What's in a name? Although several theories still exist, the name Hockessin may in fact be derived from the Lenape Native American word hokesa meaning "pieces of bark." This tribe was local to the area for hundreds of years. We're not "barking" up the wrong tree.
Hockessin is an unincorporated census-designated place located in the county of New Castle, Delaware. At the time of the last major U.S. Census in 2010, the population was at about 13,500 people and the area is continuing to thrive and grow today. Looking for a lot of community spirit? Hockessin is the place for holiday events, youth leagues, public parks, playgrounds, and classes. Feeling friendly? This is your spot.
Moving to Town
Once you've made the big decision to get ready to find places to live in Hockessin, Delaware, you can choose from a wide variety of housing options. Hockessin has a number of apartments with paid utilities, rental homes and townhouses, 1 bedroom apartments for rent, as well as many single-family homes to look into from small to large. You should be sure that you give yourself a good chunk of time to find a place in Hockessin though -- a month or so would be ideal. Many properties in this area can be quickly snatched right off the market so it's a good plan to spend at least four weeks to discover the place of your dreams. You can look into online listings as well as the local newspaper and even pay a visit to the streets of town by car or on foot to find the best rentals and the best place for you. Make sure to bring the kind of information most landlords require today: your current ID, credit report, and bank statements or W2s.
Neighborhoods
With a small town feel and plenty of amenities, Hockessin is a good mix of the scenic and the convenient, from parks to shopping.
Old Wilmington Road: This neighborhood is perfect for those who are looking to rent a single-family home or townhouse, and apartments can be found here as well. Residents can enjoy the easy access to nearby Brandywine Creek State Park, the scenic Hoopes Reservoir, Swift Park, and many wonderful restaurants and shops.
City Center / Old Lancaster Pike: The centrally located Old Lancaster Pike neighborhood is right smack dab in the middle of the community of Hockessin. Here apartment hunters can discover a number of quality condos, apartments, and homes of all shapes and sizes. You will also love the close proximity to Gateway Farms / Hickory Hills Park and the expansive green space of Bonaire Park, Hockessin Valley Falls. Retail therapy your thing? Try shopping on Old Lancaster Pike.
Life in Hockessin
Seasonal weather runs the gamut from warm summers to generally mild but often snowy winters. Whatever the season, living in Hockessin offers an old-fashioned small town feel plus access to great shopping from national stores to small boutiques. Many dining options abound, too. Perhaps best of all are the beautiful parks with hiking and biking trails, fall foliage, and water to splash in.
Public transportation is decent here but it is advisable to bring your own car, because stops can be limited at certain times.
Hockessin's community-centric activities include team sports and arts and crafts classes for all ages. Holidays shine: on Fourth of July, for example, Hockessin puts on several special holiday events for its residents and visitors. Many local community groups are involved in a large festival, and a parade is held along Old Lancaster Pike. Residents also have the chance to compete in a number of athletic events, and a fireworks display is held in Swift Park. Hockessin is also home to the newly renovated Hockessin Public Library.
The large Swift Memorial Park includes play areas for the kids, as well as many historic Delaware landmarks.