2026 effective rate · 0.55% · well below the US average (0.99%)
Delaware Property Tax Calculator
Estimate annual and monthly property tax in Delaware. The state's effective property tax rate is 0.55% (one of the lowest in the US, vs the US average of about 0.99%). On a $305,900 median-value home, that works out to about $1,756 per year or $140 per month.
Delaware median home property tax
$1,682 per year
$140 per month at the median home value of $305,900
Effective rate 0.55% times $305,900 = $1,682
Delaware property tax at common home values
| Home value | Annual property tax | Monthly | % of value |
|---|---|---|---|
| $150,000 | $825 | $69 | 0.55% |
| $250,000 | $1,375 | $115 | 0.55% |
| $305,900 (median) | $1,682 | $140 | 0.55% |
| $350,000 | $1,925 | $160 | 0.55% |
| $500,000 | $2,750 | $229 | 0.55% |
| $750,000 | $4,125 | $344 | 0.55% |
Uses Delaware's 2026 effective rate (0.55%). Actual taxes vary by county and exemptions. For full PITI mortgage estimate including taxes + insurance, use the Delaware mortgage calculator.
Delaware property tax overview
Delaware has below-average property tax rates and no state sales tax. Senior school property tax credit available for residents 65+. Realty transfer tax is 4% (highest in US) — typically split 50/50 between buyer and seller.
Delaware's effective rate of 0.55% ranks one of the lowest in the US nationally. Median annual property tax: $1,756. Median home value: $305,900.
Delaware vs neighboring states
| State | Effective rate | Median home | Median annual tax |
|---|---|---|---|
| Delaware (this page) | 0.55% | $305,900 | $1,756 |
| Maryland | 0.99% | $371,100 | $3,680 |
| Pennsylvania | 1.43% | $239,800 | $3,440 |
| New Jersey | 2.26% | $401,400 | $9,076 |
FAQs about Delaware property tax
What is the property tax rate in Delaware?
Delaware's effective property tax rate is 0.55% (one of the lowest in the US, vs national average of ~0.99%). On a $305,900 median-value home, that's about $1,756 per year, or roughly $140 per month added to your housing cost.
How is property tax calculated in Delaware?
Property tax = assessed value times the local mill rate (millage). The effective rate (0.55%) is what you actually pay as a percentage of market value, accounting for assessment ratios, exemptions, and millage. For a home valued at X, multiply X by 0.55% for an annual estimate.
When are property taxes due in Delaware?
Property tax due dates vary by county within Delaware. Most counties bill annually with either a single payment or two installments. Common payment deadlines fall in late summer (1st half) and late winter (2nd half). Check with your county tax assessor for exact dates and any escrow arrangements through your mortgage lender.
Does Delaware have a homestead exemption?
Delaware offers various property tax relief programs. Delaware has below-average property tax rates and no state sales tax. Senior school property tax credit available for residents 65+. Realty transfer tax is 4% (highest in US) — typically split 50/50 between buyer and seller. Check with your county assessor for primary-residence exemptions and senior or disabled programs that may reduce your annual property tax bill.
How does Delaware property tax compare to neighboring states?
Delaware's 0.55% rate compares to: Maryland (0.99%), Pennsylvania (1.43%), New Jersey (2.26%). Property tax burden can vary significantly between neighboring states — moving 30 miles across a state line can change your annual tax bill by thousands.
Can I appeal my property tax assessment in Delaware?
Yes. Every US state including Delaware provides a formal property tax appeal process. Steps: (1) request your property's assessment record from the county assessor, (2) gather comparable sales from your neighborhood, (3) file a formal appeal within the deadline (usually 30-60 days after assessment notice). Successful appeals typically save 5-15% on annual tax bills.
How can I lower my Delaware property taxes?
Common strategies: apply for homestead exemption (primary residence), senior or disabled exemptions if eligible, veteran's exemptions, and appeal over-assessment. Track your county's assessment notices carefully and verify the appraisal matches recent comparable home sales. Avoid major visible upgrades right before reassessment dates.