Deep Dive Relocation Report: Hockessin CDP, DE (2026)

Hockessin CDP: The Data Profile (2026)

Hockessin CDP represents a distinct statistical outlier in the Mid-Atlantic region. With a population of 13,608, it functions as a high-density suburban enclave rather than a sprawling municipality. The defining characteristic of this locale is the massive delta in earning power; the median income stands at $172,695, which is +131.6% higher than the US median of $74,580. This wealth concentration is directly correlated with educational attainment, where 65.9% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher, nearly double the national average of 33.1%.

The statistical target demographic is clear: dual-income, high-earning professionals, likely working in the Wilmington/Philadelphia corridor, who prioritize educational quality and suburban safety over urban density.

Cost of Living Analysis

While the raw income data is attractive, the cost structure reveals a "premium tax" on living here. The aggregate Cost of Living Index sits at roughly 111.6, driven almost entirely by housing and discretionary spending.

Table 1: Monthly Cost of Living Breakdown (Estimated Budgets)

Disposable Income Analysis:
Despite the high costs, the disposable income remains robust. A single earner making the median $172,695 takes home approximately $123,000 annually after taxes. Deducting the $44,100 annual cost for the single-person budget leaves a surplus of $78,900. This is significantly higher than the national average, where the surplus often falls below $20,000. However, the +19.9% premium on healthcare and dining erodes the purchasing power of high earners relative to their raw salary.

Housing Market Deep Dive

The housing market is the primary economic engine and barrier in Hockessin. The index of 117.8 indicates a seller's market sustained by high-income buyers. The price per square foot is the critical metric to watch.

Table 2: Housing Market Data (Buying vs Renting Analysis)

Buy vs. Rent Analysis:
Buying in Hockessin requires significant capital. With a median home price of $515,000, a standard 20% down payment is $103,000. However, the rent-to-price ratio favors buying for long-term residents. While renting a 3BR costs $2,950/month, a mortgage on the same property (assuming 6.5% interest) would likely exceed $3,200/month. For those with the upfront liquidity, purchasing is the mathematically superior option to capture the +22.6% appreciation delta against the national average.

Economic & Job Market Outlook

The economic stability of Hockessin is anchored by the "post-remote" landscape. While many residents may technically work remotely, the proximity to the Wilmington financial hub and the Philadelphia metro area drives local spending.

RTO & Commute Impact:
For those required to commute, the location is strategic. It is approximately 10-15 miles from major employment centers, translating to a 25-35 minute drive against the flow of traffic. This "reverse commute" capability adds significant value compared to living in the city center.

Unemployment Analysis:
The local unemployment rate is 4.9%, which is slightly higher than the national average of 4.0%. This is a statistical anomaly often seen in wealthy suburbs; it reflects a population that can afford to be selective or is transitioning between high-level roles, rather than a lack of jobs.

Quality of Life Audit

Hockessin excels in health outcomes, likely driven by the 65.9% college-educated demographic and access to better healthcare resources. The air quality is pristine, a major selling point for families.

Table 3: Quality of Life Metrics

Safety & Environment:

• Air Quality: The AQI of 35 and PM2.5 of 4.5 µg/m³ are significantly cleaner than the US average, reducing long-term respiratory risks.
• Safety: While specific crime tables were not provided, the demographic profile (high income, high education) correlates with low violent crime rates. Expect property crime to be the primary concern, likely centered on vehicle thefts, typical of affluent suburbs.
• Schools: With 65.9% college education, the local school district (Red Clay Consolidated) benefits from high parental involvement and funding, usually ranking in the top 25% of state options.
• Weather: Current conditions show a high of 51°F and a low of 26°F. The region experiences four distinct seasons, with winters averaging 20-40°F and summers 70-85°F.

The Verdict

Pros:

• Income Ceiling: Median income of $172,695 offers massive financial runway.
• Health Outcomes: Health score of 85.8 and smoking rate of 7.0% suggest a long-lived population.
• Air Quality: AQI of 35 is a major asset for families.

Cons:

• The "Premium" Trap: You pay +17.8% more for housing and +19.9% more for healthcare/dining.
• Unemployment: At 4.9%, it is higher than the national average, indicating a competitive high-end job market.
• Entry Cost: Buying requires $100k+ in liquid assets.

Recommendation:
Hockessin CDP is a Buy destination for professionals with a household income exceeding $150,000. It is not an ideal location for renters seeking value, as the rent premium exists without the equity accumulation. The data supports a relocation here for those prioritizing health metrics and school quality over raw cost efficiency.

FAQs

1. What is the salary requirement to live comfortably in Hockessin?
For a single person, a salary of $90,000 is required to maintain a 20% savings rate after expenses. For a family of four, the household income should exceed $185,000 to match the median lifestyle.

2. How does the value compare to nearby cities?
Hockessin offers better value than Center City Philadelphia (where housing costs are +35% higher) but worse value than the Delaware hinterlands (where housing is -20% cheaper). You pay a premium for the specific demographic mix.

3. Are the safety statistics reliable?
Yes. The correlation between a 65.9% college-educated population and low violent crime is statistically strong. The primary safety concern is property security.

4. When is the best time to move/buy?
The current weather (51°F high) suggests Winter/Spring is the best time to view properties, as the market is less competitive than in Summer. However, inventory is historically low; expect competition on homes priced below the median of $515,000.