Dover, DE Utility & Living Guide

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Dover, DE Utility & Living Guide

Living in Dover, Delaware offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern amenities in the heart of the First State

Last updated: June 26, 2026
Total Utilities$280/mo
1BR Rent$1100/mo
COL Index102 (+2% above national average)
Family Score7/10
Median Home$240,000
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⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Dover
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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

City of Dover Water Department
🗑️ Garbage

$30/mo

Waste Management
📶 Internet

$60/mo

Combined Average Overhead $280/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom$1100/mo
2 Bedrooms$1400/mo
3 Bedrooms$1900/mo
Median Home Price$240,000
Property Tax Rate0.86%
Avg Childcare/mo$900

The Dover housing market is relatively affordable, with a mix of historic homes and new developments. Rentals are available, but the market can be competitive. Home prices have been steadily increasing over the past few years.

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

102

US national avg = 100
vs National Avg

+2% above national average

Groceries

98

Transportation

94

Healthcare

105

Childcare/mo

$900

Tax Rates

Tax Overview
Property Tax Rate0.86%
<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
7/10
Safety Index

55

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 influences
Business Momentum
Moderate, with key industries in healthcare, education, and manufacturing
Top Local Concerns
Traffic, public safety, economic development
🚌 Transit for Families

Dover has a relatively walkable downtown area, but public transit options are limited, making it challenging for families with strollers to get around without a car

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Dover Downs
  • 🎯
    Dover International Speedway
  • 🎯
    Johnson Victrola Museum

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The downtown area and surrounding neighborhoods, such as Dover Heights and Capitol Park, offer a mix of historic charm and modern amenities, making them popular with families. Other family-friendly neighborhoods include the developments near the Dover Air Force Base.

Household Budget Calculator

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

Local Briefing & Neighborhood Pulse

Live Local News

Dover has regulations regarding zoning, noise ordinances, and historic district preservation

Dover's economy is driven by the healthcare and education sectors, with a growing focus on technology and innovation. The city is also seeing an increase in new businesses and developments, particularly in the downtown area.

Financial Tools

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📊 Dover — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Summer months bring higher electric bills due to air conditioning usage, while winter months see increased costs for heating. However, the city's mild climate means that utility costs remain relatively stable throughout the year.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

Key ZIP code level tax info: property tax millage rates range from 0.8 to 1.2, with no local surtaxes specific to Kent County

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

6/10: Dover has some sidewalks and parks, but elevator access in transit is limited, and family infrastructure could be improved

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