Magnolia, DE Utility & Living Guide

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Magnolia, DE Utility & Living Guide

Magnolia is a town in Kent County, Delaware, United States. It is part of the Dover metro area.

Last updated: July 4, 2026
Total Utilities$290/mo
1BR Rent$1260/mo
COL Index105 (+5% above national average)
Family Score7/10
Median Home$183,300
📷 Live Cameras — Magnolia
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🌤️ Live Weather — Magnolia
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Living in Magnolia, summers are hot, with Jul highs around 87.3°F, while winters are chilly, with Jan lows around 31.1°F. Winter heating is a real budget factor — 3639 degree days means 4-5 months of meaningful energy bills. The area receives 50.2 inches of rainfall per year. With a 16.8% poverty rate and 74.5% homeownership, the community reflects a stable residential mix. Air quality is Moderate — avg AQI 51 over the past week.
🚨 City In The News
The recent listing of homes in the $405,000 range in Magnolia, Delaware, as well as in Fairmount and Drexel Hill, Pennsylvania, offers a unique perspective on the local housing market. For individuals considering relocating to Magnolia, this price point suggests a relatively high cost of living, with homes in the area fetching prices comparable to those in more urban neighborhoods in nearby states. However, Magnolia's small-town charm and natural beauty may make the investment worthwhile for those seeking a more laid-back pace of life. The fact that homes in Magnolia are selling for similar prices to those in more densely populated areas also implies a strong demand for housing in the community, which could be a boon for local businesses and services. As the local economy continues to grow and develop, the quality of life in Magnolia is likely to improve, making it an attractive option for those looking to relocate to a tight-knit community with a strong sense of character. Magnolia is worth watching as it continues to evolve and grow, offering a unique blend of small-town charm and suburban convenience that is sure to appeal to a wide range of homebuyers.
⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Magnolia
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💰 Budget Calculator
🔌 Utilities
🏠 Housing
📊 Cost of Living
💰 Taxes
👨‍👩‍👧 Families
🧮 Tools

Monthly Utility Costs

⚡ Electric

$140/mo

Delmarva Power
🔥 Gas

N/A - Electric only
💧 Water

$50/mo

Town of Magnolia Water Department
🗑️ Garbage

$30/mo

Waste Management
📶 Internet

$70/mo

Combined Average Overhead$290/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom$1260/mo
2 Bedrooms$1400/mo
3 Bedrooms$1750/mo
Median Home Price$183,300
Property Tax Rate1.15%
Avg Childcare/mo$1200

The housing market in Magnolia is relatively stable, with a mix of older and newer homes available. Rentals are scarce, and prices have been rising steadily. Homebuyers can find affordable options, but inventory is limited.

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

105

US national avg = 100
vs National Avg

+5% above national average

Groceries

102

Transportation

98

Healthcare

100

Childcare/mo

$1200

Tax Rates

Tax Overview
Property Tax Rate1.15%
<p>State 0% + No County tax + No City tax</p>

Delaware has a progressive income tax system, with rates ranging from 0% to 5.95%. Magnolia residents are subject to state income tax, but there are no local income taxes.

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
Red
Business Momentum
Moderate, with key industries including healthcare, education, and retail
Top Local Concerns
Traffic, public safety, environmental conservation
🚌 Transit for Families

Magnolia has limited public transportation options, but the town is relatively walkable and bike-friendly, with some sidewalks and crosswalks.

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Killens Pond State Park
  • 🎯
    Dover Downs
  • 🎯
    Delaware State Fairgrounds

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The downtown area and surrounding neighborhoods offer a charming small-town feel, with tree-lined streets and historic homes. Families may prefer the newer developments on the outskirts of town, which offer more modern amenities and larger yards.

Household Budget Calculator

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

📰 Live Local News

Residents are subject to town ordinances, including zoning regulations and noise restrictions.

Financial Tools

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📊 Magnolia — Census & Demographic Data

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

🏠 Homeownership Rate
74.5%
🔑 Renter Rate
25.5%
📉 Poverty Rate
16.8%
💼 Unemployment Rate
9.2%

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Summer months bring higher electricity costs due to air conditioning usage, while winter months see increased costs for heating. Residents can expect to pay around 10-20% more for utilities during peak seasons.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The 19962 ZIP code has a property tax millage rate of 1.15, with no local surtaxes.

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

6, with explanation: Magnolia has some sidewalks and crosswalks, but they can be uneven and limited in some areas. The town's parks and green spaces are stroller-friendly, but elevator access in transit is not always available.

📍 Magnolia City Stories

Magnolia, Delaware — See what $405,000 can buy you in the Fairmount, Drexel Hill,

The recent listing of homes in the $405,000 range in Magnolia, Delaware, as well as in Fairmount and...

Read more →

Magnolia, Delaware — City Overview

Living in Magnolia, summers are hot, with Jul highs around 87.3°F, while winters are chilly, with Jan lows...

Read more →
📰 Latest DE Stories
Delaware Living Report — July 27, 2026

Delaware Living Report — July 27, 2026

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Delaware Living Report — July 26, 2026

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Delaware Living Report — July 25, 2026

Delaware Living Report — July 25, 2026

Tucked between the bustling mid-Atlantic corridor and the Atlantic coast, Delaware offers a distinctive blend of suburban tranquility,...

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Delaware Living Report — July 24, 2026

Delaware Living Report — July 24, 2026

With a population just shy of one million—993,635 as of the latest count—Delaware often flies under the radar....

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