Safest Cities in Delaware: A Comprehensive Look at Low Crime Areas

Delaware is known for its serene beaches and family-friendly communities. The safest cities in Delaware have crime rates well below the national average.

This guide explores safety data, trends, and top residential areas. Whether relocating or visiting, this breakdown helps you make informed decisions.

Is Delaware Safe?

Delaware consistently ranks as one of the safer states on the East Coast. The crime rate in Delaware shows that violent crimes are 35% less frequent than the national average. Property crimes occur more often but remain below many neighboring states. Coastal towns and suburban areas report particularly low incident rates.

The state's violent crime rate (VCR) stands at 2.1 incidents per 1,000 residents. The property crime rate (PCR) is higher at 15.7 per 1,000, primarily theft-related. Northern areas near Wilmington see elevated numbers, while beach communities are exceptionally safe. Recent police initiatives have reduced burglaries by 8% statewide since 2022.

Economic factors like tourism and stable employment contribute to safety. Neighborhood Watch programs in towns like Rehoboth Beach further deter criminal activity. While no area is crime-free, Delaware offers safer living than most comparable states.

Source: FBI Uniform Crime Report, Delaware State Police Crime Statistics

Top 5 Safest Cities in Delaware

Delaware’s safest towns combine low crime with excellent amenities. Below are the top five, along with their VCR and PCR per 1,000 residents, for better insight:

Hockessin

Hockessin has a VCR of 0.5 and a PCR of 8.2, the lowest in Delaware. Its rich neighborhoods and community policing deter criminal activity. Top-rated schools and parks make it ideal for families. Annual crime trends show a steady 10% decline since 2020.

Lewes

Lewes reports a VCR of 0.7 and PCR of 9.1, thanks to its small population. The coastal town focuses on tourism safety and neighborhood watches. Violent crimes are rare, with most incidents being petty theft. Its PCR dropped 12% after installing public surveillance cameras.

Middletown

Middletown’s VCR is 1.0, with a PCR of 10.3, below state averages. Rapid development includes upgraded street lighting and patrols. The town’s growth hasn’t spiked crime due to proactive measures. Families appreciate its low drug-related offenses and safe downtown.

Newark

Newark’s VCR of 1.2 and PCR of 11.4 reflect its college-town vigilance. University police collaborate with local law enforcement for 24/7 coverage. Most crimes involve non-violent theft in campus areas. Community programs reduced burglaries by 15% in 2023.

Claymont

Claymont’s VCR is 1.4, with a PCR of 12.8, still outperforming the state. Affordable housing and easy transit access attract safety-conscious residents. Police focus on deterring property crimes through patrol density. Its PCR improved by 8% after introducing neighborhood watch apps.

5 Most Dangerous Cities in Delaware

These cities report higher-than-average crime rates. Let’s take a look at their data:

Wilmington

Wilmington’s VCR of 8.4 and PCR of 45.0 are Delaware’s highest. Gang activity and poverty contribute to violent crimes in Northside districts. Car thefts and break-ins dominate downtown areas after dark. Crime trends show a 5% annual rise in aggravated assaults.

Dover

Dover has a VCR of 4.2 and PCR of 38.1, driven by property crimes. The capital city struggles with retail theft and vehicle vandalism. Southern neighborhoods near Route 13 are particularly high-risk. PCR spiked 7% in 2023 due to unsecured vehicles.

Seaford

Seaford’s VCR of 3.8 and PCR of 32.5 reflect rising theft rates. Industrial areas report higher burglaries due to low nighttime patrols. Domestic violence incidents account for 40% of violent crimes. Annual crime trends show a 12% increase in petty theft.

Milford

Milford’s VCR is 3.1, with a PCR of 28.9, concentrated in downtown areas. The city sees frequent DUIs and drug-related offenses. Unlit parking lots near shopping centers attract break-ins. Community outreach programs aim to reduce crime by 10% in 2024.

Georgetown

Georgetown reports a VCR of 2.7 and PCR of 25.4, mainly along Highway 113. Theft from vehicles is common near highway rest stops. Limited police staffing slows response times to property crimes. Recent grants aim to expand surveillance in high-risk zones.

How to Find Safest Places to Live in Delaware

Finding the safest places to live in Delaware requires a multi-step approach. Start by reviewing annual crime statistics from the Delaware Criminal Justice Information System. Compare violent and property crime rates per 1,000 residents while focusing on towns with downward-trending numbers over several years.

Visiting potential neighborhoods at different times provides crucial insights. Weekday afternoons reveal school safety and community activity, while weekend nights show nightlife impacts. Well-maintained public spaces and visible security cameras often indicate safer areas. Speaking with local police officers about patrol patterns offers a valuable perspective.

Digital tools provide additional verification layers. NeighborhoodScout generates detailed crime heat maps by zip code, while Realtor.com includes safety scores with property listings. Cross-referencing these with SpotCrime's real-time alerts creates a comprehensive safety profile. Many residents also recommend checking Nextdoor forums for unfiltered community feedback about specific streets or developments.

How to Stay Safe in Dangerous Cities in Delaware

Urban safety begins with situational awareness and proactive habits. Parking in well-lit areas with visible security cameras significantly reduces vehicle break-in risks. Keeping valuables out of sight and varying daily routes helps avoid becoming a predictable target for potential criminals.

Home security cameras serve as powerful deterrents against property crimes. The Reolink Floodlight camera offers comprehensive protection with features like 4K resolution cameras and instant smartphone alerts. Its color night vision capability provides clear footage even in low-light conditions, while the wireless and wired design simplifies installation in any living space.

Community engagement remains one of the most effective safety strategies. Participating in neighborhood watch programs creates collective vigilance while sharing real-time alerts about suspicious activity through local networks enhances overall security. Supporting urban improvement initiatives that address root causes like poverty and addiction contributes to long-term safety solutions.

FAQs

What is the safest place to live in Delaware?

Hockessin is Delaware’s safest city, with a VCR of 0.5. Its affluent community and low theft rates make it ideal.

Does Delaware have a low crime rate?

Yes, Delaware’s crime rate in Delaware is 22% below the U.S. average. Most crimes are non-violent property offenses.

Conclusion

The safest cities in Delaware combine low crime rates with excellent quality of life. From Hockessin's peaceful suburbs to Lewes' coastal charm, these communities prioritize safety through proactive policing and neighborhood engagement.

While urban areas face higher crime, informed precautions and security measures can mitigate risks. By focusing on verified crime data and community resources, residents can enjoy Delaware's attractions with greater peace of mind.