Top 12 Pros and Cons of Living in Wilmington, DE

Wilmington, Delaware, often referred to as "The Corporate Capital of America," is a city rich in history and opportunity. With its thriving financial sector, charming neighborhoods, and a cultural scene that punches above its weight, it's no wonder that many people are drawn to making Wilmington their home. However, life in this vibrant city comes with its own unique set of challenges. So whether you're searching for a cozy apartment in Trolley Square or a historic apartment in The Highlands, you’ve come to the right place.

In this ApartmentGuide article, we'll explore the various pros and cons of living in Wilmington, helping you decide if this Delaware gem is the right place for you.

Fast Facts About Living in Wilmington

• What is Wilmington known for: Wilmington is known as a major financial hub and is home to numerous banks and credit card companies.
• Fun fact: Wilmington is the birthplace of E. I. du Pont, the founder of the famous DuPont company, which played a significant role in the city's development.
• Population: Over 70,000 residents in Wilmington proper; over 700,000 in the metro area
• Average rent: $1,875 per month for a one-bedroom apartment
• Median home sale price: $260,000
• Days of sunshine: Approximately 202 days per year
• Public parks: More than 70 parks within the city
• Average summer high temperature: 86°F (30°C)
• Major industries: Finance, legal services, healthcare, and manufacturing

1. Pro: Proximity to major East Coast cities

Wilmington’s central location on the East Coast makes it an ideal base for exploring nearby major cities. Residents enjoy easy access to Philadelphia, Baltimore, and Washington, D.C., allowing for convenient weekend getaways or day trips. The city's well-connected Amtrak station offers direct train service to New York City and other key destinations, making travel both simple and efficient.

Commute times to popular destinations

• Philadelphia, PA: 30 minutes by train or car
• Baltimore, MD: 1 hour by car, 1.5 hours by train
• Washington, D.C.: 2 hours by train or car
• New York City, NY: 1.5 hours by train, 2 hours by car"
• Philadelphia, PA: 30 minutes by train or car
• Atlantic City, NJ: 1.5 hours by car

2. Con: Limited public transportation options

While Wilmington does have public transportation, including buses and trains operated by DART and SEPTA, the system is not as extensive as those in larger cities. The coverage and frequency can be limited, especially outside of peak commuting hours. Many residents find it necessary to own a car, which can add to transportation costs. However, the city is relatively walkable in certain areas, making it easier for residents to access local shops and amenities on foot.

Wilmington’s transportation scores

• Walk score: 74
• Transit score: 48
• Bike score: 52

3. Pro: Affordable cost of living

Compared to larger cities on the East Coast, Wilmington offers a relatively affordable cost of living. Although the overall cost of living in Wilmington is about 5% higher than the national average, it remains more budget-friendly than many other nearby urban areas. Housing costs are just 3% above the national average, with the median sale price for a home in Wilmington at $260,000, which is significantly lower than the national average of $438,929. However, the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Wilmington is around $1,875 per month, which is higher than the national average of $1,494.

Utilities, on the other hand, are 6% less expensive, which helps offset the higher costs in other areas. Groceries, transportation, healthcare, and lifestyle expenses are slightly above the national average, but Wilmington still provides a more affordable living option compared to larger East Coast cities."

4. Con: Weather variability

Wilmington experiences a full range of seasons, from hot, humid summers to cold, snowy winters. While some residents appreciate the variety, others may find the weather extremes challenging. Summers can be uncomfortable due to the heat and humidity, while winters often bring snow and ice, making commuting and outdoor activities more difficult.

5. Pro: Thriving arts and culture scene

Wilmington is home to a vibrant arts and culture scene. The city boasts several museums, theaters, and galleries, including the Delaware Art Museum and the Grand Opera House. Annual events like the Clifford Brown Jazz Festival and the Wilmington Flower Market add to the city's cultural offerings. Wilmington’s Riverfront area is a hub for dining, entertainment, and the arts, providing residents with plenty of opportunities to enjoy local culture.

6. Con: Limited nightlife options

While Wilmington has a growing arts and cultural scene, its nightlife options are somewhat limited compared to larger cities. The city has a number of bars, restaurants, and live music venues, but the nightlife tends to be more low-key. For those seeking a more vibrant nightlife, nearby Philadelphia offers a wider range of options.

7. Pro: Strong job market in key sectors

Wilmington has a strong job market, particularly in sectors like finance, legal services, healthcare, and manufacturing. The city is known as a hub for corporate and legal services, with many major banks and law firms having a significant presence. Additionally, the healthcare sector is robust, with major employers like ChristianaCare providing numerous job opportunities.

Top employers in Wilmington

• Bank of America
• JPMorgan Chase
• ChristianaCare
• DuPont
• AstraZeneca
• Chemours

8. Con: High property taxes

One downside to living in Wilmington is the high property taxes. While Delaware does not have a state sales tax, property taxes can be relatively high compared to other parts of the country. This can increase the overall cost of homeownership and should be considered when budgeting for a move to Wilmington.

9. Pro: Access to outdoor activities and green spaces

Wilmington offers numerous parks and outdoor spaces, making it easy for residents to enjoy nature without leaving the city. Brandywine Park, Alapocas Run State Park, and the Wilmington Riverfront are popular spots for hiking, jogging, and picnicking. The city’s proximity to the Brandywine Valley also provides easy access to beautiful countryside and outdoor recreation opportunities.

Other outdoor activities in Wilmington

• Rockford Park
• Wilmington State Parks
• Nemours Mansion & Gardens
• Russell W. Peterson Urban Wildlife Refuge
• Bellevue State Park

10. Con: Increasing housing costs

While Wilmington remains more affordable than many other East Coast cities, housing costs have been on the rise. The city’s growing popularity, combined with its limited housing supply, has led to a competitive real estate market. This trend is expected to continue as more people move to Wilmington, making it more difficult for some residents to find affordable housing.

11. Pro: Rich history and cultural heritage

Wilmington is steeped in history, dating back to its founding in the 17th century. The city played a significant role in the American Revolution and the Civil War, and its historical landmarks reflect this rich heritage. Sites like the Hagley Museum and Library and the Old Swedes Church offer residents and visitors a glimpse into the past, while the city’s historic neighborhoods add to its charm.

12. Pro: Strong sense of community

Wilmington is known for its welcoming neighborhoods, offering excellent schools, parks, and community amenities. Areas like Trolley Square, Forty Acres, and the Highlands are particularly popular due to their strong sense of community, tree-lined streets, and proximity to top-rated schools. These neighborhoods in Wilmington provide an inviting environment, making the city an attractive place to live.

Pros & cons of living in Wilmington, DE (Summary)

Pro: Proximity to major East Coast cities
Con: Limited public transportation options
Pro: Affordable cost of living
Con: Weather variability
Pro: Thriving arts and culture scene
Con: Limited nightlife options
Pro: Strong job market in key sectors
Con: High property taxes
Pro: Access to outdoor activities and green spaces
Con: Increasing housing costs
Pro: Rich history and cultural heritage
Pro: Strong sense of community

The post Top 12 Pros and Cons of Living in Wilmington, DE appeared first on Apartment Living Tips - Apartment Tips from ApartmentGuide.com.

source https://www.apartmentguide.com/blog/pros-and-cons-of-moving-to-wilmington-de/