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. Yet the First State has quietly become a relocation magnet for a specific mix of newcomers: retirees seeking tax-friendly shores, remote workers chasing lower costs, and families drawn to its compact geography and decent schools. Understanding the numbers behind the move is essential before packing the moving truck.

Housing presents an interesting tradeoff. The median one-bedroom rent sits at $1,286 per month, while a median home value reaches $305,200. For context, the median household income is $79,325 per year. Doing the math: a one-bedroom rent consumes about 19.5 percent of that median gross monthly income—well below the 30 percent threshold that many financial advisors consider manageable. Compare that to neighboring metro areas like Philadelphia or Washington, D.C., where rent burdens routinely top 30 percent, and Delaware’s affordability factor becomes clear. Homebuyers, meanwhile, find a market that is competitive but still accessible, especially for those coming from pricier regions.

Job seekers should note

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Data: US Census Bureau ACS 2022, BLS. Updated July 24, 2026.

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