Pennsylvania vs Delaware: Which Is Better to Live In?
Pennsylvania ranks #25 of 50 overall and Delaware #30 as of the latest release. Pennsylvania is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 97.6 vs 99.8), carries a 2.1-point higher tax burden, and has a 35% lower violent crime rate. Pennsylvania scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 4.
- Violent crime rate is 35% lower in Pennsylvania (227 vs. 347 in Delaware).
- Typical home value is 28% lower in Pennsylvania ($290,401 vs. $406,074 in Delaware).
- Total tax burden is 24% lower in Delaware (6.52% vs. 8.58% in Pennsylvania).
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | DelawareDE | GapPA−DE | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap +3.3 pts | 56.9#25 of 50 · B | 53.6#30 of 50 · C+ | +3.3 pts | — | PA |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -2.2 pts (-2%) · US 100 | 97.6#28 of 50 | 99.8#32 of 50 | -2.2 pts-2% | 100 | PA |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$8,725 · US -$11,758 | -$11,625#25 of 50 | -$20,350#31 of 50 | +$8,725 | -$11,758 | PA |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$115,673 (-28%) · US $368,697 | $290,401#15 of 50 | $406,074#31 of 50 | -$115,673-28% | $368,697 | PA |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +2.06 pts · US 8.74% | 8.58%#21 of 50 | 6.52%#7 of 50 | +2.06 pts | 8.74% | DE |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -120 (-35%) · US 328 | 227#14 of 50 | 347#32 of 50 | -120-35% | 328 | PA |
| Median household incomeGap -$9,989 (-11%) · US $80,903 | $77,545#27 of 50 | $87,534#13 of 50 | -$9,989-11% | $80,903 | DE |
| High school graduation rateGap -0.8 pts · US 85.62% | 87%#22 of 50 | 87.8%#16 of 50 | -0.8 pts | 85.62% | DE |
| Life expectancyGap +0.8 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.3#26 of 50 | 76.5#33 of 50 | +0.8 yrs | 76.9 | PA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -16,149 · US -33 | -12,095#44 of 50 | +4,054#15 of 50 | -16,149 | -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 Pennsylvania or Delaware better to live in?
Pennsylvania scores higher overall: 56.9 to 53.6 out of 100, #25 of 50 against #30. Pennsylvania leads 6 of 11 categories, Delaware leads 4, and 1 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | PennsylvaniaPA | DelawareDE | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -1.4 | 15% | 39.2#38 · C | 40.6#36 · C | -1.4 pts | Even |
| Safety12% of scoregap +13.1 | 12% | 78.1#15 · B+ | 65.0#29 · C+ | +13.1 pts | PA |
| Health12% of scoregap +9.7 | 12% | 59.6#21 · B | 49.9#30 · C+ | +9.7 pts | PA |
| Education12% of scoregap +20.2 | 12% | 65.4#15 · B+ | 45.2#42 · C | +20.2 pts | PA |
| Affordability10% of scoregap +4.6 | 10% | 66.7#27 · C+ | 62.1#30 · C+ | +4.6 pts | PA |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -21.6 | 8% | 45.6#41 · C | 67.2#13 · B+ | -21.6 pts | DE |
| Growth7% of scoregap -23.1 | 7% | 26.8#39 · C | 49.9#13 · B+ | -23.1 pts | DE |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +8.1 | 7% | 55.9#9 · A | 47.8#30 · C+ | +8.1 pts | PA |
| Livability7% of scoregap -12 | 7% | 34.4#22 · B | 46.4#10 · A | -12 pts | DE |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -4.1 | 6% | 19.8#31 · C+ | 23.9#26 · B | -4.1 pts | DE |
| Environment4% of scoregap +4.5 | 4% | 38.0#30 · C+ | 33.5#37 · C | +4.5 pts | PA |
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 Pennsylvania cheaper than Delaware?
Pennsylvania is cheaper: cost of living index 97.6 vs 99.8 in Delaware (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $8,725 more a year in Pennsylvania after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | DelawareDE | GapPA−DE | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -2.2 pts (-2%) · US 100 | 97.6#28 of 50 | 99.8#32 of 50 | -2.2 pts-2% | 100 | PA |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +3.2 pts (+3%) · US 100 | 99.4#39 of 50 | 96.2#19 of 50 | +3.2 pts+3% | 100 | DE |
| Residential electricity priceGap +2.17¢ (+13%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 19.30¢/kWh#37 of 50 | 17.13¢/kWh#34 of 50 | +2.17¢+13% | 17.84¢/kWh | DE |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$0.93 (-6%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $15.04/Mcf#26 of 50 | $15.97/Mcf#27 of 50 | -$0.93-6% | $15.83/Mcf | PA |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.09 (+3%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.40/gal#43 of 50 | $3.31/gal#32 of 50 | +$0.09+3% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$1,950 (-11%) · US $15,633 | $15,302#26 of 50 | $17,252#32 of 50 | -$1,950-11% | $15,633 | PA |
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 | PennsylvaniaPA | DelawareDE | GapPA−DE | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap +$3,927 | +$33,202costs $41,798 | +$29,275costs $45,726 | +$3,927 | PA |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap +$4,285 | +$24,381costs $50,619 | +$20,096costs $54,904 | +$4,285 | PA |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap +$8,725 | -$11,625costs $86,625 | -$20,350costs $95,350 | +$8,725 | PA |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap +$3,902 | +$37,129costs $37,871 | +$33,227costs $41,774 | +$3,902 | PA |
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 | PennsylvaniaPA | DelawareDE | GapPA−DE | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap -$5,157 | $21,716 | $26,873 | -$5,157 | PA |
| ChildcareGap -$3,900 | $30,604 | $34,504 | -$3,900 | PA |
| UtilitiesGap -$105 | $4,685 | $4,790 | -$105 | Even |
| GroceriesGap +$360 | $11,195 | $10,835 | +$360 | Even |
| TransportationGap +$283 | $10,686 | $10,403 | +$283 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap -$206 | $7,739 | $7,945 | -$206 | Even |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Pennsylvania or Delaware?
Delaware collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 6.52% vs 8.58%. Pennsylvania has high property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack; Delaware has high income tax, low property tax, low sales tax.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | DelawareDE | GapPA−DE | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +2.06 pts · US 8.74% | 8.58%#21 of 50 | 6.52%#7 of 50 | +2.06 pts | 8.74% | DE |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -0.99 pts · US 5.46% | 6.86%#37 of 50 | 7.85%#41 of 50 | -0.99 pts | 5.46% | PA |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.86 pts · US 1.02% | 1.41%#39 of 50 | 0.55%#7 of 50 | +0.86 pts | 1.02% | DE |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +6.34 pts · US 6.66% | 6.34%#17 of 50 | 0%#3 of 50 | +6.34 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 Pennsylvania or Delaware?
Homes cost 40% more in Delaware: a typical home value of $290,401 in Pennsylvania vs $406,074 in Delaware. Buying the typical home takes about $82,894 of income in Pennsylvania and $98,191 in Delaware; the median household earns $77,545 and $87,534.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | DelawareDE | GapPA−DE | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$115,673 (-28%) · US $368,697 | $290,401#15 of 50 | $406,074#31 of 50 | -$115,673-28% | $368,697 | PA |
| Home value change, one yearGap +1.1 pts · US +1.2% | +2.4%#22 of 50 | +1.3%#34 of 50 | +1.1 pts | +1.2% | PA |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$66 (-3%) · US $1,948 | $1,911#32 of 50 | $1,977#36 of 50 | -$66-3% | $1,948 | PA |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$15,297 (-16%) · US $100,006 | $82,894#16 of 50 | $98,191#27 of 50 | -$15,297-16% | $100,006 | PA |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.9x (-20%) · US 4.6x | 3.7x#13 of 50 | 4.6x#29 of 50 | -0.9x-20% | 4.6x | PA |
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.
| PA | DE | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,494 | $2,089 |
| Income needed vs. median | +7% | +12% |
| Five-year change | +22.3% | +21.4% |
| Market temperature | Warm | Cool |
| Largest metro | Philadelphia | 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 Pennsylvania or Delaware?
Delaware pays more: median household income $87,534 vs $77,545, with unemployment at 4.3% in Pennsylvania and 4.8% in Delaware. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Pennsylvania's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 11 after adjusting for local costs and Delaware's in 0.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | DelawareDE | GapPA−DE | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap -$9,989 (-11%) · US $80,903 | $77,545#27 of 50 | $87,534#13 of 50 | -$9,989-11% | $80,903 | DE |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.5 pts · US 3.95% | 4.3%#33 of 50 | 4.8%#45 of 50 | -0.5 pts | 3.95% | PA |
| GDP per capitaGap -$8,745 (-12%) · US $64,333 | $64,785#20 of 50 | $73,530#11 of 50 | -$8,745-12% | $64,333 | DE |
| Real GDP growthGap -0.1 pts · US +1.91% | +2%#23 of 50 | +2.1%#20 of 50 | -0.1 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Population growthGap -0.84 pts · US +0.51% | +0.1%#42 of 50 | +0.94%#6 of 50 | -0.84 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 | PA | DE | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lawyers | $167,174$163,831 in Philadelphia | $147,702$146,225 in Wilmington | PA |
| Secondary School Teachers | $74,861$73,364 in Philadelphia | $67,749$67,072 in Wilmington | PA |
| Software Developers | $140,923$138,105 in Philadelphia | $134,120$132,779 in Wilmington | PA |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $75,371$73,864 in Philadelphia | $69,335$68,642 in Wilmington | PA |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $242,841$237,984 in Philadelphia | $247,783$245,305 in Wilmington | Even |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $76,220$74,696 in Philadelphia | $71,461$70,746 in Wilmington | PA |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $62,440$61,191 in Philadelphia | $58,443$57,859 in Wilmington | PA |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $118,034$115,673 in Philadelphia | $114,241$113,099 in Wilmington | PA |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $58,469$57,300 in Philadelphia | $55,029$54,479 in Wilmington | PA |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $81,004$79,384 in Philadelphia | $77,884$77,105 in Wilmington | PA |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $63,266$62,001 in Philadelphia | $61,025$60,415 in Wilmington | PA |
| Civil Engineers | $107,139$104,996 in Philadelphia | $104,980$103,930 in Wilmington | Even |
| Registered Nurses | $93,714$91,840 in Philadelphia | $95,415$94,461 in Wilmington | Even |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $38,397$37,629 in Philadelphia | $36,704$36,337 in Wilmington | PA |
| Electricians | $68,229$66,864 in Philadelphia | $66,565$65,899 in Wilmington | Even |
| General & Operations Managers | $107,178$105,034 in Philadelphia | $108,782$107,694 in Wilmington | Even |
| Construction Laborers | $48,322$47,356 in Philadelphia | $47,258$46,785 in Wilmington | Even |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $51,640$50,607 in Philadelphia | $52,236$51,714 in Wilmington | Even |
| Mental Health Counselors | $57,212$56,068 in Philadelphia | $56,814$56,246 in Wilmington | Even |
| Accountants & Auditors | $84,184$82,500 in Philadelphia | $84,476$83,631 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 Pennsylvania safer than Delaware?
Pennsylvania is safer: 227 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 347 in Delaware (FBI). Property crime runs 1,324 and 1,559 per 100,000.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | DelawareDE | GapPA−DE | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -120 (-35%) · US 328 | 227#14 of 50 | 347#32 of 50 | -120-35% | 328 | PA |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -235 (-15%) · US 1,535 | 1,324#17 of 50 | 1,559#30 of 50 | -235-15% | 1,535 | PA |
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.
- Bethel Park, PA44 violent per 100K
- Elsmere, DE144 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Pennsylvania or Delaware?
Pennsylvania scores higher for education (#15 of 50 vs #42), with high school graduation rates of 87% and 87.8%. Pennsylvania scores higher for health (#21 vs #30); life expectancy is 77.3 years in Pennsylvania and 76.5 in Delaware.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | DelawareDE | GapPA−DE | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +13 · US 273 | 276#18 of 50 | 263#47 of 50 | +13 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +10 · US 257 | 259#19 of 50 | 250#46 of 50 | +10 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -0.8 pts · US 85.62% | 87%#22 of 50 | 87.8%#16 of 50 | -0.8 pts | 85.62% | DE |
| Life expectancyGap +0.8 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.3#26 of 50 | 76.5#33 of 50 | +0.8 yrs | 76.9 | PA |
| Adults with obesityGap -2.4 pts · US 34.03% | 34.2%#24 of 50 | 36.6%#35 of 50 | -2.4 pts | 34.03% | PA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -1.1 pts · US 7.6% | 5.8%#14 of 50 | 6.9%#23 of 50 | -1.1 pts | 7.6% | PA |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -1 pts (-2%) · US 38.8 | 40#22 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).
- State College, PAeducation score 96
- 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: Pennsylvania #15, Delaware #42. Health: Pennsylvania #21, Delaware #30.
Are more people moving from Pennsylvania to Delaware, or from Delaware to Pennsylvania?
5,744 households moved from Pennsylvania to Delaware and 3,885 moved from Delaware to Pennsylvania in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 1,859 households for Delaware. Movers to Delaware reported an average income of $86,516; movers to Pennsylvania reported $75,889. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 6,673 people (±1,661) moving from Pennsylvania to Delaware and 6,665 (±1,696) 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 | PennsylvaniaPA | DelawareDE | GapPA−DE | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +102,345 (+481%) | 123,625#8 of 50 | 21,280#42 of 50 | +102,345+481% | PA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +118,494 (+688%) | 135,720#45 of 50 | 17,226#7 of 50 | +118,494+688% | DE |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -16,149 | -12,095#44 of 50 | +4,054#15 of 50 | -16,149 | DE |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -4.7 | -0.9#37 of 50 | +3.8#2 of 50 | -4.7 | DE |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$12,069 (-14%) | $76,366#28 of 50 | $88,435#10 of 50 | -$12,069-14% | DE |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$9,140 (+12%) | $85,642#12 of 50 | $76,502#19 of 50 | +$9,140+12% | PA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -6.7 | -0.2#33 of 50 | +6.5#4 of 50 | -6.7 | 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, Pennsylvania or Delaware?
Pennsylvania is the better fit for families; Delaware is the better fit for remote workers, young professionals, and small business; 2 of the six lifestyle indexes are within 4 places. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | DelawareDE | GapPA−DE | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap -18 places | #19score 71.8 | #37score 56.9 | -18 places | PA |
| RetireesGap +3 places | #26score 61.5 | #23score 62.7 | +3 places | Even |
| Remote WorkersGap +14 places | #38score 46 | #24score 52.5 | +14 places | DE |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +12 places | #33score 49.4 | #21score 56.2 | +12 places | DE |
| Small BusinessGap +17 places | #38score 46.1 | #21score 59.5 | +17 places | DE |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap -3 places | #27score 43.3 | #30score 39.3 | -3 places | Even |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesPennsylvania (#19 vs #37)
- RetireesEven (#26 vs #23)
- Remote WorkersDelaware (#24 vs #38)
- Young ProfessionalsDelaware (#21 vs #33)
- Small BusinessDelaware (#21 vs #38)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsEven (#27 vs #30)
Which cities stand out in Pennsylvania and Delaware?
Pennsylvania has 20 tracked cities and Delaware has 20; the largest are Philadelphia and Wilmington. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | PennsylvaniaPA | DelawareDE |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Philadelphia1,579,706 people | Wilmington71,727 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Bethel Parkscore 72.4 | North Starscore 72.3 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Bethel Park44 violent per 100K | Elsmere144 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Altoonacost index 89.5 | Dovercost index 97.5 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Harrisburgwalkability 15.9 of 20 | Seafordwalkability 15 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Eriecounty median AQI 34 | Milfordcounty median AQI 39 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | State College96% graduation rate | Middletown95.3% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Bethel Parkmedian income $107,090 | Hockessinmedian income $171,204 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | York+0.6% growth | Milford+4.6% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Pennsylvania and Delaware compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Pennsylvania carries AA- credit rating and Delaware AAA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | DelawareDE | GapPA−DE | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap 0 pts · US 29.34% | 6%#45 of 50 | 6%#46 of 50 | 0 pts | 29.34% | Even |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -6.5 (-33%) · US 29.6 | 13.4#9 of 50 | 19.9#17 of 50 | -6.5-33% | 29.6 | PA |
| Public land shareGap +2.9 pts · US 17.16% | 5.6%#33 of 50 | 2.7%#41 of 50 | +2.9 pts | 17.16% | PA |
| Mean travel time to workGap +0.3 min · US 25.2 min | 27.1 min#38 of 50 | 26.8 min#36 of 50 | +0.3 min | 25.2 min | Even |
| Commuters using public transitGap +1.9 pts · US 2.29% | 4.2%#8 of 50 | 2.3%#14 of 50 | +1.9 pts | 2.29% | PA |
| Workers working from homeGap +0.9 pts · US 12.28% | 13.8%#17 of 50 | 12.9%#21 of 50 | +0.9 pts | 12.28% | PA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -2.2 pts · US 92.67% | 92.1%#34 of 50 | 94.3%#10 of 50 | -2.2 pts | 92.67% | DE |
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 | PennsylvaniaPA | DelawareDE | GapPA−DE | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -15 pts · US 92.7 | 85#42 of 50 | 100#13 of 50 | -15 pts | 92.7 | DE |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -5.7 pts · US 12.39% | 4.5%#46 of 50 | 10.2%#25 of 50 | -5.7 pts | 12.39% | DE |
| Pension funded ratioGap -25 pts · US 74.3% | 62%#42 of 50 | 87%#10 of 50 | -25 pts | 74.3% | DE |
| State debt per capitaGap -$510 (-11%) · US $3,506 | $4,120#38 of 50 | $4,630#42 of 50 | -$510-11% | $3,506 | PA |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -1.7 pts · US +4.66% | +2.5%#42 of 50 | +4.2%#31 of 50 | -1.7 pts | +4.66% | DE |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Pennsylvania AA-, 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).
Pennsylvania vs Delaware: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Pennsylvania is ahead on 24 of 51, Delaware on 18, and 9 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | DelawareDE | GapPA−DE | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +11,999,480 (+1,132%) · US 6.8 million | 13.1 million#5 of 50 | 1.1 million#45 of 50 | +11,999,480+1,132% | 6.8 million | PA |
| Median household incomeGap -$9,989 (-11%) · US $80,903 | $77,545#27 of 50 | $87,534#13 of 50 | -$9,989-11% | $80,903 | DE |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.5 pts · US 3.95% | 4.3%#33 of 50 | 4.8%#45 of 50 | -0.5 pts | 3.95% | PA |
| Population growthGap -0.84 pts · US +0.51% | +0.1%#42 of 50 | +0.94%#6 of 50 | -0.84 pts | +0.51% | DE |
| GDP per capitaGap -$8,745 (-12%) · US $64,333 | $64,785#20 of 50 | $73,530#11 of 50 | -$8,745-12% | $64,333 | DE |
| Real GDP growthGap -0.1 pts · US +1.91% | +2%#23 of 50 | +2.1%#20 of 50 | -0.1 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -120 (-35%) · US 328 | 227#14 of 50 | 347#32 of 50 | -120-35% | 328 | PA |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -235 (-15%) · US 1,535 | 1,324#17 of 50 | 1,559#30 of 50 | -235-15% | 1,535 | PA |
| High school graduation rateGap -0.8 pts · US 85.62% | 87%#22 of 50 | 87.8%#16 of 50 | -0.8 pts | 85.62% | DE |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +5 · US 237 | 238#23 of 50 | 233#40 of 50 | +5 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +13 · US 273 | 276#18 of 50 | 263#47 of 50 | +13 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +6 · US 214 | 216#17 of 50 | 210#43 of 50 | +6 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +10 · US 257 | 259#19 of 50 | 250#46 of 50 | +10 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +0.8 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.3#26 of 50 | 76.5#33 of 50 | +0.8 yrs | 76.9 | PA |
| Adults with obesityGap -2.4 pts · US 34.03% | 34.2%#24 of 50 | 36.6%#35 of 50 | -2.4 pts | 34.03% | PA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -1.1 pts · US 7.6% | 5.8%#14 of 50 | 6.9%#23 of 50 | -1.1 pts | 7.6% | PA |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$115,673 (-28%) · US $368,697 | $290,401#15 of 50 | $406,074#31 of 50 | -$115,673-28% | $368,697 | PA |
| Home value change, one yearGap +1.1 pts · US +1.2% | +2.4%#22 of 50 | +1.3%#34 of 50 | +1.1 pts | +1.2% | PA |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$66 (-3%) · US $1,948 | $1,911#32 of 50 | $1,977#36 of 50 | -$66-3% | $1,948 | PA |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$15,297 (-16%) · US $100,006 | $82,894#16 of 50 | $98,191#27 of 50 | -$15,297-16% | $100,006 | PA |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -2.2 pts (-2%) · US 100 | 97.6#28 of 50 | 99.8#32 of 50 | -2.2 pts-2% | 100 | PA |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.9x (-20%) · US 4.6x | 3.7x#13 of 50 | 4.6x#29 of 50 | -0.9x-20% | 4.6x | PA |
| Residential electricity priceGap +2.17¢ (+13%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 19.30¢/kWh#37 of 50 | 17.13¢/kWh#34 of 50 | +2.17¢+13% | 17.84¢/kWh | DE |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$0.93 (-6%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $15.04/Mcf#26 of 50 | $15.97/Mcf#27 of 50 | -$0.93-6% | $15.83/Mcf | PA |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.09 (+3%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.40/gal#43 of 50 | $3.31/gal#32 of 50 | +$0.09+3% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +3.2 pts (+3%) · US 100 | 99.4#39 of 50 | 96.2#19 of 50 | +3.2 pts+3% | 100 | DE |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$1,950 (-11%) · US $15,633 | $15,302#26 of 50 | $17,252#32 of 50 | -$1,950-11% | $15,633 | PA |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +2.06 pts · US 8.74% | 8.58%#21 of 50 | 6.52%#7 of 50 | +2.06 pts | 8.74% | DE |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -0.99 pts · US 5.46% | 6.86%#37 of 50 | 7.85%#41 of 50 | -0.99 pts | 5.46% | PA |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.86 pts · US 1.02% | 1.41%#39 of 50 | 0.55%#7 of 50 | +0.86 pts | 1.02% | DE |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +6.34 pts · US 6.66% | 6.34%#17 of 50 | 0%#3 of 50 | +6.34 pts | 6.66% | DE |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -15 pts · US 92.7 | 85#42 of 50 | 100#13 of 50 | -15 pts | 92.7 | DE |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -5.7 pts · US 12.39% | 4.5%#46 of 50 | 10.2%#25 of 50 | -5.7 pts | 12.39% | DE |
| Pension funded ratioGap -25 pts · US 74.3% | 62%#42 of 50 | 87%#10 of 50 | -25 pts | 74.3% | DE |
| State debt per capitaGap -$510 (-11%) · US $3,506 | $4,120#38 of 50 | $4,630#42 of 50 | -$510-11% | $3,506 | PA |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -1.7 pts · US +4.66% | +2.5%#42 of 50 | +4.2%#31 of 50 | -1.7 pts | +4.66% | DE |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -1 pts (-2%) · US 38.8 | 40#22 of 50 | 41#32 of 50 | -1 pts-2% | 38.8 | Even |
| Renewable share of electricityGap 0 pts · US 29.34% | 6%#45 of 50 | 6%#46 of 50 | 0 pts | 29.34% | Even |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -6.5 (-33%) · US 29.6 | 13.4#9 of 50 | 19.9#17 of 50 | -6.5-33% | 29.6 | PA |
| Public land shareGap +2.9 pts · US 17.16% | 5.6%#33 of 50 | 2.7%#41 of 50 | +2.9 pts | 17.16% | PA |
| Mean travel time to workGap +0.3 min · US 25.2 min | 27.1 min#38 of 50 | 26.8 min#36 of 50 | +0.3 min | 25.2 min | Even |
| Commuters using public transitGap +1.9 pts · US 2.29% | 4.2%#8 of 50 | 2.3%#14 of 50 | +1.9 pts | 2.29% | PA |
| Workers working from homeGap +0.9 pts · US 12.28% | 13.8%#17 of 50 | 12.9%#21 of 50 | +0.9 pts | 12.28% | PA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -2.2 pts · US 92.67% | 92.1%#34 of 50 | 94.3%#10 of 50 | -2.2 pts | 92.67% | DE |
| Households moving inIRSGap +102,345 (+481%) · US 78,682 | 123,625#8 of 50 | 21,280#42 of 50 | +102,345+481% | 78,682 | PA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +118,494 (+688%) · US 78,715 | 135,720#45 of 50 | 17,226#7 of 50 | +118,494+688% | 78,715 | DE |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -16,149 · US -33 | -12,095#44 of 50 | +4,054#15 of 50 | -16,149 | -33 | DE |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -4.7 · US +0.4 | -0.9#37 of 50 | +3.8#2 of 50 | -4.7 | +0.4 | DE |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$12,069 (-14%) · US $77,690 | $76,366#28 of 50 | $88,435#10 of 50 | -$12,069-14% | $77,690 | DE |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$9,140 (+12%) · US $77,024 | $85,642#12 of 50 | $76,502#19 of 50 | +$9,140+12% | $77,024 | PA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -6.7 · US +1.1 | -0.2#33 of 50 | +6.5#4 of 50 | -6.7 | +1.1 | DE |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$8,725 · US -$11,758 | -$11,625#25 of 50 | -$20,350#31 of 50 | +$8,725 | -$11,758 | PA |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap +$3,927 · US +$31,418 | +$33,202#23 of 50 | +$29,275#31 of 50 | +$3,927 | +$31,418 | PA |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap +$3,902 · US +$35,970 | +$37,129#23 of 50 | +$33,227#31 of 50 | +$3,902 | +$35,970 | PA |
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 Pennsylvania and Delaware numbers say when read together.
Pennsylvania ranks higher overall
Pennsylvania leads 6 of the 11 categories to Delaware's 4, with 1 even; Delaware is ahead on growth and fiscal health. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Pennsylvania is ahead on 24 and Delaware on 18.
Pennsylvania is cheaper day to day
Pennsylvania's cost of living index is 97.6 against 99.8 in Delaware (US = 100). The typical home costs $290,401 in Pennsylvania and $406,074 in Delaware. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$11,625 a year after typical costs in Pennsylvania and -$20,350 in Delaware.
Delaware takes a smaller share in taxes
Pennsylvania collects 8.58% of income in state and local taxes (high property tax, with income 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 $77,545 in Pennsylvania and $87,534 in Delaware, with unemployment at 4.3% and 4.8%. Violent crime runs 227 per 100,000 residents in Pennsylvania and 347 in Delaware.
Moves between the two run about even
6,673 people moved from Pennsylvania to Delaware and 6,665 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Pennsylvania is the better fit for families
For families, Pennsylvania ranks #19 of 50 and Delaware #37; for retirees, Pennsylvania ranks #26 and Delaware #23.
Pennsylvania vs Delaware: frequently asked questions
Is Pennsylvania or Delaware better to live in?
Pennsylvania ranks #25 of 50 overall and Delaware #30 as of the latest release. Pennsylvania is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 97.6 vs 99.8), carries a 2.1-point higher tax burden, and has a 35% lower violent crime rate. Pennsylvania scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 4.
Is Pennsylvania cheaper than Delaware?
Pennsylvania is cheaper than Delaware: cost of living index 97.6 vs 99.8 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$11,625 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Pennsylvania, and -$20,350 in Delaware. The typical home value is $290,401 in Pennsylvania and $406,074 in Delaware.
Which has lower taxes, Pennsylvania or Delaware?
Delaware has the lower tax burden: 6.52% of income in state and local taxes vs 8.58% in Pennsylvania. Pennsylvania's top income tax rate is 6.86%, its effective property tax rate 1.41% and its combined sales tax 6.34%; Delaware's are 7.85%, 0.55% and 0%.
Is Pennsylvania safer than Delaware?
Pennsylvania is safer: 227 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 347 in Delaware, per the FBI. Pennsylvania ranks #14 of 50 for violent crime and Delaware #32. Property crime is 1,324 per 100,000 in Pennsylvania and 1,559 in Delaware. The safest tracked cities are Bethel Park, PA, and Elsmere, DE.
Are homes more expensive in Pennsylvania or Delaware?
Homes are 40% more expensive in Delaware: the typical home value is $290,401 in Pennsylvania and $406,074 in Delaware. Buying the typical home takes about $82,894 of household income in Pennsylvania and $98,191 in Delaware, against median incomes of $77,545 and $87,534.
Do people earn more in Pennsylvania or Delaware?
Delaware pays more: median household income is $87,534 vs $77,545 in Pennsylvania, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4.3% in Pennsylvania and 4.8% in Delaware. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Pennsylvania's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 11 after adjusting for local costs and Delaware's in 0, with 9 even.
Are more people moving from Pennsylvania to Delaware or from Delaware to Pennsylvania?
5,744 households moved from Pennsylvania to Delaware and 3,885 moved from Delaware to Pennsylvania in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 1,859 households for Delaware. Movers to Delaware reported an average income of $86,516; movers to Pennsylvania reported $75,889. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 6,673 people (±1,661) moving from Pennsylvania to Delaware and 6,665 (±1,696) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Pennsylvania or Delaware?
Pennsylvania and Delaware are close for retirees: #26 and #23 of 50 on the retiree index. Pennsylvania has high property tax, with income 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 +$37,129 left after typical costs in Pennsylvania and +$33,227 in Delaware.
Which is better for families, Pennsylvania or Delaware?
Pennsylvania is the better fit for families: #19 of 50 on the families index vs #37 for Delaware. Center-based infant care costs $15,302 a year in Pennsylvania and $17,252 in Delaware. High school graduation rates are 87% and 87.8%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$11,625 after typical costs in Pennsylvania and -$20,350 in Delaware.
Is Delaware better than Pennsylvania?
No: Pennsylvania ranks higher than Delaware overall, #25 of 50 vs #30, with a composite score of 56.9 to 53.6. Pennsylvania leads 6 of 11 categories and Delaware leads 4, including growth and fiscal health. Which is better for you depends on how you weigh cost, safety, schools, taxes and pay.
Compare a different pair
Swap either state, or jump to the matchups people open alongside Pennsylvania vs Delaware.
Why this pair is featured: bordering states, major moving corridor (5,744 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).