Delaware is famous for being small, but some of its retirement spots might feel a little too close for comfort.
Delaware has been recognized as a favorable state for retirees overall. A 2024 study by Bankrate ranked Delaware as the best state for retirement, attributing this to factors like tax-friendliness, moderate climate, and a high proportion of older residents. But not all towns are the same.
From high costs to high crime, some towns here seem to compete for the title of “Least Retiree-Friendly.”
Update 2025: Added Wilmington.
1. Seaford, Delaware
Seaford is known for its rich history and beautiful landscapes. However, it may not be the best choice for retirees. The town has a higher than average crime rate which can be concerning for safety.
Additionally, the cost of living here is slightly higher compared to other towns in Delaware. This includes housing, utilities, and healthcare costs which are important for retirees to consider.
Public transportation options are limited, making it difficult for those who no longer drive to get around easily.
Reason for Ranking: High cost of living and limited transportation options make Seaford less ideal for retirees.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Violent Crime Rate | 1,012 incidents per 100,000 people (166% higher than the Delaware average) |
| Cost of Living | Approximately 5% higher than the national average |
2. Laurel, Delaware
Laurel is another town that might not be perfect for retirees. While the town has healthcare facilities available, specialized medical services may require travel to larger cities for more comprehensive care options.
Employment opportunities are limited, which can be an issue for retirees who wish to work part-time. The local economy is primarily agricultural and small business-based, making diverse job opportunities more challenging to find.
The educational facilities are geared more towards younger families, with fewer programs specifically designed for older adults seeking continuous learning opportunities.
Reason for Ranking: Limited employment diversity and fewer specialized amenities make Laurel a challenging place for retirees.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Unemployment Rate | 4.1%, close to the national average |
3. Milford, Delaware
Milford has a vibrant community and lovely waterways, but it might not be the best fit for all retirees. The property taxes here are higher than in other parts of Delaware, which can strain a fixed income.
While Milford offers several recreational activities, they may not always be accessible to individuals with mobility issues. This can limit the enjoyment of the town’s amenities for some retirees.
Additionally, the town is known for its busy traffic patterns, particularly during tourist season, which can be a hassle for those looking for a quiet retirement.
Reason for Ranking: Heavy seasonal traffic congestion can disrupt peaceful retirement.
4. Georgetown, Delaware
Georgetown, the county seat of Sussex County, offers historical charm but poses challenges for retirees. The town has a higher than average rate of property crime, which raises concerns about safety.
The public transportation in Georgetown is lacking, which means retirees need to rely on personal vehicles. For those who do not drive, this can be a significant problem.
The healthcare services in Georgetown are also limited, with few specialists available for elderly care.
Reason for Ranking: Elevated property crime rates can cause security concerns.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Property Crime Rate | 28.4 per 1,000 residents (above the national average of 21) |
| Public Transportation | Minimal options with limited bus services available |
5. Harrington, Delaware
Harrington is a small town that might seem cozy but has drawbacks for retirees. The main issue here is the healthcare infrastructure, which is not adequately equipped to handle the needs of seniors.
The town’s recreational opportunities are also limited, which can be a deterrent for those looking to stay active in retirement. Most activities are geared towards younger demographics, leaving fewer options for retirees.
Additionally, Harrington is somewhat isolated, making it difficult to access larger city amenities and specialty medical care without significant travel.
Reason for Ranking: Inadequate healthcare and limited recreational activities.
6. Dover, Delaware
Dover, the capital of Delaware, may surprise some with its inclusion on this list. Despite being a hub of activity, it’s not always ideal for retirees.
Although Dover is rich in history and culture, the noise and bustle associated with its status as a capital city can be overwhelming for those seeking a quiet retirement.
The traffic, particularly around legislative sessions and special events, can also be a deterrent for those looking for a more tranquil environment.
Reason for Ranking: Busy city environment and periodic heavy traffic detracts from retirement tranquility.
7. New Castle, Delaware
New Castle boasts historical landmarks and beautiful views of the Delaware River. However, it falls short for retirees due to its proximity to industrial areas, leading to higher pollution levels.
The town also experiences a higher crime rate compared to the national average, which is a significant concern for those in retirement.
Additionally, the public services in New Castle are under strain, with limited access to high-quality medical care and recreational facilities suited to older adults.
Reason for Ranking: Proximity to industrial areas and higher crime rates are major drawbacks for retirees.
8. Smyrna, Delaware
Smyrna, located near the central part of the state, has its share of issues that make it less desirable for retirees. One of the main concerns is the healthcare services, which are limited in scope and availability.
The town has a lower number of medical professionals per capita compared to other Delaware towns, making it difficult for retirees to receive timely and specialized care.
Additionally, Smyrna’s public transportation system is not well-developed, posing challenges for those who do not drive.
Reason for Ranking: Limited healthcare services and poor public transportation infrastructure.
9. Clayton, Delaware
Clayton is a smaller town that might initially seem ideal for a quiet retirement, but it has several downsides. The local economy is not very vibrant, offering limited job opportunities for those retirees who wish to work part-time.
The town also lacks cultural and recreational activities that are accessible and appealing to older adults, which can lead to a less fulfilling social life.
Moreover, Clayton’s remote location makes it harder for residents to access larger city amenities and specialized medical care without considerable travel.
Reason for Ranking: Economic limitations, lack of suitable recreational activities, and remote location.
10. Middletown, Delaware
Middletown is growing rapidly, but this growth can be a double-edged sword for retirees. The increase in population has led to higher living costs, particularly in terms of real estate and property taxes.
While the town offers various amenities, the pace of development can feel overwhelming for those seeking a more laid-back retirement lifestyle.
Additionally, the influx of new businesses and residents often leads to congested traffic and longer waits at medical facilities, which can be frustrating for seniors.
Reason for Ranking: Rapid growth leading to higher costs and a more hectic lifestyle, unsuitable for some retirees.
11. Newark, Delaware
Newark is known for its vibrant university life, which unfortunately can be a downside for retirees looking for peace and quiet. The town has frequent social activities and events that cater mostly to a younger crowd.
Additionally, the presence of the university means that traffic can be heavy, especially during the academic year. This can complicate travel and daily life for retirees who prefer a slower pace.
Housing prices in Newark are also on the rise due to its popularity among younger populations, making it less affordable for retirees on a fixed income.
Reason for Ranking: University town atmosphere, heavy traffic, and rising housing costs make Newark less suitable for retirees seeking tranquility.
12. Bridgeville, Delaware
Bridgeville is a small town that struggles with access to essential services. It has limited medical facilities, which poses a problem for retirees requiring regular healthcare.
The public transportation options are sparse, making it difficult for those who cannot or prefer not to drive.
Additionally, Bridgeville is somewhat isolated from larger cities, which means fewer cultural and recreational opportunities for residents.
Reason for Ranking: Limited healthcare and public transport options, along with isolation from urban centers.
13. Wilmington, Delaware
Wilmington holds the unfortunate distinction of being the most dangerous city in Delaware, with a staggering 1,285 violent crimes per 100,000 people as of 2025.
This significant safety concern creates an environment that’s far from ideal for retirees seeking peace and security in their golden years.
The city struggles with both violent and property crime issues, with a total crime rate of 4,896 per 100,000 residents.
This elevated crime rate can lead to increased anxiety and reduced quality of life for seniors who may feel particularly vulnerable.
While Delaware offers tax advantages for retirees, Wilmington’s urban challenges, including higher costs for security measures and insurance, can offset these benefits. The city’s infrastructure and public services also face ongoing challenges that can impact daily life for retirees.
14. Elsmere, Delaware
Elsmere is close to urban centers, but it faces challenges like higher crime rates and noise pollution, making it less desirable for those in retirement.
The town also has limited green spaces and recreational areas, which are important for retirees who value outdoor activities and community engagement.
Additionally, the local healthcare services in Elsmere do not meet the needs of the aging population, which is crucial for retirees who require frequent medical care.
Reason for Ranking: Higher crime rates, lack of green spaces, and inadequate healthcare services.
15. Camden, Delaware
Camden is a smaller town that might appear charming but lacks many amenities necessary for retirees. The healthcare facilities are few, and specialized services are limited.
The town does not have many social or cultural activities tailored to older adults, making it difficult for retirees to engage in a vibrant social life.
Public transport is also minimal, complicating travel for those who do not drive or prefer not to use personal vehicles.
Reason for Ranking: Insufficient healthcare, lack of suitable social activities, and minimal public transport.
16. Bethany Beach, Delaware
Bethany Beach is a popular tourist destination, which means it can become very crowded, especially in the summer months. This can detract from the peaceful environment that many retirees may seek.
The cost of living in Bethany Beach is quite high, particularly in terms of housing and daily expenses. This can be a strain on retirement budgets.
While the beach offers beautiful views and recreation, the seasonal influx of tourists can lead to increased noise and disruption.
Reason for Ranking: Seasonal crowds, high cost of living, and tourist-related disruptions.
17. Milton, Delaware
Milton is a quaint town with historical charm, but it faces issues like limited healthcare options and a high cost of living. These factors can be challenging for retirees.
The town’s remote location makes it difficult to access larger urban amenities, including specialized medical care and diverse cultural activities.
Milton also has fewer employment opportunities for retirees who wish to continue working part-time, which can limit their social and economic engagement.
Reason for Ranking: High cost of living, remote location, and limited job opportunities.
18. Selbyville, Delaware
Selbyville struggles with access to adequate healthcare, a critical factor for retirees. The local facilities are not equipped to meet the needs of an aging population.
The town is also prone to seasonal flooding, which can be a concern for residents, especially those with mobility issues.
Additionally, Selbyville lacks cultural and recreational facilities that cater to the interests of retirees, making it less appealing for those looking for an active retirement.
Reason for Ranking: Inadequate healthcare, risk of flooding, and lack of recreational facilities.
19. Wyoming, Delaware
Wyoming, while small and potentially cozy for some, lacks the infrastructure needed for a comfortable retirement. The town has very few medical facilities, and those that exist do not specialize in geriatric care.
Public transportation is almost non-existent, making it difficult for retirees who do not drive to navigate the area or access essential services.
The town does not offer many activities or social clubs for older adults, limiting opportunities for community engagement and socialization.
Reason for Ranking: Limited healthcare, lack of public transportation, and few social activities for retirees.
20. Ocean View, Delaware
Ocean View is noted for its beautiful coastal scenery, but the high cost of living here can be prohibitive for many retirees. Property prices are steep, and the cost of living is higher than average.
Additionally, during peak tourist seasons, the area becomes very busy, which can affect the tranquility and ease of living for retirees who prefer a quieter lifestyle.
The town also has limited medical services, which is a significant concern for residents requiring regular healthcare.
Reason for Ranking: High cost of living, tourist activity affecting tranquility, and limited medical services.
Delaware Data and Sources:
You’ve left out a major reason that all of the places in sussex county are undesirable for retirees and that’s the unchecked and rampant overdevelopment.
Thanks to all the retirees who have already moved Delaware, the infrastructure has NOT grown to match the needs of all the new residents. There are not enough doctors, nurses, or healthcare facilities to meet the needs of everyone. In a lot of cases it is NOT uncommon to have to wait for a year to get a doctor appointment in Sussex County. There’s also the fact that the entire state just went through a tax assessment update for the first time in over 50 years. Property tax assessment values increased astronomically, and so will taxes. We also have a large illegal immigrant population which our politicians cater to as if they worked for them. Guess who gets to pay for them? Let’s also not to forget to mention the constant road construction and traffic. Thanks to the Bankrate study Delaware has become a very bad place to retire.
This entire opinion piece is totally negative. The writer gives the impression that there’s not a single decent, affordable place to live on the eastern shore, or Delmarva Peninsula, as locals call it. I recently moved to Bridgeville, and I’m loving it. I can jump in the car and be walking down the beach in Rehoboth in 40 minutes. I’m surrounded by nature everywhere I go. There’s shopping and healthcare in Seaford ten minutes down the road. I think this article is unfair to Delmarva in general. Cheers.