Side-by-side comparison of mortgage costs, property taxes, closing costs, and homeowners insurance between Delaware and Florida. Updated for 2026.
Delaware and Florida are evenly matched across major housing cost categories. Your decision may come down to other factors like job market, climate, or lifestyle preferences. Use the calculators below to model your specific scenario.
Estimated PITI payments assuming 10% down, 6.5% rate, 30-year fixed mortgage with PMI.
Buying in Delaware saves you approximately $601/month ($7,212/year) compared to Florida, based on median home prices with identical loan terms.
Home prices in Delaware and Florida are relatively close, with only a 10% difference ($40K). At similar price points, your decision should focus on the other cost factors: property taxes, insurance, closing costs, and the overall quality of life each state offers. Small percentage differences in tax rates compound over decades of homeownership.
Property tax rates are similar in both states (Delaware: 0.56%, Florida: 0.86%), so taxes shouldn't be the deciding factor in your relocation decision. Instead, focus on differences in home prices, insurance costs, and state-specific programs. Both states collect roughly comparable property tax revenue relative to home values.
Homeowners insurance is significantly cheaper in Delaware ($1,300/year) compared to Florida ($4,200/year). That's an extra $2,900 per year — or $242/month — eating into your budget in Florida. Florida's high insurance costs are often driven by severe weather risks (hurricanes, tornadoes, or wildfires), which also affect availability of coverage.
Closing costs are a one-time but significant expense. Delaware averages $12K in closing costs (3.3% of purchase price) while Florida averages $7K (1.8%). Much of Delaware's higher costs come from its 4% transfer tax, which adds $14K to the median home purchase. Budget for these upfront costs — they affect how much cash you need on hand at closing.
Both states offer down payment assistance for first-time buyers. Delaware's DSHA Homeownership Loan provides Up to 5% Preferred Plus, while Florida's Florida Hometown Heroes offers Up to 5% as 0% deferred loan. These programs can significantly reduce your upfront costs and make homeownership accessible even if you haven't saved a full 20% down payment. Check eligibility requirements on each state's housing finance agency website — income limits and purchase price caps apply.
The bottom line: insurance costs heavily tilt the scales. Florida homeowners pay $4,200/year for coverage versus $1,300 in Delaware — a $2,900 annual gap. If you're budgeting for a home in Florida, make sure to factor in this ongoing expense. It can make an otherwise affordable market surprisingly costly month-to-month.