We often talk about planning your finances for retirement, but it’s also important to plan other aspects of your life, such as where you’ll live. You may already have a dream destination in mind for your golden years, or perhaps you’ll continue living where you live now to remain near friends and family. However, if you’re considering a new home for retirement, there are plenty of retirement-friendly cities to consider, including in Delaware. Keep reading to learn what makes Delaware a good place to retire and the top nine cities to retire.

Is Delaware a good place to retire?

Delaware has plenty of characteristics that make it an excellent place to retire, which is why it frequently ranks among the best states to retire. Delaware, which goes by nicknames like “The Diamond State” and “The First State,” is known for its laid back lifestyle. The state is divided into three distinctly different regions, each of which has something unique to offer.

Delaware offers a wide range of activities that can cater to diverse preferences. Its proximity to the coast gives it a beachy vibe filled with relaxation, country vineyards, beautiful estates, and outdoor adventure. It’s home to indoor entertainment like museums and outdoor entertainment like hiking and kayaking.

Delaware also has some notable financial benefits, which is a priority for many retirees. Despite having an above-average cost of living, Delaware is quite tax-friendly. It has no state or local sales tax and doesn’t tax Social Security income. It also offers a lower property tax rate than many states, especially others in the northwest.

Read more: States that don't tax retirement income

The top 9 cities to retire in Delaware

Consider the following options, based on census and housing data.^1,2,3

1. Wilmington

• Population: 71,569
• % of Population Above 65:14.5%
• Median Home Value: $307,001
• Cost of Living (Compared to the National Average): 3% higher
• Cost of Healthcare (Compared to the National Average): 7% higher
• Crime Rate (Compared to the National Average): 97% higher
• Amenities Score: F

Wilmington is the largest city in Delaware. It’s located in the very northern part of the state along the Christina and Delaware rivers. The city offers plenty for its residents to do. It’s known for its historic estates that are reminiscent of its French legacy. You can experience the city’s top attractions such as its museums, parks, riverwalk, opera house, and more.

Despite its overall above-average cost of living, Wilmington has a median home price that’s lower than the national average, making it easier for retirees to buy their forever homes there. However, healthcare in Wilmington is more expensive than in most places, and it also has an above-average crime rate.

2. Newark

• Population: 30,453
• % of Population Above 65: 12.7%
• Median Home Value: $345,078
• Cost of Living (Compared to the National Average): 17% higher
• Cost of Healthcare (Compared to the National Average): 7% higher
• Crime Rate (Compared to the National Average): 3% higher
• Amenities Score: A+

Newark is a small Delaware city located in the far northwestern corner of the state, right on the border of Maryland. The city is known for its beautiful outdoor spaces. It sits on the Newark Reservoir, which offers some of the city’s beautiful views. It has plenty of parks, including the local Rittenhouse Park, the university’s botanical gardens, and its nearby state park.

Like much of Delaware, Newark's cost of living is higher than the national average, including above-average healthcare costs. However, the city enjoys a low violent crime rate and a high amenities score, both of which are likely to be attractive to retirees.

3. Dover

• Population: 38,594
• % of Population Above 65: 17.3%
• Median Home Value: $319,030
• Cost of Living (Compared to the National Average): 2% higher
• Cost of Healthcare (Compared to the National Average): 1% lower
• Crime Rate (Compared to the National Average): 130% higher
• Amenities Score: A+

Dover is the capital of Delaware and the second-largest city in the state by population. Dover has a rich history, which is evident in its museums and other historical sites. It’s also home to the Dover Air Base and the Dover International Speedway, which hosts NASCAR races. Like other parts of the state, Dover also has access to outdoor recreation that includes parks, a nearby wildlife refuge, and its close proximity to the Delaware River.

Seniors living in Dover will appreciate the city’s high amenities score and its below-average healthcare costs. Additionally, though its overall cost of living is higher than the national average, it’s lower than most Delaware cities. Unfortunately, the city’s crime rate is considerably higher than the national average.

4. Milford

• Population: 12,981
• % of Population Above 65: 24.1%
• Median Home Value: $329,267
• Cost of Living (Compared to the National Average): 4% higher
• Cost of Healthcare (Compared to the National Average): 44% higher
• Crime Rate (Compared to the National Average): 7% higher
• Amenities Score: F

Milford is a small city located in Kent and Sussex Counties in the central part of Delaware. Milford has plenty to offer its residents, including several nature centers, a thriving local art scene, and its popular brewery. It’s also just minutes from the Delaware Bay, giving residents each beach access.

Milford's cost of living is higher than the national average but lower than the state’s average, especially for housing. Nearly one-quarter of the population is 65 or older, meaning retirees will have an easy time finding a strong community.

5. Middletown

• Population: 24,698
• % of Population Above 65: 18%
• Median Home Value: $516,489
• Cost of Living (Compared to the National Average): 17% higher
• Cost of Healthcare (Compared to the National Average): 1% lower
• Crime Rate (Compared to the National Average): 6% lower
• Amenities Score: C

Middletown is a small Delaware city in New Castle County. It’s located in the northern part of the state, not far from Maryland on one side and the Delaware River on the other. Middletown has several local parks for its residents to enjoy, as well as the Middletown Historical Museum. The city is also known for its Dutch Country Farmers Market.

Middletown is one of the more expensive cities on our list. Its housing costs and overall cost of living are both above the national average. However, it also boasts below-average healthcare costs, a large senior population, and a low crime rate.

6. New Castle

• Population: 5,533
• % of Population Above 65: 21%
• Median Home Value: $264,926
• Cost of Living (Compared to the National Average): 10% higher
• Cost of Healthcare (Compared to the National Average): 7% higher
• Crime Rate (Compared to the National Average): 75% higher
• Amenities Score: C

New Castle is a very small Delaware city in New Castle County, located just six miles south of Wilmington and along the Delaware River. In addition to the views and recreation the river provides, New Castle residents also have plenty of parks and beaches to enjoy. The city is also known for the New Castle Farmers Market and the New Castle Court House Museum.

New Castle has a small population, nearly one-quarter of which is made up of individuals 65 and older. It also offers relatively affordable homes to its residents. However, the city has a crime rate, healthcare costs, and overall cost of living that are higher than the national average.

7. Seaford

• Population: 8,516
• % of Population Above 65: 20.8%
• Median Home Value: $295,253
• Cost of Living (Compared to the National Average): 1% lower
• Cost of Healthcare (Compared to the National Average): 4% higher
• Crime Rate (Compared to the National Average): 210% higher
• Amenities Score: F

Seaford is a small Delaware city in Sussex County, in the southern part of the state. It’s located right on the Nanticoke River, which provides much of its recreation. Seaford also has plenty of outdoor recreation, including nearby nature preserves and trails, a popular museum, and the Governor Ross Mansion.

Seaford has affordable housing and healthcare, as well as a cost of living that’s a bit lower than the national average. It also has a large senior population. Unfortunately, despite its small size, it does have a crime rate that’s considerably higher than the national average.

8. Georgetown

• Population: 7,662
• % of Population Above 65: 15%
• Median Home Value: $343,388
• Cost of Living (Compared to the National Average): 7% higher
• Cost of Healthcare (Compared to the National Average): 4% higher
• Crime Rate (Compared to the National Average): 92% higher
• Amenities Score: D+

Georgetown is the county seat of Sussex County and is located in the southern part of the state. The city, which is known as “The Historic Jewel of Sussex County,” has a rich history, which residents can learn about and enjoy through its historical buildings, horse-drawn carriages, and local museum. Georgetown is also located near the Redden State Forest, giving its residents easy access to outdoor recreation.

Like much of Delaware, Georgetown’s cost of living, including housing and healthcare, is higher than the national average. However, Georgetown’s overall cost of living and housing costs are lower than the state’s average. It’s worth noting, however, that Georgetown has a high crime rate.

9. Hockessin

• Population: 13,478
• % of Population Above 65: 23.3%
• Median Home Value: $571,895
• Cost of Living (Compared to the National Average): 43% higher
• Cost of Healthcare (Compared to the National Average): 7% higher
• Crime Rate (Compared to the National Average): 62% lower
• Amenities Score: F

Hockessin is a small census-designated place within New Castle County in the very northern part of the state. In fact, the community sits right on the Delaware-Pennsylvania border. Hockessin residents enjoy the best of both worlds. First, it’s located just outside of the large city of Wilmington, meaning residents have access to just about every amenity they could want. However, it’s a small town that offers plenty of outdoor recreation in the form of local parks, hiking trails, state parks, and nature areas.

Hockessin is one of the most expensive communities on our list, with housing costs, healthcare costs, and an overall cost of living that are higher than the national average. However, Hockessin also has a large senior population — nearly one-quarter of its residents are 65 and older — and a very low crime rate.

Our take on the best places to live in Delaware

Delaware offers several cities that are an excellent option for retirees looking for their new home. It has a large senior population and, despite its high cost of living, has accessible and affordable healthcare, low taxes, and plenty of amenities that seniors want.

When you’re debating where to retire, there’s no one right answer for everyone. The best place for you to retire depends on your priorities. Additionally, while you’re planning for your retirement, it’s important to make sure your finances are in order so you can retire with a large nest egg. The Empower Retirement Planner can help you assess your retirement savings needs and determine how much you should be saving to retire on time.