Looking for relaxed beach living without the cost of major coastal cities? Delaware’s beaches offer an affordable alternative. You can afford a house in the Diamond State if you know where to look.
Your perfect home could be a family-friendly house in Dover or a starter home in Wilmington, Delaware’s corporate hub. If you’re retiring, look at homes for sale in Camden to enjoy a low-cost coastal lifestyle, with median home prices under $275,000.
After assessing hundreds of cities, we’ve ranked the 10 most affordable places to live in Delaware to help you find a home that fits your budget.
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Cheapest Places to Live in Delaware in 2025
| City | Median Home Value | Median House Rent | Cost of Living Compared to the State Average | Affordability Score (out of 10) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Delmar | $293,000 | $1,195 | 9% ⬇️ | 6.5 |
| 2. Harrington | $325,000 | $1,250 | 4% ⬇️ | 5.9 |
| 3. Wilmington | $230,000 | $1,696 | 3% ⬆️ | 5.9 |
| 4. Dover | $299,950 | $1,592 | 5% ⬇️ | 5.5 |
| 5. Camden | $275,000 | $1,850 | 5% ⬇️ | 5.2 |
| 6. Seaford | $325,000 | $1,766 | 9% ⬇️ | 5 |
| 7. Smyrna | $349,900 | $1,513 | 2% ⬇️ | 5 |
| 8. Laurel | $373,500 | $1,650 | 12% ⬇️ | 4.8 |
| 9. Magnolia | $253,000 | $2,500 | 8% ⬇️ | 4.2 |
| 10. New Castle | $399,988 | $1,581 | 5% ⬆️ | 4.2 |
How We Ranked the Most Affordable Places to Live in Delaware
To identify the cheap places to live in Delaware, we carried out an in-depth analysis using multiple reliable data sources and indicators of affordability.
Data Sources:
- Median Home Prices: We used Houzeo’s Delaware Housing Market report and double-checked the numbers with the data from University of Delaware – Center for Community Research and Service (CCRS).
- Median Rent: We got the rent data from C2ER, which publishes the national Cost of Living Index. This was verified every few months to make sure it’s accurate.
- Overall Cost of Living: We covered 6 big spending categories— housing, groceries, utilities, transportation, healthcare, and miscellaneous goods— from C2ER and Houzeo’s Cost of Living in Delaware Calculator. We then compared everything to the U.S. average of 100.
We studied housing data from 2022 to 2025 to identify cities that remained affordable over time, not just during short dips in prices. Furthermore, each city’s data was also cross-checked with HUD and state economic reports.
All our information is up to date as of 2025, ensuring you receive the most current insights.
Affordability Scoring:
We built a simple scoring system that focuses on what really matters:
- Median Home Price (40%)
- Median Rent (35%)
- Cost of Living (25%)
This way, we can clearly show which Delaware cities give you the best value for your money. You can also check out our score breakdown to see how each city was ranked.
Image credits: All blog images are sourced from Freepik.
10 Most Affordable Places to Live in Delaware
Delmar’s location along the Delaware–Maryland border provides convenient transport links to larger cities while maintaining a relaxed pace of life. With low living costs and a welcoming community, homes for sale in Delmar attract those seeking value without sacrificing accessibility or charm.
- Villa Park Estates: This is a suburban neighborhood with single family homes on large lots just off Whitesville Road. It provides convenient access to US Route 13 or commuting and shopping in nearby Salisbury.
- Country Grove: A residential neighborhood on the edge of town with easy road access toward Laurel and other Sussex County communities. Buyers consider this area for its modern housing and proximity to regional employment and shopping corridors along US Route 13.
- East State Street: This in-town neighborhood is considered as Delmar’s traditional “town center”. It consists of older single homes on walkable streets close to the Town of Delmar Town Hall and St. Stephen’s United Methodist Church.
- Job Market: Delmar’s job market is tied to wider Sussex County and the Salisbury metro, with residents commuting along US Route 13. Major sectors are poultry processing, healthcare, education, and retail. Sussex County added about 2,500 jobs year over year, while Delaware’s 2024 unemployment rate of 3.7% came in below the national average.
- Recreation: Local recreation includes Delmar Park with playgrounds and open fields for youth sports, plus community programs organized by Delmar Parks & Recreation. In a short drive you can access the Altitude Trampoline Park in Delmar as well.
- Low Safety: Delmar’s crime rate is 6-7% higher than the US average. The average violent crime rate is 130 incidents per 100,000, which may concern some households comparing small towns.
- Limited Job Diversity and Income Levels: Delmar’s local job base is relatively small and is commuting-based employment to nearby hubs such as Salisbury. Moreover, Median household income is about 0.8 times the U.S. median.
- Flood and Severe Weather Risk: Delmar sits in Sussex County, where county data indicate that more than 20% of properties fall within identified flood plains.
With Harrington scenic parks, quiet beaches, and convenient transport links to nearby hubs, it provides both relaxation and an easygoing coastal lifestyle. The variety of homes for sale in Harrington reflects its appeal to residents seeking affordability without sacrificing comfort or community charm.
- Southfield: It offers a residential vibe with spacious half-acre lots and new single-family homes. It is also close to Benjamin Banneker Elementary School and Harrington Raceway and Casino.
- Downtown Harrington: This neighborhood has a quiet small-town residential feel. Residents value its walkability to Lake Forest South Elementary School and the annual Delaware State Fair events.
- West End: The neighborhood offers a peaceful suburban setting near city edges with access to Browns Branch County Park trails and Lake Forest High School.
- Job Market: Harrington’s employment grew 9.16% from 2022 to 2023, reaching about 2,000 jobs. Key sectors are retail, education, healthcare, and manufacturing. Major employers are Harrington Raceway & Casino and nearby Mountaire Farms processing plant.
- Recreation: Harrington offers access to Brecknock Park for community sports fields and Killens Pond State Park, 10 miles away, with nature trails. Landmarks include the Quillen Arena for events and Centre View Nature Preserve for walking paths.
- High Crime Rates: Harrington’s violent crime rate stands at 634 per 100,000 residents, 71.5% above the national average, with property crime risk at 1 in 53.
- Limited Job Diversity: With only about 2,000 jobs locally and growth tied to pharmacy, medical, and farming, many residents commute for broader opportunities.
- Natural Disaster Risk: Harrington faces moderate hurricane risk, with potential for gusts up to 97 mph in a 1-in-3,000-year storm event, carrying a 1% chance over 30 years.
Wilmington offers an affordable cost of living paired with easy access to scenic beaches, green parks, and a walkable downtown. Excellent public transit and proximity to major highways make commuting simple.
- Trolley Square: It is a lively urban neighborhood with tree-lined streets, rowhomes, and a bustling bar scene including Catherine Rooney’s. It has a walkable access to Brandywine Park and proximity to Alexis I. duPont High School.
- The Triangle: It is a quiet, family-oriented residential area featuring century-old rowhomes. It offers direct access to Brandywine Park, Brandywine Zoo, and nearby Charter School of Wilmington.
- Riverfront: It is a vibrant waterfront district blending urban energy with river views and entertainment venues like Chase Center. It is known for its Riverwalk trails, Tubman-Garrett Riverfront Park, and proximity to Gateway Charter School.
- Job Market: Wilmington’s economy centers on finance, insurance, and legal services. Key employers include JPMorgan Chase, Bank of America, and AstraZeneca, alongside corporate HQs like Incyte and DuPont.
- Recreation: Popular spots include Nemours Estate’s manicured gardens, Hagley Museum’s historic mills, and Rockford Park’s wooded trails and amphitheater for summer concerts. The Delaware Art Museum features American illustration collections, while Alapocas Run State Park offers disc golf and mountain biking.
- High Crime Rates: Wilmington’s violent crime rate stands at 1,127 per 100,000 residents. Murders nearly doubled from 2023 to 2024, despite a drop in shootings to a six-year low.
- Traffic Congestion: Wilmington ranks 7th-worst nationally for traffic, with average commute times at 25 minutes; I-95 rush hours cause frequent delays.
- Flood Risk: 19.8% of properties (5,135 total) face severe flood risk over 30 years, exacerbated by climate-driven heavy rain in the Brandywine watershed.
Dover, DE is one of the cheapest places to live thanks to its low cost of housing, modest tax rates, and convenient access to major East Coast cities. Residents enjoy a relaxed lifestyle with nearby beaches, scenic parks, and cultural sites. With affordable homes for sale in Dover, the city offers both comfort and accessibility in a vibrant small-town setting.
- Fox Hall West: It’s a suburban residential area with a family-oriented, community-focused vibe near Caesar Rodney School District. The neighborhood is closer to schools like Allen Frear Elementary School and Fred Fifer III Middle School and the nearby Schutte Park for sports fields and trails.
- Edgehill: It is a dense suburban neighborhood offering walkable access to local amenities and public transport. It is close to shopping centers, restaurants and schools like North Dover Elementary.
- Towne Point: This is a cozy residential community with townhomes and single-family homes. It draws families for its community pool, play area, and location near South Dover Elementary School and neighborhood parks like Silver Lake Park.
- Job Market: Dover’s economy features government as the largest sector followed by education/health services and trade/transportation/utilities. Major employers include Dover Air Force Base, Bayhealth Hospital, and state government offices.
- Recreation: First State Heritage Park offers historical tours of Delaware’s founding sites and urban green spaces. Pickering Beach and Kitts Hummock Beach provide coastal access for fishing and birdwatching. Dover Park hosts community events.
- High Crime Levels: Dover’s violent crime rate is estimated at about 7.4 incidents per 1,000 residents, with roughly 294 violent and 1,836 property crimes reported in a recent year.
- Flood and Storm Risk: FEMA maps identify Special Flood Hazard Areas within Dover, meaning some neighborhoods fall in the 1% annual chance (100‑year) floodplain and may require flood insurance.
- Cost Pressures: While housing is cheaper than the U.S. average typical energy bills are near 200 dollars per month in Dover and can offset some of the savings from lower home prices.
The town offers a quiet suburban lifestyle with access to neighborhood parks and proximity to larger-city amenities in nearby Dover. Residents benefit from easy connections via US Route 13 and regional highways to employment centers and Delaware’s beaches.
- Brair Park: It’s a quiet suburban residential neighborhood with single-family homes along Route 13. It provides easy access to Allen Frear Elementary School and proximity to Brecknock County Park trails and summer concerts.
- Camden Commons: This is a residential community offering a rural-suburban feel near farmland. It appeals to families families due to location in Caesar Rodney School District, close to W.B. Simpson Elementary School and local shopping.
- Estates of Wild Quail: An upscale suburban enclave with larger lots and community amenities like a golf course. Residents love the easy reach to Fred Fifer III Middle School, Caesar Rodney High School, and the annual Camden-Wyoming Christmas Parade.
- Job Market: The local economy leads with education and health services followed by trade/transportation/utilities and professional/business services. Major nearby employers include Bayhealth facilities and Dover Air Force Base.
- Recreation: Brecknock County Park features Piccadilly Castle playground, nature trails along Isaac Branch, and Howell Mill Nature Center. Camelot Apartments community hosts local events near US Route 13. Annual summer concert series at Brecknock draws residents for outdoor music and picnics.
- Limited Amenities: Camden is a small town of roughly 3,800 residents, so many retail, healthcare, and entertainment options are clustered in nearby Dover rather than within town limits.
- Heavy dependency on cars: Camden has no fixed-route public transit system of its own, and regional DART bus routes are oriented around Dover and major corridors. Most residents rely on personal vehicles for commuting, school runs, and errands.
- Exposure to Storm and Flood Risk: The Kent County has documented vulnerability to coastal storms and heavy-rain events. While Camden is inland, nearby waterways and low-lying areas can still experience stormwater issues.
Residents in Seaford enjoy a relaxed lifestyle with abundant parks, trails, and community spaces. With its blend of small-town charm and accessibility, homes for sale in Seaford attract those seeking value without sacrificing quality of life.
- Blades: This neighborhood provides a sparse suburban, rural vibe along the Nanticoke River. Residents value proximity to Blades Elementary School and outdoor access near the river and Nanticoke Indian Tribe sites.
- Broad Acres: It features a rural, low-density residential atmosphere. It appeals due to its quiet setting close to Seaford Central Elementary School and city parks like Kiwanis Park.
- Governors Grants: It offers a modern suburban neighborhood feel with new homes. Residents appreciate its location two miles from Seaford Middle School, Parks and Recreation facilities, and the Nanticoke River
- Job Market: Seaford’s economy centers on food processing and agriculture, with Perdue Farms (via Allen Family Foods and Harim USA) as the largest employer. Other key sectors include education through Seaford School District and retail at Walmart.
- Recreation: Popular spots include the Seaford Museum tracing nylon production history and the Governor Ross Mansion, a restored 19th-century site. Blades Marina supports boating on the Nanticoke River, while the Seaford Sports Complex offers walking trails and fields.
- High Crime Rate: Seaford reports 52 incidents per 1,000 residents—among the highest in America—and violent crimes at 962 per 100,000, 160% above the national average.
- Limited Job Diversity: The economy is dominated by food processing like Perdue Farms. Employment fell 1.45% from 2022 to 2023, totaling 3.39k jobs amid Sussex County’s 4.6% unemployment in late 2025.
- Limited Amenities and Wind Speeds: Residents would require vehicle access for most shopping and services, as walkability is low. Coastal proximity also elevates hurricane wind risk, with 90% of homes affected and rising wind speeds over 30 years.
Smyrna offers an affordable living with easy access to major cities like Dover and Wilmington, making it ideal for commuters. The town features scenic parks, nearby beaches, and a welcoming small-town atmosphere. With a balance of accessibility and comfort, homes for sale in Smyrna provide excellent value for those seeking a relaxed yet connected lifestyle.
- Hickory Hollow: A newer, suburban residential area with mostly owner-occupied single-family homes and townhomes built after 1999. It is set near Smyrna’s commercial corridors, with convenient access to Route 13 for commuting and shopping.
- Downtown Smyrna: It’s a small-town with walkable vibe, historic architecture and a mix of residential streets. This area is close to George C. Wright Jr. Municipal Park, seasonal events like summer concerts, Christmas parade, and access to the Smyrna School District’s central facilities.
- Lake Como Area: This area is a quiet, largely residential pocket centered around the lake and nearby parkland. It draws buyers with easy access to fishing, kayaking, and picnicking at Lake Como, while being a short drive from downtown Smyrna and Smyrna Elementary and Middle schools.
- Job Market: Smyrna’s job market is a broad mix of manufacturing, healthcare, and logistics, with local roles tied to regional distribution along the Route 1 and Route 13 corridors. Major employers are Interim HealthCare of Delaware, Unis, and TGL Logistics.
- Recreation: Beyond town parks and Lake Como, residents often visit Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge for birdwatching, photography, and auto tours through tidal marshes. Blackbird State Forest, just outside Smyrna, offers wooded trails, horseback riding paths, and seasonal nature programs.
- Higher Crime Rates: Overall crime estimated at roughly 15% above the U.S. rate and daily incidents dominated by property offenses.
- Limited Economical Diversity: The local economy is growing but not highly diversified, so many residents commute to larger job centers like Dover, Middletown, or Wilmington.
- Limited Amenities: Major amenities shopping, dining, and specialized healthcare often require trips to nearby cities, which can limit convenience.
The city features easy access to major transport routes, scenic parks, and nearby beaches, balancing comfort and connectivity. With these benefits, homes for sale in Laurel attract those seeking both value and quality of life.
- West Laurel: It offers a quiet suburban vibe with tree-lined streets and proximity to West Laurel Elementary School. It is also close to recreational spots like Fairland Recreational Park and Rocky Gorge Reservoir.
- North Laurel: This area provides residential suburban living amid woodlands and farmland parcels. Buyers value access to North Laurel Park, featuring a skate park, playgrounds, and the adjacent community center.
- Laurel Woods: It maintains a family-friendly suburban atmosphere with lush green spaces. It draws families for its closeness to Laurel Woods Elementary School and natural areas like Laurel Creek Conservation Area.
- Job Market: Laurel’s job market centers on defense, technology, and government contracting. Major major employers includes Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory and Tower Federal Credit Union.
- Recreation: Local attractions include Laurel Park racetrack, a historic thoroughbred venue since 1911, and Dinosaur Park, featuring fossil digs and trails. The National Cryptologic Museum displays cryptography artifacts, while Gardens Ice House offers Olympic-sized skating rinks.
- Elevated Crime Rates: Laurel’s total crime index is 136.86% higher than the national average. Violent crime stands at 1,652 per 100,000 residents and property crime at 3,854 per 100,000.
- Limited Job Diversity: Employment is rated poorly (D on livability scales) and common occupations are skewed toward building maintenance and production roles rather than high-growth sectors.
- Wind Risk: Winds from hurricanes affect 51% of homes, alongside statewide vulnerabilities to coastal flooding, storm surges, and nuisance high tides.
Magnolia, ranks among the more affordable places to live in the state. Transportation costs run 7.6% lower than average, supporting a practical suburban lifestyle near Dover, while homes for sale in Magnolia provide access to local amenities like Walgreens.
- Maple Leaf Estates: It’s a quiet suburban area with family homes and green spaces. Appeals to buyers near Caesar Rodney High School and local parks.
- Woodland Crossing: It’s a residential enclave with rural edges and community feel. Draws families for proximity to Dover Air Force Base and elementary schools in Caesar Rodney School District.
- Magnolia Meadows: An established suburban pocket close to Main Street shops. Attracts residents via access to district schools and nearby Dover attractions.
- Job Market: Key industries include education, retail, and government, with major employers like Caesar Rodney School District, Dollar General, Walgreens, and State of Delaware offices.
- Recreation: Redden State Forest offers hiking trails and natural areas distinct from coastal spots. Proximity to Woodland Beach provides quiet crabbing and sea glass hunting, while Pickering Beach supports birdwatching and horseshoe crab viewing.
- Limited Amenities: There are few grocery stores and restaurants within walking distance; residents often drive to Dover, 10 miles away
- Transportation Challenges: Car dependency is very high with no public transit hub; commutes to Dover add 15-20 minutes.
- Natural Disaster Risk: Flooding vulnerability in low-lying areas per state hazard plans. Hurricane exposure typical for coastal Delaware towns.
New Castle offers an affordable lifestyle with easy access to major cities like Wilmington and Philadelphia. Residents enjoy scenic parks, quiet neighborhoods, and nearby Delaware beaches that enhance everyday living. With these advantages, homes for sale in New Castle appeal to those seeking budget-friendly comfort and convenience.
- Dobbinsville: It features a quiet residential vibe near the historic downtown of New Castle. Buyers value its proximity to Battery Park for trails and events like Separation Day, plus access to Colonial School District schools such as William Penn High School.
- Garfield Park: The neighborhood offers a suburban feel with community-focused amenities like the Garfield Park Recreation Center. It appeals to families due to the on-site park, sports facilities, and nearby Colonial School District options including Read Middle School.
- Washington Park: This area provides a residential suburban atmosphere in southern New Castle. Residents appreciate its closeness to local parks and schools in the Colonial School District, such as Eisenberg Elementary School.
- Job Market: New Castle County features key industries like life sciences, financial services, advanced manufacturing, healthcare, and logistics, with major employers including DuPont and AstraZeneca.
- Recreation: Popular spots include Glasgow Park for trails and picnics, Rockwood Mansion and Park for historic gardens, and Riverview Beach Park for waterfront access. The New Castle Farmer’s Market offers local produce and community events.
- High Crime Rates: New Castle reports elevated crime levels, with violent crime at 199.1 per 100,000 residents over 2019-2023.
- Flood Risk: The city’s riverside location along the Delaware River heightens vulnerability to upstream flooding, tidal surges, and sea level rise, leading to frequent nuisance flooding and storm threats.
- Limited Amenities: Residents note a scarcity of walkable dining, shopping, and communal spots, with many services requiring drives to Wilmington.
Smyrna (safety score of 58) and New Castle (safety score of 55) are the cheapest and safest cities in Delaware. They offer low crime rates, family-friendly neighborhoods, and a lively, welcoming lifestyle.
Top 3 Cheapest Cities to Live in Delaware for Young Adults
In Delaware, affordable living is more than low housing costs. It also means good jobs, a safe lifestyle, and communities where you can thrive. Several towns deliver all three with affordable homes and growing opportunities.
| Rank | City | Why It’s Great for Young Adults |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Wilmington | Young adults enjoy strong opportunities for early-career growth. Social life and nightlife thrive at the Riverfront and Trolley Square, with bars, festivals, and walkable hangouts. Downtown and Market Street provide dining options and regular events that keep the area vibrant. |
| 2. | Dover | Lower 1BR rents in Delaware let young professionals save or pay off loans faster, while major employers like Delaware State Government, Delaware Technical Community College, and Delaware State University provide diverse job opportunities. Museums and lakes like the Biggs Museum of American Art and Silver Lake Park, offer affordable weekend recreation. |
| 3. | Newark | Newark pulses with young professional energy, driven by the University of Delaware’s innovation and vibrant social scene. With major employers like W. L. Gore & Associates, GE Energy Manufacturing, and Taghleef Industries offering diverse career opportunities, homes for sale in Newark are ideal for those seeking both work and lifestyle convenience. |
Top 3 Inexpensive Places to Live in Delaware for Families
Delaware is a favorite among families for its warm climate, no state income tax, and affordable housing. These three cities offer low living costs and top-notch schools.
| Rank | City | Why It’s Great for Families |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Delmar | Families enjoy perks like Delmar Park playgrounds, youth sports fields, and proximity to Sussex County schools. Neighborhoods such as Villa Park Estates offer large lots near US Route 13 for easy commuting and shopping. |
| 2. | Harrington | The city features walkable access to Lake Forest South Elementary School, Benjamin Banneker Elementary, and Delaware State Fair events. Southfield neighborhood also provides spacious half-acre lots near parks and trails. |
| 3. | Pike Creek | It is a family-oriented suburb with A+ ratings for families. It include White Clay Creek State Park for hiking and biking, nearby Carousel Park for horseback riding farmers markets, trampoline parks, bowling, and ice skating. Many homes for sale in Pike Creek are on half-acre lots near top schools like Newark Charter School. |
3 Best Affordable Places to Live in Delaware for Retirees
Delaware is a retiree’s haven. In these cities, you can find affordable homes, accessible healthcare, and safe communities. There are also plenty of outdoor activities like kayaking, hiking, and picnics to enjoy a comfortable, active lifestyle.
| Rank | City | Why It’s Great for Retirees |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Camden | Easy, low-impact outdoor activities, like walking over a mile of nature trails at Brecknock County Park, support healthy routines for retirees. Community events, such as the free summer concert series at the park, offer built-in social opportunities. |
| 2. | Magnolia | Ideal for active-adult living, the area offers established 55+ housing and amenities tailored to older adults’ daily needs. Communities like Southern Meadow feature clubhouses, fitness centers, pools, hobby rooms, trails, and fishing lakes, making homes for sale in Magnolia especially appealing for retirees. |
| 3. | Seaford | Healthcare access is a key retiree priority, and Seaford offers TidalHealth Nanticoke, a community hospital with emergency and surgical services. Easy, flat trails at Chapel Branch Nature Area and the Seaford Sports Complex provide convenient options for walking and relaxation. |
3 Hidden Costs to Consider in Delaware
Even in the cheapest Delaware cities to live in, home prices are only part of the cost. So, factor in transportation tolls and flood coverage along with property taxes when looking for the cheapest area to live in Delaware.
- Business Compliance: Companies need to maintain registered agent services ($100–300 annually), pay franchise taxes even without revenue, and obtain local licenses up to $500. Startups often face additional legal and accounting costs of $500–5,000 yearly to navigate these complex requirements.
- Transportation Tolls: Major highways like I-95 impose steep tolls, especially near Wilmington, burdening daily commuters and frequent travelers.
- Property Maintenance and HOA Fees: Some communities, especially coastal or suburban developments, have homeowners association (HOA) fees and upkeep costs that aren’t always obvious upfront.
Savings Breakdown: Cheapest Cities in Delaware to Live In
Housing costs vary dramatically across Delaware. Delmar residents save $2,500 monthly compared to South Bethany and $1,000 compared to Middletown. The following table breaks down these savings by median home price, monthly mortgage, property tax, insurance, and total monthly costs.
| City | Median Home Price | Avg. Monthly Mortgage | Insurance/taxes | Estimated Monthly Cost for a Single Person | Monthly Savings vs. Miami |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Delmar | $293,000 | $1,387 | $725 | $2,000 | $2,500 |
| Middletown | $422,500 | $2,025 | $1,115 | $3,000 | $1,000 |
| South Bethany | $13,80,000 | $6,531 | $1,133 | $4,500 | – |
Affordable Living Beyond Delaware
Not sure if the cheapest places in Delaware to live will fit your budget? Here are a few surrounding states that offer major tax benefits, a strong job market, and excellent education, just like Delaware.
Tax Benefits
A great tax‑friendly state similar to Delaware is Tennessee. It has no state income tax, low property taxes, and an overall low tax burden. Here are the three cheapest places to live in Tennessee:
- Chattanooga: Median home price is $350,000, with a growing job scene, scenic outdoor access, and strong culture.
- Knoxville: Median home price is $317,450 and lower cost of living with university town energy and good amenities.
- Clarksville: Median home price is $312,000 and is a fast‑growing city with access to jobs near Fort Campbell.
Robust Job Opportunities
Oklahoma has a growing job market across healthcare, energy, manufacturing, and tech sectors with housing costs well below the national average. These are the most affordable places to live in Oklahoma:
- Tulsa: Average home price is $225,000 with strong and growing job opportunities.
- Oklahoma City: Average home price is near $269,000 and is and expanding employment in healthcare, energy, and business services.
- Norman: Average home price is $247,250 and the job market driven partly by education and public services.
Excellent Education
Just like Delaware, a great state that combines excellent education systems with affordability is Ohio. These are the top 3 cheapest places to live in Ohio:
- Toledo: Median home price is $148,000 and has access to good schools and community colleges.
- Dayton: Median home price is $155,000 and has and a growing education and workforce development focus, with strong public school options and nearby universities.
- Powell: Suburbs like Powell offer access to high‑performing school districts and above‑average education.
Where Is the Cheapest Place to Live in Delaware?
Delmar, Harrington, and Wilmington are the most affordable cities to live in Delaware. These areas offer more than low prices; they also provide steady job markets, plenty of recreation, and a cost of living 9% lower than the state norm.
Moving to Delaware also offers valuable tax advantages, with property taxes averaging at 0.55%. Whether you’re relocating or buying your first home, you can browse listings, compare prices, and make offers online.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the least expensive place to live in Delaware?
The cheapest place to live in Delaware is Delmar. It offers affordable housing at a median sale price of $293,000
» 10 Cheapest Places to Live in Delaware: Find out the other cheapest places to live in Delaware.
Where is the best place to live in Delaware?
The best place to live in Delaware is Smyrna, Milford, and Newark.
What are the living expenses in Delaware?
The average cost to live in Delaware is 1% higher than the national average. However, housing and utilities are 2% cheaper than the national average.
Where is the best place to retire in Delaware on a budget?
Camden, Magnolia, and Seaford are among the best places to retire in Delaware on a budget. They offer affordable housing, small-town comfort, and easy access to medical care.
Which cities have the cheapest cost of living in Delaware?
