Wilmington, DE Utility & Living Guide

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Wilmington, DE Utility & Living Guide

Living in Wilmington, DE offers a unique blend of historic charm, cultural attractions, and outdoor recreation opportunities along the Delaware River

Last updated: June 26, 2026
Total Utilities$350/mo
1BR Rent$1300/mo
COL Index110 (+10% above national average)
Family Score7/10
Median Home$240,000
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⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Wilmington
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💰 Budget Calculator
🔌 Utilities
🏠 Housing
📊 Cost of Living
💰 Taxes
👨‍👩‍👧 Families
🧮 Tools

Monthly Utility Costs

⚡ Electric

$140/mo

Delmarva Power
🔥 Gas

$60/mo

Delmarva Power
💧 Water

$50/mo

City of Wilmington Department of Public Works
🗑️ Garbage

$30/mo

City of Wilmington Department of Public Works
📶 Internet

$70/mo

Combined Average Overhead $350/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom$1300/mo
2 Bedrooms$1700/mo
3 Bedrooms$2300/mo
Median Home Price$240,000
Property Tax Rate1.35%
Avg Childcare/mo$1200

The housing market in Wilmington is relatively stable, with a mix of historic homes, apartments, and new developments. However, prices can vary depending on the neighborhood and proximity to the city center. Renters can expect to pay around $1,300 per month for a one-bedroom apartment.

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

110

US national avg = 100
vs National Avg

+10% above national average

Groceries

105

Transportation

102

Healthcare

105

Childcare/mo

$1200

Tax Rates

Tax Overview
Property Tax Rate1.35%
<p>State 0% + No county tax + No city tax, but some services are subject to a 8.97% gross receipts tax</p>

Delaware has a progressive state income tax with rates ranging from 0% to 5.95%, and Wilmington residents are also subject to a city wage tax of 1.25%

Family & Relocation

Family Vibe Score
7/10
Safety Index

40

Higher = safer
School Rating

7.2/10

GreatSchools avg
Avg Childcare

$1200/mo

City Pulse

Population Trend
+2% (growing)
Political Climate
Blue
Business Momentum
Moderate, with key industries in finance, healthcare, and education
Top Local Concerns
Crime, education, economic development
🚌 Transit for Families

Wilmington has a relatively walkable downtown area and a public transit system that includes buses, but stroller-friendly infrastructure is limited in some areas

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Brandywine Zoo
  • 🎯
    Delaware Children's Museum
  • 🎯
    Hagley Museum and Library

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The best neighborhoods for families in Wilmington include the Highlands, which offers a mix of historic homes and new developments, and the Riverfront, which features parks, restaurants, and cultural attractions. Other family-friendly areas include Wilmington Manor and the surrounding suburbs.

Household Budget Calculator

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

Local Briefing & Neighborhood Pulse

Live Local News

Rent control laws, zoning restrictions, and historic preservation ordinances are key local regulations for residents and property owners

Wilmington's financial sector is experiencing growth, driven by the presence of major banks and financial institutions, and the city is also seeing an increase in startup activity. However, the city still faces challenges related to poverty and crime.

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📊 Wilmington — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs in Wilmington tend to be higher in the summer due to air conditioning usage, with average electric bills increasing by 20-30% during the summer months. In contrast, winter heating costs are relatively moderate due to the city's mild climate.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

Key ZIP code level tax info: property tax millage rates range from 1.2 to 1.5, and there are no local surtaxes specific to Wilmington county, but some services are subject to a 8.97% gross receipts tax

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

6/10, due to limited sidewalk quality and elevator access in some areas, but good park access and a relatively walkable downtown area

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