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Is moving to Wilmington Delaware right for you?

Wilmington is one of the largest cities in Delaware and it's located just 33 miles from Philadelphia. The city averages 199 sunny days per year and its cost of living is lower than the national average. Known for its small-town vibe and friendly locals, Wilmington keeps drawing people from all over Delaware and beyond.

If you’re considering moving to Wilmington and wondering if the city is right for you, this guide contains all you need to know to make the right decision.

Let’s find out if moving to Wilmington is right for you.

QuickFacts

Quick facts to know before moving to Wilmington, DE

  • The median age in Wilmington DE is 35.6 years
  • Wilmington’s summer high in July is around 86 degrees
  • Wilmington DE averages 199 sunny days per year
  • Wilmington’s median home cost is $257,200
  • Wilmington’s winter low in January is 22 degrees
  • 45% of Wilmington residents are renters

Is Wilmington Delaware a good place to live?

The city, which is located at the confluence of the Christina and Brandywine Rivers, is lively but welcoming. The waterfront in Wilmington is an excellent spot to stroll, shop, eat, or see a performance. The city is awash with culture, history, and the arts. Its cost of living is significantly cheaper than that of other Northeastern cities.

Why should you move to Wilmington DE?

Wilmington, the commercial and cultural hub of Delaware, blends the conveniences and excitement of a large metropolis with the quiet and allure of a small town. Numerous firms have relocated to the state because of its great quality of life. In fact, Delaware is where more than 60% of Fortune 500 businesses are formed.

Is moving to Delaware a good idea?

Moving to Delaware can be a terrific choice if you want to experience all of that and more. The state is known for its convenient location, low crime rates, lack of a sales tax, comparatively inexpensive cost of living, and stunning, clean beaches. Numerous sectors that support both small and large businesses can be found in Delaware.

Is Wilmington DE up and coming?

Wilmington DE is up and coming. There are lots of things to be enthusiastic about in Wilmington. Wilmington is prepared to build on the national and international attention these neighborhoods received throughout the presidential campaign and transition thanks to the recent announcement of a $100 million Riverfront East extension and significant investments on Market Street.

Is Wilmington tax-free?

Residents of Delaware and visitors from neighboring states flock to Wilmington and the surrounding area to shop. Delaware is recognized for its outstanding shopping centers and outlet malls, which is one of the reasons shopping there is more reasonable thanks to the absence of sales taxes.

What is tax-free in Delaware?

Value-added taxes (VATs), commercial transactions, use, inventory, and unitary taxes are not imposed by the state. Delaware has no capital gains or stock transfer taxes, either, nor is there an inheritance tax?

Does it snow a lot in Wilmington DE?

In February, Wilmington typically receives 8.3 inches of snow. According to Brinson, it has received 5.3 inches so far. In 2010, 46.9 inches set a record for February rainfall. Wilmington had 72.7 inches of snow overall in 2009–10, making the entire winter season a record-breaker.

Is Wilmington DE walkable?

Due to its size and walkability, Wilmington retains some of the charm of a small town while serving as Delaware's major metropolis and economic hub. Our city is situated in the middle of New York and Washington, DC, 30 minutes south of Philadelphia.

Is Wilmington LGBT friendly?

Friendly to LGBTQ+ the Brandywine Valley, Delaware, and the greater Wilmington area. Greater Wilmington, Delaware and the Brandywine Valley are inviting travel destinations for LGBTQ visitors because they are rich in American history, diversified in culture, and filled with beautiful gardens.

What’s the population of Wilmington, DE?

Wilmington DE’s population is 70,908 people. The capital city stretches across over 17 square miles making it the 10th most populous city in Delaware. Wilmington DE is nestled in New Castle County Delaware and it’s the county seat of Newcastle County.

  • Wilmington DE has a population density of 6,503 people per square mile
  • The median age in Wilmington DE is 35.6 years
  • 34.3 years is the median age for males and 37.4 years for females
  • Wilmington DE is currently growing at a rate of 0.01% annually

How fast can you commute to work in Wilmington DE?

Wilmington DE averages one-way commute time takes 22.0 minutes. That’s lower than the U.S. average of 26.4 minutes. You’ll spend less than 30 minutes commuting to work if you move to Wilmington. Less time on the road means less stress and having more time for other things.

Here’s how people in Wilmington DE get to work:

  • About 67.8% of Wilmington DE residents drive their own car alone
  • Around 7.5% of Wilmington DE residents carpool with others
  • Up to 3.7% of Wilmington DE residents work from home
  • About 12.2% of Wilmington DE residents take mass transit

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How is the weather like in Wilmington, DE?

Wilmington DE averages 199 sunny days per year. The United States average is 205 sunny days. If the weather is one of the key things you’d like to consider before moving to Wilmington DE, the following is a quick snapshot of the city’s weather:

  • Wilmington’s summer high in July is around 86 degrees
  • Wilmington gets 45 inches of rain on average per year. The U.S. average is 38 inches
  • On average, Wilmington gets 13 inches of snow per year. U.S. average is 28 inches
  • Wilmington’s winter low in January is 22 degrees
  • Wilmington gets 110 days of precipitation every year
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Top 10 reasons to move to Wilmington, DE

People are moving to Wilmington for many reasons. As one of the largest cities in Delaware, Wilmington is constantly attracting people from all over the state and beyond.

Since you’re considering moving to Wilmington, the following are the key reasons people are moving to the city:

  • Wilmington is the home of cultural treasures
  • Parks and recreation
  • Small-Town Vibe, Big City Amenities
  • Town homes for active adults in Wilmington, Delaware
  • No Sales Tax in Delaware
  • Educational opportunities
  • Top retirement destination
  • Clean, beautiful beaches
  • Arts & culture abound
  • Outdoor recreation
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Pros & cons of moving Wilmington, DE

If you’d like to find out if moving to Wilmington is right for you or not, we’ve made a list of the pros and cons of living in the city.

This can make it easier for you to figure out if moving to Wilmington is right for you or not.

Pros of living in Wilmington, DE
  • Awesome tax benefits
  • Appealing state attractions
  • Awesome retirement places
  • Appealing suburban neighborhoods
  • Proximity to major metropolis
  • Diverse educational opportunities
  • Small-town culture and friendly locals
  • Great housing market
  • Gorgeous beaches and wonderful seaside retreats
  • Quality healthcare
  • Numerous career opportunities
  • Reasonable living costs
  • Sunny side of blue hen state
  • Vibrant nightlife
Cons of living in Wilmington, DE
  • You’ll have to put up with massive crowds
  • Soul-crushing traffic and reckless drivers
  • A few heart-wrenching crimes
  • Too much urbanization
  • Poorly rated public schools
  • Limited public transportation means
  • Hurricane hazard

Best places to live in Wilmington, DE

Wilmington is home to several beautiful livable neighborhoods. Moving to Wilmington gives you the perfect chance to live in any of these neighborhoods.

If you’re moving to Wilmington and wondering what neighbourhood the best for you is, the following is a list of the ten best neighborhoods in Wilmington:

  • Montchanin
  • Barkley
  • Brandywood
  • Foulk Woods / Woodbine
  • Westover Hills / Greenville
  • Edenridge / Rockland
  • Webster Farm
  • Stonehaven
  • Windybush / Arden
  • Highland Woods / Darley Woods

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Cost of living in Wilmington, DE

Affordable living in a big city is one of the key perks of moving to Wilmington, DE. The cost of living in Wilmington is 99.3. The United States average is 100.

Wilmington’s average cost of living is below the national average. The following are the key components that make up Wilmington’s cost of living:

Living Expense Wilmington Delaware National Average
Overall 99.3 103.5 100
Grocery 101.9 105.9 100
Health 112.5 112.2 100
Housing 88.2 104.4 100
Median Home Cost $257,200 $304,500 $291,700
Utilities 105.7 105.2 100
Transportation 95.9 95.8 100
Services 111.9 98.2 100

How is the job market in Wilmington, DE?

How fast can you get a job if you need one in Wilmington, DE? The COVID-19 pandemic has affected several job markets across the United States and Wilmington wasn’t left out.

Since you’re considering moving to Wilmington, here’s a breakdown of the city’s job market:

  • Wilmington’s unemployment rate is 10.3%. The U.S. average is 6.0%
  • Wilmington’s job growth has been positive so far
  • Over the past year, Wilmington’s jobs have grown by 2.7%
  • Wilmington’s future job growth is predicted to hit 28.77%
  • Getting a job in Wilmington is easier compared to other similar sized cities in the state.
Employment Information Wilmington, Delaware United States
The income per Cap $27,062 $31,177
Household Income $40,221 $57,652
Unemployment Rate 10.3 6.0%
Recent Job Growth -4.98% -6.18%
Future Job Growth 28.77% 33.51%

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What are the top career options in Wilmington, DE?

You’ll find lots of jobs to choose from if you’re moving to Wilmington, DE. Which ones should you opt for? You may be interested in some of the city’s highest-paying jobs. The following is the list of the highest-paying jobs in Wilmington, DE.

Rank Job Title Average Salary Entry Level Salary # Of People
1 Chief Executives $253,340 $164,110 200
2 Obstetricians and Gynecologists $247,540 $143,790 70
3 Surgeons $238,740 $73,260 50
4 Dentists, General $228,660 $115,240 320
5 Internists, General $210,160 $107,410 80
6 Natural Sciences Managers $194,390 $129,420 460
7 Physicians and Surgeons, All Other $191,530 $56,810 1,270
8 Sales Managers $171,080 $87,090 720
9 Family and General Practitioners $164,140 $88,040 350
10 Computer and Information Systems Managers $160,440 $99,220 1,160

What is a good salary in Wilmington, DE?

Moving to Wilmington could mean getting a new job. But how many bucks can you earn in the city? Will you be earning more money or less compared to where you are right now? Let’s find out:

  • Wilmington’s average annual pay for average jobs is $76,442
  • Wilmington’s average hourly pay is $36.75 per hour
  • Wilmington’s average weekly pay is $1,470 per week
  • Wilmington’s average monthly payment is $6,370 per month
  • Delaware’s minimum wage is $10.50 per hour

Top Industries in Wilmington, DE

Like several other large cities, Wilmington’s economy is powered by several industries. The best part is that whether you work in a small or large industry, you’ll most likely find a suitable spot for your job in Wilmington. The following is a list of the city’s largest industries since you’re considering moving to Wilmington, DE:

  • Fintech
  • Professional Services & Technology
  • Healthcare
  • Trade, Transportation And Utilities
  • Information
  • Financial Activities
  • Professional And Business Services
  • Educational And Health Services
  • Leisure And Hospitality
  • Government
  • Logistics Consulting & Port Operations
  • Construction
  • Legal
  • Telework
  • Construction And Mining
  • Manufacturing

Wilmington DE housing market

If you’re interested in buying a home after moving to Wilmington, we have the key information you need to know about the city’s housing market. This will make it easier for you to make up your mind about buying a home or not if you’re moving to Wilmington, Delaware:

  • Wilmington’s median home cost is $257,200
  • Over the last ten years, home values in Wilmington have risen by 28.2%
  • Currently, Wilmington’s home values have appreciated by 14.8%
  • Around 45.0% of Wilmington’s residents are renters
  • Up to 4.7% of homes and apartments in Wilmington are open to rent

What’s the average home rental price in Wilmington, DE?

Wilmington’s rental market is known for its affordable homes. If you’re considering renting a home or an apartment after moving to Wilmington, look at the average rental prices below:

  • Wilmington DE average rent for a studio apartment is $852
  • Wilmington DE average rent for a 1-bedroom home or apartment is $971
  • Wilmington DE average rent for a 2-bedroom home or apartment is $1,176
  • Wilmington DE average rent for a 3-bedroom home or apartment is $1,455
  • The average rent for a 4-bedroom home or apartment is 1,665

Delaware taxes

If you’re moving to Wilmington, DE from out of state, you may have to get familiar with Delaware’s taxes.

One thing is certain, you no longer have to worry about sales taxes if you’re moving to Delaware. The state has no sales taxes. The following tax breakdown will give you an idea of what to expect if you’re moving to Wilmington, Delaware:

  • Delaware’s income taxes range from 0% - 6.6%
  • There are no sales taxes in Delaware
  • The average effective property tax rate in Delaware is 0.56%
  • Gas taxes in Delaware is 23 cents per gallon of regular gasoline
  • Diesel tax in Delaware is 22 cents per gallon of diesel

Best things to do when you move to Wilmington, DE

There are lots of exciting things you can do in Wilmington, DE. The city is home to several attractions, and you’ll find lots of amazing things to do in Wilmington.

  • Get Historical at Winterthur Museum, Garden & Library
  • Wander through the Sculpture Garden at the Delaware Art Museum
  • See Dinosaurs at the Delaware Museum of Nature and Science
  • Visit the Red Panda at Brandywine Zoo
  • Enjoy the Scenery and Grab a Bite on the Riverwalk
  • See How the Other Half Live at Nemours Estate
  • Unwind in the Gardens at Mount Cuba Center
  • Become One with Nature at the DuPont Environmental Education Center
  • Spot Wildlife at the Russell W. Peterson Urban Wildlife Refuge
  • Ride a Train at the Wilmington & Western Railroad
  • Experiment with Science at the Delaware Children's Museum
  • Enjoy a Picnic in Brandywine Park
  • See a Restored Mill at the Hagley Museum & Library
  • Admire the Plantings at Read House & Gardens
  • Feel the History at Amstel House and Museum

What is the crime rate in Wilmington, DE?

Is Wilmington a safe city for you and your loved ones? Like several other large cities in the United States, Wilmington has its fair share of crime problems. The following are key stats about the city’s crime rates since you’re considering moving to Wilmington, DE:

  • The violent crime rate in Wilmington, DE is 80.1. The national average is 22.7
  • The property crime rate in Wilmington, DE is 68.7. The national average is 35.4
  • Residents have a 1 in 62.9 chance of being the victim o f a violent crime
  • Residents have a 1 in 27.0 chance of being the victim of a property crime

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Statistic Count Raw Wilmington/ 100k People Delaware/ 100k People National/ 100k People
Total Crimes Per 100K 3,713 5,296.7 2,393.3 2,346.0
Violent Crime 1,115 1,590.6 431.9 387.8
Murder 31 44.2 7.4 6.5
Robbery 280 399.4 70.9 73.9
Aggravated Assault 786 1,121.3 327.1 279.7
Property Crime 2,598 3,706.1 1,961.4 1,958.2
Burglary 545 777.5 254.2 314.2
Larceny 1,623 2,315.3 1,538.5 1,398.0
Car Theft 430 613.4 168.7 246.0

Best Schools & Universities in Wilmington, DE

Wilmington is home to several top-quality schools. If you’re moving to Wilmington, you’ll have easier access to several excellent schools from universities and colleges to elementary, middle, and high schools.

The following is a list of the best schools in the city if you’re moving to Wilmington, DE:

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