Known as “The First State,” Delaware is one of the most attractive places to relocate on the East Coast. With its tax advantages, coastal lifestyle, proximity to major cities, and relatively affordable housing, thousands of new residents move to Delaware each year.
Whether you’re relocating for work, retirement, or simply a better quality of life, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about moving to Delaware.
Why People Are Moving to Delaware
Delaware offers a unique combination of financial benefits, location, and lifestyle that makes it appealing to a wide range of people.
Tax Advantages
One of the biggest reasons people relocate to Delaware is its tax structure.
Key benefits include:
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No state sales tax
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No tax on Social Security income
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Low property taxes
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No inheritance tax
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Favorable estate planning laws
These benefits make Delaware especially popular with retirees and remote workers moving from higher-tax states like New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania.
Delaware’s Ideal Location
Another major advantage of living in Delaware is its proximity to major metropolitan areas.
From most parts of the state you can reach:
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Philadelphia – about 30–60 minutes
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Baltimore – about 1.5 hours
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Washington – about 2 hours
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New York City – about 2.5 hours
This makes Delaware perfect for commuters, hybrid workers, and people who want small-town living with big-city access.
Delaware by County
New Castle
Located in northern Delaware, New Castle County is the state’s most populous and economically active county, holding 60% of the state’s population. Known for its mix of historic towns, thriving business districts, and urban city living, New Castle County is a popular destination for professionals, families, and commuters. The county is filled with charming parks, scenic valleys, and beautiful city architecture. Locals say once you’re south of the Chesapeake and Delaware Canal, the southern slower lower begins.
Explore Communities
Wilmington – Newark – Middletown
Kent
The Middle County is home to the Capital, Dover. Outside of congressional sessions and the historic architecture of the main downtown, you can find “The Monster Mile”, Dover Motor Speedway and Casino. Kent County holds the smallest population within the state. Outside of city limits, you will find the small-town feel of the quaint villages. The western part of the county is mostly farmland, and agriculture accounts for about a third of the county.
Explore Communities
Dover – Smyrna
Sussex
Sussex County is known for its beautiful beaches, charming coastal towns, and relaxed lifestyle. As the largest county in Delaware by land area, Sussex County offers a wide range of communities, from resort towns to quiet “lower slower” rural towns. Sussex County is home to some of the most famous beach destinations on the East Coast. Beach residents enjoy surfing, fishing, and boating along the Atlantic coast. Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy hiking and biking throughout the area’s many parks, as well as observing wildlife in nearby marshlands and national wildlife refuges.
Explore Communities
Milford – Milton – Georgetown
Lewes – Rehoboth Beach – Dewey Beach
Sussex Count Schools
What to Know Before Moving
Before relocating to Delaware, keep a few things in mind:
Summers can be busy at the beaches
Tourism peaks from June through August.
The state is small
Driving from north to south only takes about 2 hours.
Healthcare access varies by region
Larger hospitals are concentrated in northern Delaware and coastal areas.
Weather is mild overall
Delaware experiences four seasons but winters are typically milder than northern states.
