Looking for a place to call home that brims with vibrancy, community, and adventure? Look no further than Delaware. Here, bustling cities meet quaint beach towns while outdoor fun awaits around every corner. It’s an inviting haven for anyone eyeing a fresh start.
Moreover, Delaware impresses with the cost of living below the national average, low property taxes, and no sales tax. Dive into our in-depth guide to the best places to live in Delaware, and for a closer look at Delaware’s treasures, be sure to check out the homes for sale in Delaware at eXp Realty.
Here Are the Top 15 Best Places To Live in Delaware
This list’s charming, affordable, and family-friendly locales encompass a wide range of amenities, housing prices, school quality, and job opportunities. From popular beachfront locations to historic cities, each location offers a unique lifestyle, ensuring you’ll find a place that perfectly suits your needs and preferences.
Bethany Beach
Population Size: 1,060
Average Income: $66,964
Average House Price: $570K
Best For: Families, Beach Lovers
Other: Walking distance to the beach, boutique-lined streets, access to healthcare facilities, tax-free shopping.
Nestled in Sussex County, Bethany Beach is a charming beach town, a favorite destination of many for its natural beauty and seaside charm. Known for its bustling community life and wide range of recreational activities, it’s a popular spot for residents and tourists.
Its housing market offers a broad mix of single-family homes, condos, and townhouses, with the median home price higher than the state average, reflecting the high quality of life and close-knit community.
Bethany Beach also boasts excellent schools, including some award-winning institutions. The town’s economic diversity and relatively low unemployment rates make it an attractive place for job seekers and investors. Its prime location, just a 20-minute drive from other popular spots in Sussex County, like Cape Henlopen State Park, offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor pursuits and beach life.
North Star
Population Size: 7,980
Average Income: $131,667
Average House Price: $400K
Best For: Families, Professionals
Other: Quality public services, hiking trails, close to shopping centers, quality of schools, strong community.
North Star is located in the Pike Creek Valley and offers an appealing balance between luxury and affordability. Known for its safe streets and upscale community, it is a hidden treasure in Delaware, with affordable living and housing prices sitting below the national average.
North Star is an opportunity hub, boasting a thriving job market dominated by the healthcare, education, and retail sectors. Not only does the town itself offer diverse employment prospects, but its proximity to major cities like Wilmington also expands career possibilities through easy commuting.
Meanwhile, families benefit from high-quality public schools, including the Newark Charter School and the Conrad School of Science. North Star also offers a plethora of attractions, with its public parks like White Clay Creek State Park and Rittenhouse Park offering residents plenty of options for outdoor activities.
Pike Creek
Population Size: 7,898
Average Income: $91,250
Average House Price: $295K
Best For: Families, Outdoor Enthusiasts
Other: Proximity to parks, award-winning schools, ample shopping centers, strong community bonds, affordable living.
Tucked within the rolling hills of Pike Creek Valley, Pike Creek is a suburban gem filled with green spaces and recreational pursuits. It’s one of the state’s favorite destinations, known for its natural beauty, excellent schools, and vibrant community life.
The diverse housing market offers everything from affordable single-family homes to more luxurious properties. The median home price reflects the area’s housing quality, sitting at a moderate level compared to the state average.
Pike Creek offers many job opportunities, with a low unemployment rate, and various sectors, including healthcare, retail, and education. With excellent schools like the Skyline Middle School and Cab Calloway School of Arts, it’s an ideal location for families. The community’s close proximity to Carousel Park and White Clay Creek State Park provides residents with plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities.
Hockessin
Population Size: 13,527
Average Income: $114,813
Average House Price: $410K
Best For: Families, History Lovers
Other: Historical sites, strong community, quality schools, healthcare facilities, safety.
Hockessin, known for its rich historical sites and cultural activities, is a charming suburb town offering a quality lifestyle at an affordable price. Its housing market is versatile, with a mix of single-family homes, townhouses, and condos. The average price of Hockessin real estate is higher than the state’s median cost, justified by the town’s quality of life and excellent public services.
Job opportunities abound in Hockessin, particularly in healthcare and education, the town’s largest industries. The area’s schools, including the highly rated Charter School, are known for the quality of education.
Hockessin’s strong community and low crime rate make it an appealing option for families. The town’s proximity to larger cities and shopping centers ensures residents have easy access to a wide range of amenities.
Rehoboth Beach
Population Size: 1,443
Average Income: $79,375
Average House Price: $750K
Best For: Beach Lovers, Retirees
Other: Beachfront location, arts scene, family-friendly activities, bustling community, healthcare facilities.
A beachfront location with an unbeatable ocean view, Rehoboth Beach offers a perfect balance of city life and relaxed beachy-town charm. As a popular spot for holidaymakers, it’s a bustling community with many attractions and amenities. Housing varies from cozy beachfront homes to apartments, with the average home price reflecting the oceanfront locale.
Job opportunities are thriving in the hospitality, retail, and healthcare sectors. The town’s schools offer quality education focusing on arts, making it an excellent place for families. Plus, the wide range of recreational activities, beachfront restaurants, and shopping centers contribute to an appealing lifestyle that’s hard to resist.
Greenville
Population Size: 2,333
Median Household Income: $133,864
Average House Price: $790K
Best For: Families, Professionals
Other: High quality of life, upscale community, low crime rate, quality of schools, proximity to Wilmington.
Boasting a high quality of life, Greenville is an upscale community that offers a blend of luxury and nature. Real estate here ranges from historic estates to modern apartments, and the average home price is considerably higher than the statewide average, reflecting the city’s affluent character.
The job market in Greenville is diverse, with opportunities in healthcare, education, and finance. The city has several excellent schools, including Highlands Elementary School and DuPont Middle School. With a low crime rate and access to healthcare facilities, Greenville ensures a safe and comfortable living.
The city also offers many amenities, including shopping centers, restaurants, and recreational activities, making it an attractive option for families and professionals.
Middletown
Population Size: 22,582
Average Income: $85,365
Average House Price: $320K
Best For: Families, Young Professionals
Other: Rapid growth, excellent schools, abundant amenities, healthcare facilities, recreational activities.
Growing rapidly in both population and infrastructure, Middletown offers a blend of suburban town charm and urban amenities. Its housing market is diverse, from single-family homes to townhouses and apartments. The house price is slightly above the national average but well justified by the city’s quality of life and access to a wide range of amenities.
Middletown’s job market is booming, with the healthcare and retail sectors leading. The local schools are highly rated, making the city an excellent place for families. Silver Lake Park and various shopping centers offer residents numerous recreational and shopping opportunities.
Highland Acres
Population Size: 3,459
Median Household Income: $64,327
Average House Price: $225K
Best For: Families, Retirees
Other: Safe streets, affordable housing, healthcare facilities, quality of schools, strong community bonds.
Located in Kent County, Highland Acres is a quiet, safe town with an affordable cost of living. Various options, from single-family homes to apartments, characterize the housing market. The average house price is well below the national average, reflecting the town’s affordability.
Job opportunities in Highland Acres are diverse, concentrating in the healthcare, education, and retail sectors. The community is tight-knit, and the local schools are known for their quality education. The town’s recreational facilities, including parks and sports centers, enhance the quality of life for its residents.
Newark
Population Size: 33,673
Median Household Income: $54,580
Average House Price: $265K
Best For: Students, Young Professionals
Other: College town, ample job opportunities, cultural activities, excellent schools, recreational facilities.
Known as a vibrant college town, Newark offers a unique blend of academic fervor and urban convenience. Its housing market is varied, balancing rented accommodation and owned homes well. The average price of homes for sale in Newark is slightly above the state’s average, reflecting the city’s popularity.
The city offers plenty of job opportunities, particularly in education and healthcare. Newark is home to the University of Delaware, which enriches the cultural atmosphere and is the city’s largest employer. Newark’s schools are also top-notch, and the city offers a wide range of amenities and recreational activities, such as Rittenhouse Park and the Newark Reservoir.
Bellefonte
Population Size: 1,193
Average Income: $67,396
Average House Price: $280K
Best For: Families, Commuters
Other: Small-town charm, proximity to Wilmington, above-average schools, job opportunities, strong community.
Bellefonte is a hidden treasure in Delaware. It offers a quaint, small-town atmosphere, just a 20-minute drive from Wilmington, the state’s largest city. Housing in Bellefonte ranges from historic homes to modern apartments, and the average house price is comparable to the state’s median cost.
Job opportunities are primarily found in healthcare, retail, and public services, with Wilmington’s opportunities within commuting distance. The community is close-knit, and the town’s schools offer above-average education. Residents can also enjoy Bellefonte’s boutique-lined streets and proximity to larger cities for more extensive shopping and dining options.
Pike Creek Valley
Population Size: 11,217
Average Income: $92,156
Average House Price: $305K
Best For: Families, Outdoor Enthusiasts
Other: Quality of schools, low crime rate, job opportunities, natural beauty, outdoor activities.
Pike Creek Valley is the larger area encompassing Pike Creek and offers a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle. The housing options in Pike Creek Valley are wide and varied, ranging from affordable houses to more luxurious homes. The average house price is moderate and offers a good cost-to-income ratio for most families.
The area is home to some of the best schools in the state, including Skyline Middle School and Cab Calloway School of Arts. Job opportunities are prevalent in healthcare, retail, and education sectors. With a low crime rate, residents feel safe, and the proximity to natural areas like White Clay Creek State Park provides residents with ample opportunities for outdoor activities.
Edgemoor
Population Size: 6,130
Average Income: $54,635
Average House Price: $190K
Best For: Families, Commuters
Other: Affordable housing, proximity to Wilmington, average schools, job opportunities.
Edgemoor, a suburb of Wilmington, is a residential area offering a range of affordable housing options, with the average house price below the national average. The town provides excellent connectivity to Wilmington and its job market, primarily centered around healthcare, financial services, and education.
While small, Edgemoor provides its residents a fair share of amenities like parks, restaurants, and shopping centers. The schools are average but still provide a decent education. Its strategic location near Wilmington also makes it an excellent choice for commuters.
Camden
Population Size: 3,464
Average Income: $61,756
Average House Price: $225K
Best For: Families, Retirees
Other: Quiet community, quality schools, recreational amenities.
Camden, situated in Kent County, is characterized by its charming residential areas and quiet streets. Camden’s housing market offers affordable single-family homes, making it an excellent option for families and retirees.
The local job market offers healthcare, retail, and education opportunities, with larger employers within commuting distance in Dover. Schools in Camden offer quality education, and the town offers several recreational amenities, including Brecknock Park and the Camden Bowling Lanes.
Wyoming
Population Size: 1,507
Average Income: $58,215
Average House Price: $200K
Best For: Families, Outdoor Enthusiasts
Other: Affordable housing, quality schools, access to larger job markets, outdoor activities.
Wyoming is a small town in Delaware that offers a serene and welcoming environment. The town’s housing market is very affordable, with the average house price well below the national average.
Job opportunities in Wyoming are primarily in the education, healthcare, and retail sectors. Wyoming’s schools are recognized for their commitment to quality education. The town offers its residents numerous recreational opportunities, including parks and trails, and is close to larger job markets like Dover.
Rodney Village
Population Size: 1,979
Average Income: $56,452
Average House Price: $210K
Best For: Families, Commuters
Other: Affordable housing, job opportunities, close-knit community, proximity to Dover, recreational facilities.
Rodney Village, located near Dover, is a residential suburb offering a range of affordable housing options. The area’s affordability is reflected in the average house price, which sits below the national average.
Employment opportunities in Rodney Village primarily lie in the healthcare, retail, and education sectors. The community is close-knit, and the local schools offer a decent standard of education. Residents also have access to numerous parks and recreational facilities in and around the area.
FAQs: Best Places to Live in Delaware
Here are some commonly asked questions and their answers about living in Delaware:
What Is a Nice Area To Live in Delaware?
Pike Creek Valley, Hockessin, and North Star are among the nicest areas in Delaware due to their high standard of living, excellent education opportunities, and numerous amenities. However, the “nicest” area can depend on personal preferences and lifestyle needs.
What Is the Prettiest Place in Delaware?
Delaware boasts many beautiful places, but among the most notable are the coastal city of Rehoboth Beach, the charming historic town of Lewes, and the scenic landscapes around the Brandywine Valley.
Is Delaware Expensive To Live?
Delaware’s living cost can be lower than the national average but vary depending on the area. For example, more urban areas or popular coastal towns may have higher living costs than the rural or suburban parts of the state.
What Is the Nicest Beach in Delaware?
Rehoboth Beach, Bethany Beach, and Lewes Beach are often cited as the nicest beaches in Delaware, offering beautiful stretches of sand, family-friendly amenities, and a relaxing coastal vibe.
How Much Do You Need To Live Comfortably in Delaware?
Delaware’s living cost is slightly lower than the national average. To live comfortably, it’s estimated that a salary of around $60,000 to $70,000 per year is sufficient for a single person.
Where Do Most People Live in Delaware?
Most people in Delaware live in the northern part of the state, particularly in and around Wilmington and Newark.
Where Is the Most Affordable Place To Live in Delaware?
Dover, Newark, and Smyrna are among the most affordable places to live in Delaware, offering a lower cost of living while still providing a range of amenities and job opportunities.
Is Delaware a Good State in Which To Retire?
Yes, Delaware is often considered a great state to retire in due to its relatively low cost of living, low property taxes, and access to healthcare facilities. Additionally, its coastal areas offer a relaxing environment for retirees.
Are Delaware Property Taxes High?
Compared to other states, Delaware has relatively low property taxes. This makes it attractive for homeownership and retirement.
Is It Cheaper To Live in PA or DE?
Generally, living in Delaware is cheaper than in Pennsylvania when considering income, sales, and property taxes. However, living costs can vary depending on the specific region within each state.
Is It Cheaper To Live in DE or MD?
Overall, it’s generally cheaper to live in Delaware than in Maryland. Delaware has no sales tax, and property taxes are typically lower than Maryland’s. However, individual living costs can vary based on the city or region within each state.
Best Places in Delaware Parting Thoughts
From Pike Creek Valley’s tranquility to Newark’s university vibes and from Lewes’s picturesque seaside living to the upscale surroundings of Hockessin, Delaware’s diverse towns cater to various lifestyles.
When choosing your ideal place, be sure to consider housing prices, average income, and lifestyle compatibility. If you’re sold on moving to Delaware, you can start that process by finding the most recent listings on eXp Realty. You can also consult with a local eXp real estate agent for personalized advice.
