City Profile
Millsboro, Delaware
USA · Comprehensive city data and intelligence
Millsboro, Delaware, situated along the beautiful Indian River in Sussex County, is one of the fastest-growing municipalities in the state. Originally established as a milling center along the riverbanks, the town has evolved from a quiet rural crossroads into a vibrant residential and commercial hub. Its strategic location offers residents a peaceful small-town lifestyle while remaining within convenient driving distance of Delaware's famous Atlantic resort beaches like Rehoboth and Bethany. Newcomers are drawn to Millsboro for its historic charm, friendly community atmosphere, and a lower tax burden compared to neighboring states.
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 67/100 was calculated five components, with every reading behind them
| Component | Readings used | Points | Weight | Contributes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Safety | Safety score: 74 / 100 | 74.0 | 30% | 22.2 |
| Affordability | Cost of living index (100 = national baseline): 98.0 | 46.3 | 25% | 11.6 |
| Economy & jobs | Median household income: $64,500 Income needed to live here: $52,000 Unemployment rate: 4.3% | 63.1 | 20% | 12.6 |
| Growth | Population growth rate: 4.5% Job growth rate: 2.8% | 88.0 | 15% | 13.2 |
| Business climate assessment | Business climate assessment: 70 / 100 | 70.0 | 10% | 7.0 |
| Overall score | 66.6 | |||
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 Millsboro is generally aligned with or slightly below the national average, making it an attractive destination for retirees and young families alike. Housing has historically been more affordable than in nearby coastal resort towns, though rapid growth and demand have driven up real estate values in recent years. Everyday goods, groceries, and services remain reasonably priced, while Delaware's lack of a state sales tax provides ongoing savings for residents on all retail purchases.
Income
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Millsboro's economy is anchored by a diverse mix of healthcare services, retail trade, manufacturing, and construction, driven by the explosive population growth in lower Sussex County. Major employers include local health networks, educational institutions, and prominent regional poultry and food processing companies. While many residents commute to nearby employment centers or work remotely, local job opportunities continue to expand alongside the town's commercial developments. The thriving local business climate is supported by a steady influx of new residents and robust real estate development.
The average salary in Millsboro is $58,000 per year. You would need approximately $52,000 to live comfortably.
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Millsboro is primarily a car-dependent community where most daily errands and commutes require driving along major regional arteries like US Route 113 and Delaware Route 24. Public transit options are limited, though local microtransit and regional bus services provide some connectivity for transit-dependent residents. Walkability is high within the historic downtown core and newer master-planned developments, but broader pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure is still expanding to keep pace with suburban growth. The central location in Sussex County provides convenient driving access to major mid-Atlantic metropolitan areas.
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