Cities In Delaware - Quick Facts, History & Geography
A Few Quick Facts About Delaware
Here are some interesting facts about Delaware. Delaware is the second smallest state in the United States (behind Rhode Island), covering an area of only 2,489 square miles. It is the 6th smallest state by population with just over 1 million residents. It is located on the East Coast, bordered by Pennsylvania to the north, Maryland to the south and west, and the Atlantic Ocean to the east. The capital city of Delaware is Dover, a charming city known for its architecture and bustling downtown area. Dover is also the largest city in Delaware, with a population of 37,872. The Delaware state nickname is "The Diamond State". This name was supposedly given to Delaware by Thomas Jefferson, as he described Delaware as a "jewel" due to its location on the Eastern Seaboard. Delaware was also the first state to ratify the United States Constitution on December 7th, 1787. Delaware has some of the lowest tax rates in the nation and does not have a state sales tax. Famous people who were born in Delaware include George Thorogood, Elisabeth Shue, Ryan Phillippe, Stephen Marley, Teri Polo, Judge Reinhold Valerie Bertinelli, and John Gallagher Jr.
Delaware State History
The area that is now Delaware, was first inhabited by multiple Native American tribes, including the Lenape people. These tribes lived off the land, utilizing the natural resources such as fishing and farming to thrive. European exploration and settlement began in the early 17th century, as Dutch and Swedish explorers arrived in the region. The English gained control of Delaware in 1664 and merged it with their existing colonies nearby. The area then became the Province of Pennsylvania, until 1704 when it became the Delaware Colony. Delaware played a key role in the American Revolution and was the first state to ratify the United States Constitution. Delaware did have a complex relationship with slavery. While it was not abolished immediately following the Revolution, the state did become a center for the abolitionist movement with the Underground Railroad. In the 19th and 20th centuries, Delaware saw significant industrial and technological growth in industries like manufacturing as the state became a hub for innovation. Today, Delaware is known for its tax-friendly environment as it has some of the lowest sales and income tax rates in the United States.
Delaware's Geography
Delaware might be the 2nd smallest sate by land area, but the state does still offer a diverse landscape that encompasses stunning beaches, picturesque estuaries and charming small towns. Delaware is known for its flat and low-lying coastal plains that extend along the eastern border. The coastline stretches for approximately 28 miles and is home to popular beach destinations like Rehoboth Beach, Dewey Beach and Bethany Beach. Delaware is filled with scenic bays and estuaries that provide thriving habitats for diverse wildlife. Rehoboth Bay, Indian River Bay and Little Assawoman Bay are among the prominent inland water bodies that offer opportunities for boating, fishing, and wildlife observation. The Delaware River lies on the Pennsylvania border and supports commercial shipping and recreational boating activities. Delaware is also home to multiple state parks like Cape Henlopen State Park, Delaware Seashore State Park and the Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge that offer additional opportunities for outdoor activity and bird watching.
A Relocation Guide to Delaware
Looking on any Delaware map, you will see that it is not a big state, but it is certainly a place that has a lot to offer. Some popular cities in Delaware include Dover and Wilmington and the state itself has plenty of historical value as well. Any map of Delaware cities will show you that there are some great beaches, which is one of the reasons why people choose Delaware as a relocation option. One of the nicest things about the state is that it sits very close to Maryland, not far from Philadelphia and a short trek to New York City, as well.
Depending on which Delaware city you choose to call home, housing can be an adventure. Along the coast and in the bay areas, home and apartment prices are relatively expensive, but the options and the views are excellent. Cost of living is somewhat cheaper elsewhere, until you get to the places that would be considered Philadelphia suburbs. The weather in Delaware is your typical mid-Atlantic feel, but it can get quite cold there during the winters. Still, people are able to enjoy all four seasons, which makes it a prime place to relocate. The job market has been stable, while the schools in Delaware enjoy some of the highest marks on the east coast. Delaware is also known as a safe place to live. Most cities in Delaware have crime rates that are below or about average when compared to the United States average.