Delaware

Delaware is the second smallest state in the United States by land area, but it offers a diverse geography. The state is divided into three regions: the Atlantic Coastal Plain, the Piedmont Plateau, and the Appalachian Piedmont. It features sandy beaches along the coast, rolling hills, and farmland in the interior, and wooded areas in the western part of the state.

In general, Delaware’s real estate market is only getting stronger. The fact that several local real estate markets continue to experience double-digit median home price growth indicates that, in this small but strategically positioned state, demand for housing continues to outweigh supply.

For instance, the median price of a home in Delaware is approximately $370,405. This is lower than the average cost of a home in a state like California which is roughly $799,000.

State highlights

Delaware has a rich history and is often referred to as the ’First State’ because it was the first to ratify the U.S. Constitution on December 7, 1787.

Delaware played a significant role in the early history of the United States. It was one of the original 13 colonies and was the first state to ratify the U.S. Constitution. Delaware was also a key center for shipbuilding during the Revolutionary War and played a vital role in the development of the U.S. Navy.

Delaware has no sales tax, making it an attractive shopping destination for nearby residents. However, the state does impose a personal income tax and a gross receipts tax on businesses.

Geographic location

The state of Delaware is bordered by the states of Maryland to the south and west, Pennsylvania to the north, and New Jersey to the northeast. It is located on the Atlantic Coast, and its eastern border is formed by the Delaware Bay and the Delaware River. The state’s flat terrain is characterized by rolling hills, forests, and coastal plains.

The state is divided into three regions: the Atlantic Coastal Plain, the Piedmont Plateau, and the Appalachian Piedmont.

Climate

Delaware experiences a moderate climate with four distinct seasons.

Summers in Delaware are typically warm and humid. Average high temperatures in July, the hottest month, range from 85°F in the northern part of the state to 89°F in the southern coastal areas.

Humidity levels can be high, but coastal breezes provide some relief.

Winters in Delaware are generally mild compared to more northern states, temperatures range from around 32°F, in the northern part of the state to 36°F along the coast.

Spring and autumn are transitional seasons with mild temperatures. Spring brings blooming flowers and increasing warmth, while autumn is known for its vibrant foliage colors.

Demography

The capital of Delaware is Dover, while the largest city is Wilmington. Other significant cities in the state include Newark, Middletown, and Smyrna, according to U.S. Census Bureau in 2022, it had an estimated population of 1,018,396 people.

Delaware has a diverse population with various ethnic and racial backgrounds. The largest ethnic group is, non-Hispanic White, Black, or African American followed by Hispanic or Latino, and Asian.

Delaware has a relatively older median age than the rest of the U.S., at around 39.8 years old compared to the national average of 38.5.

Cost of Living

The cost of living is very similar to the country average. It has a median home price of about $370,405. Which is slightly higher than the national average of $339,048. Median income levels can vary based on factors such as education, occupation, and location within the state. The average median income of the state is approximately $60,231 to the year 2019 according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

The average salary in the state of Delaware is approximately $95,492 per year.

Transportation

Delaware has a well-developed transportation infrastructure that includes various modes of transportation. Here’s an overview of transportation in Delaware:

Delaware has an extensive network of highways. The major interstate highways serving Delaware are I-95, I-295, and I-495.

Delaware offers public transit options, primarily through the Delaware Transit Corporation (DART First State). It operates bus services across the state, providing transportation within and between cities and towns.

Amtrak, the national passenger rail service, operates several train stations in Delaware. The major stations include Wilmington Station and Newark Station, which provide connections to various cities along the Amtrak Northeast Corridor.

Commuter rail service is also available through SEPTA (Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority), connecting Delaware to Philadelphia and its suburbs.

Delaware is served by several airports, both commercial and general aviation. The largest airport in the state is the Wilmington-Philadelphia Regional Airport (ILG), located in New Castle County. Additionally, smaller airports such as the Dover Air Force Base and the Sussex County Airport cater to general aviation and private aircraft.

Ports and Waterways: Delaware is home to the Port of Wilmington, a major seaport on the Delaware River. The port handles cargo shipments and serves as an important hub for international trade.

The Delaware River and Bay also provide navigable waterways for recreational boating and ferry services.

Schools

Delaware is home to several colleges and universities that offer undergraduate and graduate degree programs. Some of the notable higher education institutions in Delaware include:

University of Delaware (UD): Located in Newark, UD is the largest university in the state.

Delaware State University (DSU): Situated in Dover, it is a historically black university.

Wilmington University: Based in New Castle, it is a private institution that offers undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs.

Delaware Technical Community College: With campuses in Wilmington, Dover, Georgetown, and Stanton, Delaware Tech is a community college system that offers associate degrees, diploma programs, and certificate programs.

Goldey-Beacom College: Located in Wilmington, it is a private college that offers undergraduate and graduate programs in business, economics, and related fields.

The Polytech School District, for example, operates a vocational-technical high school in Kent County.

What is the state like?

Delaware has a rich historical heritage and is often referred to as the ’First State’ since it was the first to ratify the U.S. Constitution. The state offers numerous historic sites, museums, and landmarks, showcasing its role in American history. Delaware also has a vibrant arts and cultural scene, with theaters, galleries, and festivals throughout the year.

Delaware has a coastal location along the Atlantic Ocean, providing residents and visitors with access to beautiful beaches, water sports, and coastal activities. Coastal towns like Rehoboth Beach, Lewes, and Bethany Beach are popular destinations for vacations and leisure.