Maryland vs Delaware: Which Is Better to Live In?
Maryland ranks #31 of 50 overall and Delaware #30 as of the latest release. Delaware is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 99.8 vs 105), has a 3.5-point lower tax burden. Overall they are 0 points apart, too close to call: Maryland leads 4 of 11 categories, Delaware leads 7.
- Total tax burden is 35% lower in Delaware (6.52% vs. 10.04% in Maryland).
- Income needed to buy the typical home is 16% lower in Delaware ($98,191 vs. $116,485 in Maryland).
- Median household income is 18% higher in Maryland ($102,905 vs. $87,534 in Delaware).
| Measure | MarylandMD | DelawareDE | GapMD−DE | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap 0 pts | 53.6#31 of 50 · C+ | 53.6#30 of 50 · C+ | 0 pts | — | Even |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +5.2 pts (+5%) · US 100 | 105#44 of 50 | 99.8#32 of 50 | +5.2 pts+5% | 100 | DE |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$10,334 · US -$11,758 | -$30,684#39 of 50 | -$20,350#31 of 50 | -$10,334 | -$11,758 | DE |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$22,234 (+5%) · US $368,697 | $428,308#35 of 50 | $406,074#31 of 50 | +$22,234+5% | $368,697 | DE |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +3.52 pts · US 8.74% | 10.04%#42 of 50 | 6.52%#7 of 50 | +3.52 pts | 8.74% | DE |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +11 (+3%) · US 328 | 358#34 of 50 | 347#32 of 50 | +11+3% | 328 | Even |
| Median household incomeGap +$15,371 (+18%) · US $80,903 | $102,905#3 of 50 | $87,534#13 of 50 | +$15,371+18% | $80,903 | MD |
| High school graduation rateGap -1.5 pts · US 85.62% | 86.3%#26 of 50 | 87.8%#16 of 50 | -1.5 pts | 85.62% | DE |
| Life expectancyGap +1.3 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.8#20 of 50 | 76.5#33 of 50 | +1.3 yrs | 76.9 | MD |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -17,682 · US -33 | -13,628#45 of 50 | +4,054#15 of 50 | -17,682 | -33 | DE |
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 Maryland or Delaware better to live in?
Maryland scores 53.6 and Delaware scores 53.6 out of 100, a 0-point gap this site treats as even. Maryland leads 4 of 11 categories, Delaware leads 7, and 0 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | MarylandMD | DelawareDE | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap +24.7 | 15% | 65.3#6 · A | 40.6#36 · C | +24.7 pts | MD |
| Safety12% of scoregap -4.7 | 12% | 60.3#37 · C | 65.0#29 · C+ | -4.7 pts | DE |
| Health12% of scoregap +13.7 | 12% | 63.6#15 · B+ | 49.9#30 · C+ | +13.7 pts | MD |
| Education12% of scoregap +10.3 | 12% | 55.5#31 · C+ | 45.2#42 · C | +10.3 pts | MD |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -11.8 | 10% | 50.3#39 · C | 62.1#30 · C+ | -11.8 pts | DE |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -12.2 | 8% | 55.0#35 · C | 67.2#13 · B+ | -12.2 pts | DE |
| Growth7% of scoregap -20.1 | 7% | 29.8#37 · C | 49.9#13 · B+ | -20.1 pts | DE |
| Transportation7% of scoregap -6.9 | 7% | 40.9#45 · D | 47.8#30 · C+ | -6.9 pts | DE |
| Livability7% of scoregap -24.7 | 7% | 21.7#46 · D | 46.4#10 · A | -24.7 pts | DE |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -12.1 | 6% | 11.8#40 · C | 23.9#26 · B | -12.1 pts | DE |
| Environment4% of scoregap +12.6 | 4% | 46.1#19 · B | 33.5#37 · C | +12.6 pts | MD |
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 Maryland cheaper than Delaware?
Delaware is cheaper: cost of living index 99.8 vs 105 in Maryland (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $10,334 more a year in Delaware after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | MarylandMD | DelawareDE | GapMD−DE | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +5.2 pts (+5%) · US 100 | 105#44 of 50 | 99.8#32 of 50 | +5.2 pts+5% | 100 | DE |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +6.3 pts (+7%) · US 100 | 102.5#42 of 50 | 96.2#19 of 50 | +6.3 pts+7% | 100 | DE |
| Residential electricity priceGap +2.35¢ (+14%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 19.48¢/kWh#38 of 50 | 17.13¢/kWh#34 of 50 | +2.35¢+14% | 17.84¢/kWh | DE |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$0.17 (+1%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $16.14/Mcf#28 of 50 | $15.97/Mcf#27 of 50 | +$0.17+1% | $15.83/Mcf | Even |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.01 (0%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.32/gal#33 of 50 | $3.31/gal#32 of 50 | +$0.010% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$2,872 (+17%) · US $15,633 | $20,124#40 of 50 | $17,252#32 of 50 | +$2,872+17% | $15,633 | DE |
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 | MarylandMD | DelawareDE | GapMD−DE | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$2,405 | +$26,870costs $48,131 | +$29,275costs $45,726 | -$2,405 | DE |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$3,560 | +$16,536costs $58,463 | +$20,096costs $54,904 | -$3,560 | DE |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$10,334 | -$30,684costs $105,684 | -$20,350costs $95,350 | -$10,334 | DE |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$3,116 | +$30,111costs $44,889 | +$33,227costs $41,774 | -$3,116 | DE |
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 | MarylandMD | DelawareDE | GapMD−DE | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$3,485 | $30,358 | $26,873 | +$3,485 | DE |
| ChildcareGap +$5,744 | $40,248 | $34,504 | +$5,744 | DE |
| UtilitiesGap +$250 | $5,040 | $4,790 | +$250 | Even |
| GroceriesGap +$710 | $11,545 | $10,835 | +$710 | DE |
| TransportationGap +$31 | $10,434 | $10,403 | +$31 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap +$114 | $8,059 | $7,945 | +$114 | Even |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Maryland or Delaware?
Delaware collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 6.52% vs 10.04%. Maryland has high income tax, low sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack; Delaware has high income tax, low property tax, low sales tax.
| Measure | MarylandMD | DelawareDE | GapMD−DE | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +3.52 pts · US 8.74% | 10.04%#42 of 50 | 6.52%#7 of 50 | +3.52 pts | 8.74% | DE |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +1.1 pts · US 5.46% | 8.95%#43 of 50 | 7.85%#41 of 50 | +1.1 pts | 5.46% | DE |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.47 pts · US 1.02% | 1.02%#30 of 50 | 0.55%#7 of 50 | +0.47 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +6 pts · US 6.66% | 6%#11 of 50 | 0%#3 of 50 | +6 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 Maryland or Delaware?
Homes cost 5% more in Maryland: a typical home value of $428,308 in Maryland vs $406,074 in Delaware. Buying the typical home takes about $116,485 of income in Maryland and $98,191 in Delaware; the median household earns $102,905 and $87,534.
| Measure | MarylandMD | DelawareDE | GapMD−DE | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$22,234 (+5%) · US $368,697 | $428,308#35 of 50 | $406,074#31 of 50 | +$22,234+5% | $368,697 | DE |
| Home value change, one yearGap -1.3 pts · US +1.2% | 0%#41 of 50 | +1.3%#34 of 50 | -1.3 pts | +1.2% | DE |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$29 (-1%) · US $1,948 | $1,948#35 of 50 | $1,977#36 of 50 | -$29-1% | $1,948 | Even |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$18,294 (+19%) · US $100,006 | $116,485#36 of 50 | $98,191#27 of 50 | +$18,294+19% | $100,006 | DE |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.4x (-9%) · US 4.6x | 4.2x#22 of 50 | 4.6x#29 of 50 | -0.4x-9% | 4.6x | MD |
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.
| MD | DE | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $2,204 | $2,089 |
| Income needed vs. median | +13% | +12% |
| Five-year change | +13.5% | +21.4% |
| Market temperature | Cool | Cool |
| Largest metro | Baltimore | 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 Maryland or Delaware?
Maryland pays more: median household income $102,905 vs $87,534, with unemployment at 4% in Maryland and 4.8% in Delaware. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Maryland's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 1 after adjusting for local costs and Delaware's in 13.
| Measure | MarylandMD | DelawareDE | GapMD−DE | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$15,371 (+18%) · US $80,903 | $102,905#3 of 50 | $87,534#13 of 50 | +$15,371+18% | $80,903 | MD |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.8 pts · US 3.95% | 4%#27 of 50 | 4.8%#45 of 50 | -0.8 pts | 3.95% | MD |
| GDP per capitaGap -$5,173 (-7%) · US $64,333 | $68,357#16 of 50 | $73,530#11 of 50 | -$5,173-7% | $64,333 | DE |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.2 pts · US +1.91% | +2.3%#18 of 50 | +2.1%#20 of 50 | +0.2 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Population growthGap -0.62 pts · US +0.51% | +0.32%#34 of 50 | +0.94%#6 of 50 | -0.62 pts | +0.51% | DE |
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 | MD | DE | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family Medicine Physicians | $235,537$244,958 in Baltimore | $247,783$245,305 in Wilmington | DE |
| General & Operations Managers | $97,222$101,111 in Baltimore | $108,782$107,694 in Wilmington | DE |
| Registered Nurses | $84,077$87,440 in Baltimore | $95,415$94,461 in Wilmington | DE |
| Civil Engineers | $95,492$99,312 in Baltimore | $104,980$103,930 in Wilmington | DE |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $106,653$110,919 in Baltimore | $114,241$113,099 in Wilmington | DE |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $55,883$58,118 in Baltimore | $61,025$60,415 in Wilmington | DE |
| Lawyers | $152,749$158,859 in Baltimore | $147,702$146,225 in Wilmington | MD |
| Software Developers | $129,584$134,767 in Baltimore | $134,120$132,779 in Wilmington | DE |
| Secondary School Teachers | $63,485$66,024 in Baltimore | $67,749$67,072 in Wilmington | DE |
| Electricians | $62,449$64,947 in Baltimore | $66,565$65,899 in Wilmington | DE |
| Construction Laborers | $43,559$45,301 in Baltimore | $47,258$46,785 in Wilmington | DE |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $33,743$35,093 in Baltimore | $36,704$36,337 in Wilmington | DE |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $66,648$69,314 in Baltimore | $69,335$68,642 in Wilmington | DE |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $49,774$51,765 in Baltimore | $52,236$51,714 in Wilmington | DE |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $59,982$62,381 in Baltimore | $58,443$57,859 in Wilmington | Even |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $76,611$79,675 in Baltimore | $77,884$77,105 in Wilmington | Even |
| Mental Health Counselors | $55,677$57,904 in Baltimore | $56,814$56,246 in Wilmington | Even |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $70,989$73,829 in Baltimore | $71,461$70,746 in Wilmington | Even |
| Accountants & Auditors | $84,061$87,423 in Baltimore | $84,476$83,631 in Wilmington | Even |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $54,859$57,053 in Baltimore | $55,029$54,479 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 Maryland safer than Delaware?
Violent crime is about the same: 358 per 100,000 residents in Maryland and 347 in Delaware (FBI). Property crime runs 1,820 and 1,559 per 100,000.
| Measure | MarylandMD | DelawareDE | GapMD−DE | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +11 (+3%) · US 328 | 358#34 of 50 | 347#32 of 50 | +11+3% | 328 | Even |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +261 (+17%) · US 1,535 | 1,820#43 of 50 | 1,559#30 of 50 | +261+17% | 1,535 | DE |
FBI state crime estimates, offenses per 100,000 residents, latest release. Florida and North Dakota use the FBI's prior-year estimate because the latest year is based on limited data. Lower is ahead.
- Rockville, MD108 violent per 100K
- Elsmere, DE144 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Maryland or Delaware?
Maryland scores higher for education (#31 of 50 vs #42), with high school graduation rates of 86.3% and 87.8%. Maryland scores higher for health (#15 vs #30); life expectancy is 77.8 years in Maryland and 76.5 in Delaware.
| Measure | MarylandMD | DelawareDE | GapMD−DE | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +5 · US 273 | 268#38 of 50 | 263#47 of 50 | +5 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +9 · US 257 | 258#21 of 50 | 250#46 of 50 | +9 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -1.5 pts · US 85.62% | 86.3%#26 of 50 | 87.8%#16 of 50 | -1.5 pts | 85.62% | DE |
| Life expectancyGap +1.3 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.8#20 of 50 | 76.5#33 of 50 | +1.3 yrs | 76.9 | MD |
| Adults with obesityGap -3.9 pts · US 34.03% | 32.7%#19 of 50 | 36.6%#35 of 50 | -3.9 pts | 34.03% | MD |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -0.6 pts · US 7.6% | 6.3%#18 of 50 | 6.9%#23 of 50 | -0.6 pts | 7.6% | MD |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -1 pts (-2%) · US 38.8 | 40#25 of 50 | 41#32 of 50 | -1 pts-2% | 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).
- Waldorf, MDeducation score 94
- 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: Maryland #31, Delaware #42. Health: Maryland #15, Delaware #30.
Are more people moving from Maryland to Delaware, or from Delaware to Maryland?
3,847 households moved from Maryland to Delaware and 2,955 moved from Delaware to Maryland in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 892 households for Delaware. Movers to Delaware reported an average income of $95,274; movers to Maryland reported $65,632. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 7,026 people (±2,233) moving from Maryland to Delaware and 5,781 (±1,822) 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 | MarylandMD | DelawareDE | GapMD−DE | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +62,001 (+291%) | 83,281#18 of 50 | 21,280#42 of 50 | +62,001+291% | MD |
| Households moving outIRSGap +79,683 (+463%) | 96,909#35 of 50 | 17,226#7 of 50 | +79,683+463% | DE |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -17,682 | -13,628#45 of 50 | +4,054#15 of 50 | -17,682 | DE |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -6.0 | -2.2#46 of 50 | +3.8#2 of 50 | -6.0 | DE |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$7,614 (-9%) | $80,821#20 of 50 | $88,435#10 of 50 | -$7,614-9% | DE |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$11,749 (+15%) | $88,251#10 of 50 | $76,502#19 of 50 | +$11,749+15% | MD |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -8.4 | -1.9#41 of 50 | +6.5#4 of 50 | -8.4 | 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, Maryland or Delaware?
Delaware is the better fit for retirees, remote workers, young professionals, small business, and outdoor enthusiasts; 1 of the six lifestyle indexes are within 4 places. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | MarylandMD | DelawareDE | GapMD−DE | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +1 places | #38score 56.3 | #37score 56.9 | +1 places | Even |
| RetireesGap +13 places | #36score 55.8 | #23score 62.7 | +13 places | DE |
| Remote WorkersGap +16 places | #40score 43.6 | #24score 52.5 | +16 places | DE |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +13 places | #34score 49.1 | #21score 56.2 | +13 places | DE |
| Small BusinessGap +10 places | #31score 52 | #21score 59.5 | +10 places | DE |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +6 places | #36score 33.6 | #30score 39.3 | +6 places | DE |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesEven (#38 vs #37)
- RetireesDelaware (#23 vs #36)
- Remote WorkersDelaware (#24 vs #40)
- Young ProfessionalsDelaware (#21 vs #34)
- Small BusinessDelaware (#21 vs #31)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsDelaware (#30 vs #36)
Which cities stand out in Maryland and Delaware?
Maryland has 20 tracked cities and Delaware has 20; the largest are Baltimore and Wilmington. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | MarylandMD | DelawareDE |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Baltimore573,243 people | Wilmington71,727 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Bethesdascore 76.7 | North Starscore 72.3 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Rockville108 violent per 100K | Elsmere144 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Baltimorecost index 104.5 | Dovercost index 97.5 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Bethesdawalkability 14.3 of 20 | Seafordwalkability 15 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Columbiacounty median AQI 33 | Milfordcounty median AQI 39 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Waldorf94% graduation rate | Middletown95.3% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Potomacmedian income $236,675 | Hockessinmedian income $171,204 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Frederick+3% growth | Milford+4.6% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Maryland and Delaware compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Maryland carries AAA credit rating and Delaware AAA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | MarylandMD | DelawareDE | GapMD−DE | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap +6 pts · US 29.34% | 12%#36 of 50 | 6%#46 of 50 | +6 pts | 29.34% | MD |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -19.9 (-100%) · US 29.6 | 0.0#1 of 50 | 19.9#17 of 50 | -19.9-100% | 29.6 | MD |
| Public land shareGap +5.2 pts · US 17.16% | 7.9%#24 of 50 | 2.7%#41 of 50 | +5.2 pts | 17.16% | MD |
| Mean travel time to workGap +5.5 min · US 25.2 min | 32.3 min#49 of 50 | 26.8 min#36 of 50 | +5.5 min | 25.2 min | DE |
| Commuters using public transitGap +2.7 pts · US 2.29% | 5%#5 of 50 | 2.3%#14 of 50 | +2.7 pts | 2.29% | MD |
| Workers working from homeGap +2.7 pts · US 12.28% | 15.6%#9 of 50 | 12.9%#21 of 50 | +2.7 pts | 12.28% | MD |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +0.1 pts · US 92.67% | 94.4%#8 of 50 | 94.3%#10 of 50 | +0.1 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 | MarylandMD | DelawareDE | GapMD−DE | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 100#14 of 50 | 100#13 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -2.7 pts · US 12.39% | 7.5%#39 of 50 | 10.2%#25 of 50 | -2.7 pts | 12.39% | DE |
| Pension funded ratioGap -12 pts · US 74.3% | 75%#25 of 50 | 87%#10 of 50 | -12 pts | 74.3% | DE |
| State debt per capitaGap -$280 (-6%) · US $3,506 | $4,350#40 of 50 | $4,630#42 of 50 | -$280-6% | $3,506 | MD |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -2.4 pts · US +4.66% | +1.8%#44 of 50 | +4.2%#31 of 50 | -2.4 pts | +4.66% | DE |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Maryland 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).
Maryland vs Delaware: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Maryland is ahead on 13 of 51, Delaware on 25, and 13 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | MarylandMD | DelawareDE | GapMD−DE | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +5,205,395 (+491%) · US 6.8 million | 6.3 million#19 of 50 | 1.1 million#45 of 50 | +5,205,395+491% | 6.8 million | MD |
| Median household incomeGap +$15,371 (+18%) · US $80,903 | $102,905#3 of 50 | $87,534#13 of 50 | +$15,371+18% | $80,903 | MD |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.8 pts · US 3.95% | 4%#27 of 50 | 4.8%#45 of 50 | -0.8 pts | 3.95% | MD |
| Population growthGap -0.62 pts · US +0.51% | +0.32%#34 of 50 | +0.94%#6 of 50 | -0.62 pts | +0.51% | DE |
| GDP per capitaGap -$5,173 (-7%) · US $64,333 | $68,357#16 of 50 | $73,530#11 of 50 | -$5,173-7% | $64,333 | DE |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.2 pts · US +1.91% | +2.3%#18 of 50 | +2.1%#20 of 50 | +0.2 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +11 (+3%) · US 328 | 358#34 of 50 | 347#32 of 50 | +11+3% | 328 | Even |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +261 (+17%) · US 1,535 | 1,820#43 of 50 | 1,559#30 of 50 | +261+17% | 1,535 | DE |
| High school graduation rateGap -1.5 pts · US 85.62% | 86.3%#26 of 50 | 87.8%#16 of 50 | -1.5 pts | 85.62% | DE |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +1 · US 237 | 234#39 of 50 | 233#40 of 50 | +1 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +5 · US 273 | 268#38 of 50 | 263#47 of 50 | +5 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +6 · US 214 | 216#20 of 50 | 210#43 of 50 | +6 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +9 · US 257 | 258#21 of 50 | 250#46 of 50 | +9 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +1.3 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.8#20 of 50 | 76.5#33 of 50 | +1.3 yrs | 76.9 | MD |
| Adults with obesityGap -3.9 pts · US 34.03% | 32.7%#19 of 50 | 36.6%#35 of 50 | -3.9 pts | 34.03% | MD |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -0.6 pts · US 7.6% | 6.3%#18 of 50 | 6.9%#23 of 50 | -0.6 pts | 7.6% | MD |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$22,234 (+5%) · US $368,697 | $428,308#35 of 50 | $406,074#31 of 50 | +$22,234+5% | $368,697 | DE |
| Home value change, one yearGap -1.3 pts · US +1.2% | 0%#41 of 50 | +1.3%#34 of 50 | -1.3 pts | +1.2% | DE |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$29 (-1%) · US $1,948 | $1,948#35 of 50 | $1,977#36 of 50 | -$29-1% | $1,948 | Even |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$18,294 (+19%) · US $100,006 | $116,485#36 of 50 | $98,191#27 of 50 | +$18,294+19% | $100,006 | DE |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +5.2 pts (+5%) · US 100 | 105#44 of 50 | 99.8#32 of 50 | +5.2 pts+5% | 100 | DE |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.4x (-9%) · US 4.6x | 4.2x#22 of 50 | 4.6x#29 of 50 | -0.4x-9% | 4.6x | MD |
| Residential electricity priceGap +2.35¢ (+14%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 19.48¢/kWh#38 of 50 | 17.13¢/kWh#34 of 50 | +2.35¢+14% | 17.84¢/kWh | DE |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$0.17 (+1%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $16.14/Mcf#28 of 50 | $15.97/Mcf#27 of 50 | +$0.17+1% | $15.83/Mcf | Even |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.01 (0%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.32/gal#33 of 50 | $3.31/gal#32 of 50 | +$0.010% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +6.3 pts (+7%) · US 100 | 102.5#42 of 50 | 96.2#19 of 50 | +6.3 pts+7% | 100 | DE |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$2,872 (+17%) · US $15,633 | $20,124#40 of 50 | $17,252#32 of 50 | +$2,872+17% | $15,633 | DE |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +3.52 pts · US 8.74% | 10.04%#42 of 50 | 6.52%#7 of 50 | +3.52 pts | 8.74% | DE |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +1.1 pts · US 5.46% | 8.95%#43 of 50 | 7.85%#41 of 50 | +1.1 pts | 5.46% | DE |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.47 pts · US 1.02% | 1.02%#30 of 50 | 0.55%#7 of 50 | +0.47 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +6 pts · US 6.66% | 6%#11 of 50 | 0%#3 of 50 | +6 pts | 6.66% | DE |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 100#14 of 50 | 100#13 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -2.7 pts · US 12.39% | 7.5%#39 of 50 | 10.2%#25 of 50 | -2.7 pts | 12.39% | DE |
| Pension funded ratioGap -12 pts · US 74.3% | 75%#25 of 50 | 87%#10 of 50 | -12 pts | 74.3% | DE |
| State debt per capitaGap -$280 (-6%) · US $3,506 | $4,350#40 of 50 | $4,630#42 of 50 | -$280-6% | $3,506 | MD |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -2.4 pts · US +4.66% | +1.8%#44 of 50 | +4.2%#31 of 50 | -2.4 pts | +4.66% | DE |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -1 pts (-2%) · US 38.8 | 40#25 of 50 | 41#32 of 50 | -1 pts-2% | 38.8 | Even |
| Renewable share of electricityGap +6 pts · US 29.34% | 12%#36 of 50 | 6%#46 of 50 | +6 pts | 29.34% | MD |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -19.9 (-100%) · US 29.6 | 0.0#1 of 50 | 19.9#17 of 50 | -19.9-100% | 29.6 | MD |
| Public land shareGap +5.2 pts · US 17.16% | 7.9%#24 of 50 | 2.7%#41 of 50 | +5.2 pts | 17.16% | MD |
| Mean travel time to workGap +5.5 min · US 25.2 min | 32.3 min#49 of 50 | 26.8 min#36 of 50 | +5.5 min | 25.2 min | DE |
| Commuters using public transitGap +2.7 pts · US 2.29% | 5%#5 of 50 | 2.3%#14 of 50 | +2.7 pts | 2.29% | MD |
| Workers working from homeGap +2.7 pts · US 12.28% | 15.6%#9 of 50 | 12.9%#21 of 50 | +2.7 pts | 12.28% | MD |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +0.1 pts · US 92.67% | 94.4%#8 of 50 | 94.3%#10 of 50 | +0.1 pts | 92.67% | Even |
| Households moving inIRSGap +62,001 (+291%) · US 78,682 | 83,281#18 of 50 | 21,280#42 of 50 | +62,001+291% | 78,682 | MD |
| Households moving outIRSGap +79,683 (+463%) · US 78,715 | 96,909#35 of 50 | 17,226#7 of 50 | +79,683+463% | 78,715 | DE |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -17,682 · US -33 | -13,628#45 of 50 | +4,054#15 of 50 | -17,682 | -33 | DE |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -6.0 · US +0.4 | -2.2#46 of 50 | +3.8#2 of 50 | -6.0 | +0.4 | DE |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$7,614 (-9%) · US $77,690 | $80,821#20 of 50 | $88,435#10 of 50 | -$7,614-9% | $77,690 | DE |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$11,749 (+15%) · US $77,024 | $88,251#10 of 50 | $76,502#19 of 50 | +$11,749+15% | $77,024 | MD |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -8.4 · US +1.1 | -1.9#41 of 50 | +6.5#4 of 50 | -8.4 | +1.1 | DE |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$10,334 · US -$11,758 | -$30,684#39 of 50 | -$20,350#31 of 50 | -$10,334 | -$11,758 | DE |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$2,405 · US +$31,418 | +$26,870#36 of 50 | +$29,275#31 of 50 | -$2,405 | +$31,418 | DE |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$3,116 · US +$35,970 | +$30,111#38 of 50 | +$33,227#31 of 50 | -$3,116 | +$35,970 | DE |
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 Maryland and Delaware numbers say when read together.
Neither state is better overall
Maryland (53.6, #31) and Delaware (53.6, #30) are within 2 composite points. Maryland leads 4 categories, Delaware leads 7, and 0 are even. The answer depends on which categories matter to you.
Delaware is cheaper day to day
Delaware's cost of living index is 99.8 against 105 in Maryland (US = 100). The typical home costs $428,308 in Maryland and $406,074 in Delaware. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$30,684 a year after typical costs in Maryland and -$20,350 in Delaware.
Delaware takes a smaller share in taxes
Maryland collects 10.04% of income in state and local taxes (high income tax, low sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack); Delaware collects 6.52% (high income tax, low property tax, low sales tax).
Maryland pays more
Median household income is $102,905 in Maryland and $87,534 in Delaware, with unemployment at 4% and 4.8%. Violent crime runs 358 per 100,000 residents in Maryland and 347 in Delaware.
Moves between the two run about even
7,026 people moved from Maryland to Delaware and 5,781 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Delaware is the better fit for retirees
For families, Maryland ranks #38 of 50 and Delaware #37; for retirees, Maryland ranks #36 and Delaware #23.
Maryland vs Delaware: frequently asked questions
Is Maryland or Delaware better to live in?
Maryland ranks #31 of 50 overall and Delaware #30 as of the latest release. Delaware is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 99.8 vs 105), has a 3.5-point lower tax burden. Overall they are 0 points apart, too close to call: Maryland leads 4 of 11 categories, Delaware leads 7.
Is Maryland cheaper than Delaware?
Delaware is cheaper than Maryland: cost of living index 99.8 vs 105 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$30,684 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Maryland, and -$20,350 in Delaware. The typical home value is $428,308 in Maryland and $406,074 in Delaware.
Which has lower taxes, Maryland or Delaware?
Delaware has the lower tax burden: 6.52% of income in state and local taxes vs 10.04% in Maryland. Maryland's top income tax rate is 8.95%, its effective property tax rate 1.02% and its combined sales tax 6%; Delaware's are 7.85%, 0.55% and 0%.
Is Maryland safer than Delaware?
Maryland and Delaware have similar violent crime rates: 358 vs 347 per 100,000 residents, per the FBI. Maryland ranks #34 of 50 for violent crime and Delaware #32. Property crime is 1,820 per 100,000 in Maryland and 1,559 in Delaware. The safest tracked cities are Rockville, MD, and Elsmere, DE.
Are homes more expensive in Maryland or Delaware?
Homes are 5% more expensive in Maryland: the typical home value is $428,308 in Maryland and $406,074 in Delaware. Buying the typical home takes about $116,485 of household income in Maryland and $98,191 in Delaware, against median incomes of $102,905 and $87,534.
Do people earn more in Maryland or Delaware?
Maryland pays more: median household income is $102,905 vs $87,534 in Delaware, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4% in Maryland and 4.8% in Delaware. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Maryland's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 1 after adjusting for local costs and Delaware's in 13, with 6 even.
Are more people moving from Maryland to Delaware or from Delaware to Maryland?
3,847 households moved from Maryland to Delaware and 2,955 moved from Delaware to Maryland in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 892 households for Delaware. Movers to Delaware reported an average income of $95,274; movers to Maryland reported $65,632. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 7,026 people (±2,233) moving from Maryland to Delaware and 5,781 (±1,822) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Maryland or Delaware?
Delaware is the better fit for retirees: #23 of 50 on the retiree index vs #36 for Maryland. Maryland has high income tax, low sales tax, with property tax 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 +$30,111 left after typical costs in Maryland and +$33,227 in Delaware.
Which is better for families, Maryland or Delaware?
Maryland and Delaware are close for families: #38 and #37 of 50 on the families index. Center-based infant care costs $20,124 a year in Maryland and $17,252 in Delaware. High school graduation rates are 86.3% and 87.8%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$30,684 after typical costs in Maryland and -$20,350 in Delaware.
Which has better schools, Maryland or Delaware?
Maryland scores higher for education: #31 of 50 vs #42 for Delaware. Eighth graders average 268 in NAEP math in Maryland and 263 in Delaware. High school graduation rates are 86.3% in Maryland and 87.8% in Delaware, and the education category scores are 55.5 and 45.2 out of 100. Among tracked cities, Waldorf and Middletown have the strongest school metrics.
Compare a different pair
Swap either state, or jump to the matchups people open alongside Maryland vs Delaware.
Why this pair is featured: bordering states, major moving corridor (3,847 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).