Median Household Income
$79,008
National average: $83,894
6% below national average
Moving From Delaware
Whether you're leaving Wilmington after a career change, relocating from Dover for new opportunities, or heading out of The First State for a different pace of life — planning a long-distance move from Delaware starts with understanding costs, timing, and which movers serve your route. Below you'll find real data on what Delaware residents pay, where they're moving, and how to compare screened movers for free.
531,279
Population
$79,008
Median Income
$319,448
Median Home
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531,279
Population
$79,008
Median Income
$319,448
Median Home Value
24.7 minutes
Commute Time
34.5%
College Educated
13.6%
Poverty Rate
Overview
Why People Are Moving Out of Delaware
Delaware is a small state with an outsized economic identity — it's the incorporation capital of America, with over half of publicly traded U.S. companies legally domiciled here. But for individual residents, the reasons to leave are practical: limited job diversity outside the financial and chemical sectors, rising property taxes in New Castle County, and a housing market that has tightened in recent years. While Delaware has seen modest population growth overall, it also loses residents to neighboring states like Maryland, Pennsylvania, and the Carolinas.
The economy is heavily concentrated in northern Delaware, particularly Wilmington and Newark, where banking, financial services, and chemical companies (historically DuPont, now Corteva and others) anchor the job market. Dover's economy revolves around state government, Dover Air Force Base, and agriculture. Southern Delaware — the beach communities of Rehoboth, Lewes, and Bethany — is driven by tourism and retirement. Outside these centers, employment options are thin.
Delaware's key financial advantage is no sales tax, which is a meaningful perk for daily life. The state income tax tops out at 6.6%, which is moderate, and property taxes are reasonable in most areas. But Delaware is tiny — you can drive from one end to the other in two hours — which means residents seeking a bigger job market, more cultural options, or a different lifestyle often need to cross state lines.
The most common movers out of Delaware are professionals relocating to Philadelphia, Baltimore, or Washington, D.C. for career advancement; military families transferring from Dover Air Force Base; retirees heading to Florida or the Carolinas for warmer weather; and younger adults seeking larger cities with more social and professional infrastructure.
Cost of Living
How Delaware Compares
Key financial metrics for Delaware residents versus the national average.
Median Home Value
$319,448
National average: $447,430
29% below national average
Rent Burden
33.1%
National average: 33%
At national average
Median Age
38.2
National average: 37.6
2% above national average
Commute Time
24.7 minutes
National average: 26.4 minutes
6% below national average
College Educated
34.5%
National average: 38.3%
10% below national average
Delaware's cost of living is slightly above the national average, primarily driven by housing in New Castle County where proximity to Philadelphia and Wilmington pushes prices higher. Southern Delaware's beach communities are expensive for their size, with seasonal demand inflating real estate values. Dover and the rural areas of Kent and Sussex counties are more affordable. The absence of sales tax saves residents 6–8% on purchases compared to neighboring states, which adds up over time. When comparing Delaware to a destination state, focus on the housing cost differential and whether the loss of no-sales-tax offsets any gains — particularly if you're moving to a state with both sales tax and income tax.
Largest Cities
Top Cities in Delaware
Key stats for the largest metro areas in Delaware. These are the cities most movers service on routes out of the state.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dover | 131,461 | $60,199 | $257,567 |
| Wilmington | 71,727 | $58,671 | $228,548 |
| Newark | 30,330 | $76,912 | $385,004 |
| Middletown | 24,661 | $112,831 | $409,364 |
| Bear | 22,370 | $91,687 | $248,970 |
| Glasgow | 15,546 | $113,982 | $371,659 |
| Brookside | 15,115 | $78,328 | $279,568 |
| Hockessin | 13,439 | $171,204 | $559,995 |
| Smyrna | 13,165 | $67,048 | $286,842 |
| Milford | 12,803 | $59,464 | $294,213 |
| Pike Creek Valley | 12,431 | $102,434 | $336,732 |
| Claymont | 8,786 | $74,712 | $275,440 |
| Seaford | 8,485 | $54,016 | $225,775 |
| Wilmington Manor | 8,214 | $78,078 | $239,459 |
| North Star | 7,834 | $150,733 | $583,076 |
City Profiles
Moving From Key Delaware Cities
What movers and residents should know about the largest metro areas in Delaware.
Wilmington
Pop. 71,727 Income $58,671 Home $228,548
Wilmington is Delaware's largest city and the corporate hub that gives the state its financial identity. The banking industry is concentrated here — Bank of America, JPMorgan Chase, Capital One, and others maintain major operations thanks to Delaware's favorable corporate laws. Moving from Wilmington is logistically simple: the city sits along the I-95 corridor with direct access to Philadelphia (30 minutes), Baltimore (70 minutes), and Washington, D.C. (100 minutes). The competitive moving market in the Northeast corridor keeps pricing reasonable.
Dover
Pop. 131,461 Income $60,199 Home $257,567
Dover is the state capital and home to Dover Air Force Base, Delaware State University, and Bayhealth Medical Center. Military transfers are a major driver of moves out of Dover — service members and their families cycle through on assignments. The city's location on Route 1 and DE-1 provides access to the beaches and I-95 corridor. Moving costs from Dover are moderate, and the relatively small city makes logistics straightforward with standard residential access.
Newark
Pop. 30,330 Income $76,912 Home $385,004
Newark is a college town centered on the University of Delaware, sitting near the Maryland and Pennsylvania state lines. Many residents move in and out tied to university employment or graduation. Newark's proximity to Wilmington and the I-95 corridor means it shares the same moving logistics and carrier access. Moves from Newark commonly head to the Philadelphia metro, Baltimore, or academic job markets elsewhere in the country.
Middletown
Pop. 24,661 Income $112,831 Home $409,364
Middletown has been one of Delaware's fastest-growing communities, attracting families with newer housing developments, good schools, and a location between Wilmington and Dover. Many Middletown residents commute to Wilmington or across the state line to jobs in Maryland. When these residents move out of state, they often cite the desire for a larger city with more amenities or a lower cost of living in the Southeast. The town's suburban layout makes moving straightforward.
Planning Your Move
What to Know Before Leaving Delaware
What Your Move Will Likely Cost
Moving out of Delaware typically costs $1,500–$5,500 for a 2-bedroom household, depending on distance. Moves to neighboring states like Maryland, Pennsylvania, or New Jersey run $800–$2,000, while moves to Florida or the Southeast range from $2,500–$5,500. Delaware's position on the I-95 corridor gives you access to a competitive moving market. Getting 3–5 quotes is the best way to find your actual number.
Timing and Seasonal Considerations
Delaware has four distinct seasons with cold winters and warm, humid summers. The best time to move is spring (April–May) or fall (September–October) when weather is mild and demand is moderate. Summer is peak moving season with higher prices. Winter moves are cheaper but risk delays from nor'easters and ice storms. Beach community moves are especially difficult in summer when tourist traffic clogs coastal roads.
Taxes and Financial Factors
Delaware has no sales tax, which is a unique advantage you'll lose when moving to most other states. The state income tax tops out at 6.6%, and property taxes are moderate. If moving to Florida, Texas, or Tennessee (no income tax), you'll save on income taxes but start paying sales tax on every purchase. Calculate the net impact for your spending patterns.
What Movers Need to Know About Your Route
Delaware's position on the I-95 Northeast corridor is an advantage — this is one of the most heavily trafficked moving routes in the country, which means plenty of carrier options and competitive pricing. If you're in southern Delaware beach communities, access may be tighter — narrow streets and seasonal congestion are factors. Be specific about access details when requesting quotes.
Downsizing Before Your Move
Long-distance movers charge by weight and volume. Delaware homes tend to have basements that accumulate items over the years. Start decluttering six weeks before your move. Sell items through local Facebook groups or consignment shops. If you're leaving a beach property, outdoor furniture and seasonal decor may not be worth shipping. Reducing your shipment by 1,000 pounds saves $300–$500.
Utilities and Address Changes
Before leaving Delaware, schedule disconnects with Delmarva Power or your local electric provider, and your water and gas services. File a change of address with USPS at least two weeks before moving. Update your address with the Delaware DMV, Division of Revenue, your bank, insurance providers, and subscription services.
Timeline
Your Delaware Moving Timeline
1
8 Weeks Before
Research and compare movers
Start collecting quotes from licensed interstate movers. Delaware's I-95 corridor location means plenty of options. Verify USDOT numbers and check FMCSA complaint history.
2
6 Weeks Before
Declutter and create an inventory
Go room by room including basements and storage areas. Create a detailed inventory for your mover and insurance purposes.
3
4 Weeks Before
Book your mover and confirm dates
Lock in your preferred moving company and sign the contract. Request a written binding estimate. Confirm any move-out procedures with your landlord or HOA.
4
3 Weeks Before
Start packing non-essentials
Begin with seasonal items, books, decor, and anything you won't need before moving day. Label every box with contents and destination room.
5
2 Weeks Before
Transfer utilities and update your address
Schedule disconnects with Delmarva Power and other providers. Set up utilities at your destination. File a USPS change of address. Notify the Delaware DMV and Division of Revenue.
6
1 Week Before
Confirm everything with your mover
Reconfirm the pickup window, review your inventory, and clarify access instructions. Pack an essentials box with documents, medications, and a change of clothes.
7
Moving Day
Supervise loading and document condition
Be present when movers load. Note furniture and box conditions on the inventory sheet. Take photos of valuable items. Confirm delivery details with the crew.
8
First Week After
Settle in and handle paperwork
Register your vehicle and update your driver's license in your new state within the required timeframe. Transfer your car insurance. Start unpacking with the kitchen and bedrooms.
Demographics
Delaware at a Glance
Household Income
Under $25K 14.7%
$25K–50K 18.8%
$50K–75K 16.6%
$75K–100K 13%
$100K–150K 18.1%
$150K+ 18.8%
Age Distribution
Under 20 24.9%
20–29 14.5%
30–39 13.2%
40–49 11.9%
50–59 11%
60+ 24.7%
Education Level
Less than High School 8.6%
High School 28.3%
Some College 28.5%
Bachelor's Degree 19.7%
Graduate Degree 14.8%
Delaware's demographic profile reflects a small state with significant economic contrasts between its northern and southern halves. New Castle County in the north has higher incomes, more education, and a denser population tied to the financial services industry and Philadelphia metro. Kent and Sussex counties in the south are more rural, with lower incomes and an economy driven by agriculture, tourism, and military employment. Statewide, household incomes sit above the national median, boosted by the northern concentration of banking and corporate jobs. Education levels are moderate, with the college-educated share close to the national average. The age distribution includes a growing retiree population, particularly in the beach communities of southern Delaware. These patterns shape outmigration: northern professionals leaving for bigger-city careers, military families rotating out of Dover, and retirees heading to warmer, lower-tax states.
State Comparisons
How Delaware Compares to Popular Moving Destinations
Side-by-side data for the states most Delaware residents move to.
Delaware vs. Maryland
| Metric | Delaware | Maryland |
|---|---|---|
| Median Income | $79,008 | $97,001 |
| Median Home Value | $319,448 | $384,021 |
| Median Age | 38.2 | 38.2 |
| Commute Time | 24.7 minutes | 30.3 minutes |
| College Educated | 34.5% | 41.8% |
| Poverty Rate | 13.6% | 12.6% |
Maryland is the most common destination for Delaware residents, driven by proximity and the larger job markets in Baltimore and the Washington, D.C. suburbs. Many Delawareans already commute to Maryland for work. Housing costs in Maryland vary widely — the Eastern Shore is comparable to Delaware, while Montgomery and Howard counties near D.C. are significantly more expensive. Maryland has a state income tax and a sales tax, which Delaware doesn't — so the move often comes with a higher total tax burden. The draw is career advancement and access to the federal government economy.
Delaware vs. Pennsylvania
| Metric | Delaware | Pennsylvania |
|---|---|---|
| Median Income | $79,008 | $76,617 |
| Median Home Value | $319,448 | $257,576 |
| Median Age | 38.2 | 38.8 |
| Commute Time | 24.7 minutes | 26.7 minutes |
| College Educated | 34.5% | 35.3% |
| Poverty Rate | 13.6% | 15.3% |
Pennsylvania draws Delaware residents — particularly from Wilmington and Newark — who want access to Philadelphia's larger job market, cultural scene, and healthcare systems. The move is often short: parts of suburban Philadelphia are just 20 minutes from the Delaware border. Pennsylvania has a flat 3.07% income tax (lower than Delaware's top rate) but does have a sales tax. Property taxes in the Philadelphia suburbs can be high. For many movers, this is less of a relocation and more of a neighborhood change within the same metro area.
Delaware vs. Florida
| Metric | Delaware | Florida |
|---|---|---|
| Median Income | $79,008 | $73,239 |
| Median Home Value | $319,448 | $406,275 |
| Median Age | 38.2 | 41 |
| Commute Time | 24.7 minutes | 27.2 minutes |
| College Educated | 34.5% | 36.1% |
| Poverty Rate | 13.6% | 14.7% |
Florida is the top long-distance destination for Delaware residents, particularly retirees seeking no income tax and warm weather year-round. The I-95 corridor makes the drive straightforward (about 15 hours to central Florida), and the moving route is one of the most competitive in the country. Tampa, Orlando, and Jacksonville are popular metro destinations, while the Gulf Coast and Space Coast attract beach-oriented retirees. Housing in Florida is comparable to Delaware in many areas, so the move is driven more by climate and tax savings than housing costs.
Delaware vs. North Carolina
| Metric | Delaware | North Carolina |
|---|---|---|
| Median Income | $79,008 | $76,772 |
| Median Home Value | $319,448 | $338,786 |
| Median Age | 38.2 | 36.8 |
| Commute Time | 24.7 minutes | 23.3 minutes |
| College Educated | 34.5% | 42.5% |
| Poverty Rate | 13.6% | 13.7% |
North Carolina attracts Delaware families and professionals with its combination of lower housing costs, milder climate, and growing job markets in the Research Triangle and Charlotte. The Carolinas have become an increasingly popular choice for Delaware residents who want to stay on the East Coast but reduce their cost of living. North Carolina's income tax is lower than Delaware's, and property taxes are moderate. The outdoor recreation, university towns, and mountain access are draws that Delaware can't match.
Delaware vs. New Jersey
| Metric | Delaware | New Jersey |
|---|---|---|
| Median Income | $79,008 | $112,032 |
| Median Home Value | $319,448 | $474,430 |
| Median Age | 38.2 | 40.7 |
| Commute Time | 24.7 minutes | 30.5 minutes |
| College Educated | 34.5% | 43.3% |
| Poverty Rate | 13.6% | 9.7% |
New Jersey draws Delaware residents — especially from the northern part of the state — who are drawn to the state's extensive job market, proximity to New York City, and suburban communities. New Jersey has high property taxes and a progressive income tax, making it generally more expensive than Delaware. But for workers commuting to New York City or seeking jobs in the pharmaceutical, finance, or tech sectors concentrated in northern New Jersey, the career opportunity can justify the higher costs. Southern New Jersey is more affordable and culturally similar to Delaware.
Common Routes
Where People From Delaware Move
The most popular destinations for residents leaving Delaware, based on migration patterns.
MD
Maryland
Popular cities: Baltimore, Hagerstown, Frederick, Waldorf
PA
Pennsylvania
Popular cities: Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Allentown, Harrisburg
FL
Florida
Popular cities: Miami, Tampa, Orlando, Jacksonville
NC
North Carolina
Popular cities: Charlotte, Raleigh, Winston-Salem, Durham
NJ
New Jersey
Popular cities: Trenton, Newark, Jersey City, Paterson
FAQ
Common Questions About Moving From Delaware
How much does it cost to move out of Delaware?
Moves to nearby states like Maryland or Pennsylvania run $800–$2,000 for a 2-bedroom. Florida or Southeast moves range from $2,500–$5,500. Cross-country moves to the West Coast run $5,000–$9,000. Get 3–5 quotes for your specific route.
Where do most people from Delaware move to?
The most common destinations are Maryland, Pennsylvania, Florida, North Carolina, and New Jersey. Maryland and Pennsylvania attract commuters and career movers. Florida draws retirees. North Carolina appeals to families seeking lower costs.
Will I miss Delaware's no sales tax?
Most likely, yes. Delaware is one of only five states with no sales tax. Moving to almost any other state means paying 4–10% on purchases. The impact depends on your spending habits — for a household spending $30,000 per year on taxable goods, a 7% sales tax costs $2,100 annually.
When is the cheapest time to move from Delaware?
Late fall and winter (November through February) offer the lowest rates. Spring and fall offer the best balance of weather and pricing. Summer is peak season. Avoid beach-area moves in June through August when coastal traffic is worst.
How do I choose a mover for a long-distance move from Delaware?
Compare at least 3 quotes from licensed interstate movers. Verify USDOT numbers, check FMCSA records, and confirm they service your route. MoveFinch screens movers for Delaware routes.
How long does a move from Delaware take?
Moves to neighboring states take 1–2 days. Moves to Florida take 2–4 days. Cross-country moves take 7–14 days. Transit times depend on your mover's schedule. Get the delivery window in writing.
What are the tax implications of leaving Delaware?
You'll lose Delaware's no-sales-tax advantage. If moving to a state with income tax, compare rates — Delaware's top rate is 6.6%. Florida, Texas, and Tennessee have no income tax. You may owe Delaware taxes for the portion of the year you were a resident.
Do I need to update my driver's license after leaving Delaware?
Yes. Most states require a new driver's license within 30 to 90 days of establishing residency. Bring your Delaware license, proof of new address, identity documents, and Social Security card.
Should I move myself or hire movers?
For short moves to Maryland or Pennsylvania, a rental truck can save money. For moves over 500 miles (like to Florida), professional movers are usually worth the cost. Compare both options for your situation.
What should I look for in a moving contract?
Look for a binding estimate, detailed inventory, pickup and delivery windows, total price with no hidden fees, and liability coverage. Confirm the weight or volume basis and delivery timeline.
Making the Decision to Leave Delaware
Delaware's small size is both its charm and its limitation. The state offers genuine advantages — no sales tax, a manageable cost of living, proximity to major cities, and a sense of community that larger states can't replicate. But for residents seeking career advancement, a bigger city experience, or a different climate, the state's borders feel close. When your job market is two hours end-to-end, career options narrow quickly.
The financial calculation depends heavily on where you're going. Moving to a high-tax Northeastern state like New Jersey may increase your costs, while moving to Florida or the Carolinas can produce meaningful savings. The loss of no sales tax matters more than most people expect — it's a daily tax advantage that compounds over time.
If you're considering a move from Delaware, start with accurate cost estimates for your route. Delaware's position on the I-95 corridor means competitive pricing on the most popular routes south. Comparing quotes from multiple screened movers gives you a real number to plan around — and helps you decide whether your next move takes you to a bigger stage or a warmer climate.
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