Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Port Penn, DE
Considering a move to Port Penn, DE? This quiet community of just 260 residents features affordable living with a median home price of $235,000 and average rent around $1,180. Expect a relaxed pace, low violent crime (135 per 100k), and easy access to nature along the Delaware River. Commute times average 32 minutes, while nearby schools and healthcare in New Castle and Newark are conveniently accessible. Enjoy a mild climate with 56% sunny days—Port Penn is perfect for those seeking small-town charm near city amenities.
Demographics - Port Penn, DE
Demographics - Port Penn, DE
Port Penn is a small, close-knit community with a population of 260 and a median age of 48, reflecting a mature and stable demographic. The town is predominantly White (80%), with some diversity, and maintains a balanced gender ratio. Residents enjoy a relatively low-density environment at 325 people per square mile.
Population:
260
Density:
325 per sq mi
Median Age:
48.2
Gender Ratio:
97 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
6.5%

Ethnic Composition
White:
80.2%
Black:
12.4%
Asian:
0.9%
Others:
6.5%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Port Penn, DE?
Port Penn offers an affordable cost of living, with a median home value of $235,000 and monthly rent averaging $1,180. The overall cost of living index is slightly below the national average, making it an attractive option for those seeking value. Utilities and groceries are reasonably priced, and Delaware's income tax rates remain moderate.
Median House Value:
$235,000
Gross Rent:
$1,180
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$125
Auto Insurance:
$1,520
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,450
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$450
State Taxes:
Low:
2.2%
|
High:
6.6%
Cost Of Living Index:
96.8
Grocery:
98.2
Housing:
85.7
Utilities:
102.4
Transportation:
97.5
Health Care:
98.9
Miscellaneous:
95.1
Crime
Is Port Penn, DE a safe place to live?
Residents of Port Penn benefit from a low violent crime rate of 135 incidents per 100,000 people, making it a safe place for families and individuals. Property crime is higher but still manageable, with a chance of 1 in 76. Overall, the town maintains a peaceful atmosphere compared to larger urban areas.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
135
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,320
Crime Index:
1,455
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 740
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 76
Weather
What is the weather like in Port Penn, DE year-round?
Port Penn experiences a mild climate with warm summers reaching highs of 87°F and cool winters with lows around 26°F. The area receives about 44.5 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys 56% sunny days, providing a pleasant environment for outdoor activities year-round. Seasonal changes are distinct but generally moderate.

Winter
Min:
26°F
Max:
41°F

Spring
Min:
46°F
Max:
67°F

Summer
Min:
66°F
Max:
87°F

Fall
Min:
49°F
Max:
70°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
44.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
56%
Neighbors
The median household income in Port Penn is $58,000, with a family income of $64,000 and a poverty rate of 11.7%. Most residents commute about 32 minutes for work, and education levels are solid, with nearly 88% holding a high school diploma or higher. The community is friendly and welcoming, with a small percentage of non-English speakers adding to its character.
Median Income:
$39,000
Household Income:
$58,000
Family Income:
$64,000
Per Capita Income:
$28,400
Income Male:
$42,000
Income Female:
$36,000
Poverty Rate:
11.7%
Non English Speakers:
6.5%
Rent:
$1,180
Unemployment Rate:
5.1%
Public Transport Usage:
0.3%
Commute Time:
31.8 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
87.6%
Bachelors or More:
18.4%
Education
How are the schools in Port Penn, DE?
Families in Port Penn have access to quality public schools such as Southern Elementary and Gunning Bedford Middle School, both located in nearby New Castle. For higher education, Delaware Technical Community College and the University of Delaware are within a short drive, providing diverse academic opportunities. Private schooling options are also available in the region, supporting a variety of educational needs.

Public Schools
Name:
Southern Elementary School
Street:
795 Cox Neck Rd, New Castle, DE 19720
Phone:
302-832-6300
Students:
720
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.2
Name:
Gunning Bedford Middle School
Street:
801 Cox Neck Rd, New Castle, DE 19720
Phone:
302-832-6280
Students:
1,000
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.7

Private Schools
Name:
Wilmington Christian School
Street:
825 Loveville Rd, Hockessin, DE 19707
Phone:
302-239-2121
Students:
500

Colleges
Name:
Delaware Technical Community College
City:
Wilmington
State:
DE
Distance:
18 miles
Students:
13,000
Name:
University of Delaware
City:
Newark
State:
DE
Distance:
20 miles
Students:
24,000
Healthcare
Residents have convenient access to major healthcare facilities like Christiana Hospital, located nearby in Newark. With 92.8% of people having health insurance and 2.2 physicians per 1,000 residents, healthcare needs are well-supported. The area’s healthcare index of 71.2 reflects reliable and accessible medical services.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Christiana Hospital
Address:
4755 Ogletown Stanton Rd, Newark, DE 19718
Phone:
(302) 733-1000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.2
Health Insurance Coverage:
92.8%
Health Care Index:
71.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Port Penn, DE?
Port Penn’s housing market is affordable, with a median home price of $235,000 and an owner-occupied rate nearing 79%. Home values have appreciated by 4.7% over the past year, and rental options are available with an average two-bedroom rent of $1,180. The market is stable, with low foreclosure and vacancy rates.
Median Home Price:
$235,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,180
Owner Occupied Rate:
78.9%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.7%
New Construction Rate:
0.5%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.9%
DMV Information
Port Penn residents are served by the Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles in nearby New Castle, offering a full range of vehicle and licensing services. The DMV is easily accessible and provides convenient online resources through its official website. This ensures that all driving and registration needs are met efficiently.
State:
Delaware
Department:
Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles
Address:
2230 Hessler Boulevard, New Castle, DE 19720
Phone:
1-302-326-5000
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.