There are several reasons why someone may choose to move to Delaware from New Jersey as a family-oriented person. Here are some of the positives that come to mind:
Lower Cost of Living:
Delaware has a lower cost of living compared to New Jersey, especially when it comes to housing. This means that families can get more for their money and potentially afford a larger home or more desirable neighborhood.
One of the primary advantages of living in Delaware compared to New Jersey is the lower cost of living. Housing is typically more affordable in Delaware, which can be a significant factor for families looking to buy a home or rent an apartment.
In Delaware, the median home value is around $268,000, whereas in New Jersey, it’s around $349,000, according to Zillow. This means that families can potentially afford a larger home or a home in a more desirable neighborhood in Delaware compared to New Jersey. Additionally, property taxes are generally lower in Delaware, which can further reduce the overall cost of homeownership.
Apart from housing, other aspects of the cost of living are also relatively lower in Delaware. For example, groceries, healthcare, and transportation costs are all lower compared to the national average, according to the Cost of Living Index. This means that families can save money on everyday expenses, leaving more money in their budgets for other activities or savings.
Another factor to consider is that Delaware has no state sales tax. This can make a significant difference in the cost of living, especially for families who frequently make purchases or buy large items like appliances or furniture.
Tax Benefits:
Delaware has no state sales tax, and property taxes are generally lower compared to New Jersey. This can save families a significant amount of money on everyday purchases and property ownership costs.
Delaware offers several tax benefits for families that can help them save money and improve their financial situation. Some of these benefits include:
No State Sales Tax: One of the most significant tax benefits in Delaware is the lack of a state sales tax. This means that families can save money on everyday purchases such as groceries, clothing, and electronics.
Lower Property Taxes: Property taxes in Delaware are generally lower compared to neighboring states like New Jersey. This can help families save money on the cost of owning a home or other real estate, which can be a significant expense.
No Estate Tax: Delaware does not have an estate tax, which means that families can pass on their wealth to their heirs without incurring additional taxes. This can be an important consideration for families with high net worth or who are planning their estates.
Tax-Friendly Retirement: Delaware is also a tax-friendly state for retirees. Social Security benefits are not subject to state taxes, and there are also exemptions for retirement income, including pensions and distributions from retirement accounts.
Low Corporate Tax Rates: For families who own a small business or are looking to start one, Delaware’s low corporate tax rates can be a significant advantage. This can help businesses keep more of their profits and reinvest in growth or expansion.
Beaches:
Delaware is known for its beautiful beaches, which can be a major draw for families who enjoy spending time outdoors and in the water. The state has several family-friendly beach towns, such as Rehoboth Beach, that offer a variety of activities and events.
The state has a coastline of about 28 miles along the Atlantic Ocean, offering plenty of opportunities for beachgoers to enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and other outdoor activities. Here are some of the top beaches in Delaware:
Rehoboth Beach: Located in Sussex County, Rehoboth Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Delaware. It features a mile-long boardwalk, which is lined with shops, restaurants, and attractions. The beach itself has clean, soft sand and clear waters, making it ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing.
Bethany Beach: Also in Sussex County, Bethany Beach is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and relaxed vibe. The beach is wide and clean, with soft sand and gentle surf. It has a boardwalk with shops and restaurants, as well as plenty of outdoor activities, such as fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
Lewes Beach: Located in the town of Lewes, this beach is known for its calm waters and picturesque views of the Delaware Bay. It’s a popular spot for swimming, kayaking, and fishing. The beach is also adjacent to a state park, which offers hiking trails and picnic areas.
Cape Henlopen State Park: This park is home to several beaches, including Herring Point and Fort Miles Beach. The beaches here are known for their pristine natural beauty and quiet atmosphere. The park also has a nature center, a historic fort, and hiking and biking trails.
Fenwick Island State Park: Located in Sussex County, Fenwick Island State Park is a popular spot for surfing, swimming, and sunbathing. It has a long, wide beach with clean, soft sand and clear water. The park also has picnic areas and a nature trail.
Overall, Delaware’s beaches offer something for everyone, from bustling boardwalks to quiet, secluded spots. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly vacation or a romantic getaway, you’re sure to find a beach that suits your needs in Delaware.
Parks and Recreation:
Delaware has a vast system of state parks, nature preserves, and outdoor recreation areas. Families who enjoy hiking, biking, camping, fishing, and other outdoor activities will have plenty of options to explore.
Delaware is home to a diverse range of parks and recreation areas, offering plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, camping, and wildlife viewing. Here are some of the top parks and recreation areas in Delaware:
Delaware Seashore State Park: Located in Sussex County, this park is known for its beautiful beaches and wildlife. It offers opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, fishing, crabbing, and boating. The park also has camping sites and hiking trails, as well as a nature center.
Cape Henlopen State Park: This park, also located in Sussex County, is known for its scenic views and rich history. It offers opportunities for hiking, biking, fishing, and swimming. The park also has a nature center, a historic fort, and picnic areas.
Brandywine Creek State Park: Located in New Castle County, this park is known for its scenic beauty and diverse wildlife. It offers opportunities for hiking, biking, fishing, and picnicking. The park also has a nature center and historic sites, such as the 19th-century Rockford Tower.
White Clay Creek State Park: This park, located in New Castle County, is known for its scenic beauty and recreational opportunities. It offers opportunities for hiking, biking, fishing, and horseback riding. The park also has a nature center and historic sites, such as the Judge Morris Estate.
Bellevue State Park: Located in New Castle County, this park is known for its historic charm and recreational opportunities. It offers opportunities for hiking, biking, fishing, and picnicking. The park also has a 19th-century mansion, which serves as a cultural center and event venue.
Overall, Delaware’s parks and recreation areas offer a wide range of opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day at the beach or a challenging hike through the woods, you’re sure to find a park that suits your needs in Delaware.
Strong Education System:
Delaware is home to several highly-regarded school districts and universities, including the University of Delaware. Families who prioritize education will appreciate the quality of the schools and opportunities for higher learning.
Delaware is home to a strong education system that prioritizes high-quality instruction and provides a variety of educational opportunities for students of all ages. Here are some key features of Delaware’s education system:
Strong Public School System: Delaware has a strong public school system that includes over 200 schools and serves over 138,000 students. The state has rigorous academic standards and works to ensure that all students have access to a high-quality education. Delaware has made significant investments in education, including funding for teacher training and technology in the classroom.
Innovative Charter School Program: Delaware was one of the first states in the nation to establish a charter school program, which allows for the creation of innovative, publicly-funded schools with more flexibility than traditional public schools. The state’s charter schools have a strong track record of academic success and provide families with more educational options.
Strong Early Childhood Education: Delaware has a strong commitment to early childhood education, offering high-quality pre-K programs to over 70% of the state’s 4-year-olds. The state has also invested in early childhood education research and training, with a focus on improving outcomes for at-risk children.
Strong Higher Education System: Delaware is home to several prestigious higher education institutions, including the University of Delaware, Delaware State University, and Wilmington University. These institutions offer a range of undergraduate and graduate programs, as well as opportunities for research and professional development.
Career and Technical Education: Delaware has a strong career and technical education (CTE) program, which provides students with opportunities to gain practical, job-related skills and knowledge. The state’s CTE programs are aligned with high-demand industries and provide students with pathways to careers in fields such as healthcare, engineering, and information technology.
Family-Friendly Culture: Delaware is a small state with a strong sense of community. Many towns and neighborhoods host events and festivals that are geared toward families, such as farmers markets, music concerts, and holiday celebrations.
Overall, Delaware offers a range of benefits for families who are seeking a high quality of life. While New Jersey also has its own positives, such as proximity to major cities like New York and Philadelphia, families may find that the advantages of living in Delaware are more aligned with their values and priorities.