Pros and Cons of Living In Delaware (2023)

As 2023 unfolds, many people across the country are relocating in search of new job opportunities and a better future. Delaware is one of the destined places highly regarded for its corporate-friendly environment, serene beaches, and tax-friendly policies.

 Also known as the ‘First State’ for being the earliest state to ratify the constitution of the United States in 1786, Delaware is considered one of the most favorable places for young professionals and retirees.

 To paint a complete picture of the Delaware living experience, we will provide you with some useful pros and cons of living in Delaware.

Pros and Cons of Living In Delaware in 2023

 Pros of Living in Delaware

Let’s start with the pros first. There are various benefits the residents get for living in this ‘Small Wonder’:

1. A Tax Heaven

Delaware stands out for its tax advantages, making it a sought-after state. People living here do not have to pay any state income tax on their earnings.

 Also, there is a complete tax exemption on sales tax, meaning you won’t be paying any additional money when you go grocery shopping anywhere in Delaware.

 These tax relaxations help save thousands of dollars of your income, which can be spent on other essential needs.

 In addition, property taxes in Delaware rank among the lowest nationwide. Individuals and businesses pay less on property taxes than they would in any other state.

2. Favourable Business Environment

Delaware is located in the Mid-Atlantic region, which makes it a convenient place for businesses to operate. The state is close to major markets like New York City, Philadelphia, and Washington, D.C.

 Moreover, Delaware has some of the most flexible corporate laws in the country. This means businesses have a lot of freedom to structure their businesses in the way that works best for them.

3. Natural Beauty

If you love spending time in nature doing various fun activities, you must seriously consider moving to Delaware.

 The state may be small geographically, but it certainly doesn’t disappoint when it comes to natural beauty. The state offers a diverse range of scenic wonders, from its pristine coastline along the Atlantic Ocean to its charming inland landscapes.

 Delaware has a variety of recreation opportunities, including hiking, biking, fishing, boating, and swimming. These opportunities are available year-round, allowing residents to stay active and enjoy the outdoors.

4. Quality Education

The education system in Delaware is a pro for those wanting to move to this state because it is consistently ranked among the finest in the country.

 The state has a high graduation rate (86%), and its students perform well on standardized tests. Delaware also has several magnet schools and charter schools that offer specialized programs.

 Delaware’s high standard of education is a major asset to the state and one of the big reasons people might want to move to this place and start a family.

 Cons of Living in Delaware

Before taking the all-important step of moving to a new place, it’s crucial to know the drawbacks of settling down there. Here are some cons of living in Delaware to give you a balanced perspective:

1. Cost of Living

The first drawback of living in this state is the cost of living, and it’s higher than the national average. The high property prices play a role in driving up the overall cost of living. According to Redfin, the median home price of properties in Delaware is $318,700 as of April 2023.

 The demand for housing in Delaware is very high due to the state’s strong economy and its proximity to major urban centers like Philadelphia and New York City. This high demand also drives up prices.

2. Poor Public Transportation

Delaware has a poor public transportation system. The state has a small population but is spread out over a large area. This makes it difficult to provide efficient public transportation.

 The Delaware Department of Transportation (DelDOT) operates the state’s public transportation system. DelDOT offers bus service, paratransit service, and ferry service.

 However, the system is not very extensive. Bus service is limited to major population centers, and paratransit service is only available to people with disabilities. Ferry service is only available to two locations: Cape May, New Jersey, and Lewes, Delaware.

3. Traffic Congestion

Delaware is known to have one of the worst urban interstate pavement conditions. That means that the quality and condition of the paved road surfaces on interstate highways within urban areas of Delaware are generally poor or below average compared to other states or regions.

 This creates a lot of traffic congestion in major urban centers in Delaware like Wilmington, Dover, and New Castle. It takes longer for the residents to get to work or school, and they may feel more stressed and rushed.

4. Harsh Weather

The summers in Delaware can be very hot and humid, with temperatures reaching into the 90s Fahrenheit and humidity levels often above 90%. This can make it difficult to be active outdoors and can lead to heat-related illnesses.

 It’s cold and snowy in winter, with temperatures often dropping below freezing and snowfall accumulations of several inches possible. The thick layer of snow can make it difficult to get around and might lead to power outages and other disruptions.

 In addition, Delaware is located in an area prone to flooding and tornadoes. While tornadoes are rare, they can cause significant damage when they do occur.

5. High Crime Rate

 Delaware has a relatively high crime rate compared to other states. In 2020, the violent crime rate in Delaware was 4.2 per 1,000 residents, which was higher than the national average of 3.4 per 1,000 residents.

 The property crime rate in Delaware was 2,675 per 100,000 residents, which was also higher than the national average of 2,110 per 100,000 residents.

 However, this high crime rate is not prevalent all across the state. There are places in Delaware that have lower crime rates than the national level.

 Final Thoughts

Moving to a completely different place can be stressful, and Delaware, like any other location, has its share of pros and cons. As we wrap up our exploration of the pros and cons of living in Delaware in 2023, it’s important to remember that everyone’s preferences and priorities differ.

 While Delaware offers beautiful natural scenery, a rich historical heritage, and a favorable tax environment, it also faces challenges like substandard highway infrastructure and potentially high crime rates.

 Ultimately, the decision to make Delaware your home depends on what matters most to you. Consider weighing the pros and cons against your personal needs, lifestyle, and aspirations.