Demographics

As of 2023, Delaware County, PA, has a population of approximately 569,500. The median age is 38.7 years, with 51.8% female and 48.2% male residents. Racially, the county is 63% White, 23% Black or African American, 6.5% Asian, and 4.2% Hispanic or Latino. The remaining population includes smaller percentages of other races or those identifying as two or more races.

Elections

Delaware County, PA, had approximately 408,000 registered voters in 2023, split among Democrats (50%), Republicans (37%), and others/independent. The county administers primary, general, and special elections, with recent turnout near 34% in off-year elections. Over 250 polling locations are used, managed by the County Board of Elections. In the 2020 presidential election, Democrats won 62% of the county vote. Key issues include mail-in voting, redistricting, and polling site accessibility. Both major parties are active, and election results are posted promptly on the Delco Votes website.

Education, Employment and Housing

Delaware County, PA, has over 70 public schools and 15 private high schools, with an average high school graduation rate of 91%. Approximately 40% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. The county boasts several adult education and technical programs, including Delaware County Community College. School safety initiatives include security personnel and modern surveillance; overall safety scores average 8/10. Educational programs emphasize STEM, arts, and Advanced Placement courses, fostering academic achievement—public schools’ average scores consistently rank above the state average.

As of 2023, Delaware County, PA, has an employment rate of approximately 61%. Major industries include healthcare (16.1%), educational services (13.8%), and retail trade (10.5%). Leading occupations are in management, business, science, and arts (41%), followed by sales and office roles (22%). Most employed residents (nearly 80%) commute by car, with a median travel time of 29 minutes; 12% work locally in Delaware County, while others commute to Philadelphia (28%) and neighboring counties.

Delaware County, PA, features a homeownership rate of about 66%, with the median home value around $277,000 and median rent approximately $1,350 per month. Property values have risen by about 5% over the past year. Housing types range from single-family homes in suburbs like Media and Swarthmore to apartments in Upper Darby. Popular neighborhoods include Ridley Park and Springfield. Property taxes average 1.7% of home value, meaning $4,700 annually for a typical home. The area balances historic charm and commuter access to Philadelphia.

County Crime & Safety

Delaware County, PA, reported a violent crime rate of approximately 3.2 incidents per 1,000 residents and a property crime rate of 15.4 per 1,000 in 2022, according to FBI data. While crime rates have slightly decreased year-over-year, theft and burglary remain the most common offenses. The county promotes safety through community policing and timely crime reporting via the Delco Crime Watch program. Compared to national averages, Delaware County's crime rates are moderate, and local law enforcement continues efforts to improve public safety and reduce offenses.