Northbound Main Street in Smyrna, Delaware. Image credit Dough4872, CC BY-SA 4.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

7 Towns Perfect for Retirement in Delaware

With its quaint towns and rich history, Delaware can undoubtedly provide retirees with a peaceful place to settle down and enjoy life. This state has a lot to offer when it comes to retirement living, with a wide variety of communities to suit every preference and way of life. The "Diamond State" has everything needed for easy-going later years, from its lively cultural hubs to quiet neighborhoods. These seven Delaware towns are ideal choices for retirement. Whether retirees are searching for a relaxing day at a park, a tour of various museums, or spending a couple of hours shopping in an inviting farmers market, these towns have close-knit neighbors and many amenities.

Smyrna

Downtown Smyrna, Delaware.
Downtown Smyrna, Delaware. Image credit Acroterion, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Smyrna is a safe place for seniors to reside. The Smyrna Health & Wellness Center provides healthcare accessibility to the people of Eastern Maryland. The town's median home listing price is $440,800 (according to realtor.com), which is worth the money in terms of its location for its activities.

The Asbury Church Farmers Market is a great place for retirees to find handmade goods and fresh produce; locals display their best-selling culinary goods and artwork here. Woodland Beach has large stretches of soft sand perfect for seniors who want to spend more time outside.

The Smyrna Museum is an insightful experience for everyone interested in learning more about Smyrna's fascinating past. Through engaging exhibitions, you can discover more about Smyrna's agricultural heritage, its crucial role in the American Revolution, and the growth of its regional industries.

Felton

Downtown Felton, Delaware, United States.
Downtown Felton, Delaware. Image credit RevelationDirect, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Felton, Delaware, checks all the boxes for a town fit for retirement. This community offers retirees a very good return on their investment, with a median house listing price of $402,500. It is comforting to know that Felton residents may receive excellent medical care because of places like the New Hope Medical Center in town, and the Bayhealth Hospital, Kent Campus in nearby Dover. The Pizzadili Vineyard and Winery is a must-see in this town. It is known for its winemaking experiences and guided vineyard tours for visitors and locals seeking to indulge and experiment with unique flavors. It's the ideal location for enjoying local cuisine and relaxing with loved ones.

Retirees searching for a way to get out of the house can visit Killens Pond State Park, where there are easy-going trails, fishing and boating opportunities, and scenic picnicking spots. For families seeking wet and wild fun, the nearby Killens Pond Water Park is a refreshing escape on hot summer days, complete with water slides and pools for all ages to enjoy.

Frankford

Capt. Ebe Chandler House at Main and Reed Sts., Frankford, Sussex County, Delaware.
Capt. Ebe Chandler House at Main and Reed Sts., Frankford, Sussex County, Delaware. Image credit Smallbones, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Frankford has charm and character. With a median home listing price of $575,000, this desirable community has all a retiree might possibly need for medical care, including the prestigious South Coastal Health Campus of the Beebe Healthcare system in nearby Millville. A wide range of interests can be satisfied by the numerous recreational attractions in Frankford. With more than 35 different species of animals, the renowned zoo The Coastal Wilds provides a fun and educational way to get out of the house.

Additionally, Bennett Orchards is full of beautiful flowers, which will allow retirees to learn about Frankford's rich agricultural heritage. Retirees looking for an exclusive up-close look at an Alpaca farm should visit the Four Acres Living Alpaca Farm, which offers farm tours, alpaca walks, special events, and a boutique with all things alpaca.

Dagsboro

Delaware State Route 20 and Delaware State Route 26 (Main Street) at Vines Creek Road in Dagsboro, Sussex County, Delaware
Delaware State Route 20 and Delaware State Route 26 (Main Street) at Vines Creek Road in Dagsboro, Delaware. Image credit Famartin, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Dagsboro is a bustling town with activities for people of all ages. It is a popular choice among retirees because of its reasonable median property listing price of around $460,000. Beebe Healthcare (Indian River Wellness Center) is the town's main medical center, offering a wide range of medical services, so locals may receive high-quality care without having to leave the community. Anyone looking to explore nature in Dagsboro should visit the Delaware Botanic Gardens, where a variety of curated gardens are showcased. Locals and visitors can take a relaxed walk while appreciating the beauty of native plants, wildflowers, and ornamental grasses.

Another outdoor activity to try is spending a day at Parsons Farms, where retirees may enjoy the countryside and choose from a variety of freshly gathered fruits and vegetables at the neighborhood farmers' market. The farm also hosts various holiday events, which have strengthened the town's community. Dagsboro does not just have outdoor options. The Clayton Theatre is a venue where you can enjoy the latest films alongside special screenings of classic and indie films.

Frederica

John Dill store in the Frederica Historic District, Delaware.
John Dill store in the Frederica Historic District, Delaware.

The rivertown, Frederica, is an ideal spot to escape the chaos of life and is certainly a top pick for retirement. With a median home listing price of just $405,000, Frederica's housing options are not only budget-friendly but also of excellent value. For medical care, retirees won't have to travel outside the comfort of their community. Bayhealth Hospital, Kent Campus, is responsible for Frederica's reputation for providing convenient access to high-quality healthcare. Retirees in Frederica have a variety of outdoor activities at their fingertips. For instance, the soft sandy shores of Bowers Beach, a well-liked local attraction, are perfect for a swim, a day of fishing, or a relaxing walk. In addition to this, Retirees can visit the Bowers Beach Maritime Museum, which offers a fascinating glimpse into the area's maritime history by showcasing historic boats, ships, and artifacts.

Taking in Delaware's beauty at the Delaware Bayshore Byway guides locals and visitors along a scenic route through Frederica, where all can find themselves in the stunning landscapes and wonders of one of the state's most prominent regions.

Elsmere

Poplar Avenue in Elsmere, Delaware
Poplar Avenue in Elsmere, Delaware. Image credit Dough4872, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Retirees can score a quiet, reasonably priced place to live in Elsmere, Delaware. With a median home listing price of $279,900, Elsmere has affordable housing options that deliver outstanding value for the money.

Elsmere's proximity to Wilmington, where three respectable hospitals are only a short two miles away, is perfect for most healthcare needs.

The Fairgrounds Park in Elsmere is an excellent place for nature lovers and pet owners to enjoy leisurely walks due to its ample space and amenities. Deemers Beach is only a short drive away for those looking for a day in the sun. There is nothing that screams "relaxation" quite like the soothing sound of the waves.

For those who enjoy and collect antiques, The Willow Tree Antique Shop in nearby Wilmington is also a must-see. This charming boutique, which is just a short drive from Elsmere, provides a delightful shopping experience with its eclectic assortment of both traditional and neat items.

Ellendale

The Ellendale Town Square.
The Ellendale Town Square. Image credit Superman7515, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

There are various reasons why residents of Ellendale choose to make it their home. This town's breathtaking natural features please anyone who prefers to spend time outdoors. Ellendale offers retirees the chance to own a home without breaking the bank when it comes to living expenditures, with a median property listing price of $387,500.

The Bayhealth Hospital, Sussex Campus, in nearby Milford, is a top medical center with a wide range of medical treatments for any kind of medical need.

Retirees can re-establish a connection with the natural world at Reynolds Pond. Whether seniors want to stroll or bring a picnic basket and eat dinner by the water, this charming spot is the perfect setting for unwinding outdoor activities. The Getaway Lounge and Liquors boasts a wide range of beverages, including local beers, imported wines, and cocktails, in a comfortable atmosphere for relaxing and socializing.

These towns offer retirees a reasonably priced place to live, safe neighborhoods, and fun activities. Whether retirees wish to visit places like the Smyrna Museum to learn about history or outdoor adventures at Killens Pond State Park, many attractions can be found in these Delaware towns. At the many festivals, farmers markets, and community events, retirees can make new friends and connections with individuals who share their interests. When all is said and done, these communities grant seniors an excellent environment in which to enjoy daily life.

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