Want to retire in Delaware? Here are the most affordable towns to spend your golden years

Krys'tal Griffin, Delaware News Journal
Updated ·5 min read

Thinking about retirement? There are plenty of options in the First State to fit your needs, and WorldAtlas compiled a list of the eight most affordable Delaware towns to retire in.

Claymont

This town house, second from left, in the Darley Green neighborhood in Claymont was listed at $350,000 in 2021. A similar home in the same neighborhood sold for $304,000 in February 2020.
This town house, second from left, in the Darley Green neighborhood in Claymont was listed at $350,000 in 2021. A similar home in the same neighborhood sold for $304,000 in February 2020.

Claymont, which is not officially a town, has a population of about 10,000 residents and a median home value of $329,000, according to WorldAtlas, making it friendly for retirement budgets.

Claymont’s balance of indoor and outdoor attractions, local landmarks and green spaces provide all the perks of small-town living without the high price. The area is close to local transportation hubs and bigger cities like Wilmington and Newark that offer more entertainment, dining and recreation opportunities.

Milton

The Milton Theatre in Milton.
The Milton Theatre in Milton.

The historic town of Milton is known for being a shipbuilding center in the 19th century, but it now serves as a town filled with laid-back charm and historical sites like the Milton Theater and the Milton Historical Society.

A new home in Milton costs an average of $564,400, according to WorldAtlas, and pensioners who land in this location will be near Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge and Rookery Golf Course.

Lewes

A paddleboarder floats between the Cape May-Lewes Ferry and the East End Lighthouse just before sunset in Breakwater Harbor in Lewes.
A paddleboarder floats between the Cape May-Lewes Ferry and the East End Lighthouse just before sunset in Breakwater Harbor in Lewes.

Lewes is the site of Delaware’s first European settlement and is filled with colonial history. With plenty of historical sites to visit, retirees who reside here can enjoy a blast from the past through local museums and tours like the Zwaanendael Museum, which has a legacy dating back to 1631.

When they’re not enjoying history, Lewes residents can take advantage of the relaxing coastal vibe of the Delaware Bay communities and shops. Nearby Cape Henlopen State Park also is a great pastime with plenty of activities like fishing, educational demonstrations, tours and bumming it on the beach, of course.

According to WorldAtlas, investing in a Lewes home costs about $608,900, which is the local median housing price.

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Hockessin

Another coveted area for retirement in Delaware is Hockessin. While it's not officially a town, WorldAtlas describes it as a blend of small-town charm and big-city amenities. Hockessin provides a serene, community feeling like some of the beach towns but is a shorter drive to major cities like Philadelphia and regional attractions like Longwood Gardens.

Hockessin also boasts the Ashland Nature Center, an outdoor space encompassing 130 acres of meadows, marshland and woodland, where locals can take a weekend hike, have an afternoon picnic and take advantage of other recreational amenities. Mt. Cuba Center, another popular hit with nature enthusiasts and floral lovers, is in the area, too.

Aside from fun, Hockessin has plenty of local businesses from restaurants to grocery stores to unique Delaware restaurants serving up your favorite local comfort food. These offerings contribute to the average property cost in Hockessin being $540,000.

Bridgeville

When the Sudler House in Bridgeville was restored in 2008, the portico returned to the front of the house and three "ghost" windows were found under siding.
When the Sudler House in Bridgeville was restored in 2008, the portico returned to the front of the house and three "ghost" windows were found under siding.

Sussex County is known for agricultural pursuits, and the town of Bridgeville is best characterized by neighbors willing to lend a helping hand, lots of green spaces and a surplus of farm fresh produce and foods.

The median housing cost in Bridgeville is $385,000, which makes it one of the cheaper retirement options in the First State.

For retirees wanting to lean into the post-career life, Heritage Shores is a 55-plus community in Bridgeville offering an active and engaging lifestyle through social opportunities, amenities like the premier golf course and communal programs. Outside of Heritage Shores, which is only one of many areas that might pique your interest in moving to Bridgeville, the town’s historical society is a great place to learn about local history and engage with neighbors.

Delaware City

Delaware City might sound like it’s all hustled bustle, but the quiet town with a population of just about 2,000 people is known for abundant nature spaces and historical landmarks.

Retirees can explore Fort Delaware State Park, which houses the Union fortress built in 1812, and Fort DuPont State Park, which features a waterfront outdoor space and activities like fishing, boating and sports. Looking for something else? Cozy Quarters Farm in Delaware City is where adventurous older adults can learn how to ride a horse.

Delaware City homes are below the United States average with a median cost of $272,400.

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Newark

Another retirement option in New Castle County is Newark, which is home to the University of Delaware.

In Newark, retirees will find community events and programs throughout the city and the university, with UD also offering learning programs tailored for seniors and free degree programs.

In terms of nature, White Clay Creek State Park is a resident favorite, featuring miles of running trails across diverse terrains and beautiful views. The Newark Reservoir also is a popular pick for watching sunset and sunrise. Other nearby activities include the Christiana Mall and the Christiana Fashion Center for shopping and dining needs, local small businesses and entertainment options and sport arenas for cheering on UD Blue Hens all year long.

WorldAtlas reports that the median home value in Newark is $375,000.

Wyoming

Camden-Wyoming comes to the plate in the top of the sixth inning facing a one-run deficit in Brandywine's 4-3 win in the championship of the Delaware Little League Junior division state tournament, Thursday, July 27, 2023 at Pike Creek Little League.
Camden-Wyoming comes to the plate in the top of the sixth inning facing a one-run deficit in Brandywine's 4-3 win in the championship of the Delaware Little League Junior division state tournament, Thursday, July 27, 2023 at Pike Creek Little League.

Wyoming is another small town in Delaware, with less than 2,000 residents, where that close-knit feeling is woven throughout the entire community. The local real estate prices average around $394,500, according to WorldAtlas.

Retirees will have access to local farms and fresh produce, meat and baked goods, along with green spaces for serene morning and evening walks or picnics with visiting children and grandkids.

Wyoming offers community events and has a good blend of locally owned restaurants and stores. It is an easy place to get to know neighbors and make new friends, and the Wild Quail Golf and Country Club is a popular attraction among residents looking to spend time outdoors with one another.

Got a tip or a story idea? Contact Krys'tal Griffin at [email protected].

This article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: Most affordable retirement towns in Delaware, according to WorldAtlas

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