Overview
Delaware is facing a growing affordable housing crisis. Rising rental prices, limited housing availability, and economic disparities make it challenging for many residents to secure stable, affordable homes. This guide outlines key challenges and connects you with trusted resources ready to help.
🚨 Key Challenges in Delaware’s Housing Market
1. Rising Rental Costs
- Delaware experienced a significant rent increase of $447 from 2019 to 2024, among the highest in the nation.
2. Limited Affordable Units
- There is a severe shortage of affordable housing units, particularly for households earning below 50% of the area median income (AMI).
3. Economic Disparities
- Low-income individuals, seniors, and people with disabilities are disproportionately affected. Wages have remained stagnant while living costs rise.
🛠️ Resources for Affordable Housing Assistance
Here’s a list of trusted organizations and programs that provide housing support in Delaware:
| Organization | Services Offered | Website | Phone |
|---|---|---|---|
| Delaware State Housing Authority (DSHA) | Rental & down payment assistance, public housing, homebuyer education | destatehousing.com | (302) 739-4263 |
| Habitat for Humanity of New Castle County | Affordable home construction and repairs for eligible families | habitatncc.org | (302) 652-0365 |
| Delaware Housing Coalition | Advocacy, tenant education, and housing policy updates | dehousingcoalition.org | (302) 678-2286 |
| Community Legal Aid Society, Inc. (CLASI) | Legal assistance for evictions, housing discrimination, and landlord issues | clasi.org | (302) 575-0660 |
| United Way of Delaware | Connects residents to emergency housing funds and local programs | unitedwayde.org | (302) 573-3700 |
| Delaware 211 | Statewide referral service for housing and other social services | delaware211.org | Dial 211 |
📊 Delaware Housing Market Snapshot by County (April 2025)
| County | Average Home Value | Median Sale Price | Median List Price | Median Household Income |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Castle | $352,688 | $360,000 | $379,936 | $89,901 |
| Kent | $356,201 | $335,000 | $389,012 | $72,872 |
| Sussex | $475,765 | $456,650 | $549,809 | $78,162 |
Sources: Zillow, Redfin, Rocket Homes, U.S. Census Bureau, Point2Homes
💰 Housing Costs by County
| County | Average Rent (2BR) | Average Monthly Mortgage | Average Household Income |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Castle | $1,575 | $2,170 | $86,961 |
| Kent | $1,350 | $1,930 | $89,575 |
| Sussex | $1,298 | $2,240 | $107,358 |
Sources: RentData.org, National Association of Realtors (NAR), U.S. Census Bureau, Point2Homes
✅ Take Action
If you or someone you know is facing housing instability:
- Call Delaware 211 for free, 24/7 help connecting to local resources.
- Apply through DSHA for subsidies or homeownership programs.
- Contact CLASI for eviction protection and legal advocacy.
- Explore Habitat for Humanity to build or repair affordable homes.
🙌 Conclusion
Affordable housing in Delaware remains out of reach for many, but resources and support are available. Together, we can raise awareness, expand access, and create a more secure future for all.
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