Retiree Growth

Particularly in the southern reaches of Delaware, which is the fastest growing portion of the state, the increase in population is largely fueled by those in the 55 and over demographic. Retirees love moving to Delaware for many of the reasons we’ve mentioned above, particularly the lower tax burdens and the ability to make their money last longer in their twilight years.

Delaware has been referred to as the “Florida of the North” in recent years and this is particularly true in the southern reaches of the state, where the beaches and the small town feel also add to the allure of the area.

With the constant influx of new retirees to southern Delaware, developers have taken notice and there have been many more communities popping up over the last few years that cater exclusively to this demographic.

The world class amenities and low property taxes have become extremely appealing to retirees, which is easily the fastest growing group of new residents to southern Delaware.

Some of the newest and most popular 55 and over residential communities at and near the Delaware
beaches include:

Heritage Shores. This massive community is actually located about an hour west of the beaches in Bridgeville and has become incredibly popular since it was built a few years ago. Features include a championship golf course and a 28,000-square-foot clubhouse that includes such features as a fitness center and indoor and outdoor pools, as well as reasonable prices and homeowner association fees.

Sussex West. Located just west of Lewes, this manufactured home community is close to the beaches and all of the shopping, dining and entertainment options that the area has become known for. Amenities include an indoor swimming pool, a meeting/activity room and lounge areas, all of which can be found in the on-site “Manor House.”

Independence. This 55 and over community can be found in Millsboro and revolves around the eye-catching Independence Hall. Inside this large community center type building is a grand ballroom, a yoga studio, meeting space and much more. Best yet, you can be at the beach in just a few minutes most of the year (weekends in the summer may take you a little bit longer).

Cedar Bay. This condominium community is located in Ocean View, just west of Bethany Beach, and is also exclusively for the 55 and over demographic. Amenities include an outdoor swimming pool, a patio area and an exercise room.

Cinderberry. Nestled in the Sussex County Seat of Georgetown, this community is actually for those 50 and over and features 170 homes. It’s located very close to Possum Hall, which is Georgetown’s extremely well run local theater. Amenities at Cinderberry include an indoor pool and a fitness center.

Bay Crossing. Located in Lewes, this community consists of more than 250 homes and is exclusively reserved for what owners call the “55 and Better” community. More than 250 homes are located in Bay Crossing, which include both single-family homes and attached homes. Amenities at the community clubhouse include an outdoor swimming pool, a fitness center and both tennis and bocce ball courts.

In addition to these fabulous southern Delaware residential communities that are reserved for residents of retirement age, there’s also plenty of other events and activities that are designed and marketed exclusively to this demographic.

Local senior and community centers are a great place to start, with the largest in southern Delaware being the CHEER Center in Georgetown. This large community facility features events throughout the year that are designed for seniors. There’s even some housing available near the center, but there’s generally a wait list so check it out early and often if you’re interested in these units.

Local dances, theater performances, community events and even activities such as “Yoga on the Beach” are also available throughout the year and are great chances for retirees to meet other people in the area who share similar interests.