Bear, DE Utility & Living Guide

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Bear, DE Utility & Living Guide

Living in Bear, Delaware offers a unique blend of small-town charm and access to larger city amenities, making it an attractive option for families and individuals alike.

Last updated: June 26, 2026
Total Utilities$278/mo
1BR Rent$1100/mo
COL Index108 (+8% above national average)
Family Score7/10
Median Home$280,000
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⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Bear
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💰 Budget Calculator
🔌 Utilities
🏠 Housing
📊 Cost of Living
💰 Taxes
👨‍👩‍👧 Families
🧮 Tools

Monthly Utility Costs

⚡ Electric

$128/mo

Delmarva Power
🔥 Gas

N/A - Electric only
💧 Water

$50/mo

Artesian Water Company
🗑️ Garbage

$30/mo

Waste Management
📶 Internet

$70/mo

Combined Average Overhead $278/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom$1100/mo
2 Bedrooms$1400/mo
3 Bedrooms$2000/mo
Median Home Price$280,000
Property Tax Rate1.15%
Avg Childcare/mo$1200

The housing market in Bear is relatively stable, with a mix of older and newer homes available. The area has seen some new construction in recent years, but prices remain competitive. Rentals are also available, with options ranging from apartments to single-family homes.

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

108

US national avg = 100
vs National Avg

+8% above national average

Groceries

105

Transportation

96

Healthcare

102

Childcare/mo

$1200

Tax Rates

Tax Overview
Property Tax Rate1.15%
<p>State 0% + County 0% + City 0% (no sales tax in Delaware)</p>

Delaware has a progressive income tax system, with rates ranging from 0% to 5.95%. Residents may also be subject to federal income tax.

Family & Relocation

Family Vibe Score
7/10
Safety Index

60

Higher = safer
School Rating

7.2/10

GreatSchools avg
Avg Childcare

$1200/mo

City Pulse

Population Trend
+2% (growing)
Political Climate
Purple description, with a mix of Democratic and Republican voters
Business Momentum
Moderate, with key industries including healthcare, education, and retail
Top Local Concerns
Traffic, public safety, education
🚌 Transit for Families

The public transit system in Bear is limited, but the town is relatively walkable and bikeable. Parents may need to plan ahead for transportation, but there are some stroller-friendly options available.

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Brandywine Creek State Park
  • 🎯
    Delaware Children's Museum
  • 🎯
    Christiana Mall

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The best neighborhoods for families in Bear include the areas around Glasgow High School and the Bear-Glasgow YMCA, which offer a range of community amenities and activities. Other popular areas include the developments near the Christiana Mall and the Bear library.

Household Budget Calculator

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

Local Briefing & Neighborhood Pulse

Live Local News

Bear has regulations in place regarding zoning, building codes, and property maintenance. Residents should check with the town government for specific information.

The current financial trends in Bear indicate a growing economy, with new businesses and developments emerging in the area. However, residents should be aware of potential increases in property taxes and utility costs.

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📊 Bear — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs in Bear tend to be higher in the summer months due to air conditioning usage, with average electric bills increasing by 15-20% from June to August. In the winter, heating costs are relatively low due to the mild climate, but residents may still see a 5-10% increase in their gas and electric bills.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The ZIP code 19701 has a property tax millage rate of 1.15, with no local surtaxes. Residents should check with the New Castle County government for specific information on tax rates and exemptions.

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

Score 6/10: Bear has some stroller-friendly infrastructure, including sidewalks and bike paths, but there are also some areas with limited accessibility. Parents may need to plan ahead for transportation and navigate around construction zones or uneven pavement.

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