Delaware may be small, but it packs a punch with its tax-free shopping, charming beach towns, and easy access to major cities like Philadelphia and Baltimore. Whether you’re strolling through the cobblestone streets of historic New Castle, soaking up the summer sun in Rehoboth Beach, or catching a show at Wilmington’s Grand Opera House, there’s always something to discover. And while the state’s compact size means you’re never far from your next adventure, it also comes with a few quirks—like unpredictable traffic and ever-changing weather. In this ApartmentGuide article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of living in Delaware, providing insights into what makes it a distinctive place to call home.
Renting in Delaware snapshot
| Population | 1,051,917 |
| Avg. studio rent | $958 per month |
| Avg. one-bedroom rent | $1,054 per month |
| Avg. two-bedroom rent | $1,254 per month |
| Most affordable cities to rent in Delaware | Smyrna, Milford, Dover |
| Most walkable cities in Delaware | Wilmington, Newark, Dover |
1. Pro: History of the nation’s first state
Walk the centuries-old cobblestone streets of New Castle, where colonial buildings still stand as a reminder of the past. Or explore the preserved estates and battlefields scattered throughout the state. The First State National Historical Park stretches across multiple locations, providing a deep dive into America’s early days. Whether touring the historic homes of Odessa or learning about Delaware’s role in the Revolutionary War, there’s no shortage of ways to connect with the past.
2. Con: Prepare for the traffic jams
For a state that can be driven end to end in under two hours, Delaware’s traffic problems can be surprisingly frustrating. Wilmington, with its connection to I-95, sees regular bottlenecks, and summer tourism brings even more congestion to coastal areas. Beach traffic along Route 1 is infamous, especially on holiday weekends when travelers flood in from neighboring states. Even local roads can get backed up, particularly in growing suburban areas like Middletown. If you live here, planning your commute around peak hours isn’t just helpful—it’s necessary.
3. Pro: Shopping is sweeter with no sales tax
Delaware is one of the few states in the U.S. where shopping doesn’t come with a sales tax surprise. Whether you’re buying a new laptop, stocking up on groceries, or upgrading your wardrobe, what you see on the price tag is exactly what you pay. This tax-free perk attracts shoppers from neighboring states, making places like the Christiana Mall a retail hotspot.
4. Con: Getting around without a car is hard
If you don’t have a car in Delaware, getting around can be a challenge. Wilmington has DART buses and an Amtrak station, but beyond that, public transit options are limited. In smaller cities like Dover and Rehoboth Beach, bus service is infrequent, and many areas lack sidewalks or bike lanes, making walking less practical. For those who rely on public transportation, planning trips requires extra effort, as schedules aren’t always convenient.
5. Pro: Sandy shores and the boardwalks
Delaware’s coastline may be small, but it’s packed with some of the best beach destinations in the Mid-Atlantic. Rehoboth Beach offers a lively boardwalk lined with arcades, shops, and the famous Thrasher’s Fries, while Bethany Beach is known for its quieter atmosphere. Lewes provides a mix of history and coastal charm, with ferry access to Cape May for those craving a scenic trip.
6. Con: Packed hotspots in the summer
Delaware’s beaches are a major draw, but that also means summer brings an influx of tourists that can make coastal living less peaceful. Once June rolls around, the boardwalks and restaurants in towns like Dewey Beach and Fenwick Island fill up fast. Finding parking can feel like winning the lottery, and rental prices in beach communities skyrocket. While locals enjoy the benefits of living near the water, many know that the best time to visit is in the quieter months when the crowds disappear, and the ocean views are just as stunning.
7. Pro: Galleries, theaters, and festivals
From live performances at Wilmington’s Grand Opera House to colorful exhibits at the Delaware Contemporary, the arts scene here is alive with creativity. Dover hosts the massive Firefly Music Festival, bringing big-name artists to the state each year, while the Rehoboth Beach Independent Film Festival showcases top-tier cinema. Smaller towns also embrace the arts, with local galleries, community theaters, and cultural events that bring residents together.
8. Con: Weather here is unpredictable
Delaware experiences the full range of seasons, sometimes all in one week. Summers can be oppressively humid, with temperatures climbing into the 90s, while winters bring the occasional snowstorm that can shut things down for days. Fall and spring offer relief but come with unpredictable swings—one day might be warm and sunny, the next cold and rainy. Coastal towns have to contend with storm surges and flooding, especially during hurricane season. If you like consistency in your weather, Delaware might test your patience.
9. Pro: Big cities are a short trip away
The state’s small size means you’re never far from a major city. Wilmington sits on the Amtrak Northeast Corridor, making it easy to hop on a train and be in Philadelphia in about 20 minutes. Washington, D.C., and New York City are also within reach for day trips or weekend getaways. Even if you live in a quieter part of the state, having world-class museums, restaurants, and entertainment options just a short drive or train ride away is a huge perk for residents.
10. Con: Air quality struggles
Delaware’s location along the I-95 corridor, combined with its industrial history, has led to ongoing concerns about air pollution. In cities like New Castle and Claymont, emissions from traffic and nearby factories can affect air quality, especially in the summer months when ozone levels rise. While efforts have been made to reduce pollution, some areas still experience smog and poor air days.
11. Pro: You’ll get along with the people here
Delaware may be small, but its sense of community is strong. Towns like Lewes, Milton, and Smyrna, have a welcoming atmosphere where neighbors actually know each other. Local farmers’ markets, small-town festivals, and community events bring people together year-round. Even in Wilmington, the largest city, there’s a sense of familiarity, with local businesses and restaurants at the heart of many neighborhoods.
12. Con: Finding a job can be hard
The economy is strong in certain industries, like finance and pharmaceuticals, but for those outside these fields, job opportunities can be harder to come by. The state’s small size means fewer large employers, and many residents commute to nearby cities for work. While Wilmington has a strong banking presence and Dover is home to government jobs, those seeking careers in tech, entertainment, or manufacturing might need to expand their search beyond state lines.
Methodology : The population data is from the United States Census Bureau, walkable cities are from Walk Score, and rental data is from ApartmentGuide.
