Cost of Living in Sussex County, Delaware
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Sussex County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Sussex County ranks #1,553 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 49%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Sussex County, Delaware
Sussex rents are the cheapest in Delaware
Sussex County's $1,221 monthly rent is the lowest in the state, and its 18.8% rent-to-income ratio sits just below the national average of 19.4%. With a median household income of $78,162—about 4.5% above the national median—Sussex renters enjoy an affordability sweet spot that balances reasonable costs with solid earning power.
Second-most affordable for renters in Delaware
Sussex's 18.8% rent-to-income ratio ranks just behind New Castle County's 18.4%, making it the second-most affordable county in the state for renters. At $1,221, its monthly rent runs $74 below the state median and $158 below pricier Kent County.
Cheapest rent, but homes cost more
Sussex offers the state's most affordable rentals, but its median home value of $353,300 is the highest among Delaware's three counties—a 10% premium over New Castle's homes. This creates an interesting dynamic: renters enjoy the best deals, but would-be homebuyers face steeper entry costs.
Renting wins; buying stretches budgets here
Renters pay $1,221 monthly (18.8% of income) while homeowners pay $1,125—seemingly cheaper—but the median home value of $353,300 signals higher down payment and long-term equity demands. Sussex's $78,162 median income ($6,513/month) covers rent easily, but homeownership requires deeper financial planning.
Sussex shines for coastal living on a budget
If you're drawn to Delaware's beaches and rural charm, Sussex offers the region's cheapest rents alongside reasonable income levels—ideal for renters prioritizing affordability. However, prospective homebuyers should factor in the county's premium home prices before making the move.
Cost of Living Advisory: Sussex County
Affordability Verdict
Sussex County offers affordable rental housing at a median of $1,221/month — about 18.7% of the typical household income here.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Sussex County is $1,221/month, while owner costs run $1,125/month. Owning saves approximately $96/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $48,840/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $48,214/year. With a median household income of $78,162, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 31.0% of renter households in Sussex County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Kent County where rent averages $1,285/month, Sussex County is approximately 5% less expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Sussex County
Rent Burden
18.7%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,824
per month
Owner Cost Burden
17.3%
of gross income
The median home in Sussex County may be a stretch
Median home value is $353,300. Estimated monthly cost: $2,821 vs. your max of $1,824.
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
What is the cost of living in Sussex County, Delaware?
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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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