families
🧮 Tools

Monthly Utility Costs

⚡ Electric

$150/mo

Delmarva Power
🔥 Gas

N/A - Electric only
💧 Water

$50/mo

Town of Dewey Beach
🗑️ Garbage

$30/mo

Waste Management
📶 Internet

$70/mo

Combined Average Overhead$300/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom$1061/mo
2 Bedrooms$1179/mo
3 Bedrooms$1473/mo
Median Home Price$812,500
Property Tax Rate1.25%
Avg Childcare/mo$1200

The housing market in Dewey Beach is highly competitive, with a mix of single-family homes, condos, and rentals available. Prices tend to be higher due to the town’s desirable coastal location. Rentals are often seasonal, catering to the summer tourist crowd

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

110

US national avg = 100
vs National Avg

+10% above national average

Groceries

105

Transportation

100

Healthcare

102

Childcare/mo

$1200

Tax Rates

Tax Overview
Property Tax Rate1.25%
<p>State 0% + No County tax + No City tax, but has a 3% rental tax</p>

Delaware has a progressive income tax system, with rates ranging from 0% to 5.95%, but no state tax on Social Security benefits

Family & Relocation

Family Vibe Score
7/10
Safety Index

60

Higher = safer
School Rating

7/10

GreatSchools avg
Avg Childcare

$1200/mo

City Pulse

Population Trend
+2% (growing)
Political Climate
Purple description, with a mix of conservative and liberal influences
Business Momentum
High, with key industries in tourism, hospitality, and real estate
Top Local Concerns
Over-tourism, parking and traffic, environmental conservation
🚌 Transit for Families

Dewey Beach has a walkable downtown area, but public transit options are limited, making it somewhat challenging for stroller accessibility

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Dewey Beach Patrol surf camp
  • 🎯
    Cape Henlopen State Park
  • 🎯
    Jungle Jim's water park

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The North Beach area is popular for families, offering a mix of single-family homes and condos within walking distance to the beach and local amenities. The downtown area is also suitable for families, with its vibrant atmosphere and proximity to parks and playgrounds

Household Budget Calculator

Estimate your real monthly cost of living in Dewey Beach based on your household profile.

📰 Live Local News

Renters and property owners must adhere to strict noise ordinances and zoning regulations to preserve the town’s character

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📊 Dewey Beach — Census & Demographic Data

Official data from the US Census Bureau, American Community Survey.

💰 Median Household Income
$98,500
🏠 Homeownership Rate
86.1%
🔑 Renter Rate
13.9%
📉 Poverty Rate
13.1%
💼 Unemployment Rate
1.7%

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs in Dewey Beach tend to be higher in the summer months due to increased air conditioning usage, while winter months see a slight decrease in costs. However, the town's mild winters mean that heating costs are generally lower compared to other parts of the country

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The 19971 ZIP code has a property tax millage rate of 1.25, with no local surtaxes

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

Score 8/10, with explanation: Dewey Beach has well-maintained sidewalks and accessible parks, but elevator access in transit is limited, and some areas lack dedicated bike lanes or wide shoulders for safe strolling

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