Reviewed movers in Wilmington
What to know when moving to Wilmington, DE
Wilmington at a Glance
- The Vibe:
- A community where 70.8% of residents rent and the median household income is $44,505.
- The Major Draw:
- Access to 16 postsecondary institutions, including Delaware College of Art and Design and Delaware Technical Community College.
- The Reality Check:
- A poverty rate of 28.8% indicates economic challenges in the area.
- Commute:
- 11.3% of residents use public transit.
- Top Tip:
- Budget for $1,126/month in rent to find a place that fits your budget.
The 'Vibe' Check: Who Thrives Here?
Wilmington has a population of approximately 16,170 people, with a significant renter population at 70.8%. The education level reflects a community where 26% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. Despite its strengths, the area faces challenges, as nearly 29% of residents live below the poverty line. With 11.3% of residents relying on public transportation, having a car could be essential for many.
Probably not your spot if you are looking for an area with low poverty rates or a high percentage of homeowners.
Your Money: Housing & Cost Snapshot
- Median gross rent is $1,126, which can help you gauge your housing budget.
- Median home values stand at $196,000, indicating potential affordability for buyers.
- 26% of residents have a bachelor's degree or higher, showcasing a relatively educated community.
- The poverty rate is 28.8%, highlighting socioeconomic challenges in the area.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 5-Year Data Profiles.
Crime & Safety: What the Numbers Say
Crime data for Delaware shows that the annual arson rate is 8.3 per 100,000 people, which is 14.4% lower than the national average. This rate has decreased by 25.3% since 2022, indicating a positive trend in this specific crime category.
- Arson: 8.3 per 100k vs. 9.7 per 100k national average, with a downward trend.
Source: FBI Crime Data Explorer (state-level summarized data for Delaware).
Schools & Higher Ed
Wilmington has access to 16 postsecondary institutions, including local options like Delaware College of Art and Design and Delaware Technical Community College. This variety provides residents with educational opportunities in various fields.
- Postsecondary institutions: 16
- Nearby options include Delaware Technical Community College and Wilmington University.
Source: NCES Postsecondary School Locations, U.S. Dept. of Education College Scorecard.
Weather & Getting Outside
New Castle County experiences about 33.8 inches of precipitation annually, with approximately 97 rainy days each year. This means you might want to invest in some rain gear. The area also sees around 11 days of snowfall each winter, making it essential to prepare for some chilly weather.
- Parks & outdoor spots worth checking out:
- Brandywine Park - 4.6 stars (2,424 reviews)
- Delaware Children's Museum - 4.6 stars (1,852 reviews)
- Bellevue State Park - 4.7 stars (1,749 reviews)
- Brandywine Creek State Park - 4.7 stars (1,541 reviews)
Sources: NOAA Climate Data Online, Google Places.
Jobs & the Local Economy
In New Castle County, the unemployment rate stands at 5.0%, with approximately 294,604 people employed as of December 2025. The labor force includes around 309,998 individuals, reflecting a relatively active job market.
- Unemployment rate: 5.0% in December 2025
- Employed: 294,604
- Labor force: 309,998
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Local Area Unemployment Statistics.
