View of downtown Lewes Delaware from bridge with canal.

Delaware's Best Small Town For Retirement

Mid-Atlantic US states are major economic hubs. Like any region with lots of economic activity, life tends to be expensive due to several factors, including population. This region alone is home to a whopping 60 million people. While the cost of living in states like New York and New Jersey is exorbitantly high, Delaware, also known as the Diamond State, provides a decent alternative for those looking to save a buck.

For comparison, the average house value in New York City was approximately $764,868 as of November 2024, while in Lewes, Delaware, the average house value for the same period was $592,506—a 22.5% difference.

Lewes not only offers a more affordable real estate market, but also provides access to well-maintained outdoor landmarks, a close-knit community, and, more importantly, one of the best healthcare systems in the country as evidenced by Delaware getting ranked the sixth best for Health Care Quality by US News and World Report. Explore why Lewes is a prime town for retirement in Delaware.

Affordable Tax Laws

The Welcome to Lewes Lighthouse sign at the town’s entrance.
The Welcome to Lewes Lighthouse sign at the town’s entrance.

The effective property tax in Delaware, as of 2024, is 0.43%—making it one of the cheapest for those looking to settle in the Diamond State long-term. As an added benefit, you will enjoy living in a state with no sales tax, just one of five states. In other words, every time you make a purchase, you will not have to pay any state taxes.

Safety and Peace of Mind

Aerial view of Lewes, Delaware.
Aerial view of Lewes, Delaware. Image credit Khairil Azhar Junos via Shutterstock

2024 was a good year for communities like Lewes. Safewise ranked this quaint town third for overall safety in its Delaware’s Safest Cities of 2024 list, with a violent crime rate of 2.3 and a property crime rate of 10.8. By comparison, the nationwide rate of violent crime is 4.0 incidents per 1,000 people. Safety in Lewes is a priority, and it is nothing new. Lewes was named Delaware's safest city back in 2018.

Healthcare

Young female EMS key worker doctor.
Young female EMS doctor.

Delaware citizens prioritize more than just safety—healthcare is also high on the list of their concerns. The primary healthcare in the region is provided by Beebe Healthcare, with its main facility, the Beebe Medical Center, conveniently located in Lewes. In October 2024, Beebe Healthcare earned the Practice Transition Accreditation through the American Nurses Credentialing Center while simultaneously maintaining its status as a top Delaware hospital, being named a "Best Regional Hospital" by US News and World Report, the only one in southern Delaware to receive this honor. These awards are a testament to the quality care residents get when needing treatment, highlighting Lewes's commitment to excellence and high standards.

Top Landmarks in Lewes, Delaware

Lewes Public Beach

The beach goers on the Lewes Beach in Lewes, Delaware.
The beachgoers are on Lewes Beach in Lewes, Delaware. Image credit Brian Doty via Shutterstock

It is easy to forget Lewes is a coastal town if you are not from the region. But lo and behold, you will have plenty of options to soak up the sun here while enjoying the fresh breeze of the Atlantic waters. One great spot to experience the beach is Lewes Public Beach, a family-friendly atmosphere known for soothing waters with minimal waves and clean, soft sands. The beach has many amenities, including free parking, restrooms, and fire pits for barbecuing.

Lewes Historical Society

Early Plank House, Lewes, Delaware.
Early Plank House, Lewes, Delaware. Image credit Nolabob, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Given the town's storied history, which stretches back 393 years ago, learning a thing or two about the region is a worthwhile adventure. Luckily, the Lewes Historical Society offers nine historic buildings to educate locals and visitors about the rich heritage of Lewes. Inside them, you will learn about Lewes' special maritime connection, engage with passionate historic interpreters (who rock awesome vintage costumes), and find an antique shop to bring a few souvenirs home to your friends and loved ones.

Cape Henlopen State Park

Silhouette of the lighthouse and wild birds during the sunset at Cape Henlopen State Park, Lewes, Delaware.
Silhouette of the lighthouse and wild birds during the sunset at Cape Henlopen State Park, Lewes, Delaware.

One of the best ways to age gracefully is to stay active and walk. According to several studies, older adults in their twilight years are encouraged to walk at least 30 minutes daily. Conveniently, Lewes lies a short five-minute drive to Cape Henlopen State Park, offering a pristine sandy shore, walking trails, and a stunning long pier for a leisurely walk. For those seeking good views and sunsets, the nearby lighthouse offers stunning panoramic views of the sea, especially during dusk hours.

Hopkins Farm Creamery

The famous Hopkins Farm Creamery with their delicious ice creams.
The famous Hopkins Farm Creamery has delicious ice creams. Image credit Khairil Azhar Junos via Shutterstock

Do you love ice cream? Indulge yourself with a scoop of your favorite flavor at the Hopkins Farm Creamery. With nearly 30 different options to choose from, made only from fresh and locally sourced ingredients, you are bound to find the perfect ice cream option to satisfy your sweet tooth. In addition to savoring chocolaty goodness, the area is also a great place to unwind and enjoy the rural scenery.

Retire in Lewes, Delaware

With its combination of favorable affordability, safety, and access to top-notch landmarks, Lewes stands out as a rare and exceptional choice for retirement. The cost of living nowadays is high, especially in the housing sector, but Lewes offers more cost-effective options than other nearby Mid-Atlantic regions. And since Delaware is one of few states in the US not to impose a sales tax, retirees can spend their hard-earned money on the finer things in life, like soaking up the sun at Lewis Public Beach or relishing beautiful coastal views in Cape Henlopen State Park. These landmarks, along with exceptional healthcare, a tight-knit community, and Delaware's appealing housing and tax advantages, make Lewes the perfect town for retirement.

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