Laurel, DE Cost of Living & Utility Guide 2026

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Laurel, DE Utility & Living Guide

Laurel is a town in Sussex County, Delaware, United States. The population was 3,865 at the time of the 2020 census.

Last updated: July 4, 2026

Total Utilities$270/mo

1BR Rent$794/mo

COL Index105 (+5% above national average)

Family Score7/10

Median Home$168,000

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🌤️ Live Weather — Laurel

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Living in Laurel, summers are hot, with Jul highs around 88.0°F, while winters are chilly, with Jan lows around 31.4°F. With 3400 heating degree days annually, heating costs are moderate. The area receives 48.4 inches of rainfall per year. Within 5 miles: 2 parks, 1 grocery and 2 dining spots. For hospital care, the nearest facility is in a neighboring city. Median household income: $42,710. With a 39.6% poverty rate and 35.0% homeownership, the community reflects a stable residential mix. Nearby cities: Seaford (6mi NW), Delmar (7mi S), Salisbury (13mi S). Air quality is Moderate — avg AQI 51 over the past week.

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⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Laurel

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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

$40/mo

Laurel Municipal Water

🗑️ Garbage

$30/mo

Waste Management

📶 Internet

$60/mo

Combined Average Overhead$270/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom	$794/mo
2 Bedrooms	$883/mo
3 Bedrooms	$1103/mo
Median Home Price	$168,000
Property Tax Rate	1.15%
Avg Childcare/mo	$900

The housing market in Laurel is relatively affordable, with a range of options from historic homes to new constructions. Rentals are also available, with prices varying depending on location and amenities. Overall, the market is stable, with moderate growth expected in the coming years.

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

105

US national avg = 100

vs National Avg

+5% above national average

Groceries

102

Transportation

Healthcare

100

Childcare/mo

$900

Tax Rates

Tax Overview
Property Tax Rate	1.15%
<p>State 0% + No County tax + No City tax, but has a local gross receipts tax</p>

Delaware has a progressive income tax system, with rates ranging from 0% to 5.95%. However, the state does not tax Social Security benefits or pension income.

Family & Relocation

Family Vibe Score

7/10

Safety Index

Higher = safer

School Rating

7/10

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 including agriculture, healthcare, and education

Top Local Concerns

Traffic, public safety, economic development

🚌 Transit for Families

Laurel has limited public transportation options, but the town is relatively walkable and bikeable, with some stroller-friendly sidewalks and parks.

🎡 Top Kid Attractions

🎯
Laurel Public Library
🎯
Trap Pond State Park
🎯
Laurel Little League

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The downtown area and surrounding neighborhoods, such as North Laurel and West Laurel, offer a mix of historic homes, parks, and community amenities, making them popular choices for families. The area is also close to local schools and childcare centers.

Household Budget Calculator

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

📰 Live Local News

Laurel has regulations regarding zoning, building permits, and environmental protection. Residents are also required to obtain licenses for certain businesses and activities.

Financial Tools

Calculators

Income Tax CalculatorEstimate take-home pay by state
Mortgage CalculatorMonthly payment estimator
Affordability CalculatorHow much home can you afford?
Childcare Cost EstimatorCompare daycare costs by city

Planning Tools

Retirement PlannerRetirement readiness check
Car Lease CalculatorMonthly lease payment estimator
Savings CalculatorGrow your emergency fund
City Comparison ToolCompare cities side by side

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📊 Laurel — Census & Demographic Data

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

💰 Median Household Income

$42,710

🏠 Homeownership Rate

35.0%

🔑 Renter Rate

65.0%

📉 Poverty Rate

39.6%

💼 Unemployment Rate

13.9%

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

During the summer months, utility costs in Laurel tend to increase due to air conditioning usage, while winter months see a slight decrease in costs. However, the town's mild climate means that extreme temperature fluctuations are rare, and overall utility costs remain relatively stable throughout the year.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The 19956 ZIP code has a property tax millage rate of 1.15, with no local surtaxes. However, the town does have a gross receipts tax, which applies to certain businesses and activities.

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

6, due to the town's relatively walkable and bikeable streets, as well as the presence of stroller-friendly sidewalks and parks. However, some areas may lack elevator access or have uneven pavement, which can make navigation more difficult for families with strollers.

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