Delaware may be one of the smallest states in the country, but it offers a diverse and high-quality range of assisted living options tailored to meet the unique needs of older adults. Whether your loved one requires minimal daily assistance, memory support, or full-time personal care, Delaware’s assisted living communities are designed to promote independence while ensuring safety and dignity.
This in-depth guide provides everything families need to know when exploring assisted living in Delaware—including costs, regulations, available services, and how to find the right facility.
Assisted living costs in Delaware fall slightly above the national average, primarily due to the state’s strong healthcare infrastructure and proximity to large metropolitan areas like Philadelphia and Baltimore.
| Region | Average Monthly Cost (Private Room) | Average Monthly Cost (Shared Room) |
| Northern Delaware | $5,350 | $4,100 |
| Central Delaware | $4,800 | $3,900 |
| Southern Delaware | $4,300 | $3,600 |
| Statewide Average | $4,800 | $3,900 |
| Category | Delaware | National Average |
| Average Monthly Cost | $4,800 | $4,000 |
| Number of Facilities | 60+ | 28,900+ |
| Medicaid Coverage | Partial (via Diamond State HCBS) | Limited |
Delaware’s assisted living costs are above average but more affordable than nearby states like New Jersey and Maryland. While the number of facilities is smaller due to the state’s size, the level of care and regulatory oversight is robust.
| State | Average Monthly Cost | Total Facilities | Specialized Memory Care |
| Delaware | $4,800 | 60+ | Yes |
| New Jersey | $6,400 | 220+ | Yes |
| Maryland | $4,900 | 270+ | Yes |
| Pennsylvania | $4,300 | 1,200+ | Yes |
| National Average | $4,000 | 28,900+ | Yes |
Paying for assisted living can be one of the most significant financial challenges for families. Fortunately, several options can help cover costs in Delaware:
| Payment Option | Coverage Type | Eligibility |
| Private Pay | Full or partial | All seniors |
| Long-Term Care Insurance | Partial or full | Based on individual policy |
| VA Aid & Attendance Benefit | Partial | Veterans and surviving spouses |
| Medicaid HCBS Waiver (Delaware) | Partial | Income and medical need criteria |
Delaware ensures high standards for assisted living through detailed state-level regulation and frequent inspections.
| Regulatory Standard | Delaware Requirement |
| Minimum Staff-to-Resident Ratio | No mandated ratio; must meet care needs |
| Licensing Entity | Delaware DHSS |
| Required Staff Training | 40+ hours initial, 12+ hours/year ongoing |
| Inspection Frequency | Annual + as needed |
| Resident Care Plan Requirement | Yes – individualized care plans required |
Finding the right assisted living community can feel overwhelming—especially when balancing care quality, affordability, and location. That’s where we come in.
Medicare does not cover assisted living costs, but it may cover:
Delaware Medicaid provides limited financial support for eligible seniors who require a nursing-home level of care but choose to live in a licensed assisted living setting.
| Program | Coverage | Eligibility |
| Medicare | No assisted living coverage | N/A |
| Diamond State HCBS Waiver | Partial monthly assistance available | Income < $2,742/month (2024) and medical need criteria |
Delaware offers high-quality assisted living options with a strong emphasis on regulated care, resident dignity, and service variety. However, understanding your options and navigating costs can be a challenge.
Let AssistedLivingSeniorCare.com simplify the journey. We connect you to trusted communities in Delaware that match your loved one’s specific care needs and budget—while providing expert support every step of the way.
Start your search today and take the first step toward peace of mind for your family.
