Delaware / Kent County

Moving to Dover, DE

Thinking of making a move to Dover, DE? Get helpful local information about living costs, neighborhoods, schools, weather, housing, DMV details, and practical relocation details before you plan your move.

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Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Dover, DE

Considering a move to Dover, DE? This welcoming community of 39,403 residents offers a blend of suburban charm and convenience, with median home prices around $257,000 and average rents near $1,230. Commute times average 21 minutes and public transport is accessible, making it great for professionals. The area boasts low violent crime, strong schools, and plenty of sunny days (58% annually), ideal for families and commuters alike. Explore Dover's cost of living, education, and friendly neighborhoods to see if it's the right fit for your next move.

Demographics - Dover, DE

Dover has a population of 39,403 residents, offering a diverse community with a median age of nearly 31 and a balanced gender ratio. The area features a strong blend of backgrounds, with about 44% White, 42% Black, and 3% Asian residents, and over 11% speaking a language other than English at home. Its high population density contributes to a lively suburban atmosphere.

Population
39,403
Density
1,650 per sq mi
Median Age
31.0
Gender Ratio
93 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage
11.4%

Ethnic Composition

White
43.6%
Black
42.1%
Asian
2.5%
Others
11.8%

Cost Of Living

What is the average cost of living in Dover, DE?

The cost of living in Dover is higher than the national average, with a cost of living index of 92.6. Median home values are around $257,000 and average rents for a two-bedroom apartment are approximately $1,230. Utilities, groceries, and transportation costs are also elevated, reflecting the area's desirable location and amenities.

Median House Value
$257,000
Gross Rent
$1,230
Monthly Electricity Charges
$140
Auto Insurance
$1,520
House Owner Cost With Mortgage
$1,540
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage
$495
State Taxes
Low: 2.2%| High: 6.6%
Cost Of Living Index
92.6
Grocery
98.3
Housing
80.4
Utilities
104.5
Transportation
93.2
Health Care
98.7
Miscellaneous
97.6

Crime

Is Dover, DE a safe place to live?

Dover is considered a safe community, with a low violent crime rate of 542 incidents per 100,000 residents and a property crime chance of 1 in 39. Most residents enjoy peace of mind, making it an attractive choice for families. The crime index remains below many urban areas in Delaware.

Violent Crimes Per 100k
542
Property Crimes Per 100k
2,535
Crime Index
3,077
Chance Of Violent Crime
1 in 185
Chance Of Property Crime
1 in 39

Weather

What is the weather like in Dover, DE year-round?

Dover experiences four distinct seasons, with warm summers reaching highs of 87°F and cold winters dipping to 28°F. The area receives about 47 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine on 58% of days. This climate offers residents a balanced mix of outdoor opportunities year-round.

Winter

Min
28°F
Max
44°F

Summer

Min
65°F
Max
87°F

Spring

Min
43°F
Max
71°F

Fall

Min
45°F
Max
73°F
Average Rainfall Inches
46.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage
58%

Neighbors

The neighborhood boasts a healthy median household income of $55,200 and a low poverty rate of 18.0%. Over 88% of residents have at least a high school diploma, and nearly 23% hold a bachelor's degree or higher. Commute times average 21 minutes, and almost 2% use public transportation, reflecting the area's accessibility and educated population.

Median Income
$36,800
Household Income
$55,200
Family Income
$66,900
Per Capita Income
$26,580
Income Male
$43,700
Income Female
$39,200
Poverty Rate
18.0%
Non English Speakers
11.4%
Rent
$1,230
Unemployment Rate
5.9%
Public Transport Usage
1.6%
Commute Time
21.3 minutes

Education

High School or Higher
87.5%
Bachelors or More
23.2%

Education

How are the schools in Dover, DE?

Dover offers quality education options, with public schools like Dover High School and Central Middle School known for favorable student-to-teacher ratios. Families also have access to private schools and several nearby colleges, including Delaware State University and Wesley College. The community is committed to educational excellence for all age groups.

Public Schools

Name
Dover High School
Street
1 Dover High Dr
Phone
302-241-2400
Students
1,800
Student Teacher Ratio
16.2
Name
Central Middle School
Street
211 Delaware Ave
Phone
302-674-3284
Students
900
Student Teacher Ratio
15.4

Private Schools

Name
Holy Cross School
Street
631 S State St
Phone
302-674-5787
Students
450

Colleges

Name
Delaware State University
City
Dover
State
DE
Distance
0 miles
Students
5,200
Name
Wesley College
City
Dover
State
DE
Distance
0 miles
Students
1,200

Healthcare

Dover residents have access to quality healthcare, with major hospitals like Bayhealth Hospital, Kent Campus nearby. The community benefits from a high physician-to-resident ratio of 2.3 per 1,000 people and 90.6% health insurance coverage. Local healthcare services are reliable and comprehensive.

Major Hospitals

Name
Bayhealth Hospital, Kent Campus
Address
640 S State St, Dover, DE 19901
Phone
(302) 674-4700
Type
General & Surgical
Emergency Services
Yes

Healthcare Access

Physicians Per 1000
2.3
Health Insurance Coverage
90.6%
Health Care Index
69.8

Housing Market

What is the housing market like in Dover, DE?

The local housing market is strong, with a median home price of $257,000 and an owner-occupied rate of nearly 48%. The market has seen a 6.3% appreciation over the past year, and rental vacancy rates remain moderate at 6.7%. Dover offers a mix of stability and opportunity for both buyers and renters.

Median Home Price
$257,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom
$1,230
Owner Occupied Rate
47.8%
Rental Vacancy Rate
6.7%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr)
6.3%
New Construction Rate
1.4%
Foreclosure Rate
0.7%

DMV Information

Residents of Dover handle vehicle services through the Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles, conveniently located in Dover. The state DMV provides driver licensing, vehicle registration, and other essential services both in person and online. Information and resources are easily accessible for new and existing residents.

State
Delaware
Department
Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles
Address
303 Transportation Cir, Dover, DE 19901
Phone
(302) 744-2500

Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.

FAQs About Moving to Dover, DE

Answers use the same city data shown on this page, including costs, housing, schools, safety, weather, healthcare, and DMV details.

Before moving to Dover, review the core fields on this page: population 39,403, median home value $257,000, average rent for 2 bedroom $1,230, commute time 21.3 minutes, and sunny days percentage 58%.

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