With rising home prices, high property taxes, and a fast-paced lifestyle that’s tough to keep up with after awhile, more New Yorkers are reevaluating what “home” really means. That’s where Delaware comes in—offering a breath of fresh air, lower costs, and a surprising amount of charm and opportunity for buyers ready to make a move.

How Delaware Is Big Win for Your Wallet and Wellbeing
Beyond the dollars and cents, Delaware offers something that’s hard to quantify – work/life balance. More space, less stress, and no state sales tax means you get to keep more of what you earn while enjoying a higher quality of life.
Whether you’re drawn to the walkable streets of Wilmington, the family feel of Middletown, or the coastal serenity of Rehoboth Beach, there’s something in the Diamond State for everyone.
We’ll talk about both your wallet and your wellbeing in this blog. But, let’s start with the biggest consideration for many people: the lower cost of living.
The cost of living in Wilmington, Delaware is 41.1% cheaper than New York City. For example, if you make $80,000/year you would only need
a salary of salary of $47,117 in Wilmington, DE to maintain the standard of living you have in NYC according to BestPlaces.net. That means your money stretches way further—from groceries to gas, and especially real estate.
To help you visualize just how significant the financial difference can be between living in New York and Delaware, we’ve put together a side-by-side comparison of key housing and tax metrics. From average home prices to annual property taxes, the numbers clearly highlight why so many New Yorkers are making the move south. Take a look at how Delaware stacks up against NYC when it comes to value, affordability, and overall cost of homeownership.
New York, NY | Wilmington, DE | |
---|---|---|
Avg. Home Price | $740,000+ | $248,000 |
Price per Sq Ft | $780/sq ft | $180/sq ft |
Avg. Property Tax Rate | 1.72% (NYS avg) | 0.56% (DE avg) |
Annual Property Tax (est.) | $12,728 | $1,652 |
(Sources: Zillow.com, Delaware.gov, TaxFoundation.org, SmartAsset.com)

Mortgage Benefits When Buying in Delaware
Unlike the ultra-competitive and often cash-heavy NYC market, Delaware offers:
- Favorable mortgage conditions
- Less down payment pressure
- First-time buyer programs
- Faster closing processes
We work closely with buyers relocating from New York to help them lock in low rates, maximize down payment assistance, and avoid common relocation pitfalls.
What Your New Delaware Life Could Look Like
The benefits of moving to New Castle County, Kent County, or Sussex County Delaware goes far beyond cost savings. What many New Yorkers discover is a lifestyle that feels lighter, calmer, and more intentional. With shorter work commutes, cleaner neighborhoods, and easy access to parks and open spaces, Delaware offers a refreshing change of pace. For remote or hybrid workers, it’s the best of both worlds—you get to enjoy peace and privacy at home, while still being just a quick Amtrak ride away from the city when needed.
Professionals who work a few days in Manhattan but live in Delaware are in a uniquely advantageous position. The commute between states is only a 2 hour drive or train ride. This means NYC workers can retain their big-city salaries while benefiting from affordable housing, no sales tax, and a more relaxed daily rhythm. Whether you’re working from a dedicated home office or enjoying your lunch break in a quiet backyard instead of a crowded subway station, Delaware provides the breathing room to work and live well.
Retirees are finding Delaware to be a perfect fit too. With no tax on Social Security income, no sales tax, and some of the lowest property taxes in the nation, the state is designed to help fixed incomes go further. Add to that a slower pace, accessible healthcare, and walkable communities near the beach or in charming historic towns, and it’s easy to see why more retirees are trading city life for something more peaceful—and practical.
Popular Delaware Cities for New Yorkers to Consider
City | Median Home Price | Notable Features |
---|---|---|
Wilmington | $248,200 | Riverfront, Amtrak hub, arts scene |
Newark | $390,000 | University town, family-friendly |
Middletown | $599,000 | Amazon hub, new development, suburban feel |
Rehoboth Beach | $827,616 | Coastal lifestyle, vacation feel |
(Sources: Redfin.com, Zillow.com, Realtor.com)
Here’s what you’ll gain when you move from New York to Delaware:
- 🏘️ More Home for Your Budget: 3–4x more space per dollar
- 💰 Lower Monthly Payments: Reduced taxes, lower insurance
- 🏖️ Proximity to the Beach: Rehoboth and Bethany are just hours away
- 📦 A Calmer Pace of Life: With none of NYC’s chaos
As you can see, Delaware offers a clear advantage for New Yorkers looking to relocate. Buyers can afford significantly more space—often with a yard, garage, and modern finishes—for a fraction of the cost. It’s an ideal option for first-time buyers, growing families, or anyone tired of paying a premium for limited square footage in the city.
In addition to affordable home prices, Delaware delivers major tax advantages. The state has no sales tax and some of the lowest property taxes in the country, saving homeowners thousands of dollars annually. Lower insurance rates and a reduced overall cost of living make Delaware a financially smart choice for both working professionals and retirees.

How Delaware Home Loan Pros Helps You Relocate with Confidence
We understand that moving out of New York is a big decision. That’s why our mortgage specialists walk you through every step—from pre-approval to closing.
Here’s what we offer:
- Personalized mortgage consultations
- Fast pre-approvals, even for NYC renters
- Access to local Delaware realtors
- Support with credit optimization & rate shopping
Whether you’re buying your forever home, vacation getaway, or downsizing from the city—we’re here to help you make a smart move to Delaware.
Make the Move From New York to Delaware and Save Big
Delaware isn’t just more affordable than New York—it’s smarter. Lower taxes, cheaper homes, and a better quality of life await just a few hours south of the Big Apple. Speak to a loan expert and get pre-approved.