Delaware Beaches Towns
Choosing the perfect location for your new home involves more than just picking a town; it’s about finding the right neighborhood and plot of land that fits your lifestyle.
We’re here to help you navigate this exciting journey by collaborating closely with you to ask the right questions and envision the perfect setting for your new home.
Our team assists in considering essential factors like available amenities (septic, well, electric etc.)& HOA details. But we also focus on the personal touches, helping you imagine the view from your bedroom, or how your patio or porch will look as you sip your morning coffee or evening cocktail. With Coastal Homes and Design, you’ll have the support and expertise needed to make informed decisions every step of the way.
Now, let’s dive into the unique characteristics of the towns in Southern Delaware, providing you with the information you need to choose the perfect place for your new home.
Rehoboth Beach
Rehoboth Beach, often dubbed “The Nation’s Summer Capital,” has a rich history that dates back to the early 17th century when it was inhabited by Native American tribes like the Lenni Lenape and Nanticoke. In 1873, Reverend Robert W. Todd established the Rehoboth Beach Camp Meeting Association, marking the town’s beginnings as a seaside resort. Today, it’s known for its vibrant boardwalk, beautiful beaches, and a lively downtown area with shops and restaurants (Wikipedia) (Explore Delaware).
- Population: 1,357
- Median Age: 64.1 years
- Median Home Price: $1,230,700 (significantly above the national average)
- Notable Points: Known for its vibrant boardwalk, beautiful beaches, and a lively downtown area with shops and restaurants. Popular as both a vacation and year-round living destination.
- Source: Census Reporter
Lewes
Founded in 1631 by Dutch settlers, Lewes is the oldest town in Delaware. It served as a key port and trading center and has preserved much of its historical charm. Visitors can explore the historic district, enjoy the scenic beauty of Cape Henlopen State Park, and take part in various cultural events throughout the year (Delaware Beaches Guide).
Population: Approximately 3,300
- Median Age: Around 60 years
- Median Home Price: $599,500
- Notable Points: Offers a historic charm with its preserved buildings, museums, and proximity to Cape Henlopen State Park. Known for its quieter, family-friendly environment compared to neighboring Rehoboth Beach.
- Source: City-Data
Long Neck
Long Neck is a small, tranquil community located along the Indian River Bay. It offers a peaceful setting with easy access to water activities. The area is popular for its marinas, campgrounds, and scenic views, making it ideal for those who enjoy a quieter lifestyle close to nature (Delaware Beaches Guide).
- Population: Approximately 2,500
- Median Age: Around 58 years
- Median Home Price: $300,000
- Notable Points: A smaller, more rural community that offers a peaceful setting with easy access to the Indian River Bay. Ideal for those seeking a quieter lifestyle.
- Source: Neighborhood Scout
Millsboro
Millsboro is a rapidly growing town with a blend of new developments and established neighborhoods. Historically a hub for agriculture and industry, Millsboro now offers a mix of shopping, dining, and outdoor activities. The town’s proximity to several inland bays and state parks adds to its appeal (Delaware Beaches Guide).
- Population: Approximately 4,500
- Median Age: 46 years
- Median Home Price: $300,000
- Notable Points: Rapidly growing town with a mix of new developments and established neighborhoods. Close to several inland bays and state parks.
- Source: World Population Review
Frankford
Frankford is a small, close-knit community with a rich agricultural heritage. It’s known for its quiet, rural atmosphere and offers a more affordable living option close to the beaches and larger towns. The town’s historic buildings and friendly residents make it a charming place to live (Delaware Beaches Guide).
- Population: Approximately 1,000
- Median Age: 35 years
- Median Home Price: $275,000
- Notable Points: A small town with a tight-knit community feel. Offers a more affordable living option close to the beaches and larger towns.
- Source: City-Data
Ocean View
Ocean View, adjacent to Bethany Beach, offers quiet residential neighborhoods with a small-town feel. Known for its family-friendly environment, the town provides easy access to beaches, parks, and recreational facilities. It’s a great place for those looking to enjoy the coastal lifestyle in a more relaxed setting (Delaware Beaches Guide).
- Population: Approximately 2,200
- Median Age: 58 years
- Median Home Price: $450,000
- Notable Points: Known for its proximity to Bethany Beach and its quiet residential neighborhoods. Offers a good mix of amenities and natural beauty.
- Source: AreaVibes
Milford
Milford, straddling both Kent and Sussex counties, is a larger town with a growing arts scene and historic downtown. It offers more urban amenities while still being close to the beaches. Milford is known for its community events, riverwalk, and a vibrant local arts scene (Delaware Beaches Guide).
- Population: Approximately 11,000
- Median Age: 40 years
- Median Home Price: $250,000
- Notable Points: Straddling both Kent and Sussex counties, Milford is a larger town with a growing arts scene and historic downtown. Offers more urban amenities while still close to the beaches.
- Source: Neighborhood Scout
Bethany Beach
Bethany Beach, known as the “Quiet Resort,” is celebrated for its peaceful atmosphere and family-friendly environment. It features a charming boardwalk, pristine beaches, and a variety of shops and dining options. The town’s small size and relaxed vibe make it a popular choice for those seeking tranquility by the sea (Delaware Beaches Guide).
- Population: Approximately 1,200
- Median Age: 61 years
- Median Home Price: $825,000
- Notable Points: Known as the “quiet resort,” Bethany Beach offers a peaceful coastal environment with a charming boardwalk and less crowded beaches.
- Source: World Population Review
Fenwick Island
Fenwick Island is a serene beach town that offers a quieter alternative to its bustling neighbors. It’s known for its less commercialized beaches, making it perfect for those looking for a peaceful coastal experience. The town also provides various water sports and outdoor activities (Delaware Beaches Guide).
- Population: Approximately 400
- Median Age: 62 years
- Median Home Price: $1,000,000
- Notable Points: Offers a serene beach atmosphere with less commercial activity, making it perfect for those looking for tranquility by the sea.
- Source: Neighborhood Scout
Dewey Beach
Dewey Beach is famous for its vibrant nightlife and water sports. It attracts a younger crowd with its lively bars, restaurants, and music venues. The town also offers numerous recreational opportunities, making it a hotspot for both fun and relaxation (Delaware Beaches Guide).
- Population: Approximately 350
- Median Age: 40 years
- Median Home Price: $950,000
- Notable Points: Known for its lively nightlife and water sports. Dewey Beach attracts a younger crowd and offers numerous recreational opportunities.
- Source: City-Data
Milton
Founded in 1763, Milton is a historic town known for its well-preserved 19th-century architecture and charming downtown area. It’s home to the famous Dogfish Head Brewery and offers a mix of antique shops, restaurants, and cultural events. The town’s scenic riverside location adds to its charm (Delaware Beaches Guide).
- Population: Approximately 3,200
- Median Age: 45 years
- Median Home Price: $350,000
- Notable Points: A historic town with a charming downtown area, featuring antique shops, restaurants, and the famous Dogfish Head Brewery.
- Source: City-Data
Why Choose Coastal Homes and Design?
Coastal Homes and Design collaborates closely with clients to ask the hard questions and offer easy answers, solutions, and recommendations. As Dave Wilson, owner and chief builder, says, “Sussex County is a tight-knit community. We’ve built our business on an honest day’s work providing a high-end product for customers who want more out of their builder. Our reputation is everything – and we aim to keep it that way.”
Choosing the right town and neighborhood is essential for building your new life and new home in Southern Delaware. With Coastal Homes and Design, you can trust that your new home will meet your highest expectations.
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