City Profile
Selbyville, Delaware
USA · Comprehensive city data and intelligence
Selbyville is a rapidly growing town located in Sussex County, Delaware, often referred to as the 'Gateway to the Beaches' due to its close proximity to popular coastal resorts like Fenwick Island and Ocean City. Founded in the 19th century and incorporated in 1902, the town has transitioned from a quiet agricultural community into an attractive residential hub for retirees and commuters alike. Its charming small-town atmosphere is complemented by tree-lined streets, historic architecture, and a welcoming community spirit that appeals to newcomers seeking a slower pace of life without sacrificing modern conveniences.
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: 80 / 100 | 80.0 | 30% | 24.0 |
| Affordability | Cost of living index (100 = national baseline): 98.0 | 46.3 | 25% | 11.6 |
| Economy & jobs | Median household income: $65,500 Income needed to live here: $52,000 Unemployment rate: 4.2% | 65.0 | 20% | 13.0 |
| Growth | Population growth rate: 2.5% Job growth rate: 2.4% | 77.8 | 15% | 11.7 |
| Business climate assessment | Business climate assessment: 70 / 100 | 70.0 | 10% | 7.0 |
| Overall score | 67.2 | |||
Provenance.
These figures were produced by the research pass recorded as
Tier 1 (fast) (q=54, 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.
Featured Events
Happening in Selbyville
Featured and sponsored events in Selbyville.
Local Directory
Businesses in Selbyville
Featured local businesses in Selbyville.
Performance
Quality Scores
Expenses
Cost of Living
The cost of living in Selbyville is generally moderate, hovering close to the national average, though it is heavily influenced by its desirable coastal Delaware location. While everyday goods, groceries, and utilities align closely with broader state trends, housing costs have experienced upward pressure due to high demand from retirees and out-of-state buyers looking for tax-friendly retirement destinations. Delaware's lack of a state sales tax helps offset some everyday expenses, making dining out and retail shopping more budget-friendly.
Property taxes in Selbyville and the surrounding Sussex County area are notably lower than in many neighboring mid-Atlantic states, which acts as a major financial draw for homeowners. However, prospective residents should factor in rising home prices and insurance costs associated with coastal proximity when planning their budgets. Overall, the town offers a favorable financial balance for those with steady incomes or remote-work arrangements.
Income
Salary Insights
Selbyville's local economy is anchored by agriculture, manufacturing, retail trade, and the booming construction and real estate sectors driven by regional development. Major employers in the area include local agricultural enterprises, healthcare networks, and hospitality businesses serving the nearby Delaware and Maryland beaches. Additionally, the town's proximity to major employment hubs in Sussex County and coastal resort areas provides residents with diverse commuting opportunities.
The rise of remote work has also transformed Selbyville's economic landscape, attracting professionals who appreciate the town's lower cost of living while earning salaries from metropolitan areas like Washington D.C., Baltimore, and Philadelphia. Small businesses and entrepreneurial ventures catering to the growing population continue to find fertile ground here. The local government and business associations actively support economic development initiatives to ensure sustainable job growth.
The average salary in Selbyville is $64,000 per year. You would need approximately $52,000 to live comfortably.
Employment
Top Industries
Weather
Climate
Mobility
Transport
Transportation in Selbyville is heavily car-dependent, as is typical for much of rural and suburban coastal Delaware. US Route 113 runs directly through the town, serving as the primary north-south artery connecting residents to employment centers, shopping plazas, and coastal destinations. While walking and cycling are feasible within specific residential neighborhoods, daily errands generally require a personal vehicle.
Public transit options are somewhat limited compared to major metropolitan areas, though regional bus services and local senior transit programs operate within Sussex County. Traffic can experience seasonal congestion during summer weekends when tourists travel through the area toward Ocean City and Fenwick Island. Ample parking and straightforward suburban road layouts make driving and parking relatively hassle-free during the off-season.
At a Glance
Pros & Cons
Advantages
Drawbacks
Head to Head
Compare Selbyville
Community Q&A
Questions about Selbyville
What people ask about living in and moving to Selbyville, Delaware.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Free Quotes
Get quotes from local pros in Selbyville
Tell us what you need and we’ll pass it to companies that serve your area. It’s free, and there’s no obligation.
Compare Selbyville with any city
See how it stacks up on cost, income, and quality of life.
Start Comparing