Delaware is a beautiful state on the East Coast that gives retirees the chance to enjoy a laidback beachfront lifestyle, without having to make the trek to swampy Florida. Retiring to one of the affordable cities in Delaware will give you access to the historic charm of a New England city and the beautiful beaches on the Atlantic Ocean.
NewHomeSource has named the top six cities for retirees in Delaware. Your dream retirement home awaits you in Delaware, in a community that fosters your dream lifestyle.
Top 6 Cities to Retire in Delaware
1. Wilmington Manor
Percentage of the Population Over 65: 15.4%
Median Home Value: $173,700
Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 30
Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 59
Number of Hospitals Within 25 Miles of the City: 24
Wilmington Manor is a tranquil community in Delaware that is ideal for those looking to relocate and retire in a peaceful area. The area is home to a mix of residential homes and commercial establishments, making it a convenient location for residents. The community offers various parks, walking trails, and recreational facilities, which provide ample opportunities for outdoor activities. Wilmington Manor is also close to several amenities such as shopping centers, restaurants, and entertainment venues, ensuring that residents have access to everything they need within a short distance. Overall, Wilmington Manor is a great place to retire, offering a welcoming community and an ideal location.
2. Wilmington
Percentage of the Population Over 65: 13.6%
Median Home Value: $193,381
Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 57
Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 34
Number of Hospitals Within 25 Miles of the City: 24
Wilmington is an affordable urban hub along the Delaware River. If you want to enjoy a luxurious East Coast retirement, with a price tag that won’t wreck your finances, Wilmington should be the first city that comes to mind as you search for the perfect retirement home.
3. Brookside
Percentage of the Population Over 65: 13.4%
Median Home Value: $219,600
Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 34
Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 57
Number of Hospitals Within 25 Miles of the City: 14
Brookside offers easy access to shopping, dining, and entertainment options. The town is also surrounded by beautiful natural scenery, with many parks and nature trails nearby for those who enjoy the outdoors. In Brookside, you’ll find a close-knit community of friendly people who take pride in their town. There are many community events and activities to enjoy, including festivals, farmers markets, and art shows. With a low cost of living and affordable housing options, Brookside is an ideal place to spend your retirement years.
4. Elsmere
Percentage of the Population Over 65: 10.4%
Median Home Value: $227,342
Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 6
Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 24
Number of Hospitals Within 25 Miles of the City: 18
Elsmere is a small town with a friendly atmosphere that makes it an ideal place for retirees. With its convenient location near major highways, Elsmere offers easy access to big cities like Wilmington and Philadelphia, as well as nearby beaches and parks.
5. Edgemoor
Percentage of the Population Over 65: 11.9%
Median Home Value: $251,600
Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 38
Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 67
Number of Hospitals Within 25 Miles of the City: 24
Edgemoor, Delaware is a wonderful place to retire, with its peaceful and friendly community. This quaint and cozy town is located near the scenic Delaware River, offering beautiful views and a relaxing atmosphere. You can enjoy activities such as fishing, boating, and hiking in the nearby parks in additional to residential areas and shopping centers.
6. Georgetown
Percentage of the Population Over 65: 16.6%
Median Home Value: $266,629
Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 7
Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 35
Number of Hospitals Within 25 Miles of the City: 4
Georgetown is a great place to retire with its charming small-town feel, affordable cost of living, and mild climate. This quaint town offers access to beaches and other coastal attractions, making it a popular retirement destination for those seeking a relaxed lifestyle. There are also plenty of opportunities to stay active with nearby parks, walking trails, and golf courses. Additionally, the town offers a variety of community events and cultural activities, ensuring that you will always have something to do.
7. Dover
Percentage of the Population Over 65: 16.1%
Median Home Value: $267,056
Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 9
Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 40
Number of Hospitals Within 25 Miles of the City: 3
Dover is a wonderful place for retirees to consider. It is a charming city with a rich history and a strong sense of community. There are plenty of retirement communities in the area, offering a range of amenities to suit your needs. The city is also home to many parks, restaurants, and cultural attractions, so there is always something to do. And with a cost of living that is below the national average, Dover is an affordable place to call home in retirement.
8. Glasgow
Percentage of the Population Over 65: 11.2%
Median Home Value: $280,800
Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 28
Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 46
Number of Hospitals Within 25 Miles of the City: 14
Located in the heart of New Castle County, Glasgow, Delaware is a wonderful place to retire. With a population of just over 15,000, it has a small-town feel but is still close to the amenities of bigger cities like Wilmington and Newark. Residents can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and fishing at Glasgow Park or take a short drive to the Delaware beaches. The community is also home to several retirement communities that offer a range of housing options, including single-family homes and apartments, all with convenient access to medical facilities and shopping centers. With its friendly residents and welcoming atmosphere, Glasgow is the perfect place to enjoy your golden years.
9. Seaford
Percentage of the Population Over 65: 19%
Median Home Value: $300,533
Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 9
Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 50
Number of Hospitals Within 25 Miles of the City: 4
The lovely and historical community of Seaford lets retirees enjoy an unbeatable lifestyle, no matter how they want to spend their golden years. Numerous parks appeal to nature lovers of all ages, while Seaford’s fun culture makes it easy to explore new events and experiences.
10. Claymont
Percentage of the Population Over 65: 14%
Median Home Value: $300,725
Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 2
Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 15
Number of Hospitals Within 25 Miles of the City: 48
Claymont, Delaware, is a charming town located in New Castle County. This area offers a mix of suburban and rural living, with easy access to big cities like Philadelphia, Wilmington, and Baltimore. Retirees in Claymont can enjoy a wide range of activities, including outdoor recreation at nearby parks, golfing at local courses, and exploring the town’s rich history. Additionally, the town offers excellent healthcare facilities, making it a safe and comfortable place to retire. With a tight-knit community and welcoming atmosphere, Claymont is the perfect spot to relax and enjoy your retirement years.
Common Questions About Retiring in Delaware
Delaware has a favorable tax code for retirees. Delaware has no state sales tax, no taxes on social security income, and allows a $12,500 deduction for income from pensions.
Delaware already boast of the 6th lowest property taxes in the nation at 0.56%. Homeowners over the age of 65 in Delaware can get a 50% tax credit against their school property taxes on their primary residence.
| City Name | People Over 65 | Violent Crimes | Property Crimes | Access to Doctors | Median Home Price |
| Wilmington | 12.9% | 1,124 | 3,690 | 20 | $168,000 |
| Dover | 14.4% | 342 | 2,141 | 2 | $175,300 |
| Milford | 20.6% | 84 | 585 | 5 | $190,900 |
| Smyrna | 12.6% | 32 | 246 | 3 | $106,400 |
| Middletown | 15.3% | 66 | 647 | 7 | $231,300 |
| Newark | 13.6% | 118 | 1,142 | 10 | $277,800 |
NewHomeSoNewHomeSource pulled data from the FBI Uniform Crime Reporting Services, Medicare’s Hospital Compare and the U.S. Census Bureau. In the event exact crime data was unavailable, estimates were used. Median home price, number of hospitals, 65+ population, and crime rates were entered into an algorithm to calculate a score for each city whose population is at least 10,000.
Access to Doctors is calculated by finding the number of hospitals, discounting children’s hospitals and VA hospitals within one mile of the city.
Sarah graduated from Trinity University in 2012 with a degree in International Relations and Political Science. She writes blogs on new homes, decor, communities, and more for NewHomeSource. When she’s not writing, you can find her spending time with her three cats.
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Leticia Demicoli
My husband and I are looking for beachfront property/ community ; possibly access to a marina closeby ; thanks