Delaware may be one of the smallest states in the U.S., but it packs in a lot of personality. People who’ve lived there for years start to notice certain habits, preferences, and experiences that outsiders might not understand. If you’ve been in Delaware long enough, these 10 signs will feel a little too familiar.
Here’s how to tell you might’ve stayed in the First State just a bit too long.
1. You’ve Had a Heated Debate About Which Beach Is Best
Whether it’s Rehoboth, Bethany, or Dewey Beach, you’ve picked your favourite—and you will defend it like it’s your home team in the World Cup.
2. You’ve Memorised Every Wawa Location
Let’s be honest, Wawa isn’t just a convenience store—it’s part of your routine. If you know which one has the shortest line or the best coffee, you’ve been here a while.
3. You Say “I’m From Delaware” and Get Blank Stares
And you’re used to it. You’ve probably even added, “It’s near Philly or Baltimore,” to help people locate it on the map.
4. You’ve Spent Way Too Much Time on Route 1
If you’ve been stuck behind a slow driver heading to the beach or hit that infamous bottleneck near Dover, you’ve definitely been in Delaware too long.
5. You Judge People by Their License Plates
Delaware has some of the most unique (and valuable) license plates. And yes, you know low-digit plates mean big money—and you do notice them.
6. You’ve Visited All Three Counties—In One Day
With only three counties (and none of them that big), it’s entirely possible to have breakfast in New Castle, lunch in Kent, and dinner in Sussex.
7. You’ve Complained About Out-of-State Shoppers
No sales tax is great—until half of New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Maryland floods your mall every weekend.
8. You Know How to Pronounce “Newark” Properly
It’s not “New-ark” like in New Jersey. It’s “New-erk.” And if someone says it wrong, you will correct them.
9. You Know the State Fair Is a Big Deal
The Delaware State Fair in Harrington isn’t just a fair—it’s a yearly tradition. You’ve eaten deep-fried everything, seen a concert or two, and maybe even caught a tractor pull.
10. You’ve Realised Everyone Knows Everyone
It’s a small state, so it’s no surprise when someone says, “Wait, you know them too?” After a while, it feels like everyone is just one degree of separation away.
Living in Delaware comes with its own set of quirks, habits, and local secrets. While it may be small in size, it leaves a big impression on those who call it home. If most of these signs sound familiar, you’ve definitely lived in Delaware long enough to be considered a true local—and maybe it’s time for a quick weekend getaway (just for a change of scenery).
SOURCES
[1] https://thehonestlocal.com/living-in-delaware-moving/
[2] https://www.reddit.com/r/Delaware/comments/1b2hmfl/as_a_longtime_resident_what_are_things_you_think/
[3] https://www.movoto.com/guide/de/people-from-delaware-love/
[4] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OieuQqYCCoA
[5] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VVmNiMZEalE
