Cost of Living in New Castle County, Delaware
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How New Castle County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
New Castle County ranks #2,156 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 31%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in New Castle County, Delaware
New Castle punches above its weight economically
With a median household income of $89,901—significantly higher than the national median of $74,755—New Castle residents earn 20% more than typical American households. This income advantage translates to a 18.4% rent-to-income ratio that sits comfortably below the national average, making housing more manageable despite higher absolute costs.
Delaware's most affordable county for renters
New Castle's 18.4% rent-to-income ratio beats the state average of 19.4%, ranking it as the most rental-affordable county in Delaware. The combination of robust household incomes and relatively stable rents creates a stronger affordability picture than its inland and coastal peers.
Highest earners, but not the cheapest rents
New Castle's $1,379 monthly rent is the priciest in the state, but its residents earn 14% more than Kent County and 15% more than Sussex County households. That income cushion allows New Castle renters to manage their higher housing costs better than their counterparts elsewhere.
Income-to-housing balance tips in New Castle's favor
Renters spend $1,379 monthly while homeowners pay $1,479, yet median household income of $89,901 ($7,492/month) means housing takes roughly 18–20% of income—the lowest burden in Delaware. New Castle's stronger wage economy provides breathing room that lower-income counties simply cannot match.
Relocating to Delaware's economic hub
New Castle County's proximity to Wilmington's financial and professional sectors commands higher rents, but the region's above-average incomes make it the most affordable choice for renters statewide. If you're moving for job growth, New Castle offers the best housing-to-income alignment among Delaware's three counties.
Cost of Living Advisory: New Castle County
Affordability Verdict
New Castle County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $1,379/month representing approximately 18.4% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 28.0%.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in New Castle County pay $1,379/month on average, compared to $1,479/month for homeowners. This market favors renters by about 7%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $55,160/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $63,386/year. With a median household income of $89,901, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 28.0% of renter households in New Castle County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Kent County where rent averages $1,285/month, New Castle County is approximately 7% more expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in New Castle County
Rent Burden
18.4%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$2,098
per month
Owner Cost Burden
19.7%
of gross income
The median home in New Castle County may be a stretch
Median home value is $329,800. Estimated monthly cost: $2,633 vs. your max of $2,098.
Rent Affordability Guide
Income Needed Calculator
See how much you need to earn to comfortably afford housing
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
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
What is the cost of living in New Castle County, Delaware?
What is the median rent in New Castle County?
Is New Castle County affordable?
How does New Castle County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in New Castle County?
Counties with Similar Housing Costs
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in New Castle County, Delaware? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCompare Mortgage Rates in New Castle County
Whether you're buying your first home or refinancing, compare rates from top lenders to find the best deal.
See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.
CostByCounty participates in affiliate programs. We may earn a commission when you use our links, at no extra cost to you.