15 HONEST Pros & Cons of Living in Delaware (Real Talk) (2024)

Article Overview: Pros & Cons of Living in Delaware, Moving to Delaware

Hey everyone, John here! As a lifelong resident of Delaware, I’ve seen the state through thick and thin. From the bustling boardwalk of Rehoboth Beach to the quiet charm of historic New Castle, Delaware offers a great blend of experiences.

At this point you might be wondering if Delaware is the right fit for you, and it might be. But while I love my home state, it’s not all sunshine and beaches (although we do have plenty of those!).

In this guide I’ll do my best to be your honest and transparent resource for life in Delaware. We’ll dive into the pros and cons of living here based on my experience, exploring everything from job opportunities, affordability, and cost of living, to the cultural scene and local quirks.

I’ll be giving you the unvarnished truth (not trying to offend anyone) about life in the First State. By the end of this, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge you need to help decide if Delaware is a good fit for your unique lifestyle.

Pro Tip: If you’re new to The Honest Local, welcome! You should know that the fun lives in the comments. Have a question or thought about living in Delaware you’d like to share? Drop it in the comments below and someone will respond.

Living in Delaware

Pros of Living in Delaware

1. No Sales Tax

Starting off with a bang, living in Delaware means no more paying sales tax on purchased goods. Things cost what they actually cost with no extra state or local sales tax added at the end. If you’re looking to save money on a move then this is a great starting point.

2. Business Friendly

It’s no secret that Delaware is a popular state to do business. In fact, Delaware was ranked as the second most business-friendly state in America. There’s a reason 68% of Fortune 500 companies call Delaware home. Why you might ask? Here’s a few reasons:

• Favorable tax structure: Businesses formed in Delaware but operating elsewhere pay no state income tax, making it attractive for large corporations.
• Streamlined legal system: Delaware’s Court of Chancery specializes in corporate law, offering a well-established and predictable legal environment for businesses.
• Flexible and efficient incorporation process: Setting up a business is straightforward, efficient and quick in Delaware.
• Privacy protection: Delaware allows businesses to withhold shareholder names from public filings, offering a layer of privacy.

3. Lower Cost of Living

You won’t believe how much you can save living in Delaware compared to neighboring states. As someone who’s called the First State home for years, I can tell you firsthand that the cost of living here is a real advantage. Here’s two top considerations:

• Housing: Delaware boasts 2% lower housing costs than the national average, while New York, DC, and Maryland are all significantly higher, often exceeding 10% above the national average. Renters in Delaware can expect to save thousands compared to these areas.
• Overall cost of living: While Delaware’s cost of living is slightly higher than the national average, it’s still considerably lower than New York, DC, and Maryland, which can be 10% to 20% more expensive.

4. Stunning Beaches

And the good news keeps coming! Delaware is famous for its spectacular beaches (at least locally). As a resident, I can tell you they’re a major highlight of living here.

Delaware offers a diverse selection of beaches to suit every taste. Craving calm waters perfect for families? Head to Lewes Beach. Want to catch some waves? Fenwick Island State Park is your spot. And for those seeking a mix of sun, sand, and history, Cape Henlopen State Park boasts stunning dunes and even historic forts to explore.

The best part? Unlike some coastal destinations, Delaware’s beaches are conveniently close to major cities. So, you can enjoy the beach life without sacrificing the amenities and excitement of urban centers. Whether you choose to bask in the sun at Rehoboth Beach or stroll the charming boardwalk in Bethany Beach, both are just a short drive away.

5. Prime East Coast Location

Delaware offers a great blend of small-town charm and big-city access. You get the peace and quiet of a coastal community with the exciting possibilities of nearby major cities readily available. It’s truly the best of both worlds and one of my favorite parts of living here.

Delaware is a 2-hour drive of New York, Philadelphia, Baltimore, and Washington D.C. You can easily drive up to NYC for a show or event and be back home in time for supper.

6. Great for Retirees

If you’re a member of the grey (or white) hair club, Delaware has some perks for you. In fact, Delaware was recently ranked as the second best state to retire in the US. This primarily has to do with the general sense of well-being folks experience here coupled with overall affordability.

Combine the major tax advantages of living in Delaware with its charming landscapes and beautiful beaches and what more could you want as a retiree? Another important consideration is Delaware’s top-notch nursing homes, ranked third in the country.

7. Delaware is Charming

Living in Delaware, the charm of the houses and the quaint towns truly stands out. Here you get a sense of stepping back in time while still enjoying the comforts of today. The colonial architecture adds a rich layer of history and beauty to daily life. Walking through neighborhoods, you’re greeted by homes that boast intricate designs and historical significance, many with plaques that tell tales of their past occupants and roles in the state’s history. It’s like living in a museum where every corner offers a new story to discover.

The towns themselves are the epitome of quaintness. Places like New Castle, with its cobblestone streets and well-preserved colonial buildings, feel like they’re straight out of a history book. You can’t help but be charmed by the old-world atmosphere, combined with the modern-day community spirit that thrives within these towns. Local shops and cafes add to the ambiance, offering unique finds and a friendly chat with the shopkeepers, who always have a story to share.

8. Close-Knit Communities

Living in Delaware has given me a profound appreciation for the close-knit communities that define this state. It’s something genuinely special, a sense of connection and belonging that runs deep, making every day here feel like you’re part of a larger family. The warmth and friendliness of neighbors, the way people look out for each other, and the communal spirit that pervades every town and city—it’s the essence of life in Delaware.

In my own neighborhood, you’ll find regular gatherings in backyards, shared meals, and impromptu conversations on the sidewalks. There’s a wonderful tradition of community events, from block parties to local farmers’ markets, where you bump into familiar faces, catch up on life, and support local artisans and businesses together.

The close-knit nature of Delaware communities also means there’s always someone to lend a hand. Whether it’s helping with a home project, offering to watch each other’s pets while on vacation, or coming together in times of need, the support system here is incredible.

9. Experience All Four Seasons

If you’re big on having four distinct seasons then Delaware is a great spot to live. Personally I love spring and summer here when things are coming to life and the beaches are in full swing. Fall is absolutely gorgeous with all of our deciduous hardwoods putting on quite the display. Winter comes with its own snowy wonders (not a fan myself but plenty of folks here love it).

Cons of Living in Delaware

1. Addiction & Substance Abuse

Alright, so we’ve talked about lots of the nice pros of living in Delaware. But no place is perfect. So here come the cons starting with an important one. Delaware was recently ranked as the 4th most drug addicted state in America. Yeah.

The fentanyl problem has exploded all over the country and hit some places (like Delaware) harder than others. Opioids were and still are a big problem in terms of getting folks hooked onto harder stuff like heroin. Predictably, Delaware ranks near the top in terms of opioid overdose related deaths as well. These stats take a major toll on the community as it’s nearly impossible to not be affected by this crisis in one way or another.

2. Higher Unemployment

Delaware’s unemployment situation can sometimes feel like we’re in a boat with a slow leak. Currently sitting at 14th in the nation for high unemployment rates, it’s a statistic that hits close to home for many of us here.

While 14th might not seem all that bad, I’ve seen firsthand how friends and neighbors have been affected. Coffee shop conversations often drift towards looming or realized layoffs and their impacts. This high unemployment rate doesn’t just affect the job seekers; it ripples through our local businesses and economies too. You see more “Help Wanted” signs than usual, but the match between what’s available and the skills people have isn’t always there. It’s like having a puzzle with missing pieces.

3. Climate Extremes

Living in Delaware, you quickly learn that the weather can be a bit of a roller coaster. In winter nor’easters can swoop in any time, blanketing our streets in snow and turning routine commutes into slow-motion treks. Last January, we got hit with a storm that dumped over 8 inches of snow overnight, shutting down schools and businesses.

And then there’s summer, where the humidity can make the air feel thick enough to swim in and every year it sees to get hotter. And while we’ve always had to be somewhat vigilant for hurricanes but now we even have to factor in potential wildfire smoke.

4. Way Too Much Pollution

This one really gets to me and I’m not going to sugar coat it – Delaware is the 4th most polluted state in America. That’s shameful. Air pollution here is particularly bad as we rank 4th in the nation for fine particle pollution, which can cause respiratory problems and all sorts of other health issues. If you have existing sensitivity to air pollution then I’d say this is game, set, & match – moving to Delaware is not a good idea for you.

Industrial toxins are another concern and the Delaware River has long been on the receiving end of that kind of punishment. The Department of Justice filed a major lawsuit against 3M and a host of other companies for their longstanding practices of polluting Delaware. If you’ve got young kids this is a real consideration. My dad use to tell me stories about fishing in the Delaware River as a boy and now all I can picture when I think about it is Blinky, the three-eyed fish from The Simpsons.

5. The Lows of Seasonality

While seasonal businesses and activities can be charming and offer unique experiences, they also come with several downsides – here’s a quick breakdown:

• Income Fluctuations: The biggest drawback for businesses and employees alike is inconsistent income. Revenue often spikes during peak season and then plummets during the off-season. This can create financial instability and make budgeting difficult. Imagine earning most of your income in a few months and needing to stretch it for the rest of the year.
• Work-Life Balance: During peak season, demands can be intense, requiring long hours and potentially sacrificing personal time. This can lead to burnout and strain personal relationships. You might feel like you’re constantly working and have little time for yourself or your loved ones.
• Employee Challenges: Finding and retaining employees can be difficult due to the seasonal nature of the work. Hiring and training temporary workers takes time and resources, and they might not have the same level of commitment as full-time employees.
• Limited Career Growth: For some, career advancement options might be limited in seasonal businesses as roles often have specific responsibilities tied to the peak season.
• Stress and Pressure: The pressure to perform well during peak season can be immense. Meeting quotas, dealing with demanding customers, and maintaining top-notch service can be stressful for both employees and owners.
• Weather Dependence: Businesses and activities heavily reliant on specific weather conditions can face unpredictable income and operational disruptions. A bad weather season can significantly impact revenue and even lead to closures.
• Limited Availability: For people who enjoy seasonal activities, the short window of opportunity can be frustrating. You might have to wait an entire year to participate in your favorite seasonal event or enjoy your desired seasonal product.

6. Wilmington Needs Help

Listen, I love living in Delaware but I think we can all admit that Wilmington needs help. Starting with the high crime rates, particularly violent crime but also thefts, which lead to feelings of danger and an overall lack of safety. Gangs in Wilmington are an issue that the justice system is working hard to tackle but nonetheless still there.

Poverty is an issue in Wilmington with a significant part of the population living below the poverty line. The public school system lags behind the national average forcing parents to make difficult decision of whether or not to dig into their pocketbooks to pony up for private school.

Now I will say Wilmington has been improving over the past few years and if the trend continues it could be a really great spot. Who knows, if you believe in the city’s future then maybe buying a place in Wilmington now will turn out to be a great investment in five or ten years.

FAQ – Living in Delaware

Map of Delaware

Summary of the Pros & Cons of Living in Delaware

1. No Sales Tax
2. Business Friendly
3. Lower Cost of Living
4. Stunning Beaches
5. Prime East Coast Location
6. Great for Retirees
7. Delaware is Charming
8. Close-Knit Communities
9. Experience All Four Seasons
10. Addiction & Substance Abuse
11. Higher Unemployment
12. Climate Extremes
13. Way Too Much Pollution
14. The Lows of Seasonality
15. Wilmington Needs Help

Compare the Pros & Cons of Living in Delaware

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