Moving to Delaware

Delaware, otherwise known as ‘The First State’, is a enjoyable state to work and live. If you are moving or relocating to DE, we have assembled a comprehensive list of some important facts and useful factoids to help make your move an easy transition.

As one of the original 13 colonies, Delaware was admitted to the union on February 1, 1779. Since then, DE has grown in to a prosperous place to live. Rich in colonial history, Delaware offers many landmarks that will satisfy any history buff.

Geography

Located in the South Atlantic Region of the country, Delaware is bordered by Maryland, New Jersey and Pennsylvania. With a total land area of over 2,489.27 Square Miles, it comes in as the 1st smallest state.

Population

Currently, the population of DE is 952,065 making it the 5th least populated state in the union and the 8th most densely populated. The state capital, Dover, has a population of 32135. which is the 6th smallest capital in the country.

Notable Delawareans

Delaware is home to numerous famous and some infamous citizens such as, Valerie Bertinelli a notable actress is from Wilmington and Robert Montgomery Bird a prominent playwright author is from New Castle. Others include people like Henry S Canby a editor author and Annie Jump Cannon a astronomer .

Climate

Delaware’s mid-latitude location and proximity to the Atlantic Ocean has great influence on its overall climate, which is characterized by cold winters and warm summers. The moderating influences of the Atlantic Ocean and Delaware Bay tend to lessen temperature extremes in the state compared to temperatures in the interior of adjoining states. There are only small variations in average temperatures across this small, relatively flat state, ranging from 54°F in the northern portion to 58°F along coastal Delaware in the south. The statewide average annual precipitation is about 45 inches with large inter-annual variability. Annual statewide precipitation has varied from 27.39 inches in 1930 to 60.01 inches in 1948. Average annual snowfall ranges from 19 inches in the north to 14 inches in the south.

Geography also plays an important role, specifically its position on the eastern coast of the North American continent. Delaware’s mid-latitude location places the state in frequent close proximity to the jet stream, particularly in winter and spring. The storm systems tracking with the jet stream bring frequent precipitation and fluctuating temperatures. Strong winter storms that derive their energy from the contrast between cold air in the continental interior and warmer air over the western Atlantic Ocean, otherwise known as nor’easters often affect the state. Delaware has the lowest elevation of all states and also experiences land subsidence. All of Delaware is also classified as a coastal zone due to the proximity of inland areas to tidal waters. The shoreline of Delaware spans more than 250 miles with no geographic location within the state more than 8 miles from tidal waters.

Crime Statistics

Safety and security should always be an important factor when relocating to a new area. A state’s crime rate affects more than just the security of its citizens, it intensely affects property value, economics and the overall quality of life. Based on the last FBI Crime Statistics, Delaware’s violent crime rate is 48 per 10k residents which is greater than the national average of 37.3. In addition, the state’s property crime rate is 298per 10k residents which is greater than the national average of 248.7.

Delaware ranks #9 in the US for violent crime and #15 for property crime.

Schools & Education

Whether you are a student, have children, or neither, a state’s educational system is not only important to those attending, it’s vital to the overall quality of life, culture and economics of the state. Based on data from multiple public and private sources, we were able to rank Delaware’s educational system.

Overall Grade: C

Delaware spends on average $13895.00 per pupil, which is greater than the national average ($11,900). DE ranks #18 in the US compared to the rest of the country. While DE ranks #18 in spending, the latest graduation rate is 85.60%%.

Another important factor is the percentage of families that enroll their young children (ages 3-4) in an accredited pre-school program. Delaware ranks #18 with over 47.30% of children attending a early educational program.

Taxes

The current income tax rate for Delaware is 7.85% which ranks 40th favorable amongst other states. If you are purchasing property, you may want to consider the the property tax burden rate. This is the amount you pay in taxes per $1000 earned. DE’s rate is $18.73 which ranks 4th in the US.

Currently, DE sales tax is $0.00 for which it comes in as 1st compared to other states.

Sports

Unfortunately Delaware does’nt have any major league teams.

Utility Companies

Before you move to Delaware, it’s advised that you know who your utility companies are. We have an extensive list of both public and private utility companies in DE.

Other Resources

For more information about moving to Delaware, visit their website at http://www.state.de.us/