7 Popular Beach Towns in Delaware to Live in 2024

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Updated on January 23rd, 2024

Reading Time: 3 minutes

Delaware is known for many things including its history as the first state to ratify the Constitution and its stunning beachfront towns. With sparkling waves and white sands, boating and kayaking, fishing and whale watching, these scenic Delaware beach towns are some of the best you’ll find. There are lots of beachfront towns to check out in Delaware, whether you’re moving to the state or hoping to relocate to the coast. 

But if you’re not sure where to start on your hunt for the best Delaware beach town, we’re here to help. From Bethany Beach to Rehoboth Beach, Redfin has put together a list of 7 of the best beach towns in Delaware. Let’s explore some of the state’s top coastal towns, listed in alphabetical order, and you might just be tempted to move there.

bethany beach in delaware during the day

#1: Bethany Beach

Median home price: $1,280,000 
Bethany Beach, DE homes for sale
Bethany Beach, DE apartments for rent

First on our list is Bethany Beach, home to roughly 1,100 people. There are plenty of beaches to explore living in Bethany Beach such as the namesake Bethany Beach. If you’re considering moving to this beach town make sure to explore the Bethany Beach Boardwalk and check out the nearby historic landmarks.

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#2: Dewey Beach

Median home price: $668,000 
Dewey Beach, DE homes for sale
Dewey Beach, DE apartments for rent

Another one of Delaware’s great coastal towns to consider buying a home in is Dewey Beach, where there are only about 350 residents. Living in Dewey Beach, you’ll want to have a meal at a waterfront spot, check out all the local stores, and spend the day enjoying the sun at Dewey Beach.

#3: Fenwick Island

Median home price: $1,430,000 
Fenwick Island, DE homes for sale
Fenwick Island, DE apartments for rent

Located on the Maryland border, Fenwick Island has just about 360 residents. There are plenty of beaches to explore on a sunny Delaware day – Bayard St. Beach, Fenwick Island State Park, and James St. Beach. If you find yourself moving to Fenwick Island, make sure to visit one of the museums or stop by one of the many local cafes and restaurants. 

lewes beach lighthouse during the day_Getty

#4: Lewes

Median home price: $528,000 
Lewes, DE homes for sale
Lewes, DE apartments for rent

Home to beautiful beaches like Beach Plum Island State Park, Cape Henlopen State Park Beach, and Lewes Beach, there are countless places to spend a beach day in Lewes. And with only 3,400 people living in Lewes, this spot is perfect for those looking for a tranquil coastal town. Other than a beach day, you can explore the Great Marsh Preserve and Cape Henlopen State Park, check out the historic downtown, or take a ferry over to Cape May, New Jersey.

#5: Rehoboth Beach

Median home price: $815,000 
Rehoboth Beach, DE homes for sale
Rehoboth Beach, DE apartments for rent

The picturesque coastal town of Rehoboth Beach has about 1,200 residents, making it a great place to consider moving to. You’ll find gorgeous beaches such as Deauville Beach, Poodle Beach, and Rehoboth Beach. In Rehoboth Beach, you can check out the Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk, spend the day at Funland, and play tennis by the beach.

south bethany and fenwick island homes_Getty

#6: Slaughter Beach

Median home price: $825,000 
Slaughter Beach, DE homes for sale
Slaughter Beach, DE apartments for rent

With just about 230 people living in Slaughter Beach, it’s a great beach town to consider renting or buying a house in. Whether you visit the Marvel Salt Marsh Preserve or the nearby DuPont Nature Preserve, or spend the afternoon enjoying the waves Slaughter Beach, there’s many cool things to do and see in this coastal village. 

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#7: South Bethany

Median home price: $895,000 
South Bethany, DE homes for sale
South Bethany, DE apartments for rent

With a population of close to 470, South Bethany is a scenic and peaceful coastal spot to live in. If you find yourself moving to this quaint beach town, make sure to check out one of the local restaurants or spend the afternoon enjoying the waves at South Bethany Beach.

 

Note, this list is not comprehensive of all the beach towns in Delaware. Median home sale price data from the Redfin Data Center during June 2023. Average rental data from Rent.com June 2023. Population data sourced from the United States Census Bureau.

If you are represented by an agent, this is not a solicitation of your business. This article is for informational purposes only, and is not a substitute for professional advice from a medical provider, licensed attorney, financial advisor, or tax professional. Consumers should independently verify any agency or service mentioned will meet their needs. Learn more about our Editorial Guidelines here.
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Alison Bentley

Alison is part of the content marketing team and enjoys writing about housing affordability and home interior design ideas. Her dream home is a cottage-style house with a chef’s kitchen and a cozy room to store and play vinyl records.

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