Delaware is often overlooked, nestled between New Jersey and Maryland on the East Coast. With its small size, it might not grab the same attention as larger states, but there’s a lot more to Delaware than meets the eye. Whether you’re considering a move to The First State or just curious, here are 8 quirky and unusual things no one tells you about living in Delaware.
1. No Sales Tax – But Everything’s Pricey
Delaware is known for being a sales-tax-free state, which sounds like a great deal. However, that often means prices on goods and services are a bit higher than in neighboring states. While you might save on sales tax, you could end up paying more at checkout due to higher base prices in stores and restaurants.
2. You’re Always Just a Short Drive From the Beach
Delaware might be small, but it’s big on beaches! Whether you’re heading to Rehoboth Beach, Bethany Beach, or Dewey Beach, living in Delaware means that you’re always a short drive away from the Atlantic Ocean. The downside? Tourism can make these beach towns crowded during the summer months, especially on weekends, but you’ll definitely get your beach fix year-round.
3. It’s the State with the Most History You’ve Never Heard Of
Delaware is the first state to ratify the U.S. Constitution, earning it the nickname “The First State”. But it doesn’t stop there. The state is packed with quirky historical sites, such as the Wyoming Mill, where George Washington’s soldiers passed through during the Revolutionary War. You’ll find historical markers scattered around, but unless you’re a history buff, you might miss the fascinating stories that come with them!
4. Delawareans Are Really Into Tax-Free Shopping
As a tax-free shopping haven, Delawareans are proud of their shopping malls and outlet stores—particularly in places like Rehoboth Beach. People from neighboring states often cross the border for big-ticket shopping, making it a popular weekend activity. It’s a state where bargain hunting becomes a competitive sport.
5. It’s Not as Flat as You Think
While Delaware is known for being mostly flat, don’t let that fool you! There are some surprising hills and slightly rolling landscapes, especially in the northern part of the state. This adds some charm to areas like Wilmington, where the Brandywine River flows through the countryside, providing a little more elevation and scenic views than you might expect.
6. Deer Are Everywhere
Living in Delaware means you might have a frequent encounter with wildlife, especially deer. These creatures roam through neighborhoods, parking lots, and even highways, making for some interesting sights. They might even be a bit too comfortable with human presence, and you’ll likely find them munching on your garden plants if you’re not careful!
7. Delaware Has Its Own “Swamp”
Most people know about the Everglades in Florida, but few realize that Delaware has its own significant swamp, the Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge. It’s a massive wetland area, perfect for birdwatching, wildlife spotting, and a little solitude. If you’re into the natural world, it’s a quirky spot to visit—and the smells can be pretty distinct too!
8. You’ll Get Really Good at Saying “Delaware”
You’ll often find yourself explaining to people “where Delaware is”. Despite being one of the smallest states, it’s often not at the forefront of people’s minds. But if you’ve got friends or family who are unfamiliar with it, you’ll soon get used to being the one to explain that Delaware is tucked between New Jersey and Maryland.
Delaware may be small in size, but it’s packed with surprises and quirks that make it a unique place to live. From its tax-free shopping to its secretive beaches, the First State has its own special character. It’s a place where you’ll never run out of interesting facts to discover and stories to tell!
SOURCES
[1] https://kids.nationalgeographic.com/geography/states/article/delaware
[2] https://thehonestlocal.com/living-in-delaware-moving/
[3] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VVmNiMZEalE
[4] https://www.factretriever.com/delaware-facts
[5] https://www.redfin.com/blog/pros-and-cons-of-living-in-delaware/
