Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Fenwick Island, DE
Thinking of moving to Fenwick Island, DE? With a small year-round population of about 420 and a median home price of $875,000, this coastal town offers peaceful living with a high rate of homeownership. Residents enjoy low crime rates (violent crime just 95 per 100k), short 22-minute commutes, and beautiful summers with 59% sunny days. While the cost of living is above average and the housing market is competitive, Fenwick Island boasts strong educational attainment and easy access to healthcare, making it a fantastic seaside retreat for those seeking tranquility.
Demographics - Fenwick Island, DE
Demographics - Fenwick Island, DE
Fenwick Island is a quiet coastal community with a population of around 420 and a high median age of 63, reflecting its appeal to retirees. The town is predominantly White, and most residents speak English at home, contributing to its close-knit, tranquil atmosphere.
Population:
420
Density:
1,260 per sq mi
Median Age:
63.0
Gender Ratio:
95 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
5.0%
Ethnic Composition
White:
95.0%
Black:
1.5%
Asian:
1.2%
Others:
2.3%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Fenwick Island, DE?
Fenwick Island has a cost of living index of 142, meaning expenses are notably higher than the national average, particularly for housing, with a median home value of $875,000. Utility and grocery costs are also above average, making it ideal for those seeking upscale coastal living.
Median House Value:
$875,000
Gross Rent:
$1,950
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$145
Auto Insurance:
$1,580
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$2,950
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$900
State Taxes:
Low:
2.2%
|
High:
6.6%
Cost Of Living Index:
142.0
Grocery:
110.5
Housing:
181.0
Utilities:
115.0
Transportation:
109.0
Health Care:
103.0
Miscellaneous:
108.0
Crime
Is Fenwick Island, DE a safe place to live?
Residents benefit from very low crime, with only 95 violent crimes per 100,000 people and a property crime rate well below national averages. This makes Fenwick Island a safe and peaceful place for families and retirees alike.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
95
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,050
Crime Index:
1,145
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 1,053
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 95
Weather
What is the weather like in Fenwick Island, DE year-round?
The town enjoys mild, pleasant weather year-round, with summer highs around 84°F and winter lows near 30°F. Residents can expect about 59% sunny days and an annual rainfall of 46.5 inches, perfect for those who appreciate a blend of sun and seasonal variety.
Winter
Min:
30°F
Max:
45°F
Spring
Min:
47°F
Max:
68°F
Summer
Min:
67°F
Max:
84°F
Fall
Min:
50°F
Max:
72°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
46.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
59%
Neighbors
Fenwick Island's residents are well-educated, with over half holding at least a bachelor's degree and nearly all having completed high school. Median household incomes are strong at $92,000, and the area maintains a low unemployment rate and a modest 7.5% poverty rate.
Median Income:
$45,000
Household Income:
$92,000
Family Income:
$110,000
Per Capita Income:
$65,000
Income Male:
$70,000
Income Female:
$60,000
Poverty Rate:
7.5%
Non English Speakers:
5.0%
Rent:
$1,950
Unemployment Rate:
4.0%
Public Transport Usage:
1.0%
Commute Time:
22.0 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
97.5%
Bachelors or More:
55.0%
Education
How are the schools in Fenwick Island, DE?
Families in Fenwick Island have access to reputable public schools such as Lord Baltimore Elementary and Selbyville Middle, both known for favorable student-teacher ratios. Local private school and college options, including Delaware Technical Community College, provide further educational opportunities within a short drive.
Public Schools
Name:
Lord Baltimore Elementary School
Street:
120 Atlantic Ave, Ocean View, DE 19970
Phone:
302-537-2700
Students:
700
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.0
Name:
Selbyville Middle School
Street:
80 Bethany Rd, Selbyville, DE 19975
Phone:
302-436-1020
Students:
650
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.5
Private Schools
Name:
Seaside Christian Academy
Street:
12637 A Ocean Gateway, Ocean City, MD 21842
Phone:
410-213-7595
Students:
120
Colleges
Name:
Delaware Technical Community College – Owens
City:
Georgetown
State:
DE
Distance:
26 miles
Students:
4,500
Healthcare
Access to quality healthcare is convenient, with nearby facilities like Beebe Healthcare and Atlantic General Hospital offering emergency services. The community enjoys a high health insurance coverage rate of 93.5% and a solid ratio of physicians per capita, ensuring healthcare needs are well met.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Beebe Healthcare - South Coastal Health Campus
Address:
32750 Roxana Rd, Millville, DE 19967
Phone:
(302) 291-6700
Type:
General & Emergency
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Atlantic General Hospital
Address:
9733 Healthway Dr, Berlin, MD 21811
Phone:
(410) 641-1100
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.3
Health Insurance Coverage:
93.5%
Health Care Index:
79.0
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Fenwick Island, DE?
The local housing market is characterized by high home values and strong demand, with a median price of $875,000 and most homes owner-occupied. Rental options are available but limited, making homeownership the norm in this sought-after seaside area.
Median Home Price:
$875,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,950
Owner Occupied Rate:
82.0%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
10.5%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.7%
New Construction Rate:
2.0%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
Residents are served by the Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles, conveniently located in Georgetown. The DMV offers a full range of licensing and registration services for locals and newcomers alike.
State:
Delaware
Department:
Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles
Address:
20653 Dupont Blvd, Georgetown, DE 19947
Phone:
302-853-1000
Website:
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.