Delaware Tax Advantages and Affordability
One of the most compelling reasons to consider Delaware for your residence is its affordability. While median home prices across the mid-Atlantic region remain competitive, the absence of sales tax and low property taxes in Delaware make homeownership a tangible reality. In 2022, the average cost of real estate taxes in Delaware was approximately half of the cost in Maryland, District of Columbia, and Pennsylvania, less than one-third the cost in New York, and nearly one-fifth the cost in New Jersey. Instead of paying higher taxes, homeowners in Delaware can build more equity in their homes and enhance their lifestyle. Additionally, Delaware’s housing stock is diverse, offering something for everyone, whether you’re in search of a sprawling suburban home, a rural farmhouse, a vibrant downtown condo, or a cozy beachfront cottage. Use our cost of living calculator to compare Delaware to other locations.
Delaware Beaches and Livability
Given that most of Delaware is situated on the Delmarva Peninsula, it’s unsurprising that the state boasts some of the country’s most stunning beaches on the East Coast. In fact, Bethany Beach was ranked as one of the best beaches in 2024 by U.S. News & World Report. Charming and family-friendly towns like Rehoboth and Lewes provide residents and visitors with easy access to vibrant boardwalks, an active arts community, and an exquisite shoreline. Beyond the beaches, Delaware’s landscape is rich in natural beauty, offering bird watching, hiking, or simply enjoying a sunset over the water. From Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge, a 16,000-acre tidal salt marsh in Kent County, to the Brandywine Valley, with its rolling hills and extensive multi-use trails, Delaware’s natural attractions offer a sanctuary for outdoor enthusiasts.
Delaware Job Opportunities and Innovation
Delaware’s diverse economy and strategic location afford residents unparalleled access to job opportunities in high-wage and innovative industries. Notable employers in the life sciences in Delaware include DuPont, Solenis, Chemours, Siemens Healthineers, Incyte, and Labware. Delaware has established itself as a part of a federally recognized Hydrogen Hub, leading the expansion of clean energy alternatives. Plus, the National Institute for Innovation in Manufacturing Biopharmaceuticals (NIIMBL) is headquartered at the University of Delaware in Newark. The financial services sector is also highly concentrated in Delaware, with major banks such as J.P. Morgan, Barclays, Bank of America, WSFS, and M&T Bank basing their U.S. operations or maintaining substantial operations near Wilmington. In central and southern Delaware, agriculture and food manufacturing are significant economic drivers, supported by well-known companies like Perdue, Allen Harim, and Mountaire. A newly opened incubator kitchen in Sussex County also supports food entrepreneurs in Delaware and the burgeoning Culinary Coast.
Why Wait? Experience Living in Delaware Now
For those pondering where to buy a home, Delaware presents a compelling case. Its affordability makes homeownership achievable, while access to high-wage jobs and natural beauty enhance the living experience. Delaware is abundant in opportunities and amenities, making it an ideal place to call home for families at all stages of life.