Delaware is one of the smallest states in terms of land mass and population size, with just over one million residents as of 2021 Census estimates, but it has a relatively high percentage of senior citizens. Almost one in five (19.4%) of Delaware’s residents are aged 65 and over.
In our 2024 Senior Living Report, the state is ranked 25th for its quality of life and 29th in overall affordability. However, the cost of assisted living in particular is quite high, at an average of $5,995 per month, which is 33% higher than the U.S. average. The state’s highest ranking hospitals are located in Newark, Dover and Lewes. Christiana Hospital in Newark received the highest rating in Delaware and performs well in many procedures and treatment of conditions that commonly affect the elderly, such as hip and knee replacements, stroke, diabetes and heart surgery.
This guide includes detailed cost comparisons for assisted living in Delaware and the wider region, Medicaid coverage and eligibility requirements as well as state regulations and useful resources related to assisted living.