Discover the Safest Towns in Delaware
Delaware, known as the "First State," is a small but vibrant state on the East Coast, offering a blend of coastal charm, historic towns, and suburban tranquility. For those considering relocating or visiting, safety is often a top priority. This guide explores the safest towns in Delaware for 2025, based on the latest crime statistics from the FBI Uniform Crime Reports and other reliable sources. These towns boast low violent and property crime rates, strong community engagement, and excellent amenities, making them ideal for families, retirees, and professionals. Below, we highlight the top five safest towns, their crime rates, and what makes them stand out.
Why Safety Matters in Delaware
Delaware’s overall crime rates are close to the national average, with a violent crime rate of 3.84 per 1,000 residents and a property crime rate of 19.64 per 1,000, according to FBI data. However, certain towns significantly outperform these averages, offering safer environments due to effective law enforcement, community policing, and active neighborhood watch programs. Safety is enhanced by Delaware’s tax-friendly policies, including no sales tax and tax-exempt Social Security benefits, which attract residents to these secure communities. Coastal towns, in particular, benefit from tourism-driven economies and vigilant community efforts to maintain low crime rates.
Top 5 Safest Towns in Delaware for 2025
Based on recent crime data and community feedback, the following towns are among the safest in Delaware. Crime rates are presented as incidents per 1,000 residents, focusing on violent crime (VCR) and property crime (PCR) rates.
1. Clayton
Population: 3,660 | VCR: 0.8 | PCR: 8.5
Clayton, located in Kent and New Castle Counties, is Delaware’s safest town for 2025, reclaiming the top spot after a brief drop in 2024. With a violent crime rate of 0.8 and a property crime rate of 8.5, Clayton’s crime rates are well below state and national averages. The town’s small size and tight-knit community contribute to its safety, with active neighborhood watch programs and a well-funded police department. Clayton’s proximity to the Delaware Bay, just five miles away, adds to its appeal, offering residents a peaceful lifestyle with access to outdoor activities. The town’s family-friendly atmosphere is enhanced by attractions like the 3 Palms Zoo and a median home price range of $200,000–$300,000, making it affordable for young families.
Note: Clayton’s crime rates dropped over 50% in the past year, reflecting the town’s commitment to maintaining a safe environment.
2. Hockessin
Population: 13,571 | VCR: 0.5 | PCR: 8.2
Hockessin, in New Castle County, boasts the lowest violent crime rate in Delaware at 0.5 incidents per 1,000 residents and a property crime rate of 8.2. This affluent suburb, with a median income of $125,319, benefits from robust community policing and a 10% decline in crime since 2020. Hockessin’s top-rated schools, parks, and proximity to Wilmington make it ideal for families. The town’s low crime rates are supported by visible security measures, such as cameras and regular patrols. Residents enjoy a high quality of life, with access to hiking trails and cultural attractions, all while maintaining a suburban feel.
3. Ocean View
Population: 2,500 | VCR: 0.5 | PCR: 7.8
Ocean View, a coastal town in Sussex County, is a haven for retirees, with nearly half its residents being seniors. With a violent crime rate of 0.5 and a property crime rate of 7.8, Ocean View is among Delaware’s safest. The town’s proximity to Bethany Beach and the Assawoman Canal offers scenic views and recreational opportunities, including walking trails and fishing. Ocean View’s low crime rates are bolstered by minimal motor vehicle thefts and a strong community focus on safety. The town’s primary care facilities cater to seniors, making it an attractive retirement destination.
Note: Ocean View’s serene environment and low crime make it a top choice for those seeking a quiet coastal lifestyle.
4. Milton
Population: 3,066 | VCR: 0.9 | PCR: 9.1
Milton, located in Sussex County, is known for its Victorian architecture and outdoor attractions, such as the Broadkill River and Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge. With a violent crime rate of 0.9 and a property crime rate of 9.1, Milton is a senior-friendly town with no homicides reported in the past decade. The town’s safety is enhanced by community engagement and proximity to Bayhealth Hospital in Milford, which received the 2022 Outstanding Patient Experience Award. Milton’s parks and fishing areas attract residents seeking a peaceful, nature-focused lifestyle.
5. Lewes
Population: 3,200 | VCR: 0.7 | PCR: 9.1
Lewes, known as “The First Town in the First State,” is a historic coastal community in Sussex County. Its violent crime rate of 0.7 and property crime rate of 9.1 make it one of Delaware’s safest towns. Lewes’ focus on tourism safety and neighborhood watch programs keeps crime low. Residents enjoy access to Cape Henlopen State Park and local festivals, fostering a strong community spirit. The town’s proximity to beaches and outdoor activities, combined with its safety, makes it a top choice for families and retirees.
Factors Contributing to Safety in Delaware’s Towns
Several factors contribute to the safety of these towns:
- Community Policing: Towns like Hockessin and Clayton employ collaborative policing strategies, including regular community meetings and feedback sessions to address safety concerns. [](https://reolink.com/blog/safest-cities-in-delaware/)
- Neighborhood Watch Programs: Active neighborhood watches in Ocean View and Lewes deter criminal activity, particularly property crimes like burglary. [](https://reolink.com/blog/safest-cities-in-delaware/)
- Economic Stability: Stable employment and tourism-driven economies in coastal towns reduce crime rates by fostering prosperity. [](https://reolink.com/blog/safest-cities-in-delaware/)
- Low Population Density: Smaller populations in towns like Milton and Ocean View correlate with lower crime rates, as fewer people reduce opportunities for crime. [](https://www.worldatlas.com/cities/8-safest-towns-in-delaware-for-senior-living.html)
- Visible Security Measures: Security cameras, well-lit public spaces, and regular patrols enhance safety in towns like Hockessin. [](https://reolink.com/blog/safest-cities-in-delaware/)
Warning: While these towns are among the safest, no area is entirely crime-free. Installing a home security system can further reduce the risk of property crimes like burglary.
How to Choose a Safe Town in Delaware
When selecting a safe town, consider the following steps:
- Review Crime Statistics: Use resources like the Delaware Criminal Justice Information System or NeighborhoodScout to compare violent and property crime rates per 1,000 residents. Focus on towns with downward-trending crime rates.
- Visit Neighborhoods: Explore potential towns during weekday afternoons to assess school safety and community activity, and visit at night to evaluate nightlife impacts.
- Talk to Locals: Speak with residents or local police to understand patrol patterns and community safety initiatives.
- Check Amenities: Ensure the town offers quality schools, healthcare, and recreational opportunities to match your lifestyle.
- Use Digital Tools: Websites like Realtor.com provide safety scores alongside property listings, while crime heat maps offer visual insights into safer areas.
Comparing Delaware’s Safest Towns to Urban Areas
Unlike Delaware’s urban centers, such as Wilmington, which has a violent crime rate of 8.4 and a property crime rate of 45.0, the safest towns benefit from lower population densities and fewer high-risk areas like retail districts. Wilmington’s higher crime rates are driven by gang activity and poverty in certain neighborhoods, whereas towns like Clayton and Hockessin maintain safety through community engagement and proactive policing. Coastal towns like Lewes and Ocean View also benefit from tourism-focused safety measures, reducing crime in high-traffic areas.
Conclusion
Delaware’s safest towns—Clayton, Hockessin, Ocean View, Milton, and Lewes—offer a combination of low crime rates, strong community ties, and appealing amenities. Whether you’re drawn to the coastal charm of Ocean View and Lewes, the family-friendly vibe of Clayton, or the affluent suburbs of Hockessin, these towns provide secure environments for residents. By reviewing crime statistics, visiting neighborhoods, and leveraging digital tools, you can find the perfect safe town to call home. Delaware’s tax advantages and proximity to urban centers like Philadelphia and Wilmington make these towns even more attractive for those seeking safety without sacrificing convenience.
