20 Worst Places to Live in Delaware: Undesirable Locations Revealed

Delaware, known as the First State, offers many attractive places to live. However, like any region, it also has areas that may be less desirable for various reasons.

Factors such as crime rates, economic opportunities, and quality of life can significantly impact a location’s livability.

This article explores 20 places in Delaware that are considered among the worst to reside in based on several key metrics.

The list examines cities, towns, and communities across the state, providing insight into why these locations may be challenging places to call home.

Readers will gain a clearer picture of areas they may want to avoid when considering where to settle in Delaware.

1. Wilmington

Wilmington, Delaware’s largest city, faces significant challenges that impact residents’ quality of life. The city struggles with high crime rates, particularly in certain neighborhoods, making safety a concern for many.

Unemployment rates in Wilmington exceed the national average, limiting job opportunities for residents. This economic hardship contributes to other social issues within the community.

The city’s public education system has faced criticism for underperformance, with some schools struggling to meet state standards. This can affect students’ academic progress and future prospects.

Wilmington also grapples with aging infrastructure, including roads and public buildings in need of repair or replacement. These issues can lead to inconveniences and safety hazards for residents.

The cost of living in Wilmington is higher than the national average, particularly in housing expenses. This can make it difficult for some residents to afford comfortable living arrangements.

2. Dover

Dover, Delaware’s capital city, faces significant challenges that impact residents’ quality of life. The city struggles with a high crime rate, particularly property crimes and violent offenses.

Economic issues plague Dover, with a poverty rate above the national average. Many residents find it difficult to secure well-paying jobs, leading to financial strain for families.

Education in Dover presents concerns, as some public schools underperform compared to state averages. This can affect students’ academic opportunities and future prospects.

The city’s infrastructure requires attention, with aging roads and utilities in need of upgrades. Traffic congestion during peak hours frustrates commuters and residents alike.

Dover’s limited entertainment options and cultural amenities leave some residents feeling unsatisfied. The lack of diverse recreational activities can make the city less appealing to younger generations.

3. Georgetown

Georgetown, the county seat of Sussex County, faces several challenges that impact its livability. The town struggles with a high crime rate, particularly property crimes, which can make residents feel unsafe.

Economic opportunities in Georgetown are limited, with a median household income below the state average. This contributes to a higher poverty rate compared to many other Delaware communities.

The education system in Georgetown has room for improvement. Test scores in local schools often fall below state averages, potentially affecting students’ future prospects.

Georgetown’s infrastructure requires attention. Some roads and public facilities are in need of repairs or updates, which can inconvenience residents and visitors alike.

The town’s location, while central in Sussex County, is relatively far from major urban centers. This isolation can limit access to certain amenities and job opportunities available in larger cities.

4. Smyrna

Smyrna, located in Kent County, Delaware, faces several challenges that impact its livability. The town’s crime rate exceeds the national average, raising safety concerns for residents.

Limited job opportunities within Smyrna force many to commute to larger cities for work. This daily travel can be time-consuming and costly for inhabitants.

The town’s educational system struggles with overcrowded classrooms and limited resources. This affects the quality of education available to students in Smyrna.

Property taxes in Smyrna are relatively high compared to other areas in Delaware. This financial burden can strain homeowners’ budgets.

Smyrna’s infrastructure requires significant improvements. Roads and public facilities often need repairs, impacting daily life for residents.

The town lacks diverse entertainment options, leaving residents with few recreational choices. This can lead to boredom and dissatisfaction among community members.

5. Middletown

Middletown, Delaware, faces several challenges that impact its livability. The town has experienced rapid population growth, leading to increased traffic congestion and strain on local infrastructure.

Housing costs in Middletown have risen significantly in recent years, making it less affordable for many residents. This trend has particularly affected first-time homebuyers and those on fixed incomes.

The town’s school system struggles to keep pace with the growing student population. Overcrowded classrooms and limited resources have raised concerns about educational quality.

Middletown’s job market remains limited, with many residents commuting to nearby cities for work. This creates a bedroom community atmosphere and reduces local economic opportunities.

Crime rates in Middletown, while not extreme, have shown an upward trend. Property crimes and drug-related offenses are among the most common issues faced by law enforcement.

6. Seaford

Seaford, located in Sussex County, Delaware, faces several challenges that impact its livability. The city struggles with a high crime rate, particularly property crime, which exceeds the national average.

Economic difficulties plague Seaford, with a poverty rate higher than the state average. Many residents find it challenging to secure stable, well-paying jobs in the area.

The education system in Seaford has room for improvement. Test scores and graduation rates fall below state averages, potentially affecting students’ future opportunities.

Limited recreational and cultural amenities in Seaford may leave residents feeling isolated or lacking in entertainment options. This can contribute to a lower quality of life for some inhabitants.

Infrastructure issues, including aging roads and buildings, present ongoing concerns for the city. These problems can affect daily life and property values in Seaford.

7. Newark

Newark, Delaware’s third-largest city, faces several challenges that impact residents’ quality of life. The city’s high cost of living puts a strain on many households, with housing prices and rental rates above the state average.

Traffic congestion is a significant issue in Newark, particularly during rush hours and university events. The presence of the University of Delaware contributes to a transient population and occasional noise disturbances in residential areas.

Crime rates in Newark are higher than the national average, with property crimes being a particular concern. The city also struggles with limited public transportation options, making it difficult for residents without personal vehicles to get around efficiently.

Newark’s job market can be competitive, with many positions tied to the university or requiring specialized skills. This can lead to employment difficulties for some residents.

8. Milford

Milford, located in Kent and Sussex counties, faces several challenges that impact residents’ quality of life. The city struggles with a higher crime rate compared to the national average, raising safety concerns for its inhabitants.

Economic opportunities in Milford are limited, with a unemployment rate exceeding the state average. This lack of job prospects contributes to financial stress for many residents.

The city’s infrastructure shows signs of aging, with some roads and public facilities in need of repair or updates. This can affect daily commutes and access to essential services.

Milford’s educational system faces difficulties, with some schools underperforming compared to state standards. This may impact students’ academic progress and future prospects.

The city also grapples with environmental issues, including occasional flooding due to its proximity to the Mispillion River. This can lead to property damage and disruptions in daily life for residents.

9. Elkton

Elkton, located in Cecil County, Delaware, faces several challenges that impact residents’ quality of life. The town struggles with a higher crime rate compared to the national average, raising safety concerns for its inhabitants.

Elkton’s economic landscape presents difficulties for many residents. The town has a higher unemployment rate than the state average, limiting job opportunities for its workforce.

Educational outcomes in Elkton fall below state standards, potentially affecting future prospects for young residents. The town’s public schools have lower test scores and graduation rates compared to other Delaware districts.

Housing affordability is another issue in Elkton. While property values are lower than in some neighboring areas, this often reflects the town’s economic challenges and limited amenities.

Elkton’s infrastructure requires improvement, with aging roads and utilities in need of upgrades. This impacts daily life for residents and can deter potential businesses from settling in the area.

10. Bear

Bear, Delaware, faces several challenges that impact residents’ quality of life. The town struggles with higher-than-average crime rates compared to surrounding areas. This includes both property crimes and violent offenses.

Traffic congestion is a significant issue in Bear, particularly during rush hour. The main roads often experience heavy traffic, leading to longer commute times and increased stress for drivers.

The cost of living in Bear is relatively high, especially when it comes to housing expenses. This can make it difficult for some residents to afford suitable accommodations.

Bear’s public schools have received mixed reviews, with some performing below state averages. This may be a concern for families with school-age children.

The town lacks a distinct downtown area or central community hub. This absence of a focal point can contribute to a diminished sense of community for some residents.

11. Millsboro

Millsboro, located in Sussex County, Delaware, faces several challenges that impact its livability. The town struggles with water quality issues, particularly high levels of nitrates in its groundwater.

This problem stems from agricultural runoff and inadequate wastewater treatment systems. The poor water quality poses potential health risks to residents and requires additional filtration measures.

Millsboro also grapples with traffic congestion, especially during peak tourist seasons. The influx of visitors heading to nearby beaches often causes significant delays on major roads through the town.

The area has limited job opportunities outside of seasonal tourism and agriculture. This lack of diverse employment options can make it difficult for residents to find stable, year-round work.

Millsboro’s crime rate is higher than the national average, particularly for property crimes. This raises concerns about community safety and security for local residents.

12. Harrington

Harrington, located in Kent County, Delaware, faces several challenges that impact its livability. The city’s crime rate exceeds the national average, raising concerns about safety for residents and visitors alike.

Economic opportunities in Harrington are limited, with a higher unemployment rate compared to other parts of the state. This lack of job prospects can lead to financial stress for many households.

The educational system in Harrington struggles to meet state standards, potentially affecting the future prospects of its youth. Test scores and graduation rates fall below the Delaware average.

Public transportation options are scarce in Harrington, making it difficult for residents without personal vehicles to access essential services and employment opportunities. This isolation can be particularly challenging for elderly or low-income individuals.

Harrington’s infrastructure shows signs of aging, with some roads and public facilities in need of repair or modernization. These issues can detract from the overall quality of life for residents.

13. Claymont

Claymont, located in New Castle County, faces several challenges that impact residents’ quality of life. The area struggles with higher crime rates compared to state averages, raising safety concerns for locals.

Air quality issues persist due to industrial activity in the region. This has led to health worries among community members and potential long-term effects on residents’ well-being.

The town’s aging infrastructure requires attention, with some roads and public facilities in need of repairs or upgrades. This can affect daily commutes and access to services for Claymont residents.

Limited job opportunities within Claymont itself force many residents to commute elsewhere for work. This situation can lead to increased traffic congestion during peak hours and longer travel times.

Property values in certain parts of Claymont have stagnated, potentially impacting homeowners’ investments. The area also lacks diverse housing options, which may deter new residents from moving in.

14. Rehoboth Beach

Rehoboth Beach, a popular coastal town in Delaware, faces several challenges that impact its livability. The area experiences extreme seasonal fluctuations in population, leading to overcrowding during peak tourist months.

Traffic congestion becomes a significant issue, particularly in the summer. Parking spaces are scarce, and navigating the town can be frustrating for both residents and visitors.

The cost of living in Rehoboth Beach is considerably higher than the national average. Housing prices are inflated, making it difficult for many to afford homes or rentals in the area.

Noise pollution is another concern, especially during busy seasons. Late-night activities and crowds can disrupt the peace for year-round residents.

The town is vulnerable to coastal storms and flooding, which poses risks to property and infrastructure. Climate change may exacerbate these issues in the future.

15. Laurel

Laurel, a small town in Sussex County, Delaware, faces several challenges that impact its livability. The town struggles with a high crime rate, which is significantly above the national average. This raises concerns about safety for residents and visitors alike.

The local economy in Laurel has been stagnant, leading to limited job opportunities. Many residents have to commute to other areas for work, which can be inconvenient and time-consuming.

Education is another area of concern in Laurel. The local schools have lower test scores compared to state averages, potentially affecting the quality of education available to students.

Laurel also lacks diverse entertainment and recreational options. This shortage of amenities can make it less appealing for families and young professionals looking for a vibrant community.

The town’s infrastructure needs improvement, with some roads and public facilities requiring maintenance or upgrades. These issues can affect the overall quality of life for Laurel’s residents.

16. Glasgow

Glasgow, an unincorporated community in New Castle County, Delaware, faces several challenges that impact its livability. The area struggles with limited public transportation options, making it difficult for residents without personal vehicles to commute or access services.

Glasgow’s proximity to major highways leads to increased traffic congestion, especially during peak hours. This can result in longer commute times and higher stress levels for residents who work in nearby cities.

The community lacks a distinct downtown area or central business district, which can limit local job opportunities and social gathering spaces. Residents often need to travel to neighboring towns for shopping, dining, and entertainment options.

Glasgow experiences occasional flooding issues due to its location near the Christina River. This can cause property damage and disrupt daily life for some residents during heavy rainfall events.

17. Delmar

Delmar straddles the border of Delaware and Maryland, earning it the nickname “The Little Town Too Big for One State.” Despite this unique distinction, Delmar faces several challenges that contribute to its inclusion on this list.

The town struggles with a high crime rate compared to the national average. Property crimes, in particular, are a concern for residents and potential newcomers.

Delmar’s economy also presents difficulties. The median household income falls below the state average, and job opportunities within the town itself are limited.

Education is another area where Delmar lags behind. The local schools have lower test scores and graduation rates compared to other Delaware districts.

The town’s infrastructure needs improvement, with some roads and public facilities showing signs of wear and tear. This can impact the quality of life for residents and visitors alike.

18. Lewes

Lewes, a small coastal town in Delaware, faces several challenges that impact residents’ quality of life. The high cost of living in Lewes is a significant concern, with housing prices well above the state average.

Traffic congestion is another issue, especially during peak tourist seasons. The influx of visitors can overwhelm local infrastructure and create long delays for residents commuting or running errands.

Flooding poses a persistent threat to Lewes due to its low-lying coastal location. Storm surges and rising sea levels put properties at risk and can disrupt daily life.

Limited job opportunities within the town itself force many residents to commute long distances for work. This can lead to increased stress and reduced time for family and leisure activities.

The town’s small size means fewer amenities and entertainment options compared to larger urban areas. Residents may need to travel to nearby cities for certain services or recreational activities.

19. Camden

Camden, a small town in Kent County, Delaware, faces several challenges that impact residents’ quality of life. The town’s limited job opportunities often force inhabitants to commute long distances for work.

Camden’s crime rate exceeds the national average, raising safety concerns for its population. Property crimes, in particular, occur more frequently than in many other Delaware communities.

The town’s educational system struggles to meet standards, with local schools performing below state averages. This can hinder students’ academic progress and future prospects.

Camden’s lack of diverse amenities and entertainment options leaves residents with few recreational choices. Many must travel to nearby towns for shopping, dining, and leisure activities.

The town’s aging infrastructure requires significant improvements. Roads, public facilities, and utilities need upgrades to better serve the community’s needs.

20. Selbyville

Selbyville, located in Sussex County, Delaware, faces several challenges that impact its livability. The town’s crime rate is higher than the state average, raising concerns about safety for residents.

Selbyville’s economy relies heavily on agriculture and poultry processing, limiting job opportunities in other sectors. This lack of diverse employment options can make it difficult for some residents to find suitable work.

The town’s infrastructure is aging, with some roads and public facilities in need of repair or upgrade. This can affect the quality of life for residents and potentially lead to higher taxes for necessary improvements.

Selbyville’s educational system faces challenges, with some schools performing below state averages. This may concern families with school-age children who prioritize quality education.

The town’s location, while close to popular beach destinations, is somewhat isolated from larger urban centers. This can limit access to certain amenities and services that some residents may desire.

Common Issues in Delaware Living

Delaware faces several challenges that impact residents’ quality of life. These issues range from public safety concerns to educational shortcomings and economic limitations.

High Crime Rates

Crime remains a significant problem in certain Delaware communities. Wilmington, the state’s largest city, often ranks among the most dangerous cities in the U.S. for its size. Violent crime rates in some neighborhoods exceed national averages.

Property crimes like theft and burglary are also prevalent in urban and suburban areas. Rural regions aren’t immune, with drug-related offenses on the rise.

Law enforcement struggles to curb gang activity and drug trafficking, particularly in New Castle County. These issues contribute to residents’ safety concerns and can negatively impact property values.

Poor Education Systems

Delaware’s public education system faces ongoing challenges. Many schools struggle with underfunding, leading to outdated facilities and limited resources for students.

Teacher shortages plague districts across the state, resulting in larger class sizes and reduced individual attention for students. This issue is particularly acute in high-poverty areas.

Standardized test scores in Delaware often fall below national averages, especially in math and reading. Achievement gaps persist between students from different socioeconomic backgrounds.

Dropout rates remain a concern, with some districts reporting graduation rates below 70%. This trend can limit future opportunities for affected youth and impact the state’s workforce.

Limited Job Opportunities

Delaware’s job market presents challenges for many residents. The state’s economy relies heavily on a few key industries, leaving workers vulnerable to market fluctuations.

Manufacturing jobs continue to decline, impacting blue-collar workers. Many struggle to find comparable employment or require retraining for new careers.

Rural areas face limited economic diversity, with fewer job options available outside of agriculture and small businesses. This can lead to underemployment or long commutes for residents.

While the finance and healthcare sectors offer some opportunities, competition for these positions is often fierce. Entry-level workers and recent graduates may struggle to find roles that match their qualifications and salary expectations.

Environmental and Health Concerns

Delaware faces challenges related to pollution, healthcare access, and aging infrastructure. These issues impact residents’ quality of life and well-being across the state.

Pollution Levels

Air quality concerns plague several Delaware cities. Wilmington and New Castle County experience elevated ozone levels, particularly in summer months. Industrial emissions from chemical plants and refineries contribute to poor air quality in some areas.

Water pollution affects both coastal and inland communities. Runoff from agricultural activities introduces excess nutrients into waterways, leading to algal blooms. Some areas face contamination from legacy industrial sites.

Soil contamination poses risks in former industrial zones. Brownfield sites require ongoing remediation efforts. Lead contamination in older housing stock remains a concern in some urban neighborhoods.

Access to Healthcare

Rural areas of Delaware struggle with limited healthcare options. Sussex County faces shortages of primary care physicians and specialists. Some residents must travel long distances for routine medical care.

Hospital closures have impacted healthcare access in smaller communities. The shuttering of Nanticoke Memorial Hospital in Seaford left a gap in acute care services for western Sussex County.

Mental health services are often insufficient, especially in lower-income areas. Wait times for appointments can stretch for months. Substance abuse treatment facilities are unevenly distributed across the state.

Public Infrastructure

Aging water systems plague many Delaware towns. Lead pipes remain a concern in older neighborhoods. Some communities face frequent water main breaks and service disruptions.

Road maintenance challenges affect both urban and rural areas. Potholes and deteriorating bridges create safety hazards and increase vehicle repair costs for residents.

Flood control infrastructure is inadequate in some coastal communities. Rising sea levels threaten low-lying areas, particularly in Sussex County. Stormwater management systems struggle to handle increasingly intense rainfall events.