Considering a move to DE (Wilmington, Newark: sales, real estate, insurance)

[DRS1989]

I'm a 24-year-old recent university graduate from the Pittsburgh, PA area who is seriously thinking about relocating to DE. Looking at recent census data, the population is clearly growing in all three of the state's counties. I'm researching areas in New Castle County north of the canal, in addition to the beach towns in Sussex County. What are attitudes like in these areas? Is the cost of living reasonable? Are taxes reasonable?

[rdlr]

Originally Posted by DRS1989

I'm a 24-year-old recent university graduate from the Pittsburgh, PA area who is seriously thinking about relocating to DE. Looking at recent census data, the population is clearly growing in all three of the state's counties. I'm researching areas in New Castle County north of the canal, in addition to the beach towns in Sussex County. What are attitudes like in these areas? Is the cost of living reasonable? Are taxes reasonable?

If you have a position or job lined up, that would be the first thing to consider. Delaware is only 96 miles long and 47 miles wide, so access N. to S. and E. to W. is easy. I drive up and down Delaware most days in my business travels. Since I am a native of Delaware, I can't be too objective regarding attitudes. Having been here, since dirt, I have seen attitudes change. In my opinion, we once were a much friendlier state, but the increased population has changed that. The cost of living seems reasonable to me. Taxes are cheap, which is why we have so many retirees coming here to live from NY, NJ, PA, MD and DC. Kent and Sussex Counties have drawn the retirees and there are many 55+ communities, which accounts for the population increase you noted. Our young people have mostly moved away from Delaware in search of higher paying jobs. That is the reason I started this reply with the concern that you have a position/job lined up. Jobs are scarce here. About taxes, for a $350,000 house, you may pay between $1,500-$2,000 year in real estate taxes, depending on the school district. I hope you come. We need young, professionals!

[citygirl3133]

It depends on what are you looking for insofar as lifestyle. My parents have lived in LSD (Lower, Slower Delaware) for many years. If you enjoy peace and quiet, flat and rural, then Sussex County is the place. The upside is that you could end up 30 minutes or less from the beach. Be forewarned, weekend driving is a bear because of the traffic. The cost of living throughout the state does appear to be lower than in larger metropolitan areas like Philadelphia or Baltimore.

[DRS1989]

I appreciate the feedback. Eventually, I want to go back to school. Settling in Newark would be suitable for that. A commute to Wilmington doesn't seem like it would be that bad.

[GatorDoc77Fam]

A commute from Newark to Wilmington isn't terrible. But, also look into North Wilmington, Greenville, Hockessin and Pike Creek areas if you are considering the school district too.

[Pennsydelatexan]

What field do you want to get into? Job opportunities in health care and banking/finance/insurance are good here, IMO. I have lived in Houston, TX, and Harrisburg, PA prior to moving here in 2009 (for a job promotion). Houston has some of the friendliest people I have ever met. Central PA has a young crowd in the Harrisburg area, but the state is full of very conservative people and it seems to hinder life. Delaware (Wilmington/Newark area) is a good area for a young professionals with plenty of opportunity. Salaries here, at least in my line, seem to be above average. I have found the people here to be very outgoing. There is a young professionals network that is sponsored by New Castle County and is a great resource for networking. As far as cost of living, you can't beat it here...no sales tax and extremely low property taxes.

[newmassphd]

DRS1989

Fantastic! You mentioned going back to school. I assume you mean graduate school?
Were you planning to attend full time or part-time while working? For the latter,
there are a number of programs in Delaware and Philadelphia for a number of degree programs.

Delaware State University, University of Delaware, Drexel University, Wesley, Jefferson University,
Weidener, and UPenn all have a number of programs for full time and part times study in all sorts
of graduate programs.

There is also a small growing technology startup scene and maker community in Delaware as well.
These don't get the same press as pharma/banking/finance/chemical/materials but they are growing.
There's a great place called "The Coin Loft" and "Barrel of Makers" that are doing fantastic things
in Delaware. They host regular meet-ups and the Coin Loft Has regular workshops on many tech topics
as well as guest speakers.

As a transplant to DE, I've found many more things I like than dislike along with a handful of things I've
accepted just not understanding about DE. Mostly, if you are friendly and down-to-earth to others, you
will make friends quickly. The people I've met in DE like those who like them back!

[rdlr]

Originally Posted by newmassphd

As a transplant to DE, I've found many more things I like than dislike along with a handful of things I've accepted just not understanding about DE. Mostly, if you are friendly and down-to-earth to others, you will make friends quickly. The people I've met in DE like those who like them back!

I couldn't have said that better, and actually, I've never said that but thought that. We love it when newcomers mingle with us, take part in Delaware activities, and blend in. It's been my lifetime experience, that not many do.

[hnsmith]

Originally Posted by rdlr

I couldn't have said that better, and actually, I've never said that but thought that. We love it when newcomers mingle with us, take part in Delaware activities, and blend in. It's been my lifetime experience, that not many do.

but i say it's better...!!!