Delaware City, DE Cost of Living & Utility Guide 2026

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Delaware City, DE Utility & Living Guide

Delaware City is a city in New Castle County, Delaware, United States. The population was 1,885 as of 2020.

Last updated: July 4, 2026

Total Utilities$268/mo

1BR Rent$1097/mo

COL Index108 (+8% above national average)

Family Score7/10

Median Home$477,100

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🌤️ Live Weather — Delaware City

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Living in Delaware City, summers are hot, with Jul highs around 87.7°F, while winters are chilly, with Jan lows around 30.3°F. Winter heating is a real budget factor — 3861 degree days means 4-5 months of meaningful energy bills. The area receives 53.0 inches of rainfall per year. Median household income: $74,620. With a 6.1% poverty rate and 69.7% homeownership, the community reflects a stable residential mix. Air quality is Moderate — avg AQI 56 over the past week.

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⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Delaware City

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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

Delaware City Municipal Water

🗑️ Garbage

$30/mo

Waste Management

📶 Internet

$60/mo

Combined Average Overhead$268/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom	$1097/mo
2 Bedrooms	$1219/mo
3 Bedrooms	$1523/mo
Median Home Price	$477,100
Property Tax Rate	1.15%
Avg Childcare/mo	$900

The housing market in Delaware City is relatively stable, with a mix of older and newer homes available. Rentals are also available, but may be limited. The city’s historic district offers charming homes with character.

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

108

US national avg = 100

vs National Avg

+8% above national average

Groceries

105

Transportation

Healthcare

102

Childcare/mo

$900

Tax Rates

Tax Overview
Property Tax Rate	1.15%
<p>State 0% + County 0% + City 0%</p>

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

Family & Relocation

Family Vibe Score

7/10

Safety Index

Higher = safer

School Rating

7.2/10

GreatSchools avg

Avg Childcare

$900/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 manufacturing

Top Local Concerns

Traffic, public safety, environmental protection

🚌 Transit for Families

Delaware City has a limited public transit system, but the downtown area is walkable and stroller-friendly. The city is also accessible by car, with several major highways nearby.

🎡 Top Kid Attractions

🎯
Fort Delaware
🎯
Delaware City Riverwalk
🎯
Brandywine Creek State Park

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The historic district is a popular area for families, with its charming homes and walkable streets. The Riverwalk area is also attractive, with its parks and access to the Delaware River. Other family-friendly neighborhoods include the areas surrounding the local schools.

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

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Delaware City has regulations in place to preserve its historic district and protect the environment. Residents are also subject to New Castle County regulations.

Financial Tools

Calculators

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📊 Delaware City — Census & Demographic Data

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

💰 Median Household Income

$74,620

🏠 Homeownership Rate

69.7%

🔑 Renter Rate

30.3%

📉 Poverty Rate

6.1%

💼 Unemployment Rate

4.5%

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs in Delaware City tend to be higher in the summer months due to air conditioning usage, with average electric bills increasing by 15-20%. In the winter, heating costs are relatively low due to the city's mild climate, with average natural gas bills nonexistent since most homes are electric-only.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The 19706 ZIP code has a property tax millage rate of 1.15, with no local surtaxes. New Castle County also imposes a tax on real estate, which is factored into the overall property tax rate.

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

Score 8/10: Delaware City has good sidewalk quality and park access, making it a stroller-friendly city. However, elevator access in transit is limited, and some areas of the city may require more effort to navigate with a stroller.

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