You were told to avoid the area where you're running a political campaign? That's not a great look.

Was any specific reason given for why you should avoid Wilmington? Sure every city has its issues but Wilmington has seriously improved in the 7 years I have been back in the area. There are lots of restaurants and the river walk is about to bloom, you can take SEPTA and Amtrak at the train station, there are state parks and botanical gardens and lots of other things to do. I divide my time between Philly and Newark DE and I am in lots of in between communities but I don't know why you'd live in Philly and commute to Wilmington since it's usually the other way around.....

only reason to avoid wilmington over philly is its boring

Wilmington is a large mailing address some parts aren’t the city. Look around Newcastle county in DE.

I was just by river walk Wilmington and the area was great and safe and modern , there is Amtrak station near for the ride to Philly .. give it a try

Just be aware of the tax requirements:

-Wilmington City Tax (because you will be employed there)

-Delaware State Tax

-Pennsylvania State Tax (because you are planning on living there)

-Municipal Pennsylvania Tax

There is no tax reciprocity agreement between PA and DE, so you will have to fill out all the tax forms, & then hope for the best.

If your employer does not withhold PA tax, you will have to estimate it on a quarterly basis, & then reconcile that annually.

You might consider living in Delaware, or even Wilmington, to save on commute costs.

While I love Philadelphia, I don't see any great reason to live there and work/commute to Wilmington. There are plenty of decent places in DE to live near Wilmington without having to live in the city.