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Safest Places to Live in Delaware

Explore Delaware's safest cities and towns. Find family-friendly options and understand crime trends to make an informed decision for your next move.

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Unverified AI reply: supporting sources and reporting dates were not recorded for these claims. The official links below are places to verify them, not citations proving this reply is accurate.

Confirm school attendance boundaries, enrollment eligibility, programs and transport policies directly with the local school district. NCES listings do not establish attendance boundaries. Data unavailable where reliable evidence has not been supplied.

  • NCES public school directoryLink checked 2026-10-18 · Source publication/reporting date not recorded
  • U.S. Census — American Community SurveyLink checked 2026-10-18 · Source publication/reporting date not recorded
  • FBI Crime Data ExplorerLink checked 2026-10-18 · Source publication/reporting date not recorded
  • National Weather ServiceLink checked 2026-10-18 · Source publication/reporting date not recorded
  • FEMA flood mapsLink checked 2026-10-18 · Source publication/reporting date not recorded

Link-check dates confirm availability only, not factual verification or data freshness. Beacon scores are model estimates, not school ratings or measured crime statistics.

Delaware generally offers a balanced environment for residents, with a Neighborhood Beacon Score of 58 out of 100. For safety specifically, the state scores 59, indicating a slightly above-average safety profile compared to national benchmarks. This score suggests that many areas experience lower crime rates than other parts of the country, contributing to a sense of security for residents.

When considering moving, many families prioritize safety alongside factors like schools and community amenities. Delaware's Investment Score of 60 and Future Score of 57 suggest that property values and economic prospects are also generally favorable, complementing the safety aspects. The Lifestyle Score of 58 reflects a satisfactory quality of life across the state, encompassing various recreational and cultural opportunities.

While no place is entirely crime-free, many Delaware communities offer lower crime rates and a family-friendly atmosphere. It's always advisable to consult primary sources such as the FBI's Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) Program data or local law enforcement agencies for the most current crime statistics for specific towns or neighborhoods you are considering.

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FAQs

What are some of the safest towns in Delaware?

Generally, towns such as Lewes, Rehoboth Beach, Bethany Beach, and Dewey Beach in Sussex County, known for their coastal environments, tend to report lower crime rates. In New Castle County, Hockessin and Middletown are often cited for their family-friendly atmospheres and community-focused environments. Kent County towns like Camden and Wyoming also frequently appear on lists of safer places, particularly for residential living.

Source verification required

Unverified AI reply: supporting sources and reporting dates were not recorded for these claims. The official links below are places to verify them, not citations proving this reply is accurate.

Confirm school attendance boundaries, enrollment eligibility, programs and transport policies directly with the local school district. NCES listings do not establish attendance boundaries. Data unavailable where reliable evidence has not been supplied.

  • NCES public school directoryLink checked 2026-10-18 · Source publication/reporting date not recorded
  • U.S. Census — American Community SurveyLink checked 2026-10-18 · Source publication/reporting date not recorded
  • FBI Crime Data ExplorerLink checked 2026-10-18 · Source publication/reporting date not recorded
  • National Weather ServiceLink checked 2026-10-18 · Source publication/reporting date not recorded
  • FEMA flood mapsLink checked 2026-10-18 · Source publication/reporting date not recorded

Link-check dates confirm availability only, not factual verification or data freshness. Beacon scores are model estimates, not school ratings or measured crime statistics.

How do I research crime rates for a specific Delaware neighborhood?

For detailed crime statistics, you should consult the Delaware State Police's annual reports or the FBI's Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) Program data, which compiles information from local law enforcement agencies. Many county and municipal police departments also publish their own crime maps or data on their official websites. This data can provide insights into specific types of crime and trends for a particular area.

Source verification required

Unverified AI reply: supporting sources and reporting dates were not recorded for these claims. The official links below are places to verify them, not citations proving this reply is accurate.

Confirm school attendance boundaries, enrollment eligibility, programs and transport policies directly with the local school district. NCES listings do not establish attendance boundaries. Data unavailable where reliable evidence has not been supplied.

  • NCES public school directoryLink checked 2026-10-18 · Source publication/reporting date not recorded
  • U.S. Census — American Community SurveyLink checked 2026-10-18 · Source publication/reporting date not recorded
  • FBI Crime Data ExplorerLink checked 2026-10-18 · Source publication/reporting date not recorded
  • National Weather ServiceLink checked 2026-10-18 · Source publication/reporting date not recorded
  • FEMA flood mapsLink checked 2026-10-18 · Source publication/reporting date not recorded

Link-check dates confirm availability only, not factual verification or data freshness. Beacon scores are model estimates, not school ratings or measured crime statistics.

Are coastal towns in Delaware safer than inland areas?

Many coastal towns in Delaware, especially those in Sussex County like Lewes, Rehoboth Beach, and Bethany Beach, are often perceived as and statistically tend to be safer, particularly regarding violent crime. However, property crime can sometimes see seasonal fluctuations due to tourism. Inland areas, particularly suburban communities, also offer comparable safety levels in many instances.

Source verification required

Unverified AI reply: supporting sources and reporting dates were not recorded for these claims. The official links below are places to verify them, not citations proving this reply is accurate.

Confirm school attendance boundaries, enrollment eligibility, programs and transport policies directly with the local school district. NCES listings do not establish attendance boundaries. Data unavailable where reliable evidence has not been supplied.

  • NCES public school directoryLink checked 2026-10-18 · Source publication/reporting date not recorded
  • U.S. Census — American Community SurveyLink checked 2026-10-18 · Source publication/reporting date not recorded
  • FBI Crime Data ExplorerLink checked 2026-10-18 · Source publication/reporting date not recorded
  • National Weather ServiceLink checked 2026-10-18 · Source publication/reporting date not recorded
  • FEMA flood mapsLink checked 2026-10-18 · Source publication/reporting date not recorded

Link-check dates confirm availability only, not factual verification or data freshness. Beacon scores are model estimates, not school ratings or measured crime statistics.

What factors contribute to a neighborhood's safety in Delaware?

Factors contributing to a neighborhood's safety include community engagement, active neighborhood watch programs, responsive local law enforcement, well-maintained public spaces, and the stability of the local economy. Areas with good school systems and amenities for families also often correlate with lower crime rates, as these attract residents invested in their community's well-being.

Source verification required

Unverified AI reply: supporting sources and reporting dates were not recorded for these claims. The official links below are places to verify them, not citations proving this reply is accurate.

Confirm school attendance boundaries, enrollment eligibility, programs and transport policies directly with the local school district. NCES listings do not establish attendance boundaries. Data unavailable where reliable evidence has not been supplied.

  • NCES public school directoryLink checked 2026-10-18 · Source publication/reporting date not recorded
  • U.S. Census — American Community SurveyLink checked 2026-10-18 · Source publication/reporting date not recorded
  • FBI Crime Data ExplorerLink checked 2026-10-18 · Source publication/reporting date not recorded
  • National Weather ServiceLink checked 2026-10-18 · Source publication/reporting date not recorded
  • FEMA flood mapsLink checked 2026-10-18 · Source publication/reporting date not recorded

Link-check dates confirm availability only, not factual verification or data freshness. Beacon scores are model estimates, not school ratings or measured crime statistics.

Does Delaware have areas to avoid due to high crime?

Like any state, Delaware has areas with higher crime rates than others. Concentrated urban centers, particularly in parts of Wilmington, generally experience higher rates of both violent and property crime compared to smaller towns or suburban and rural areas. It's important to research specific addresses or blocks within any city, as safety can vary significantly even within short distances.

Source verification required

Unverified AI reply: supporting sources and reporting dates were not recorded for these claims. The official links below are places to verify them, not citations proving this reply is accurate.

Confirm school attendance boundaries, enrollment eligibility, programs and transport policies directly with the local school district. NCES listings do not establish attendance boundaries. Data unavailable where reliable evidence has not been supplied.

  • NCES public school directoryLink checked 2026-10-18 · Source publication/reporting date not recorded
  • U.S. Census — American Community SurveyLink checked 2026-10-18 · Source publication/reporting date not recorded
  • FBI Crime Data ExplorerLink checked 2026-10-18 · Source publication/reporting date not recorded
  • National Weather ServiceLink checked 2026-10-18 · Source publication/reporting date not recorded
  • FEMA flood mapsLink checked 2026-10-18 · Source publication/reporting date not recorded

Link-check dates confirm availability only, not factual verification or data freshness. Beacon scores are model estimates, not school ratings or measured crime statistics.

View Free Sample ReportCompare PlansSearch an address

The sample and plans are public. Address search requires a free account; sign in or create one to continue directly to search.

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