Cost of Living in Dover, DE
Population 39,491 · Delaware · Data vintage 2023
(100 = US avg)
The Dover cost-of-living profile is closer to the US median than most headline-grabbing metros — typical homes around $249,000, rents near $1,252 a month. At 7.9%, the local unemployment rate runs well above the US figure, pointing to structural rather than cyclical labor-market issues.
Dover is about 60 miles east of Baltimore, the nearest large metro — close enough that regional housing and labor patterns are shaped largely by the larger market. Median home values run roughly 13% higher than Baltimore's $219,000.
Cost Overview
Scale: 100 = US national average. Green < 90, Red > 110.
About the Cost of Living in Dover
The median home value in Dover is $248,500 — 19% below the national median of $305,000. Median rent runs $1,252/month, 5% lower than the national median of $1,314/month. The median household income of $58,336/year is 22% lower than the US median of $74,580. The local unemployment rate is 7.9%, above the national average of 4.8%. Delaware's top state income tax rate is 6.6% and the combined sales tax is 0.0%. Overall, Dover has a cost of living index of 87 versus the US average of 100, meaning it is 13% less expensive.
🏠 Housing
HUD Fair Market Rents by Bedroom
💰 Estimated Monthly Budget
Estimates based on median data and national averages. Actual costs vary.
🛒 Food & Groceries
National BLS average prices (2023). Local prices may vary.
🚗 Transportation
Commute Mode
⚡ Utilities
📋 Taxes
💼 Income & Employment
🎓 Education
👥 Demographics
💨 Air Quality
EPA AQS 2023 — county-level monitoring data
🏫 Schools
NCES CCD 2019 — public school district data
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Dover, DE?
Dover has a cost index of 87 (100 = national average). It is 13% below the national average.
What is average rent in Dover, DE?
The median gross rent in Dover is $1,252 per month based on 2023 Census data.
What is the average home price in Dover?
The median home value in Dover is $248,500 according to Zillow and Census data.
What is the median income in Dover?
The median household income in Dover is $58,336 per year (2023 ACS 5-year estimates).
What is the sales tax in Dover, DE?
The combined state and local sales tax rate in Dover is 0.0%. The Delaware state income tax top rate is 6.6%.
Is Dover, DE affordable?
Yes, Dover is generally considered affordable, with a cost of living index of 87 — about 13% below the US national average of 100.
Dover at a Glance
- Population
- 39,491
- Median Income
- $58,336
- Home Value
- $248,500
- Median Rent
- $1,252/mo
- Unemployment
- 7.9%
- Sales Tax
- 0.0%
Nearby Cities
Explore county-level cost of living data
Delaware Rankings
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