City Profile
Harrington, Delaware
USA · Comprehensive city data and intelligence
Harrington, located in Kent County, Delaware, is a charming small city famously known as the 'Hub of the State' due to its central geographic location. Founded in the mid-19th century as a railroad stop originally called Clark's Corner, the community grew rapidly with the arrival of the Delaware Railroad. Today, Harrington preserves its rich agricultural heritage while serving as a welcoming residential hub featuring historic architecture, friendly neighborhoods, and a peaceful small-town pace of life. People move to Harrington to enjoy a lower cost of living, rural-suburban charm, and convenient access to Delaware's major beaches and larger metropolitan areas like Dover and Wilmington.
Delaware, known as "The First State," offers a diverse character ranging from bustling urban centers like Wilmington to serene beaches and farmlands. Its economy is robust, heavily influenced by the finance and insurance sector, which contributes significantly to the state's GDP, alongside major industries such as chemical manufacturing, healthcare, and retail trade. Living in Delaware generally presents a moderate cost of living, often near the national average, with the advantage of no sales tax and relatively low property taxes. The state experiences a humid subtropical climate, characterized by hot, humid summers and mild winters, with precipitation distributed throughout the year. Residents can enjoy a lifestyle that blends small-town charm with access to major East Coast cities and abundant outdoor recreational opportunities.
How this 64/100 was calculated five components, with every reading behind them
| Component | Readings used | Points | Weight | Contributes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Safety | Safety score: 76 / 100 | 76.0 | 30% | 22.8 |
| Affordability | Cost of living index (100 = national baseline): 92.0 | 53.8 | 25% | 13.4 |
| Economy & jobs | Median household income: $58,500 Income needed to live here: $50,000 Unemployment rate: 4.3% | 58.8 | 20% | 11.8 |
| Growth | Population growth rate: 1.5% Job growth rate: 1.9% | 60.3 | 15% | 9.0 |
| Business climate assessment | Business climate assessment: 67 / 100 | 67.0 | 10% | 6.7 |
| Overall score | 63.7 | |||
Provenance.
These figures were produced by the research pass recorded as
Tier 1 (fast) (q=52, partial — below threshold), last refreshed
15 October 2026.
They are researched estimates drawn from public sources, not a licensed data feed.
Each component is scored against fixed published endpoints, so this number is comparable with any other city and does not move as the dataset grows. Scoring framework 2026.10 — full methodology, weights and accepted ranges.
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Cost of Living
The cost of living in Harrington remains notably lower than the national average, making it an attractive destination for families, retirees, and first-time homebuyers. Housing costs, utility rates, and everyday goods and services generally track below national benchmarks, offering residents strong purchasing power relative to larger coastal cities. While property taxes in Delaware are relatively modest, state income taxes and modest municipal levies contribute to local public services and infrastructure upkeep.
Income
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Harrington’s economy is anchored by agriculture, light manufacturing, healthcare, retail trade, and local government services. Major regional employers include public school districts, healthcare networks, agricultural suppliers, and the historic Delaware State Fairgrounds, which hosts major events year-round. Many residents also commute to nearby Dover for employment in government, aerospace defense, and higher education. The growing shift toward remote work has further encouraged professionals to settle in the area for its affordable housing stock.
The average salary in Harrington is $58,000 per year. You would need approximately $50,000 to live comfortably.
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Transportation in Harrington is heavily car-dependent, with major thoroughfares like U.S. Route 13 providing direct north-south connectivity across Delaware. While public transit options are limited primarily to regional bus services, driving remains the primary mode of commuting. The city's compact historic core offers moderate walkability for local errands, and the central location puts beaches and major airports within a reasonable driving radius.
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