Cost of Living in Clayton, DE

With a cost of living index of 105, Clayton, DE is somewhat more expensive than average. Living here is 5% more expensive than the national average and in line with the Delaware state average. Clayton is a small community of 4,086 residents.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Clayton's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $1,484 (13% above the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $343,700 (13% above the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 3.3x the median household income — a moderately affordable ratio by today's standards.

The median household income in Clayton is $103,211, which is 37% higher than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 17% of household income on rent. This is a comfortable ratio, well below the 30% threshold that financial experts recommend as a maximum.

Everyday prices in the Dover, DE (Metropolitan Statistical Area) metro area are generally below the national average. Out of 6 common items tracked by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 6 are priced lower than the US average. These real-world prices — from groceries to electricity — add up and should be factored into any cost of living comparison.

Data sources: US Census Bureau (ACS 2023), Zillow Home Values, HUD Fair Market Rents, BEA Regional Price Parities, BLS Average Prices, and NOAA Climate Normals. Updated monthly.