Bon Ayre
Dover, Delaware
Smyrna, Delaware
What It Is Like to Retire in Smyrna
Smyrna is a small, former farming town of about 8000 in north central Delaware midway between Wilmington and the oceanside community of Lewes. Clayton is another small town just to its west. Smyrna was pleased to be named one of the best small towns in America. Part of that appeal comes from its wonderful location close to Delaware beaches, as well as being located in the tax-friendly state of Delaware. The area has grown rapidly in recent years as the Washington/Baltimore megapolis has expanded (population increased 50% between 2000 and 2008).Photo of South Main St. courtesy of Wikipedia and Dough4872, Licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0/
Where to Retire in Smyrna and Home Prices
There are several active adult communities in and around Smyrna (see link at top left), as well as homes in or near the original town.
According to Zillow, the median home value was $264,425 in early 2020, and called it a "Very Hot" market.
What Is Special about Smyrna
Named one of the best small towns in America, as well as one of This Old House's Best Old-House Neighborhoods for 2009. Smyrna is near Lake Como, the Smyrna Municipal Park, and the Smyrna Bikeways Path. Relaxing Bombay Hook Preserve, the Delaware Bay, the Blackbird State Forest, and Garrisons Lake are all just minutes away.
What Is Not Special about Smyrna
It is an old small town that is being rapidly transformed into a suburb.
Who Will Like Retirement in Smyrna
People who want to live in Delaware but close to Washington or Baltimore might like it in Smyrna, if they like small town life.
Local Economy Is Driven by
Construction and agriculture were the drivers - now it is a suburban economy. Nearby Dover Air Force Base is a big employer.
Climate and Physical Environment
Smyrna is in north central Delaware south of Wilmington. January average temperature is about 35 degrees. The terrain is very flat.
Restaurants & Cultural Scene
We can't find too much evidence of abundant cultural life in Smyrna. You will probably want to go to Wilmington, New Castle, or Dover for that. People report that they like the shopping in and around Smyrna. The Smyrna Museum is a tourist attraction. The public library budget and book statistics make it appear underfunded.
Crime
Crime in Smyrna is a little above the national average.
Medical facilities
The nearest hospital is in Dover, about 11 miles away.
Transportation
There are no nearby commercial airports, but Baltimore, New Castle, and Philadelphia are reasonably close. Smyrna is a very walkable community.
Valuable Links
Delaware retirement guideCity Data page for SmyrnaTown of Smyrna
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