6 Budget-Friendly Towns in Delaware for Retirees
The second smallest US state but a densely populated one, Delaware is an excellent Atlantic Seaboard state to consider retirement in. Due to its small size, the state has only three counties (New Castle, Kent, and Sussex). The state is bordered by Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Maryland, and Virginia. Delaware has a close relationship with Philadelphia as it sits just across the Delaware River. A major hub for the US's chemical industry, the state drew in a high density of skilled tradesmen who chose to settle in the region. Today, poultry is the state's leading economic exploit.
With no sales tax, no tax on Social Security or Railroad Retirement benefits, no inheritance tax, and low property taxes, the state is one of the most tax-friendly to retire. Delaware also invests well in its senior community, offering activities, community spaces, healthcare, housing support, legal support, and transportation across the state to those 55 and older. All of these factors make it a budget-friendly state to consider for retirement.
Dover
With its low crime rate and cost of living, the second-largest city in and capital of Delaware is an excellent choice for many retirees. This community of 38,879 has a cost of living 7% below the national average and 8% below the state average with median home prices sitting at $182,100 (according to the Economic Research Institute). Some of the best things to do in Dover include visiting the First State Heritage Park, Biggs Museum of American Art, or the Bobola Farms and Florist. Located on the shores of Silver Lake, there is non-stop outdoor recreation available at any pace that may excite you.
The Bayhealth Hospital, Kent Campus, services Dover and the communities nearby. The Modern Maturity Center also offers community, educational, and nutritional services to residents 50 and older.
Middletown
The cost of living is right at the national and state averages, with home prices averaging around $294,800. Middletown is home to 23,573 people, and crime is roughly on par with the national average. A part of the Wilmington and Brandywine Valley, Middletown is a beautiful historic town. The best places in town include the Dutch Country Farmer's Market, the Frog Hollow Golf Club and Restaurant, and the nearby Historic Odessa Foundation.
Middletown has both the ChristianaCare Middletown Emergency Department and two rehabilitation hospitals. The MOT Senior Center offers community activities to get you creating and active.
Milford
Crime is very low in this town of 11,714. The median home price in Milford is $199,600, and the average cost of living is 5% below the national and 6% below the state average. Milford is a hub for creativity known for its cultural centers, craft breweries, and B&Bs. Some of the best things to do in Milford include visiting the DuPont Nature Center, taking a ride on the Delaware Bayshore Byway, or stopping in for a show at the Riverfront Theater.
The Bayhealth Hospital, Sussex Campus, and Milford Senior Center help keep MIlford's community members healthy and well.
New Castle
Although the cost of living is slightly above the national average, this community of 5,523 is remarkably safe with reasonably affordable homes. The median home price is $211,700. New Castle is a riverside community that has a well-loved historic district. The best sites in New Castle include the Old New Castle Courthouse, the Delaware Historical Society's Read House and Gardens, and the Delaware History Trail.
The Delaware State Hospital offers emergency and non-emergency medical services to the region's residents. The New Castle Senior Center is this town's hub for those 50 and up, welcoming new members regardless of where they call home.
Claymont
The cost of living in Claymont is at the national and state averages, with median home prices at $209,400. Approximately 10,000 residents call Claymont home. The town is right on the Delaware River and a short drive from the Pennsylvania border. The most beautiful places to spend a day in Claymont are Bellevue State Park, Rockwood Park & Museum, and the Nemours Mansion & Gardens.
Although Claymont does not have a hospital, it has a walk-in clinic and is just a short drive from several major hospitals, like Wilmington VA Medical Center and ChristianaCare Wilmington Hospital. The Brandywine Senior Center offers activities, classes, and trips for those 50 and over.
Hockessin
The cost of living in this community of 13,878 is 5% below the national average and 6% below the state average. The median home price is $456,100. Hockessin sits right along the border with Pennsylvania and is a short drive from the Mt. Cuba Center, Mason Dixon Trail, and the White Clay Creek State Park and State Preserve. Hockessin has a walk-in clinic that can help support most medical issues and is close to Wilmington VA Medical Center. The Hockessin Recreation Center offers events, activities, and classes to all community members, regardless of age.
The combination of this state's proximity to major cities such as Philadelphia, New York City, and Boston, mixed with its robust senior services and programming, makes Delaware one of the best states in the US for seniors. As an added bonus, several communities present budget-friendly options for retirees. The state invests in making sure that its senior age is healthy—both physically and mentally. It even has a Senior Community Service Employment Program, offering part-time paid work for interested seniors looking to learn a new trade or skill or simply continue giving back to their community. The beautiful geography, mixed with its reasonable four-season climate, makes Delaware a no-brainer for retirement.
