Bethel, DE Utility & Living Guide

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Tier 3 Location

Bethel, DE Utility & Living Guide

Living in Bethel, DE offers a tranquil and historic small-town experience with easy access to Delaware's beautiful coastline and outdoor recreational opportunities.

Last updated: June 26, 2026
Total Utilities$290/mo
1BR Rent$1100/mo
COL Index105 (+5% above national average)
Family Score7/10
Median Home$280,000
🌤️ Live Weather — Bethel
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⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Bethel
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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 Bethel Water Department
🗑️ Garbage

$30/mo

Waste Management
📶 Internet

$70/mo

Combined Average Overhead $290/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom$1100/mo
2 Bedrooms$1400/mo
3 Bedrooms$2000/mo
Median Home Price$280,000
Property Tax Rate0.86%
Avg Childcare/mo$1200

The housing market in Bethel is characterized by a mix of historic homes and newer constructions, with a moderate pace of growth. Home prices are relatively affordable compared to larger cities in the region. Rentals are also available, though options may be 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 Rate0.86%
<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%, but no state tax on Social Security benefits or pension income

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 views reflecting the town's rural and coastal characteristics
Business Momentum
Moderate, with key industries including tourism, agriculture, and small manufacturing
Top Local Concerns
Traffic, environmental conservation, public safety
🚌 Transit for Families

Public transit options are limited, but the town's compact size makes it relatively easy to navigate on foot or by bike, with some sidewalks and crosswalks available

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Trap Pond State Park
  • 🎯
    Bethel Beach
  • 🎯
    Nanticoke River

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The historic district offers charming homes and a strong sense of community, while newer developments provide more modern amenities. Families often prefer areas close to schools and parks for convenience and safety.

Household Budget Calculator

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

Local Briefing & Neighborhood Pulse

Live Local News

Residents should be aware of zoning regulations, historic district preservation rules, and environmental ordinances aimed at protecting the town’s natural resources

Bethel is experiencing a trend of moderate growth, driven by its appeal as a quiet, coastal town with access to outdoor recreation and a relatively low cost of living. New businesses and developments are emerging to cater to the growing population.

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📊 Bethel — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs in Bethel can fluctuate significantly with the seasons, with higher electricity bills in the summer due to air conditioning and lower costs in the mild winters. Residents can expect to pay more for heating in the colder months, but overall, the town's moderate climate keeps utility costs relatively manageable.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

Key ZIP code level tax info: property tax millage rates vary by location, but Bethel's rate is generally around 0.86%, with no local surtaxes

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

6, due to the town's compact size, some sidewalks, and park access, though more infrastructure improvements are needed to enhance overall stroller friendliness

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