Cost of Living in Kent County, Delaware
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Kent County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Kent County ranks #2,163 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 31%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Kent County, Delaware
Kent County rents bite harder than national norm
Renters here spend 21.2% of their income on housing, compared to the national average of 19.4%—meaning Kent households dedicate more of their paychecks to rent than typical Americans. With a median household income of $72,872 sitting slightly below the national median of $74,755, the cost squeeze is real for working families.
Most expensive place to rent in Delaware
Kent County's 21.2% rent-to-income ratio ranks it as the least affordable county for renters in Delaware, above the state average of 19.4%. At $1,285 monthly, Kent rents run $90 higher than the state median, making it a tighter market than its two neighboring counties.
The middle ground in Delaware's housing market
Kent sits between New Castle County (more expensive, $1,379 rent) and Sussex County (cheaper, $1,221 rent), but carries the affordability burden of a lower income base than New Castle. Compared to Sussex—where homebuying is pricier but renting is cheaper—Kent renters face tougher trade-offs.
Where Kent wages go: Housing dominates
A typical Kent renter spends $1,285 monthly while homeowners pay $1,321, leaving similar affordability pressures across both markets. With median household income at $72,872 annually ($6,073/month), housing alone consumes over one-fifth of take-home pay before taxes and other expenses.
Considering Kent? Know what you're signing up for
If you're relocating to Delaware's central county, expect to allocate more of your paycheck to housing than the national average—but also access to Dover's government jobs and mid-state convenience. Compare Kent's rent-to-income ratio against Sussex's more affordable rentals or New Castle's higher earning potential before you decide.
Cost of Living Advisory: Kent County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Kent County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $1,285/month in gross rent, with 31.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Kent County pay $1,285/month on average, compared to $1,321/month for homeowners. This market favors renters by about 3%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $51,400/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $56,614/year. With a median household income of $72,872, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 31.0% of renter households in Kent County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Sussex County where rent averages $1,221/month, Kent County is approximately 5% more expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Kent County
Rent Burden
21.2%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,700
per month
Owner Cost Burden
21.8%
of gross income
The median home in Kent County may be a stretch
Median home value is $290,600. Estimated monthly cost: $2,320 vs. your max of $1,700.
Rent Affordability Guide
Income Needed Calculator
See how much you need to earn to comfortably afford housing
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Based on the 30% rule for rent and 28% rule for housing costs (mortgage + owner costs). Mortgage estimate assumes 20% down, 7.2% interest, 30-year fixed.
Frequently Asked Questions
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See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.
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