Wilmington, DE

Below Avg · 80

Delaware · Population 71,124 · Updated March 2026

$1,187
Median Rent / Month
$55,269
Median Income
$224,500
Median Home Value
$1,231
Owner Costs / Month

Affordability

How far your income goes in Wilmington

25.8%
Rent-to-Income Ratio
Moderate
Rent takes 25-35% of median income — moderate affordability.

Tax Burden in Delaware

State-level tax rates that affect your costs

6.6%
Income Tax (Top Rate)
0%
Sales Tax
0.57%
Property Tax Rate

Estimated Annual Costs

$14,244
Annual Rent
$3,648
State Income Tax
$1,280
Property Tax (est.)

Cost of Living Overview

Wilmington is significantly cheaper than the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals and families. With a cost index of 80 (where 100 equals the national median), Wilmington residents can expect to pay median rent of $1,187/month while earning a median household income of $55,269/year.

The median home value in Wilmington, DE is $224,500, with typical monthly owner costs around $1,231 including mortgage, insurance, and taxes. With a rent-to-income ratio of 25.8%, Wilmington falls within the generally affordable range, though it's approaching the 30% burden threshold.

Delaware has a moderate income tax rate of 6.6%. Combined with a 0% sales tax rate and 0.57% effective property tax rate, the overall tax environment is a factor in the total cost of living in Wilmington.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about living costs in Wilmington

What is the cost of living in Wilmington, DE?
The cost of living index in Wilmington, DE is 80 (US average = 100). Median monthly rent is $1,187, median household income is $55,269/year, and the median home value is $224,500.
Is Wilmington, DE affordable?
Yes, Wilmington is more affordable than the national average with a cost index of 80. The rent-to-income ratio is 25.8%—below the 30%% threshold considered affordable by HUD.
What is the average rent in Wilmington, DE?
The median gross rent in Wilmington, DE is $1,187 per month according to the US Census Bureau ACS 2023 data. Annual rent costs approximately $14,244.
What is the median household income in Wilmington?
The median household income in Wilmington, DE is $55,269 per year. This compares to the national median of approximately $80,000.
What are the taxes like in Delaware?
Delaware has a top income tax rate of 6.6%, a sales tax of 0%, and an effective property tax rate of 0.57%.