7 Best Places To Live In Delaware In 2024

Delaware in northeastern United States is one of the smallest states in the country, being only 96 miles long and 30 miles wide and having a population of just over one million residents. Its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean, some great state parks, and bigger cities along the eastern seaboard make it an ideal place to live. With the advent of work-from-home jobs recently, moving away from busier states like New York or New Jersey to smaller, quieter ones like Delaware has become more popular. Learn more about these seven towns if you are considering settling in "The First State."

Wilmington

Wilmington, Delaware, stands as the state's largest city, with over 70,000 residents. It offers a dynamic blend of cultures and urban amenities. Renowned for its revitalized downtown area, Wilmington provides residents with a ton of cultural attractions, dining options, and entertainment venues.

Notably, the city has made significant strides in enhancing safety measures in recent years, fostering a secure environment for its inhabitants. Wilmington's advantageous tax laws further contribute to its appeal, providing residents with financial benefits. Beyond its urban landscape, Wilmington boasts scenic parks along the Christina River, offering opportunities for outdoor recreation such as hiking and biking. Check out the Brandywine Zoo one day and experience the history of this long-settled area at the Hagley Museum. With its vibrant and welcoming "big city" atmosphere and favorable living conditions, Wilmington emerges as an attractive destination for professionals and families seeking a balance between urban excitement and a natural escape.

Lewes

Lewes, Delaware claims to be "the first town in the first state," having been founded in 1631, although there is some debate regarding this claim. Regardless, this quaint seaside town of about 3,300 residents is a seaside pleasure to live in. Being at the southern end of the state, Lewes is farther away from the big cities like Wilmington and Philadelphia, but given the minuscule size of Delaware, you still won't be very far. A solid day trip, at worst, in your car. Enjoy the abundance of nearby parks like Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge and Cape Henlopen State Park. If walks on the beach are your favorite pastime, then Lewes is for you. 

Rehoboth Beach 

Rehoboth Beach is yet another coastal town, not very hard to find in this state on the Atlantic shore. This one brings all the charm and livability one could ask for in southern Delaware. With a fairly small population of about 1,100 people, Rehoboth Beach is the low-crime, quiet getaway many people are after. Being a bit of a summer destination town for mainlanders, there are many activities and great businesses for residents and visitors alike. The Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk is a pleasure to walk up and down while breathing in the sea air and maybe grabbing an ice cream or a coffee. Walk far enough, and you can treat yourself to a cold beverage at Dewey Beer Co., just one of this town's many great spots for locally-made food and drink. 

Middletown

Located in northern Delaware, Middletown is a growing suburban community with a strong sense of community and a variety of amenities. The crime rate is low, and the town offers easy access to outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and golfing. Tax laws are favorable, and there are plenty of shopping and dining options in the area. What more can you want? 

Learn about the history of your new home at the Middletown Historical Society or the nearby Historic Odessa Foundation, or stretch your legs at the beautiful Silver Lake Park. The low-thrills town is a haven for anybody looking to slow things down a little bit, enjoy being outside, and save a little money on living expenses while you're at it. If you miss the city life from time to time, you're only less than a day's drive away from Baltimore, Wilmington, or Philadelphia. 

Newark

Newark, Delaware, recognized as a vibrant college town, offers academic opportunities and community vitality. Home to the esteemed University of Delaware, Newark cultivates a diverse and intellectually stimulating environment for both students and residents alike. Boasting a lively downtown scene, Newark offers an abundance of cultural attractions, dining establishments, and entertainment venues, giving residents and visitors a dynamic social landscape. Noteworthy for its safety measures, this city ensures a secure environment conducive to academic pursuits and everyday living. 

Newark's advantageous tax laws further enhance its allure, providing residents with financial benefits. Additionally, the city's proximity to scenic parks, like the White Clay Creek State Park, and recreational facilities cater to outdoor enthusiasts, offering opportunities for leisure activities such as hiking, biking, and sports. With its unique fusion of academic prowess, cultural vibrancy, and quality of life, Newark stands as a compelling choice for individuals seeking a fulfilling and enriching living experience.

Bethany Beach

Another popular beach town, Bethany Beach, is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and pristine shoreline. The crime rate is low, and residents enjoy access to outdoor activities like swimming, kayaking, and beachcombing. Tax laws are favorable here, as with many other towns on this list, and the town has a charming downtown area with many locally owned shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues.

This highly developed stretch of beach along the Coastal Highway One contains many things to do. Enjoy a stroll along the extensive Bethany Beach Boardwalk or paddle with the Salt Pond Beach and Kayak Club. Love just hanging out at the beach? Well, the almost endless amounts of sandy shore here at Bethany Beach will certainly please you, too.

Hockessin

Situated in northern Delaware, Hockessin is a peaceful suburb with a strong sense of community and a variety of amenities. The crime rate is low, and the town offers access to outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and horseback riding. Having a bit more of an affluent population and a countryside location, Hockessin should mainly be considered for those looking to buy a detached home as opposed to an apartment or condo. Being on the border of Pennsylvania, day trips to bigger cities like Philadelphia are short and easy (assuming traffic is light).

This frosted town is notable for its easy access to the countryside, parks, and golf courses like the Hatefeld National. There are also a huge amount of baseball diamonds here, as Hockessin seems to agree with the rest of America on its favorite pastime. Followers of the Hindu faith will also be delighted to see the large and ornate Hindu Temple of Delaware, located in the heart of the downtown core.

Find A Place to Call Home in Delaware

Delaware offers an array of attractive living options, each with its own unique blend of amenities and opportunities. Whether you seek the vibrant urban energy of Wilmington, the coastal charm of Lewes and Rehoboth Beach, or the academic ambiance of Newark, the First State presents an inviting landscape for residents. With more lenient tax laws, lower crime rates, and ample recreational offerings, Delaware's towns and cities provide a high quality of life for individuals and families alike. Whether you're drawn to cultural attractions, outdoor adventures, or a sense of community, Delaware stands ready to welcome you with open arms to a place you can proudly call home.