Moving to Delaware might just be your first step toward a big break! With over 42,000 new jobs by 2030, and over 68% of Fortune 500 companies calling it their home, Delaware is a hub for growth. It’s no wonder that over 39,000 people moved to Delaware last year alone.
But wait! It’s not just about better job opportunities—it’s about a better lifestyle. From tax-free shopping and scenic beaches to a laid-back pace of life, Delaware has it all. This blog is your go-to guide for relocating to Delaware—follow along, and you’ll be settled in no time.
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AT A GLANCE:
- Delaware is set to add over 42,000 jobs by 2030, with big companies like JPMorgan Chase and DuPont leading the way. The state also offers solid business incentives.
- There’s no sales tax, Social Security isn’t taxed, property tax averages just 0.55%, and there’s no estate or inheritance tax.
- Around 142,000 students attend top schools here, plus the University of Delaware and Delaware State University are great options. Scholarships are available, too.
- The cost of living is about 2% higher than the U.S. average but still cheaper than California or New York, especially for housing and utilities.
- More than 39,000 people moved to Delaware in 2024, drawn by the job market and lifestyle.
- Delaware has a subtropical climate with mild winters and warm summers, and about 201 sunny days a year.
4 Reasons to Move to Delaware
Why settle for just sunny beaches when you can also enjoy the high life? Browse through over thousands of mansions, high-rise penthouses, and spacious luxury homes for sale in Delaware, and enjoy the finest the state has to offer.
1. Job Opportunities in Delaware
Delaware is projected to add 42,000 jobs by 2030 in healthcare, finance, and business services. The presence of firms like JPMorgan Chase and Barclays makes it a financial hub, while DuPont, AstraZeneca, and FMC drive demand in chemicals, pharma, and diagnostics.
Delaware provides targeted incentives, including up to 40% payroll tax credits, $1,500 per job in high-growth industries, and additional credits for R&D, clean energy, and brownfield projects. As a result, the state is the first choice for establishing a new business.
2. Tax Benefits in Delaware
Delaware has no state or local sales tax, so you save more on daily expenses like food, groceries, and transportation. Plus, Social Security isn’t taxed, and residents aged 60+ can deduct up to $12,500 from their taxable income.
Property taxes in Delaware average around 0.55%, significantly lower than the national average. Plus, there is no inheritance or estate tax, making Delaware a great place to save and thrive.
3. Education in Delaware
Delaware serves approximately 141,718 students across 19 school districts with top-ranked public and charter schools. Top-ranked schools such as the Charter School of Wilmington, Newark Charter School, and Sussex Academy are recognized for their academic excellence.
Additionally, Delaware is home to the University of Delaware, a nationally recognized research school, and Delaware State University, a respected HBCU. Plus, state-sponsored SEED and INSPIRE scholarships make education more accessible for everyone.
4. Climate in Delaware
Delaware has a humid subtropical climate, offering four distinct seasons. You get mild winters with temperatures from 17-44°F, and warm, humid summers with temperatures from 70-93°F. Plus, the state receives 201 sunny days a year, perfect for outdoor activities and recreation.
However, Delaware is prone to flooding, storms, and occasional hurricanes, primarily due to its low elevation and coastal location. You should check flood zones, find your evacuation routes, and prepare an emergency kit if you are moving to an area prone to flooding.
Pros and Cons of Living in Delaware
Here are the key drawbacks and benefits of living in Delaware:
| ✔️ Pros | ❌ Cons |
|---|---|
| 1. The state does not have any sales tax, so you pay less on everyday items like food, groceries. | 1. The state has a progressive income tax policy with income tax rates up to 6.60% of your income. |
| 2. Due to its strategic location, the state provides easy access to cities like Philadelphia, NYC, and Washington, DC. | 2. A concentrated economy in sectors like finance, government, and healthcare may limit opportunities for some professions. |
| 3. The state offers a varied lifestyle, from Wilmington’s urban vibe to quiet beach towns like Rehoboth. | 3. Some areas face potential flooding and storm threats, especially coastal and waterfront areas. |
| 4. Delaware has a mild climate, with mild winters and warm summers, making it a pretty comfortable four-season state. | 4. Outside of big cities like Wilmington, public transit options are limited, so owning a car is often necessary to get around. |
3 Things to Know Before Moving to Delaware ✅
Before entering the Delaware housing market, know the key laws affecting property ownership and transactions.
- Vehicle Registration & Driver’s License: You are required to register your vehicle and get a Delaware driver’s license within 60 days of establishing residency here. Keep in mind, your vehicle must pass a safety and emissions inspection before registration.
- Recreational Marijuana: Anyone aged 21 or older in Delaware can legally possess up to 1 ounce of cannabis, or 12 grams of concentrates. However, retail dispensaries are not yet open, and growing cannabis at home remains illegal.
- Pet Laws, Licensing & Ownership: All dogs over 6 months require rabies vaccination and a license in Delaware. Licenses typically cost $10–$30, depending on status and duration of license. Plus, owning an exotic animal without a permit is prohibited.
Cost of Living in Delaware
The average cost of living in Delaware is 2% higher than the national average. However, it’s an attractive option compared to popular states like California and New York, where living costs are 59% and 30% above the national average.
Higher cost of living simply means you spend more on daily expenses like food, groceries, and healthcare. However, you will still save on housing and utility costs. Plus, friendly tax policies make it an attractive option for those who want to save money.
How to Move to Delaware?
Here is the step-by-step guide to make your relocation to Delaware seamless:
1. How to Plan Your Logistics?
- If you don’t want any hassle and want to hire a professional mover, moving companies in Delaware typically cost around $150 per hour[3]. However, this rate can vary depending on the size of your belongings and the distance.
- On the other hand, if you want to do it yourself, renting a truck can be a better option. The average rent of a mid-size moving truck with a load capacity of 4,000-6,000 pounds ranges between $40 and $80 per day[4].
2. How to Set Up Electricity, Water, and Internet?
Begin setting up your utilities in advance, as the process can take 3-4 weeks:
- Electricity and Gas: Delmarva Power serves the northern regions, while Kent and Sussex counties are served by the Delaware Electric Cooperative. Visit your city website to find your provider and apply for the service.
- Water & Sewer: While some areas are still managed by the local municipality, Other major service providers include Tidewater Utilities, Inc., and Artesian Water Company. Visit the provider’s site to schedule service.
- Internet and Cable: Xfinity (Comcast), Atlantic Broadband, and T-Mobile Home Internet are the largest service providers in the state. Visit their respective website to check the availability in your area and book an appointment.
3. How to Enroll Your Kids in School?
Most schools offer online registration. Just visit your local school district’s website to get started. Here is how the process generally works:
- For Kindergarten or First Grade: Your children must be 5 years old for kindergarten and 6 for the first grade by August 31 to enroll in Delaware schools. You’ll need proof of age, proof of residency, and up-to-date immunization records.
- For Older Students: Students transferring into grades 1–12 need their previous school’s transcripts and academic records, in addition to residency proof and medical forms. Visit your school counselors to ensure proper class placement.
- Transfer & Special Cases: Delaware’s School Choice program allows students to apply to attend schools outside their assigned district. You can apply for a transfer to a school from November to early January for the upcoming academic year.
4. How to Transfer Your Job or Find a New One?
- For a Work From Home Job: If you are working from home and moving to Delaware, just make sure to inform your employer about the address change. Delaware has no local income taxes, which can be a benefit for remote employees.
- Find a New Job: Delaware has a growing economy in healthcare, education, finance, and tech sectors. You can start your job search through platforms like Delaware JobLink, Indeed, or LinkedIn.
5. How to Find a Perfect House?
- In cities like Wilmington, Newark, and Dover, the average rent ranges between $600 – $5,700[2], depending on your neighborhood and nearby amenities.
- If you plan to buy a home with easy access to the coast, on average, homes for sale in Rehoboth Beach cost around $808K[2]. On the other hand, inland cities like Harrington and New Castle offer median housing costs of $270K[2] and $282K[2], respectively.
Should I Move to Delaware?
Yes, you should definitely move to Delaware. The state combines new opportunities, a good quality of life, and friendly communities. However, relocating to Delaware isn’t easy. It takes time, careful planning, and effort to find the perfect place to call your home.
With Houzeo, Delaware’s best home-buying website, buying a house in Delaware is simple. You can browse through the latest listings, save your favorites, schedule showings, and submit offers, all at your fingertips.
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Data Sources
To help you make a smart move to Delaware, we analyzed key data points that impact relocation costs, lifestyle, and employment prospects. We’ve sourced reliable, up-to-date data across the following categories:
- Statistical Atlas: Major employers
- Zillow: Average rent in Delaware
- MoveBuddha: Estimated moving costs
- Thisoldhouse: DIY truck rental rates
By backing our insights with real numbers, we give you a clear picture of what it really takes to relocate to Delaware, long before the moving boxes are packed.
