Summary
Just under one million people reside in Delaware. This long and narrow state is located on the mid-Atlantic coast, where the Delaware River meets the Atlantic Ocean. Consequently, Delaware boasts a plethora of beaches, bays, and coves to discover. From Rehoboth Beach to Cape Henlopen State Park, if you seek to embrace the sea breeze, Delaware is the destination to visit.
Delaware presents an attractive environment to call home. Whether you are searching for a family residence or a retreat in the countryside, we have carefully curated a list of the 15 most desirable places to reside in Delaware. Beyond the appealing coastal regions, there are vibrant suburban neighborhoods that exude a strong sense of community.
Our evaluation considered factors such as the quality of public education, crime statistics, and employment opportunities to determine the most sought-after locations within the state. Delaware is rich in history, reflecting both military significance and 18th-century colonial heritage.
Although Delaware does not house any national parks, it still offers a wealth of outdoor activities. Therefore, for those passionate about immersing themselves in nature, perhaps states like Alaska or Wyoming would offer more opportunities.
Let us examine the 15 top places to live in Delaware:
1. North Star
Source: sevenMaps7 / shutterstock
North Star proudly holds the title of the best place to live in Delaware, and for a good reason: its exceptional educational facilities, vibrant nightlife, and numerous job opportunities surpass those found in other neighborhoods throughout the state.
This community offers residents convenient commuting options, with Philadelphia located just an hour to the northeast, creating numerous career prospects in the larger city. As such, North Star is an excellent choice for those seeking well-rounded living conditions in Delaware.
While the general cost of living in North Star is acceptable, the housing prices may be a concern for many families, as the median home value exceeds the national average. Unsurprisingly, most residents in North Star reside in owner-occupied properties.
With a population of just over seven thousand, North Star fosters a close-knit community despite its suburban character.
Entertainment & Activities
Some of the finest activities in North Star include:
- White Clay Creek Private State Park
- Rockwood Park & Museum
- Delaware Art Museum
- Big Fish Grill on the Waterfront
- Delaware Children’s Museum
- Wilmington Western & Railroad
- Delcastle Recreational Park
- Ashland Nature Center
2. Pike Creek
Source: SavePikeCreek / Flickr
Pike Creek follows closely in second place, distinguished as one of the best locales for family life and recognized as a prime location for home purchases within the state.
The housing market in Pike Creek offers more affordable options than North Star, although prices remain above the national average. Given its proximity to Philadelphia, just an hour away, this suburban area offers significant advantages.
Outdoor enthusiasts will find ample opportunities here, with White Clay Creek State Park and Middle Run Valley Natural Area nearby—an added incentive to invest in hiking footwear.
The public educational institutions in Pike Creek consistently perform well above average nationally, with the top three schools receiving commendable A-rankings.
Entertainment & Activities
Top activities to experience in Pike Creek are:
- Carousel Park
- Delaware Museum of Nature & Science
- Turkey Hill Experience
- Brandywine Springs Park
- Bellevue State Park
- Casino @ Delaware Park
3. Hockessin
Source: likeaduck / Flickr
Hockessin, home to more than thirteen thousand residents, is regarded as a safe and enjoyable area to reside. Inhabitants often praise the town as an excellent place for family life, supported by a community ambiance surrounding local businesses.
It is important to note that median rent in Delaware exceeds the national average. For instance, tenants in Hockessin often pay above this benchmark. However, the quality of housing and its value is significantly better than in many other regions across the country.
Hockessin is particularly suitable for families due to its fourteen public schools, ranging from specialized art institutions to those focused on sciences—thereby offering exceptional educational opportunities.
Entertainment & Activities
Some of the finest attractions in Hockessin comprise:
- Mt. Cuba Center Botanical Garden
- Lettie’s Kitchen
- Winterthur Museum Garden and Library
- Brandywine Creek State Park
- Kennett Square Creamery
- Famous Tom’s Tavern
- Center for the Creative Arts
- Longwood Gardens
4. Rehoboth Beach
Source: Dex Sightseeing Photography / shutterstock
Rehoboth Beach is a modest yet highly desirable suburb, renowned for its stunning sunsets throughout the year. Although it is situated along the Atlantic coast, the weather is generally pleasant most of the time.
With a quaint and inviting atmosphere, the community is tightly knit. Downtown, visitors can find several family-friendly dining establishments and cafes, with The Pond being a popular local favorite.
It is important to note that Rehoboth Beach ranks among the most expensive areas in the state for property purchases. Currently, the median home value hovers near the million-dollar mark, necessitating a significant financial investment for potential residents.
Entertainment & Activities
Some of the prominent attractions in Rehoboth Beach include:
- Funland Amusement Park
- Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk
- Jungle Jim’s Waterpark
- Penny Lane Mall
- Clear Space Theatre Company
- Rehoboth Beach Farmers Market
- Delaware Seashore State Park
5. Greenville
Source: Choess / Wikimedia
Although technically a suburb of Philadelphia, Greenville is firmly situated in Delaware. Recognized as the premier suburb for Millennials, Greenville is anticipated to evolve and adapt to the needs of its younger population over the next decade.
To the north of Greenville, residents can find the Wilmington Country Club, a favored meeting place for local professionals and socialites, welcoming individuals from across the state regardless of their economic background.
While property prices in Greenville are relatively high compared to other regions, the focus should be on the overall value for money when considering real estate in Delaware. An investment of $629,000 may appear significant elsewhere, but here it can secure a spacious 5-bedroom, 4-bathroom residence complete with an expansive garden surrounded by evergreen trees for added seclusion.
Entertainment & Activities
Noteworthy attractions in Greenville include:
- Hagley Museum
- Nemours Estate
- Somerville Manning Gallery
- Krazy Kat’s Restaurant
- Rockwood Park & Museum
- Valley Garden Park
6. Middletown
Source: Nouhailler / Flickr
Middletown is characterized by its small-town charm and welcoming community. Central to the neighborhood is Saint Anne’s Church, with its striking red door and blue clock face serving as a local landmark. Boasting ample shops, dining options, and entertainment venues, Middletown presents few disadvantages.
Moreover, the public schools here stand out as the finest in Delaware. For parents, this neighborhood should be a top consideration. The low crime rates further enhance its appeal when combined with an economical cost of living and short commute distances, making Middletown as attractive as it appears on paper.
Additionally, housing costs are considerably more manageable, with prices hovering around $200,000.
Entertainment & Activities
Highlighted activities in Middletown include:
- Westown Movies
- Dutch Country Farmers Market
- Camp Adventureland Middletown
- Mid-County Lanes and Entertainment
- Putters Paradise
- Frog Hollow Golf Club & Restaurant
- New Groove Alpacas
7. Highland Acres
Source: nminni7 / Flickr
For those seeking rental properties, Highland Acres offers the most economical options on this list. With a modest community of approximately four thousand residents, Highland Acres is emerging as an increasingly popular area for family life.
Residents attribute their satisfaction to the mild weather available year-round. Furthermore, the availability of public services and quality schools plays a critical role in this community’s desirability. The proximity to the beach—with the ability to swim in the ocean within an hour—adds to Highland Acres’ appeal.
Entertainment & Activities
Attractions within Highland Acres include:
- Air Mobility Command Museum
- Biggs Museum of American Art
- Bally’s Dover Casino Resort
- Wyoming Park
- Tidbury Park
- The Old State House
- Moores Lake
8. Newark
Source: Felix Mizioznikov / shutterstock
Newark is a charming city in Delaware known for its extensive green spaces. Among its highlights is Rittenhouse Park, a cherished location for both residents and visitors. The city’s waterways are also accessible for trout fishing.
Public schools in Newark perform significantly above the national averages; however, they do not quite match the performance of schools in North Star—an important consideration for families.
Newark enjoys a prime location for commuters, as Wilmington is merely a 15-minute drive away. Furthermore, Philadelphia and Baltimore are also reachable in under an hour.
Entertainment & Activities
Some of the top activities to enjoy in Newark encompass:
- Fred Rust Ice Arena
- Bob Carpenter Center
- University of Delaware
- Christiana Mall
- Kells Park
- Iron Hill Park
- Newark History Museum
- Patriot Ice Center
9. Bellefonte
Source: activerain.com
For those looking to lead a more frugal lifestyle while remaining in Delaware, Bellefonte presents an opportunity. Notably, Bellefonte is recognized as the most favorable location for purchasing a home within the state, making it an attractive option for aspiring homeowners. With median rents falling below national averages, young couples may discover appealing accommodations in this welcoming neighborhood.
Home to approximately two thousand residents, Bellefonte radiates a cozy atmosphere, where children can freely play on the sidewalks.
Entertainment & Activities
Highlighted attractions in Bellefonte include:
- Cajun Kate’s Philly Pike
- Longwood Gardens
- Eclectica
10. Pike Creek Valley
Source: Michael Asbell / Flickr
Pike Creek Valley is an emerging neighborhood in Delaware that is becoming increasingly popular among Millennials, similar to Greenville, and is anticipated to thrive in the coming decade.
This vibrant suburb, home to over ten thousand residents, offers a perfect setting for active families who enjoy outdoor activities. With Carousel Park located just a short drive away, residents can engage in horseback riding lessons, fishing, and ample space for pets.
Crime rates here are relatively low, aside from occasional petty incidents that are promptly addressed.
Entertainment & Activities
Exciting activities available in Pike Creek Valley include:
- Carousel Park Equestrian Center
- Nemours Estate
- Middle Run Valley Natural Area
- Jenkins Arboretum & Gardens
- Chester County History Center
- Valley Garden Park
11. Edgemoor
Source: norfolksouthern / Flickr
Located just north of Wilmington, the calm and relatively quaint suburb of Edgemoor boasts a population exceeding six thousand residents and offers an affordable lifestyle. Often regarded as an excellent environment for raising a family, Edgemoor also provides numerous socialization opportunities for its inhabitants.
As the first location on our list of ideal living areas in Delaware situated on the Delaware River, individuals eager to explore the outdoors will find Edgemoor enticing. Notable locations such as New Castle County River Park and Fox Point State Park offer stunning natural scenery for leisure.
Entertainment & Activities
Some of the notable attractions in Edgemoor include:
- Iron Hill Brewery
- Lums Pond State Park
- The Delaware History Museum
- Brandywine River Museum of Art
- Bellevue State Park
- Altitude Trampoline Park
- Read House and Gardens
12. Camden
Source: mmahaffie / Flickr
Camden is a suburb of Dover, the state capital, and lies in close proximity to the Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge, providing ample opportunities for nature enthusiasts. This mid-sized suburb is notably cozy and community-oriented.
With a variety of small family-operated shops, restaurants offering local cuisine, and commendable schools, Camden impresses in many aspects. Additionally, the nearby military base fosters a close-knit community, hosting numerous family-oriented activities.
Overall, the residents of Camden radiate positivity and genuinely welcome newcomers to their lively community.
Entertainment & Activities
Among the highlights of Camden are:
- Brecknock County Park
- Finding Avalon
- Fifer’s Farm Store & Kitchen
- Killens Pond State Park
- Biggs Museum of American Art
- Silver Lake Park
13. Wyoming
Source: jimmywayne / Flickr
Wyoming stands out as one of the most affordable locations in Delaware. With median home values that fall below national averages, Wyoming should be seriously considered by first-time homebuyers. Additionally, the cost of rent is reasonable, making it an appealing option for couples sharing accommodation.
Moreover, the community benefits from several top-quality schools, which continue to attract a growing population of millennials. It would not be surprising to see Wyoming ascend in future rankings of the best places to live in Delaware.
Entertainment & Activities
Some of the best places to enjoy in Wyoming are:
- Wyoming Tavern
- Wyoming Park
- Delaware Agricultural Museum
- Dover
- Cape Henlopen State Park
- Big Oyster Brewery
- Tidbury Park
14. Rodney Village
Source: Rcsprinter123 / wikimedia
Rodney Village may not appear as rural as it first seems; characterized by a suburban feel, this neighborhood is home to approximately 1,500 residents. It offers a village-like atmosphere that is friendly, welcoming, and conducive to community living.
Property prices in Rodney Village are reasonably situated, and with a fair number of job prospects and commuting options, it is understandable why this locality has been ranked as one of the best places for Millennials in Delaware.
Entertainment & Activities
Notable activities in Rodney Village include:
- Independence Hall
- Johnson Victrola Museum
- Dover Motor Speedway
- Rusty Wallace Racing Experience
- The State House Museum
15. Lewes
Source: Jon Bilous / shutterstock
Located at the entrance of Delaware Bay, Lewes is a small city with a population of over two thousand residents. Despite its designation as a city, Lewes embodies the charm of a small town.
Although property prices are relatively high, especially considering its picturesque location by Delaware Bay, median rental costs exceed national averages.
Crime rate statistics appear slightly higher than ideal; however, residents affirm that Lewes is a secure and cheerful place to reside.
As expected of a small town, the local grocery store functions as a central community hub, while The Lemon Tree Restaurant remains a popular dining option for many locals. With a consistent influx of tourists throughout the year, Lewes ranks as the 15th best place to live in Delaware.
Entertainment & Activities
Some of the notable attractions to experience in Lewes include:
- Lewes Beach
- Lewes Public Library
- The Lewes Maritime Museum
- Hopkins Farm Creamery
- Fisherman’s Wharf
- Pirates of Lewes
- Blockhouse Pond
