Average Rent in Dover, DE↑ Rents rising 9.1% YoY

Dover, DE has rental prices ranging from $1,173/month to $2,278/month in 2025, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $1,181/month — 16% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $72,872/year, spending $1,181/month on a 1-bedroom represents 19% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.

How Dover Compares

With an average 2-bedroom rent of $1,492/month, Dover ranks #2 most expensive of the 3 cities tracked in Delaware — pricier than 92% of all US cities in our data.

The Dover Rental Market

The Dover, DE area has a population of about 185,043 and 29% of households renting rather than owning. That renter share runs below the US average of ~34%, a more homeowner-heavy market where rental inventory can be limited.

Rent Trends

2-bedroom rents in Dover, DE have risen by $124/month (9.1%) over the past year, from $1,368 to $1,492. This rate of increase is significant and reflects strong rental demand and limited housing supply in the local market.

Affordability

To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Dover, DE without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $47,240. The local median household income of $72,872 exceeds that threshold by $25,632, making Dover relatively accessible compared to local wages.

Rent vs. Buy

The median home value in Dover, DE is $342,946, giving a price-to-rent ratio of 19.2. With a break-even horizon of approximately 19 years, renting is likely the more financially prudent option for most residents unless they plan to stay long-term.

Neighborhoods

Home values — and by extension rent levels — vary significantly across Dover's neighborhoods. Among the highest-value areas are Highland Acres ($387,029 median home value). Renters on a tighter budget may find better value in less central neighborhoods or in adjacent metros with lower overall rent levels.

Is Dover, DE Affordable?

Income needed to rent or buy, price history, and how this city compares to nearby metros.

Rent or Buy in Dover?

Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.

Living in Dover

Cost of living, job market, crime rates, and moving cost estimates.