New Castle, DE
Population 5,519 · Delaware
About New Castle, DE
New Castle is a small town located in Delaware with a population of 5,519 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $92,565 per year, which is 23% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 46.4 years is notably older the US median age of 38.9 years, suggesting a more established community with a higher proportion of long-term residents.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in New Castle features a median home value of $262,100, which is 7% above the national median of $244,900. This positions New Castle in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,675, 44% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 2,855 total housing units, 64% are owner-occupied (1,719 units) and 36% are renter-occupied (987 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in New Castle shows an unemployment rate of 1.1%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 3.4%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in New Castle have an average one-way commute time of 21.9 minutes.
Education & Demographics
32.2% of New Castle residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This is in line with national trends in educational attainment. The community's demographic composition includes 3.4% White, 0.2% Hispanic or Latino, 1.7% Black or African American, and 0.1% Asian residents, with 8.3% of the population being foreign-born.
How New Castle Ranks in Delaware
Cost of Living in New Castle, DE
Compared to national averages, New Castle has a median household income of $92,565 (23% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $262,100, which is 7% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,675 is 44% above the US average of $1,163. Within Delaware, New Castle's income is 8% above the state average of $85,962, and home values are 32% below the state median of $387,860.
Why Live in New Castle, DE?
New Castle offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $92,565, well above the national average, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 1.1%, and a low poverty rate of 3.4%, better than the national average. Additionally, the city features short commute times averaging just 21.9 minutes.
New Castle has a population of 5,519 with a median age of 46.4 years. Compare New Castle with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Delaware.
Similar Cities Near New Castle
Cities in Delaware with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Elsmere | 6,189 | $76,378 | $210,200 | Compare |
| Edgemoor | 6,671 | $79,572 | $291,000 | Compare |
| Rising Sun-Lebanon | 4,195 | $109,167 | $388,600 | Compare |
| Clayton | 4,086 | $103,211 | $343,700 | Compare |
| Laurel | 4,043 | $44,593 | $192,700 | Compare |
| Camden | 4,011 | $61,895 | $268,800 | Compare |
| Millsboro | 7,152 | $77,750 | $297,000 | Compare |
| Pike Creek | 7,185 | $135,703 | $414,700 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Delaware
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare New Castle With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about New Castle
What is the population of New Castle, DE?
The population of New Castle, DE is 5,519 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small town in Delaware.
What is the median household income in New Castle?
The median household income in New Castle, DE is $92,565 per year, which is 23% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in New Castle?
The median home value in New Castle, DE is $262,100, which is 7% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in New Castle?
The median monthly rent in New Castle, DE is $1,675, which is 44% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in New Castle?
The unemployment rate in New Castle, DE is 1.1%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is New Castle, DE a good place to live?
New Castle offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and a strong job market. With a population of 5,519 and a median age of 46.4, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is New Castle, DE?
32.2% of residents in New Castle aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The educational profile reflects the area's industry mix and employment landscape.
What is the cost of living in New Castle?
Key cost-of-living indicators for New Castle, DE: median home value is $262,100 (7% above national), median rent is $1,675/month, and median household income is $92,565. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.8x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in New Castle?
The poverty rate in New Castle, DE is 3.4%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is New Castle, DE?
New Castle's population is 3.4% White, 0.2% Hispanic or Latino, 1.7% Black or African American, 0.1% Asian, and 27.8% two or more races. 8.3% of residents are foreign-born.