Social Worker Salary in Delaware
The median social worker salary in Delaware is $55,904 per year, which is 1.0% above the national median of $55,350.
Social Worker Salary Overview in Delaware (2026)
Delaware ranks #15 out of 50 states for social worker compensation. Delaware falls in the middle of the pack for social worker pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $55,904 per year, social workers in Delaware earn $554 more than the national median of $55,350.
Delaware's cost of living is near the national average at 101%, meaning social worker salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.
The salary spread in Delaware is significant: social workers at the 10th percentile earn $36,764, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $88,678 — a $51,914 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Delaware for this role is Wilmington, where the median reaches $58,118.
Nationally, social worker employment is projected to grow 7% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for social workers across the country.
Social Worker Salary in Delaware by Experience
In Delaware, an entry-level social worker earns around $38,380, while experienced professionals earn up to $82,820 per year. The cost of living index in Delaware is 101% of the national average.
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Check Your Rate — No Credit Impact →Salary Percentiles in Delaware
| Percentile | DE Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $36,764 |
| 25th Percentile | $44,642 |
| Median (50th) | $55,904 |
| 75th Percentile | $71,104 |
| 90th Percentile | $88,678 |
Social Worker Salary by City in Delaware
The largest employment areas for social workers in Delaware include Wilmington, Dover, Newark, and Middletown. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Social Worker in Delaware
Education
Most social worker positions require a bachelor's degree. Delaware has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Delaware
Nationally, social worker employment is projected to grow 7% over the next decade (faster than average). Delaware's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
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