12 Best Places to Live in Delaware [2025]

If you’re interested in moving to the First State, you’ll quickly learn to pay homage to the saying that good things come in small packages. As the second smallest state in the United States, Delaware has so much to offer everyone, falling only behind Rhode Island. Best of all, residents of this coastal state enjoy easy access to Baltimore, Washington, D.C., Philadelphia, and New York City.

Thankfully, we’re here to help you through the process of beginning your Delaware apartment search by narrowing down your options and choosing your ideal city. That’s why we’ve created this guide to help you learn more about the best places to live in Delaware and find the best city for you!

1. Bear

• Population: 23,070
• Median 2-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $1,983
• Median Household Income: $83,852
• Walk Score: 27
• Transit Score: –
• Bike Score: 36

Bear, located in New Castle County just 14 miles south of Wilmington, has grown from a rural crossroads into a lively community with modern conveniences. In Bear, you’ll enjoy a laid-back atmosphere and easy access to urban entertainment, plus plenty of dining options. Whether you're craving fried chicken, Chinese food, or pizza, there’s something for everyone along the Pulaski Highway, along with microbreweries and sports bars for a fun night out.

As one of the best Delaware cities for outdoor enthusiasts, Bear offers excellent natural spots. Lums Pond State Park provides boating, zip-lining, and camping, while Glasgow Park features scenic trails through forests and wetlands. Becks Pond Park is perfect for picnicking or fishing. Explore available apartments in Bear to find your next home in this welcoming community.

2. Claymont

• Population: 10,191
• Median 2-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $1,514
• Median Household Income: $72,840
• Walk Score: 70
• Transit Score: –
• Bike Score: 45

Living in Delaware, you’re surrounded by American history. Claymont, a historic census-designated place in Delaware, traces its roots back to 1200 A.D., originally settled near where Naamans Creek meets the Delaware River. This community of nearly 10,000 is rich in historic landmarks, including the Grubb/Worth Mansion, Darley House, Archmere Academy, and the Claymont Stone School, preserving its unique heritage.

Residents of Claymont represent a mix of white-collar and blue-collar jobs, with many working in computers and math. Public transportation is a primary means of commuting, especially to nearby cities. A highlight of community life is the Darley Beer, Wine, and Music Festival, held each October. This event, featuring local brews, wines, crafts, and live music, has quickly become a fall favorite among residents.

3. Dover

• Population: 38,387
• Median 2-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $1,630
• Median Household Income: $54,438
• Walk Score: 33
• Transit Score: 28
• Bike Score: 47

Dover, the capital and second-biggest city in Delaware, is steeped in history and offers an affordable lifestyle. Named after Dover in Kent, England, this city lies along the St. Jones River and played a notable role in the Underground Railroad, situated between free states and slave-holding Maryland.

Today, Dover is one of Delaware’s fastest-growing areas, with state and Kent County government jobs as major employment sources. The city’s economy gets a substantial boost from the Dover International Speedway, which hosts NASCAR events drawing 65,000 visitors annually. Adjacent to the speedway, Dover Downs Hotel & Casino also contributes millions in revenue.

Since 2012, Dover has welcomed thousands to the Firefly Music Festival, a major event at The Woodlands of Dover International Speedway, featuring three days of performances across seven stages. This mix of history, government jobs, and annual events makes Dover a lively and budget-friendly place to call home.

4. New Castle

• Population: 5,523
• Median 2-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $1,520
• Median Household Income: $95,884
• Walk Score: 62
• Transit Score: –
• Bike Score: 56

New Castle, situated along the Delaware River just six miles south of Wilmington, is a treasure trove of American history. Settled by the Dutch West India Company in 1651, this city in Delaware features a four-by-five-block Historic District with nearly 500 buildings dating back to the 1700s, designated a National Historic Landmark in 1967.

Highlights of the Historic District include the Lesley-Travers Mansion, Old “Dutch” House, New Castle Court House Museum, and the Immanuel Episcopal Church on the Green, offering residents and visitors alike a glimpse into colonial history.

For outdoor enthusiasts, New Castle’s Battery Park provides 25 scenic acres along the river. With a nearly four-mile biking and walking trail, basketball courts, picnic spots, and playgrounds, it’s a perfect spot for families to relax and enjoy the serene river views.

5. Wilmington

• Population: 70,898
• Median 2-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $1,754
• Median Household Income: $50,042
• Walk Score: 74
• Transit Score: 48
• Bike Score: 52

Wilmington, the state’s largest city and one of the most diverse major cities in Delaware, sits at the merging point of the Brandywine and Christina Rivers, originally established as the country’s first Swedish settlement at Fort Christina. Its central location between Washington, D.C., and New York, with Philadelphia just 30 minutes away, makes Wilmington ideal for residents who want access to major East Coast cities along with a lower cost of living.

The city attracts a mix of young professionals, entrepreneurs, and executives, creating a diverse, welcoming community. Wilmington’s downtown has recently transformed into a culinary hotspot, featuring standout restaurants like Le Cavalier, Deco, Torbert Street Social, and Bardea. With a range of options from modern bistros to speakeasy-style cocktail bars, Wilmington offers endless choices for dining and nightlife, keeping residents engaged and entertained.

6. Newark

• Population: 30,665
• Median 2-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $1,651
• Median Household Income: $67,738
• Walk Score: 42
• Transit Score: 27
• Bike Score: 61

Newark, Delaware, located just 12 miles from Wilmington in New Castle County, has a long history of academic excellence. Established by Welsh and Scots-Irish settlers in 1694, Newark became known for its education early on, with the Newark Academy opening in 1765 and educating notable figures, including Declaration of Independence signers James Smith, Thomas McKean, and George Read.

Today, Newark is home to the University of Delaware, renowned for top programs in biochemistry, chemistry, chemical engineering, and business. Sports enthusiasts can cheer on the Fightin’ Blue Hens across 21 NCAA Division 1 sports, and catch a glimpse of YouDee the Blue Hen, the spirited mascot.

Beyond academics, Newark is one of the best towns in Delaware for nature lovers. It offers over 12,000 acres of scenic public parkland, perfect for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. Locals enjoy natural gems like Middle Run Valley Natural Area, White Clay Creek State Park, Fair Hill Natural Resources Management Area, and Iron Hill Park, making Newark a vibrant blend of education and outdoor adventure.

7. Smyrna

• Population: 12,870
• Median 2-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $1,511
• Median Household Income: $68,260
• Walk Score: 77
• Transit Score: –
• Bike Score: 48

Smyrna, nestled in New Castle and Kent Counties, Delaware, has roots dating back to its days as "Duck Creek Cross Roads." Once a key shipping hub along Duck Creek, Smyrna was one of the many parts of Delaware that transitioned to an agricultural center in the 1850s and retains a close-knit, friendly vibe that makes it feel like home.

While Smyrna may be quieter on the nightlife front, locals enjoy community staples like Painted Stave Distilling for a relaxed evening out. For a hidden gem, Woodland Beach offers a peaceful spot just off Route 9. The Asbury Church Farmers Market is another local favorite, with fresh produce, meats, baked goods, and flowers available year-round, adding to Smyrna’s small-town charm.

8. Millsboro

• Population: 6,876
• Median 2-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $1,837
• Median Household Income: $64,622
• Walk Score: 51
• Transit Score: –
• Bike Score: 47

Millsboro, a charming town in Sussex County, Delaware, offers a laid-back lifestyle with a steadily growing community. Known for its peaceful atmosphere, Millsboro is one of the best cities in Delaware for retirees and families looking for more space and quiet surroundings, yet it’s close enough to larger cities for easy access to amenities.

Millsboro has quality public schools and a reputation for safety, making it ideal for young families and couples planning to settle down. Located just 15 miles from Delaware's coast, residents enjoy quick trips to Rehoboth Beach for dining, shopping, and nightlife. Summers are perfect for beach days, with options from the northern shores of Rehoboth Bay to the scenic southern beaches of Indian River Bay.

9. Harrington

• Population: 3,774
• Median 2-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $1,560
• Median Household Income: $63,814
• Walk Score: 59
• Transit Score: –
• Bike Score: 42

Harrington is one of the best towns to live in Delaware for those seeking a welcoming town with a rich agricultural history. Known for the annual Delaware State Fair, Harrington comes alive each summer with concerts, livestock shows, and family-friendly activities that attract visitors from across the state. The town itself has an easygoing vibe, with affordable housing, and while job opportunities in Harrington are largely in agriculture, retail, and healthcare, it’s an easy commute to nearby Dover for broader employment options.

A potential drawback is the limited nightlife, but locals enjoy casual dining spots and nearby attractions like Killens Pond State Park, where residents can go hiking, kayaking, and fishing. Schools in Harrington, part of the Lake Forest School District, offer solid educational options for families. The town’s community-oriented atmosphere, affordability, and yearly events make Harrington a unique and inviting place to live.

10. Lewes

• Population: 3,303
• Median 2-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $1,974
• Median Household Income: $87,458
• Walk Score: 66
• Transit Score: –
• Bike Score: 73

Lewes, known as “The First Town in the First State,” offers a coastal, historic charm that’s hard to find in any other places in Delaware. With its quaint downtown, filled with boutiques, art galleries, and cozy cafes, Lewes has a warm, friendly atmosphere that draws both families and retirees. Being on the coast, residents have easy access to Lewes Beach and Cape Henlopen State Park, where locals enjoy everything from beachcombing to hiking and bird-watching. The town has a vibrant community and hosts several popular events like the Lewes Tulip Celebration and Lewes Historical Society events.

Lewes does tend to have a higher cost of living, especially with the recent influx of new residents. However, the town’s highly rated Cape Henlopen School District, quality healthcare services, and a variety of local businesses make it worth the investment. Lewes offers the perfect mix of beach town relaxation and neighborly love with a touch of history and charm.

11. Milford

• Population: 11,714
• Median 2-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $1,813
• Median Household Income: $53,472
• Walk Score: 81
• Transit Score: –
• Bike Score: 50

Milford is a vibrant town that combines the charm of historic architecture with modern amenities, making it a great place for families and professionals. The downtown area has undergone significant revitalization, and now boasts an array of galleries, shops, and eateries. The Riverwalk along the Mispillion River is a popular spot for a peaceful stroll, and the community hosts frequent events like the Ladybug Music Festival and the Milford Farmers Market, creating a lively atmosphere.

Milford’s healthcare sector is strong, with Bayhealth Hospital serving as a major employer, and the town has a growing job market in retail and manufacturing as well.

The Milford School District offers quality education, and Delaware Technical Community College has a campus nearby for continued learning. While Milford is a bit quieter than larger towns, its balance of historic appeal, affordable housing, and a developing downtown scene make it an attractive place to settle.

12. Middletown

• Population: 25,022
• Median 2-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $1,824
• Median Household Income: $104,662
• Walk Score: 29
• Transit Score: –
• Bike Score: 41

Middletown has rapidly evolved from a small farming community to one of Delaware’s fastest-growing towns, offering an ideal mix of suburban convenience and a lively downtown area.

Families are drawn to Middletown for its top-rated schools in the Appoquinimink School District, known for strong academic programs and extracurriculars. The town also has a variety of residential neighborhoods, from cozy single-family homes to new developments with spacious lots.

Middletown’s proximity to Wilmington and Philadelphia is a significant perk for commuters, and its booming local economy provides ample job opportunities in healthcare, retail, and professional services. While Middletown’s growth has brought more traffic, its thriving community events, good schools, and access to both small-town amenities and nearby big-city attractions make it one of Delaware’s most desirable places to live.

Looking for an Apartment in Delaware?

No matter what you are looking for in Delaware, whether it be the urban sprawl of Wilmington or the ever-quiet small-town of Bear, there's something for everyone. Thankfully, some of the best places to live in Delaware are still reasonably priced.

So, if you are interested in moving to Delaware, now might be a good time to start your research. First, find out more information about the cost of living in Delaware. Next, register with Apartment List today and start checking out the hundreds of available apartments to rent in Delaware!