Delaware housing costs at a glance
| Delaware | |
|---|---|
| Median home value (Zillow) | $410,000 |
| Average effective property tax | 0.51% |
| Typical rate for a new buyer (calculator default) | 0.6% |
| Average homeowners insurance ($300k dwelling) | $1,272 a year |
| 2026 conforming loan limit (one unit) | $832,750 |
Example: median-priced home
Delaware home for $410,000, 20% down, 6.5% 30-year fixed: principal and interest $2,073 + property tax $205 + insurance $106 = about $2,384 a month. Enter your own rate quote and the actual tax rate of the property for a precise figure.
Delaware property tax
Delaware's property taxes are low, about 0.51% of value on average, most of it for schools. For decades the three counties used assessments from the 1970s and 1980s; after a court ruling, all three reassessed recently, so some bills changed significantly. Check the property's current tax bill with the county.
Delaware transfer tax: the big closing cost
- Realty transfer tax: up to 4% of the price (2.5% state plus up to 1.5% local), customarily split equally between buyer and seller. First-time Delaware homebuyers get a reduction of the state share.
- Insurance: about $1,270 a year for $300,000 of dwelling coverage.
- Delaware has no sales tax; see the Delaware paycheck calculator for income tax.
Other states
See also the Delaware paycheck calculator and mortgage costs in other states.
Frequently asked questions
How much is the transfer tax in Delaware?
Up to 4% of the price (2.5% state plus up to 1.5% local), usually split equally between buyer and seller.
What is the monthly payment on a median-priced Delaware home?
On a $410,000 home with 20% down at 6.5%, principal and interest are about $2,073; with property tax at 0.6% and average insurance the total is about $2,384 a month.
What is the property tax rate in Delaware?
About 0.51% of home value on average, one of the lowest on the East Coast.
Do first-time buyers pay less transfer tax in Delaware?
Yes. First-time Delaware homebuyers get a reduction of the state portion of the realty transfer tax.
For information only; not a loan offer. Property tax, insurance and closing costs depend on the specific property and lender.
Sources
- Delaware Division of Revenue – realty transfer tax
- FHFA – 2026 conforming loan limits
- U.S. Census Bureau ACS 2024 – real estate taxes (via NAHB / Construction Coverage)
- Zillow Home Value Index
- Insurify – home insurance by state
Rules checked: October 2026