Articles > Geography
Trying the top Delaware cities on US State Largest Cities – Choose State & Number? Here are the top 10 to get you started.
1. Wilmington, DE (Population: 71,675)
Wilmington, Delaware’s largest city, is located where the Christina and Brandywine Rivers meet the Delaware River. It is a major center for banking and financial services, as Delaware’s business-friendly laws have attracted many corporate headquarters. The city is also known for its cultural institutions, including the Delaware Art Museum and Grand Opera House. Wilmington features scenic riverfront parks, a revitalized downtown with restaurants and shops, and historic neighborhoods like Trolley Square. Its location along the Northeast Corridor makes it easily accessible to Philadelphia, Baltimore, and Washington, D.C. Wilmington balances modern development with a rich colonial history.
Interesting Fact:
Wilmington was founded by Swedish settlers in 1638, making it one of the oldest European settlements in the U.S.
2. Dover, DE (Population: 39,894)
Dover, the capital of Delaware, is a city steeped in history and government importance. Located in central Delaware, it is home to Legislative Hall, the state capitol building, and several museums along The Green, a historic district dating back to the 18th century. Dover is also known for the Dover International Speedway, nicknamed the “Monster Mile,” which attracts NASCAR fans from across the country. The city’s economy is driven by government, military, and education, with Dover Air Force Base being a major employer. Its combination of historic charm, cultural events, and civic activity makes it a unique capital city.
Interesting Fact:
Dover was the site where Delaware became the first state to ratify the U.S. Constitution in 1787.
3. Newark, DE (Population: 30,169)
Newark, located in northern Delaware, is best known as the home of the University of Delaware, which shapes much of the city’s culture and economy. The university’s presence creates a lively college-town atmosphere, with shops, cafes, and events catering to students and residents alike. Newark is surrounded by natural beauty, with nearby White Clay Creek State Park offering hiking and outdoor recreation. The city has a mix of historic charm and modern development, making it attractive for families, students, and professionals.
Interesting Fact:
The University of Delaware traces its roots to 1743, making it one of the oldest higher education institutions in the U.S.
4. Middletown, DE (Population: 25,022)
Middletown, located in New Castle County, is one of the fastest-growing cities in Delaware. Once a quiet farming town, Middletown has seen rapid development in recent decades, with new neighborhoods, shopping centers, and schools. Despite its growth, the city retains a small-town feel with historic buildings and community events. The annual Olde Tyme Peach Festival celebrates Middletown’s agricultural heritage and draws thousands of visitors. Its proximity to major highways makes it a convenient location for commuters traveling to Wilmington or Philadelphia.
Interesting Fact:
Middletown has been featured as a filming location for several movies, including “Dead Poets Society.”
5. Milford, DE (Population: 13,289)
Milford is a small city in central Delaware that straddles Kent and Sussex counties. Known for its historic downtown, Milford features preserved 19th-century buildings, local shops, and cultural venues such as the Riverfront Theatre. The Mispillion River runs through the city, providing a scenic setting for kayaking and festivals. Milford has grown as a residential community, with access to nearby beaches and state parks. Its healthcare sector, anchored by Bayhealth Hospital, is a key part of the local economy.
Interesting Fact:
Milford was once a prominent shipbuilding center, producing ships along the Mispillion River in the 18th and 19th centuries.
6. Smyrna, DE (Population: 13,277)
Smyrna, located in central Delaware, is a growing town with historic roots. The city’s downtown retains its charm with historic architecture, while new residential and commercial development has expanded its population. Smyrna is close to Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge, making it an attractive place for nature enthusiasts. Community events, schools, and local businesses contribute to Smyrna’s appeal as a family-friendly community.
Interesting Fact:
Smyrna was originally known as Duck Creek Cross Roads before being renamed in 1806.
7. Seaford, DE (Population: 8,735)
Seaford, located along the Nanticoke River in Sussex County, has a long history as an agricultural and industrial center. Once home to the world’s first nylon manufacturing plant, operated by DuPont, Seaford played an important role in the synthetic fiber industry. Today, it is a small city with a strong sense of community, offering access to parks, trails, and the Nanticoke River. Seaford blends small-town living with regional significance as a commercial hub for western Sussex County.
Interesting Fact:
Seaford was the first place where nylon was manufactured commercially, changing the textile industry forever.
8. Georgetown, DE (Population: 7,873)
Georgetown, the county seat of Sussex County, is known for its cultural diversity and government presence. The city’s historic circle is the heart of downtown, featuring government buildings, shops, and restaurants. Georgetown is also famous for Return Day, a unique biennial festival where political rivals symbolically bury the hatchet after elections. With a mix of agriculture, government, and small businesses, Georgetown serves as an important center for the region.
Interesting Fact:
The Return Day parade and ceremony in Georgetown is a Delaware tradition dating back to 1791.
9. Millsboro, DE (Population: 7,637)
Millsboro is a growing town in Sussex County, benefiting from its proximity to Delaware’s coastal beaches. Once an agricultural and milling center, Millsboro has developed into a residential and commercial hub, attracting retirees and families alike. The city offers access to outdoor recreation, including nearby state parks and the Indian River Bay. With new housing developments and shopping areas, Millsboro continues to expand as part of the region’s growth.
Interesting Fact:
Millsboro’s history includes Native American settlements, and it remains near significant archaeological sites.
10. Elsmere, DE (Population: 6,157)
Elsmere, located just outside Wilmington, is a small suburban community that offers convenient access to Delaware’s largest city while maintaining its own identity. The town has a mix of residential neighborhoods, parks, and small businesses, making it a comfortable place for families and commuters. Its proximity to major highways and Wilmington’s job market makes Elsmere a practical and affordable choice for many residents.
Interesting Fact:
Elsmere was one of Delaware’s first planned suburban communities, established in the late 1800s.
