Let the numbers do the talking.
Elsmere, DE vs Wilmington, DE
Elsmere, DE vs Wilmington, DE: What the data shows
Elsmere, DE is in Elsmere, DE while Wilmington, DE is in Wilmington, DE — both in the same state. On home prices, Wilmington, DE is the more affordable option at $166,300 median — $40,700 less than Elsmere, DE's $207,000. WYLT rates Elsmere, DE as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Wilmington, DE as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Elsmere, DE has the stronger safety profile of the two. Elsmere, DE has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Wilmington, DE has Moderate violent crime and High property crime. On environmental risk, Elsmere, DE has Low flood risk and Wilmington, DE has Low flood risk.
Wilmington, DE is the more walkable neighborhood. Elsmere, DE scores 7/100 (car-dependent) versus Wilmington, DE's 38/100 (mostly car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, both neighborhoods have the same school rating — Elsmere, DE rates 7.6/10 and Wilmington, DE rates 7.6/10.
| Category | Elsmere, DE | Wilmington, DE |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Think twice |
| Median Price | $207K | $166K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $1K | $1K ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $56K ✓ Higher income | $42K |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Low ✓ More stable |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 7/100 | 38/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | Minimal transit | 14/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | N/A |
| Commute | 15 min | N/A |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ ✓ Safer | F |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate ✓ Lower risk | High |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good ✓ Cleaner air | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 7.6/10 | 7.6/10 |
| Best for | FamiliesRemote workersCommuters to Wilmington | Budget rentersFamilies seeking good schoolsCar commuters |
Bottom line
For a family or remote worker seeking a quiet suburb with good schools, Elsmere is a slightly more liveable option, given its solid school rating and easier access to larger cities in Delaware. However, for a single person or student prioritizing affordability, Wilmington might be the more suitable choice due to its even lower housing costs and already-existing public transit system connecting directly to downtown.
Share this comparison