Florida vs Delaware: Which Is Better to Live In?
Florida ranks #21 of 50 overall and Delaware #30 as of the latest release. Delaware is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 99.8 vs 103.4), collects a similar share of income in taxes, and has a 21% higher violent crime rate. Florida scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 3.
- Typical rent, largest metro is 26% lower in Delaware ($1,977 vs. $2,666 in Florida).
- Violent crime rate is 21% lower in Florida (275 vs. 347 in Delaware).
- Center-based infant care, per year is 18% lower in Florida ($14,230 vs. $17,252 in Delaware).
| Measure | FloridaFL | DelawareDE | GapFL−DE | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap +6.3 pts | 59.9#21 of 50 · B | 53.6#30 of 50 · C+ | +6.3 pts | — | FL |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +3.6 pts (+4%) · US 100 | 103.4#40 of 50 | 99.8#32 of 50 | +3.6 pts+4% | 100 | DE |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$9,864 · US -$11,758 | -$10,486#24 of 50 | -$20,350#31 of 50 | +$9,864 | -$11,758 | FL |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$30,604 (-8%) · US $368,697 | $375,470#28 of 50 | $406,074#31 of 50 | -$30,604-8% | $368,697 | FL |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.03 pts · US 8.74% | 6.49%#6 of 50 | 6.52%#7 of 50 | -0.03 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -72 (-21%) · US 328 | 275#23 of 50 | 347#32 of 50 | -72-21% | 328 | FL |
| Median household incomeGap -$9,799 (-11%) · US $80,903 | $77,735#26 of 50 | $87,534#13 of 50 | -$9,799-11% | $80,903 | DE |
| High school graduation rateGap -0.5 pts · US 85.62% | 87.3%#19 of 50 | 87.8%#16 of 50 | -0.5 pts | 85.62% | DE |
| Life expectancyGap +1.4 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.9#19 of 50 | 76.5#33 of 50 | +1.4 yrs | 76.9 | FL |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +51,295 · US -33 | +55,349#2 of 50 | +4,054#15 of 50 | +51,295 | -33 | FL |
Cost of living index from the Bureau of Economic Analysis (US = 100). Left after costs from the America's Dashboard affordability engine for a family of four earning $75,000. Typical home value from Zillow Research. Tax burden from WalletHub. Violent crime from the FBI, per 100,000 residents. Income and graduation from the Census Bureau and NCES. Life expectancy from the CDC. Net households from IRS Statistics of Income. US column is the 50-state average or median.
Is Florida or Delaware better to live in?
Florida scores higher overall: 59.9 to 53.6 out of 100, #21 of 50 against #30. Florida leads 6 of 11 categories, Delaware leads 3, and 2 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | FloridaFL | DelawareDE | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap +4.4 | 15% | 45.0#27 · C+ | 40.6#36 · C | +4.4 pts | FL |
| Safety12% of scoregap +8.1 | 12% | 73.1#23 · B | 65.0#29 · C+ | +8.1 pts | FL |
| Health12% of scoregap +10.6 | 12% | 60.5#19 · B | 49.9#30 · C+ | +10.6 pts | FL |
| Education12% of scoregap +15.9 | 12% | 61.1#23 · B | 45.2#42 · C | +15.9 pts | FL |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -0.2 | 10% | 61.9#31 · C+ | 62.1#30 · C+ | -0.2 pts | Even |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap +3 | 8% | 70.2#10 · A | 67.2#13 · B+ | +3 pts | FL |
| Growth7% of scoregap -5 | 7% | 44.9#20 · B | 49.9#13 · B+ | -5 pts | DE |
| Transportation7% of scoregap -4.2 | 7% | 43.6#39 · C | 47.8#30 · C+ | -4.2 pts | DE |
| Livability7% of scoregap -19.5 | 7% | 26.9#36 · C | 46.4#10 · A | -19.5 pts | DE |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap +3.9 | 6% | 27.8#24 · B | 23.9#26 · B | +3.9 pts | FL |
| Environment4% of scoregap +0.5 | 4% | 34.0#36 · C | 33.5#37 · C | +0.5 pts | Even |
Scores run 0 to 100 within each category; weight is the category's share of the composite. Grades follow rank (1–5 A+, 6–10 A, 11–18 B+, 19–26 B, 27–34 C+, 35–42 C, 43–48 D, 49–50 F). Methodology →
Is Florida cheaper than Delaware?
Delaware is cheaper: cost of living index 99.8 vs 103.4 in Florida (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $9,864 more a year in Florida after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | FloridaFL | DelawareDE | GapFL−DE | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +3.6 pts (+4%) · US 100 | 103.4#40 of 50 | 99.8#32 of 50 | +3.6 pts+4% | 100 | DE |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +1.9 pts (+2%) · US 100 | 98.1#33 of 50 | 96.2#19 of 50 | +1.9 pts+2% | 100 | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap -1.89¢ (-11%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.24¢/kWh#23 of 50 | 17.13¢/kWh#34 of 50 | -1.89¢-11% | 17.84¢/kWh | FL |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$9.51 (+60%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $25.48/Mcf#49 of 50 | $15.97/Mcf#27 of 50 | +$9.51+60% | $15.83/Mcf | DE |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.23 (-7%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.08/gal#12 of 50 | $3.31/gal#32 of 50 | -$0.23-7% | $3.32/gal | FL |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$3,022 (-18%) · US $15,633 | $14,230#22 of 50 | $17,252#32 of 50 | -$3,022-18% | $15,633 | FL |
Cost of living index and the price level for goods from the Bureau of Economic Analysis regional price parities (US = 100). Electricity, natural gas and gasoline prices from the EIA; center-based infant care from Child Care Aware of America. Lower is ahead.
| Measure | FloridaFL | DelawareDE | GapFL−DE | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap +$4,109 | +$33,384costs $41,617 | +$29,275costs $45,726 | +$4,109 | FL |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap +$3,963 | +$24,059costs $50,942 | +$20,096costs $54,904 | +$3,963 | FL |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap +$9,864 | -$10,486costs $85,486 | -$20,350costs $95,350 | +$9,864 | FL |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap +$3,772 | +$36,999costs $38,001 | +$33,227costs $41,774 | +$3,772 | FL |
Income left after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and state and local taxes for four household types earning $75,000, from the affordability engine. Negative means typical costs exceed take-home pay.
| Measure | FloridaFL | DelawareDE | GapFL−DE | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap -$1,011 | $25,862 | $26,873 | -$1,011 | FL |
| ChildcareGap -$6,044 | $28,460 | $34,504 | -$6,044 | FL |
| UtilitiesGap +$173 | $4,963 | $4,790 | +$173 | Even |
| GroceriesGap +$214 | $11,049 | $10,835 | +$214 | Even |
| TransportationGap -$723 | $9,680 | $10,403 | -$723 | FL |
| State and local taxesGap -$2,473 | $5,472 | $7,945 | -$2,473 | FL |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Florida or Delaware?
Florida and Delaware collect a similar share of income in state and local taxes: 6.49% vs 6.52%. Florida has no income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack; Delaware has high income tax, low property tax, low sales tax.
| Measure | FloridaFL | DelawareDE | GapFL−DE | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.03 pts · US 8.74% | 6.49%#6 of 50 | 6.52%#7 of 50 | -0.03 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -7.85 pts · US 5.46% | none#5 of 50 | 7.85%#41 of 50 | -7.85 pts | 5.46% | FL |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.27 pts · US 1.02% | 0.82%#23 of 50 | 0.55%#7 of 50 | +0.27 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +6.98 pts · US 6.66% | 6.98%#24 of 50 | 0%#3 of 50 | +6.98 pts | 6.66% | DE |
Total tax burden (state and local taxes as a share of personal income) from WalletHub; top marginal income tax rate, effective property tax rate and combined state and local sales tax from the Tax Foundation. Lower is ahead.
Are homes more expensive in Florida or Delaware?
Homes cost 8% more in Delaware: a typical home value of $375,470 in Florida vs $406,074 in Delaware. Buying the typical home takes about $108,280 of income in Florida and $98,191 in Delaware; the median household earns $77,735 and $87,534.
| Measure | FloridaFL | DelawareDE | GapFL−DE | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$30,604 (-8%) · US $368,697 | $375,470#28 of 50 | $406,074#31 of 50 | -$30,604-8% | $368,697 | FL |
| Home value change, one yearGap -2.8 pts · US +1.2% | -1.5%#48 of 50 | +1.3%#34 of 50 | -2.8 pts | +1.2% | DE |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$689 (+35%) · US $1,948 | $2,666#46 of 50 | $1,977#36 of 50 | +$689+35% | $1,948 | DE |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$10,089 (+10%) · US $100,006 | $108,280#31 of 50 | $98,191#27 of 50 | +$10,089+10% | $100,006 | DE |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.2x (+4%) · US 4.6x | 4.8x#33 of 50 | 4.6x#29 of 50 | +0.2x+4% | 4.6x | DE |
Typical home value, one-year change, largest-metro rent and income needed to buy from Zillow Research (a modeled estimate, not a median). Price-to-income ratio divides that typical home value by ACS median household income. Lower is ahead.
| FL | DE | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,932 | $2,089 |
| Income needed vs. median | +39% | +12% |
| Five-year change | +20.3% | +21.4% |
| Market temperature | Warm | Cool |
| Largest metro | Miami | Salisbury |
Income needed vs. median: how far the income required to buy the typical home sits above (+) or below (−) the state's median household income. Temperature blends price cuts, days to pending and inventory against the national market (Zillow).
Do people earn more in Florida or Delaware?
Delaware pays more: median household income $87,534 vs $77,735, with unemployment at 3.9% in Florida and 4.8% in Delaware. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Florida's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 0 after adjusting for local costs and Delaware's in 18.
| Measure | FloridaFL | DelawareDE | GapFL−DE | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap -$9,799 (-11%) · US $80,903 | $77,735#26 of 50 | $87,534#13 of 50 | -$9,799-11% | $80,903 | DE |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.9 pts · US 3.95% | 3.9%#24 of 50 | 4.8%#45 of 50 | -0.9 pts | 3.95% | FL |
| GDP per capitaGap -$12,875 (-18%) · US $64,333 | $60,655#29 of 50 | $73,530#11 of 50 | -$12,875-18% | $64,333 | DE |
| Real GDP growthGap +1.4 pts · US +1.91% | +3.5%#4 of 50 | +2.1%#20 of 50 | +1.4 pts | +1.91% | FL |
| Population growthGap -0.09 pts · US +0.51% | +0.85%#13 of 50 | +0.94%#6 of 50 | -0.09 pts | +0.51% | Even |
Median household income from the Census Bureau ACS; unemployment from BLS LAUS; GDP per capita and real GDP growth from the BEA; population growth from Census Bureau estimates.
Show all 20 occupations
| Occupation | FL | DE | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family Medicine Physicians | $213,282$219,680 in Miami | $247,783$245,305 in Wilmington | DE |
| Civil Engineers | $92,304$95,073 in Miami | $104,980$103,930 in Wilmington | DE |
| Registered Nurses | $85,835$88,410 in Miami | $95,415$94,461 in Wilmington | DE |
| Software Developers | $126,859$130,665 in Miami | $134,120$132,779 in Wilmington | DE |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $107,205$110,421 in Miami | $114,241$113,099 in Wilmington | DE |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $54,421$56,054 in Miami | $61,025$60,415 in Wilmington | DE |
| Construction Laborers | $40,921$42,149 in Miami | $47,258$46,785 in Wilmington | DE |
| General & Operations Managers | $102,658$105,738 in Miami | $108,782$107,694 in Wilmington | DE |
| Electricians | $60,481$62,295 in Miami | $66,565$65,899 in Wilmington | DE |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $66,198$68,184 in Miami | $71,461$70,746 in Wilmington | DE |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $73,359$75,560 in Miami | $77,884$77,105 in Wilmington | DE |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $48,013$49,453 in Miami | $52,236$51,714 in Wilmington | DE |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $51,587$53,135 in Miami | $55,029$54,479 in Wilmington | DE |
| Secondary School Teachers | $64,487$66,422 in Miami | $67,749$67,072 in Wilmington | DE |
| Accountants & Auditors | $81,307$83,746 in Miami | $84,476$83,631 in Wilmington | DE |
| Mental Health Counselors | $53,730$55,342 in Miami | $56,814$56,246 in Wilmington | DE |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $67,113$69,126 in Miami | $69,335$68,642 in Wilmington | DE |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $34,725$35,767 in Miami | $36,704$36,337 in Wilmington | DE |
| Lawyers | $147,977$152,416 in Miami | $147,702$146,225 in Wilmington | Even |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $58,177$59,922 in Miami | $58,443$57,859 in Wilmington | Even |
BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, latest release: the median wage in each state's best-paying metro, adjusted for that metro's cost of living (BEA regional price parities). Sorted by the size of the gap.
Is Florida safer than Delaware?
Florida is safer: 275 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 347 in Delaware (FBI). Property crime runs 1,402 and 1,559 per 100,000. Florida shows the FBI's prior-year estimate because the FBI flags its latest year as based on limited data.
| Measure | FloridaFL | DelawareDE | GapFL−DE | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -72 (-21%) · US 328 | 275#23 of 50 | 347#32 of 50 | -72-21% | 328 | FL |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -157 (-10%) · US 1,535 | 1,402#20 of 50 | 1,559#30 of 50 | -157-10% | 1,535 | FL |
FBI state crime estimates, offenses per 100,000 residents, latest release. Florida uses the FBI's prior-year estimate because the latest year is based on limited data. Lower is ahead.
- Pembroke Pines, FL42 violent per 100K
- Elsmere, DE144 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Florida or Delaware?
Florida scores higher for education (#23 of 50 vs #42), with high school graduation rates of 87.3% and 87.8%. Florida scores higher for health (#19 vs #30); life expectancy is 77.9 years in Florida and 76.5 in Delaware.
| Measure | FloridaFL | DelawareDE | GapFL−DE | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +4 · US 273 | 267#41 of 50 | 263#47 of 50 | +4 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +3 · US 257 | 253#43 of 50 | 250#46 of 50 | +3 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -0.5 pts · US 85.62% | 87.3%#19 of 50 | 87.8%#16 of 50 | -0.5 pts | 85.62% | DE |
| Life expectancyGap +1.4 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.9#19 of 50 | 76.5#33 of 50 | +1.4 yrs | 76.9 | FL |
| Adults with obesityGap -7 pts · US 34.03% | 29.6%#8 of 50 | 36.6%#35 of 50 | -7 pts | 34.03% | FL |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +4 pts · US 7.6% | 10.9%#45 of 50 | 6.9%#23 of 50 | +4 pts | 7.6% | DE |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap 0 pts (0%) · US 38.8 | 41#29 of 50 | 41#32 of 50 | 0 pts0% | 38.8 | Even |
High school graduation rate from NCES; life expectancy from the CDC National Center for Health Statistics; median air quality index from EPA AirData (lower is cleaner).
- Sanford, FLeducation score 95
- Middletown, DEeducation score 95.3
City education scores blend graduation rate, student-teacher ratio and per-pupil spending (NCES). State education scores combine NAEP math and reading with the graduation rate; health scores combine life expectancy, adult obesity and the uninsured rate. Education: Florida #23, Delaware #42. Health: Florida #19, Delaware #30.
Are more people moving from Florida to Delaware, or from Delaware to Florida?
1,141 households moved from Florida to Delaware and 1,546 moved from Delaware to Florida in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 405 households for Florida. Movers to Delaware reported an average income of $73,854; movers to Florida reported $109,625. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 1,574 people (±1,286) moving from Florida to Delaware and 1,581 (±994) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Bars show people (Census ACS, latest release, with 90% margins of error). IRS counts tax-filing households and reports the movers' average income; pairs outside a state's top ten origins and destinations are not published.
| Measure | FloridaFL | DelawareDE | GapFL−DE | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +332,832 (+1,564%) | 354,112#1 of 50 | 21,280#42 of 50 | +332,832+1,564% | FL |
| Households moving outIRSGap +281,537 (+1,634%) | 298,763#49 of 50 | 17,226#7 of 50 | +281,537+1,634% | DE |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +51,295 | +55,349#2 of 50 | +4,054#15 of 50 | +51,295 | FL |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -1.4 | +2.4#9 of 50 | +3.8#2 of 50 | -1.4 | DE |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$34,104 (+39%) | $122,539#1 of 50 | $88,435#10 of 50 | +$34,104+39% | FL |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$368 (0%) | $76,134#20 of 50 | $76,502#19 of 50 | -$3680% | Even |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -5.5 | +1.0#25 of 50 | +6.5#4 of 50 | -5.5 | DE |
Each state's total inbound and outbound households and the movers' average income from IRS Statistics of Income; net domestic migration per 1,000 residents from Census Bureau population estimates. Latest releases.
Which is better for retirees, families or remote workers, Florida or Delaware?
Florida is the better fit for families, retirees, and outdoor enthusiasts; 3 of the six lifestyle indexes are within 4 places. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | FloridaFL | DelawareDE | GapFL−DE | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap -13 places | #24score 65.4 | #37score 56.9 | -13 places | FL |
| RetireesGap -5 places | #18score 66.2 | #23score 62.7 | -5 places | FL |
| Remote WorkersGap +3 places | #27score 51.6 | #24score 52.5 | +3 places | Even |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +3 places | #24score 53.9 | #21score 56.2 | +3 places | Even |
| Small BusinessGap -2 places | #19score 62.4 | #21score 59.5 | -2 places | Even |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap -4 places | #26score 44.3 | #30score 39.3 | -4 places | FL |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesFlorida (#24 vs #37)
- RetireesFlorida (#18 vs #23)
- Remote WorkersEven (#27 vs #24)
- Young ProfessionalsEven (#24 vs #21)
- Small BusinessEven (#19 vs #21)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsFlorida (#26 vs #30)
Which cities stand out in Florida and Delaware?
Florida has 80 tracked cities and Delaware has 20; the largest are Jacksonville and Wilmington. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | FloridaFL | DelawareDE |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Jacksonville977,670 people | Wilmington71,727 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Palm Beach Gardensscore 64.8 | North Starscore 72.3 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Pembroke Pines42 violent per 100K | Elsmere144 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | The Villagescost index 85.4 | Dovercost index 97.5 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Westchesterwalkability 15.3 of 20 | Seafordwalkability 15 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Port St. Luciecounty median AQI 34 | Milfordcounty median AQI 39 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Sanford95% graduation rate | Middletown95.3% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Westonmedian income $139,825 | Hockessinmedian income $171,204 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | St. Cloud+5.7% growth | Milford+4.6% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Florida and Delaware compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Florida carries AAA credit rating and Delaware AAA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | FloridaFL | DelawareDE | GapFL−DE | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap +4 pts · US 29.34% | 10%#39 of 50 | 6%#46 of 50 | +4 pts | 29.34% | FL |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +2.6 (+13%) · US 29.6 | 22.5#19 of 50 | 19.9#17 of 50 | +2.6+13% | 29.6 | DE |
| Public land shareGap +23.6 pts · US 17.16% | 26.3%#13 of 50 | 2.7%#41 of 50 | +23.6 pts | 17.16% | FL |
| Mean travel time to workGap +2.1 min · US 25.2 min | 28.9 min#44 of 50 | 26.8 min#36 of 50 | +2.1 min | 25.2 min | DE |
| Commuters using public transitGap -1 pts · US 2.29% | 1.3%#21 of 50 | 2.3%#14 of 50 | -1 pts | 2.29% | DE |
| Workers working from homeGap +2.6 pts · US 12.28% | 15.5%#10 of 50 | 12.9%#21 of 50 | +2.6 pts | 12.28% | FL |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap 0 pts · US 92.67% | 94.3%#9 of 50 | 94.3%#10 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.67% | Even |
Renewable share of electricity from the EIA; natural disaster risk from FEMA's National Risk Index; public land share from USGS PAD-US; mean travel time to work, transit and work-from-home shares from the Census Bureau ACS; households with a broadband subscription from the Census Bureau ACS.
| Measure | FloridaFL | DelawareDE | GapFL−DE | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 100#8 of 50 | 100#13 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +1.5 pts · US 12.39% | 11.7%#20 of 50 | 10.2%#25 of 50 | +1.5 pts | 12.39% | FL |
| Pension funded ratioGap -5 pts · US 74.3% | 82%#13 of 50 | 87%#10 of 50 | -5 pts | 74.3% | DE |
| State debt per capitaGap -$2,670 (-58%) · US $3,506 | $1,960#9 of 50 | $4,630#42 of 50 | -$2,670-58% | $3,506 | FL |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +0.6 pts · US +4.66% | +4.8%#24 of 50 | +4.2%#31 of 50 | +0.6 pts | +4.66% | FL |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Florida AAA, Delaware AAA), rainy-day fund and budget balance as a share of spending (Pew, NASBO), pension funded ratio (Pew) and state debt per capita (Census Bureau).
Florida vs Delaware: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Florida is ahead on 22 of 51, Delaware on 17, and 12 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | FloridaFL | DelawareDE | GapFL−DE | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +22,402,566 (+2,114%) · US 6.8 million | 23.5 million#3 of 50 | 1.1 million#45 of 50 | +22,402,566+2,114% | 6.8 million | FL |
| Median household incomeGap -$9,799 (-11%) · US $80,903 | $77,735#26 of 50 | $87,534#13 of 50 | -$9,799-11% | $80,903 | DE |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.9 pts · US 3.95% | 3.9%#24 of 50 | 4.8%#45 of 50 | -0.9 pts | 3.95% | FL |
| Population growthGap -0.09 pts · US +0.51% | +0.85%#13 of 50 | +0.94%#6 of 50 | -0.09 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap -$12,875 (-18%) · US $64,333 | $60,655#29 of 50 | $73,530#11 of 50 | -$12,875-18% | $64,333 | DE |
| Real GDP growthGap +1.4 pts · US +1.91% | +3.5%#4 of 50 | +2.1%#20 of 50 | +1.4 pts | +1.91% | FL |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -72 (-21%) · US 328 | 275#23 of 50 | 347#32 of 50 | -72-21% | 328 | FL |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -157 (-10%) · US 1,535 | 1,402#20 of 50 | 1,559#30 of 50 | -157-10% | 1,535 | FL |
| High school graduation rateGap -0.5 pts · US 85.62% | 87.3%#19 of 50 | 87.8%#16 of 50 | -0.5 pts | 85.62% | DE |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +10 · US 237 | 243#3 of 50 | 233#40 of 50 | +10 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +4 · US 273 | 267#41 of 50 | 263#47 of 50 | +4 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +9 · US 214 | 218#10 of 50 | 210#43 of 50 | +9 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +3 · US 257 | 253#43 of 50 | 250#46 of 50 | +3 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +1.4 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.9#19 of 50 | 76.5#33 of 50 | +1.4 yrs | 76.9 | FL |
| Adults with obesityGap -7 pts · US 34.03% | 29.6%#8 of 50 | 36.6%#35 of 50 | -7 pts | 34.03% | FL |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +4 pts · US 7.6% | 10.9%#45 of 50 | 6.9%#23 of 50 | +4 pts | 7.6% | DE |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$30,604 (-8%) · US $368,697 | $375,470#28 of 50 | $406,074#31 of 50 | -$30,604-8% | $368,697 | FL |
| Home value change, one yearGap -2.8 pts · US +1.2% | -1.5%#48 of 50 | +1.3%#34 of 50 | -2.8 pts | +1.2% | DE |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$689 (+35%) · US $1,948 | $2,666#46 of 50 | $1,977#36 of 50 | +$689+35% | $1,948 | DE |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$10,089 (+10%) · US $100,006 | $108,280#31 of 50 | $98,191#27 of 50 | +$10,089+10% | $100,006 | DE |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +3.6 pts (+4%) · US 100 | 103.4#40 of 50 | 99.8#32 of 50 | +3.6 pts+4% | 100 | DE |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.2x (+4%) · US 4.6x | 4.8x#33 of 50 | 4.6x#29 of 50 | +0.2x+4% | 4.6x | DE |
| Residential electricity priceGap -1.89¢ (-11%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.24¢/kWh#23 of 50 | 17.13¢/kWh#34 of 50 | -1.89¢-11% | 17.84¢/kWh | FL |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$9.51 (+60%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $25.48/Mcf#49 of 50 | $15.97/Mcf#27 of 50 | +$9.51+60% | $15.83/Mcf | DE |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.23 (-7%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.08/gal#12 of 50 | $3.31/gal#32 of 50 | -$0.23-7% | $3.32/gal | FL |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +1.9 pts (+2%) · US 100 | 98.1#33 of 50 | 96.2#19 of 50 | +1.9 pts+2% | 100 | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$3,022 (-18%) · US $15,633 | $14,230#22 of 50 | $17,252#32 of 50 | -$3,022-18% | $15,633 | FL |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.03 pts · US 8.74% | 6.49%#6 of 50 | 6.52%#7 of 50 | -0.03 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -7.85 pts · US 5.46% | none#5 of 50 | 7.85%#41 of 50 | -7.85 pts | 5.46% | FL |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.27 pts · US 1.02% | 0.82%#23 of 50 | 0.55%#7 of 50 | +0.27 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +6.98 pts · US 6.66% | 6.98%#24 of 50 | 0%#3 of 50 | +6.98 pts | 6.66% | DE |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 100#8 of 50 | 100#13 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +1.5 pts · US 12.39% | 11.7%#20 of 50 | 10.2%#25 of 50 | +1.5 pts | 12.39% | FL |
| Pension funded ratioGap -5 pts · US 74.3% | 82%#13 of 50 | 87%#10 of 50 | -5 pts | 74.3% | DE |
| State debt per capitaGap -$2,670 (-58%) · US $3,506 | $1,960#9 of 50 | $4,630#42 of 50 | -$2,670-58% | $3,506 | FL |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +0.6 pts · US +4.66% | +4.8%#24 of 50 | +4.2%#31 of 50 | +0.6 pts | +4.66% | FL |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap 0 pts (0%) · US 38.8 | 41#29 of 50 | 41#32 of 50 | 0 pts0% | 38.8 | Even |
| Renewable share of electricityGap +4 pts · US 29.34% | 10%#39 of 50 | 6%#46 of 50 | +4 pts | 29.34% | FL |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +2.6 (+13%) · US 29.6 | 22.5#19 of 50 | 19.9#17 of 50 | +2.6+13% | 29.6 | DE |
| Public land shareGap +23.6 pts · US 17.16% | 26.3%#13 of 50 | 2.7%#41 of 50 | +23.6 pts | 17.16% | FL |
| Mean travel time to workGap +2.1 min · US 25.2 min | 28.9 min#44 of 50 | 26.8 min#36 of 50 | +2.1 min | 25.2 min | DE |
| Commuters using public transitGap -1 pts · US 2.29% | 1.3%#21 of 50 | 2.3%#14 of 50 | -1 pts | 2.29% | DE |
| Workers working from homeGap +2.6 pts · US 12.28% | 15.5%#10 of 50 | 12.9%#21 of 50 | +2.6 pts | 12.28% | FL |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap 0 pts · US 92.67% | 94.3%#9 of 50 | 94.3%#10 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.67% | Even |
| Households moving inIRSGap +332,832 (+1,564%) · US 78,682 | 354,112#1 of 50 | 21,280#42 of 50 | +332,832+1,564% | 78,682 | FL |
| Households moving outIRSGap +281,537 (+1,634%) · US 78,715 | 298,763#49 of 50 | 17,226#7 of 50 | +281,537+1,634% | 78,715 | DE |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +51,295 · US -33 | +55,349#2 of 50 | +4,054#15 of 50 | +51,295 | -33 | FL |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -1.4 · US +0.4 | +2.4#9 of 50 | +3.8#2 of 50 | -1.4 | +0.4 | DE |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$34,104 (+39%) · US $77,690 | $122,539#1 of 50 | $88,435#10 of 50 | +$34,104+39% | $77,690 | FL |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$368 (0%) · US $77,024 | $76,134#20 of 50 | $76,502#19 of 50 | -$3680% | $77,024 | Even |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -5.5 · US +1.1 | +1.0#25 of 50 | +6.5#4 of 50 | -5.5 | +1.1 | DE |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$9,864 · US -$11,758 | -$10,486#24 of 50 | -$20,350#31 of 50 | +$9,864 | -$11,758 | FL |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap +$4,109 · US +$31,418 | +$33,384#22 of 50 | +$29,275#31 of 50 | +$4,109 | +$31,418 | FL |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap +$3,772 · US +$35,970 | +$36,999#24 of 50 | +$33,227#31 of 50 | +$3,772 | +$35,970 | FL |
Every metric in the registry, direction-aware: ahead means better for a resident. Ranks are among the states with data. Sources are listed at the foot of the page.
Key takeaways
What the Florida and Delaware numbers say when read together.
Florida ranks higher overall
Florida leads 6 of the 11 categories to Delaware's 3, with 2 even; Delaware is ahead on livability and growth. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Florida is ahead on 22 and Delaware on 17.
Delaware is cheaper day to day
Delaware's cost of living index is 99.8 against 103.4 in Florida (US = 100). The typical home costs $375,470 in Florida and $406,074 in Delaware. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$10,486 a year after typical costs in Florida and -$20,350 in Delaware.
Tax burdens are close
Florida collects 6.49% of income in state and local taxes (no income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack); Delaware collects 6.52% (high income tax, low property tax, low sales tax).
Delaware pays more
Median household income is $77,735 in Florida and $87,534 in Delaware, with unemployment at 3.9% and 4.8%. Violent crime runs 275 per 100,000 residents in Florida and 347 in Delaware.
Moves between the two run about even
1,574 people moved from Florida to Delaware and 1,581 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Florida fits families and retirees better
For families, Florida ranks #24 of 50 and Delaware #37; for retirees, Florida ranks #18 and Delaware #23.
Florida vs Delaware: frequently asked questions
Is Florida or Delaware better to live in?
Florida ranks #21 of 50 overall and Delaware #30 as of the latest release. Delaware is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 99.8 vs 103.4), collects a similar share of income in taxes, and has a 21% higher violent crime rate. Florida scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 3.
Is Florida cheaper than Delaware?
Delaware is cheaper than Florida: cost of living index 99.8 vs 103.4 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$10,486 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Florida, and -$20,350 in Delaware. The typical home value is $375,470 in Florida and $406,074 in Delaware.
Which has lower taxes, Florida or Delaware?
Florida and Delaware have similar tax burdens: 6.49% vs 6.52% of income in state and local taxes. Florida's top income tax rate is zero, its effective property tax rate 0.82% and its combined sales tax 6.98%; Delaware's are 7.85%, 0.55% and 0%.
Is Florida safer than Delaware?
Florida is safer: 275 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 347 in Delaware, per the FBI. Florida ranks #23 of 50 for violent crime and Delaware #32. Property crime is 1,402 per 100,000 in Florida and 1,559 in Delaware. Florida shows the FBI's prior-year estimate because the FBI flags its latest year as based on limited data. The safest tracked cities are Pembroke Pines, FL, and Elsmere, DE.
Are homes more expensive in Florida or Delaware?
Homes are 8% more expensive in Delaware: the typical home value is $375,470 in Florida and $406,074 in Delaware. Buying the typical home takes about $108,280 of household income in Florida and $98,191 in Delaware, against median incomes of $77,735 and $87,534.
Do people earn more in Florida or Delaware?
Delaware pays more: median household income is $87,534 vs $77,735 in Florida, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 3.9% in Florida and 4.8% in Delaware. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Florida's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 0 after adjusting for local costs and Delaware's in 18, with 2 even.
Are more people moving from Florida to Delaware or from Delaware to Florida?
1,141 households moved from Florida to Delaware and 1,546 moved from Delaware to Florida in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 405 households for Florida. Movers to Delaware reported an average income of $73,854; movers to Florida reported $109,625. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 1,574 people (±1,286) moving from Florida to Delaware and 1,581 (±994) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Florida or Delaware?
Florida is the better fit for retirees: #18 of 50 on the retiree index vs #23 for Delaware. Florida has no income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack; Delaware has high income tax, low property tax, low sales tax. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$36,999 left after typical costs in Florida and +$33,227 in Delaware.
Which is better for families, Florida or Delaware?
Florida is the better fit for families: #24 of 50 on the families index vs #37 for Delaware. Center-based infant care costs $14,230 a year in Florida and $17,252 in Delaware. High school graduation rates are 87.3% and 87.8%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$10,486 after typical costs in Florida and -$20,350 in Delaware.
Is Delaware better than Florida?
No: Florida ranks higher than Delaware overall, #21 of 50 vs #30, with a composite score of 59.9 to 53.6. Florida leads 6 of 11 categories and Delaware leads 3, including livability and growth. Which is better for you depends on how you weigh cost, safety, schools, taxes and pay.
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