Wilmington provides a cool combination of small-town charm and urban perks. Located between Philadelphia and Baltimore, the city draws attention for its job opportunities, interesting history, and advantageous tax laws. For anyone considering living in Wilmington, there are a lot of factors to weigh. Here’s a look at 11 of the most noteworthy pros and cons of living in Wilmington, DE, to help you decide whether or not it’s the right place for you.
Wilmington at a glance
Walk Score: 74 | Bike Score: 52 | Transit Score: 48
Median Sale Price: $235,000 | Average Rent for 1-Bedroom Apartment: $1,817
Wilmington neighborhoods | Houses for rent in Wilmington | Apartments for rent in Wilmington | Homes for sale in Wilmington
1. Pro: Strong job market, especially in finance and law
Wilmington is home to a thriving financial sector, attracting big names like JPMorgan Chase and Capital One. Many national banks are headquartered here due to favorable tax laws. Beyond finance, Wilmington’s legal industry is strong, with many corporate law firms specializing in Delaware’s complex corporate legal code.
2. Con: Limited public transportation
While Wilmington has some public transportation through DART buses, the system doesn’t cover all parts of the city well. The lack of a subway or expansive bus routes means many residents rely on cars for daily commuting. This can be a drawback if you’re used to cities with more extensive transportation networks.
3. Pro: No sales tax
Delaware’s lack of sales tax is a major perk of living in Wilmington. From groceries to big-ticket items, you can save money on every purchase. This makes Wilmington an attractive destination for shopping and general day-to-day living costs.
4. Con: Higher property taxes
Although there is no sales tax, Wilmington’s property taxes are higher than in some neighboring states. This can offset some of the financial benefits, especially if you’re looking to buy a home. The city’s property tax rate is one of the highest in the state, making it more expensive for homeowners.
5. Pro: Growing arts scene
Wilmington is a cultural hub with a growing art scene, including galleries, theaters, and music venues. The Delaware Art Museum and The Grand Opera House put on performances and exhibits all year, giving residents plenty of artistic outlets to explore.
6. Con: Fewer nightlife options compared to larger cities
While Wilmington is home to a variety of restaurants and bars, the dining and nightlife options are limited compared to nearby Philadelphia or Baltimore. For those who enjoy exploring different cuisines and diving into the nightlife scene, Wilmington may leave you wanting more.
7. Pro: Proximity to sizeable cities
Wilmington is strategically located within an hour of Philadelphia and about two hours from friends living in New York City and Washington, D.C. The easy access to Amtrak and major highways makes weekend trips or even daily commutes to larger cities manageable.
8. Con: Traffic congestion on major highways
Being close to major cities comes with a price—traffic. The I-95 corridor, which runs through Wilmington, often sees heavy traffic, especially during rush hours. This can add significant time to commutes and weekend travel plans.
9. Pro: Access to Delaware’s beaches
Living in Wilmington puts you just an hour and a half from Delaware’s famous beach towns, including Rehoboth and Bethany Beach. This makes it easy to escape for a weekend at the shore without having to travel far.
10. Con: Winters can be dreary
Wilmington experiences cold, damp winters with frequent rain and some snow. While Wilmington isn’t one of the coldest cities in the U.S., the weather can feel gray and dreary from December through February, which may be tough if you’re looking for milder winter climates.
11. Pro: Historic charm
Wilmington’s history, dating back to the 1600s, is visible through its historic architecture and landmarks. The city’s colonial roots are reflected in Historic New Castle, just a short drive away, as well as in several museums and heritage sites within the city itself.
