Bethany Beach, DE Utility & Living Guide

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Bethany Beach, DE Utility & Living Guide

Bethany Beach is an incorporated town in Sussex County, Delaware, United States. As of the 2020 census, Bethany Beach had a population of 954. However, during the summer months some 15,000 more populate the town as vacationers. It is part of the Salisbury, MD-DE Metropolitan Statistical Area.

Last updated: June 26, 2026
Total Utilities$290/mo
1BR Rent$1500/mo
COL Index118 (+18% above national average)
Family Score8/10
Median Home$425,000
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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 Bethany Beach Water Department
🗑️ Garbage

$30/mo

Waste Management
📶 Internet

$70/mo

Combined Average Overhead$290/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom$1500/mo
2 Bedrooms$2000/mo
3 Bedrooms$2800/mo
Median Home Price$425,000
Property Tax Rate0.44%
Avg Childcare/mo$1200

The housing market in Bethany Beach is highly competitive, with a mix of single-family homes, condos, and townhouses. Many properties are used as vacation rentals, which can drive up prices. However, there are still affordable options available for full-time residents.

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

118

US national avg = 100
vs National Avg

+18% above national average

Groceries

105

Transportation

94

Healthcare

102

Childcare/mo

$1200

Tax Rates

Tax Overview
Property Tax Rate0.44%
<p>State 0% + No county tax + No city tax</p>

Delaware has a progressive state income tax with rates ranging from 0% to 5.95%

Family & Relocation

Family Vibe Score
8/10
Safety Index

40

Higher = safer
School Rating

7.5/10

GreatSchools avg
Avg Childcare

$1200/mo

City Pulse

Population Trend
+10% (growing)
Political Climate
Purple description, with a mix of conservative and liberal views
Business Momentum
High, with key industries including tourism, hospitality, and retail
Top Local Concerns
Traffic, parking, and environmental sustainability
🚌 Transit for Families

The town has a limited public transportation system, but it is relatively stroller-friendly, with wide sidewalks and accessible parks

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Bethany Beach Boardwalk
  • 🎯
    Delaware Seashore State Park
  • 🎯
    Junction and Breakwater Trail

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The downtown area and surrounding neighborhoods, such as Sea Colony and Bethany West, are popular with families due to their proximity to schools, parks, and the beach. These areas offer a range of housing options, from single-family homes to condos and townhouses.

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📊 Bethany Beach — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs in Bethany Beach tend to be higher in the summer months due to increased air conditioning usage, with average electric bills rising by 20-30% from June to August. In the winter, costs are lower, but may still be affected by occasional cold snaps.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The ZIP code 19930 has a property tax millage rate of 0.44, with no local surtaxes

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

8/10, with wide sidewalks, accessible parks, and relatively flat terrain, but some areas may lack elevator access in older buildings

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