Smyrna : Delaware

What Smyrna is like for active adults

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).

Zillow's Home Value Index pegs the value of Smyrna homes at $124,900, although 2009 sales have averaged $177,000. Both figures are below the median national price of a home.There are several active adult communities in and around Smyrna (see link at top right), as well as homes in or near the original town.

Photograph of downtown Smyrna courtesy of Wikepedia and Tim Kiser.

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What is special about this retirement community

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.

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What is not special about this retirement community

It is an old small town that is being rapidly transformed into a suburb.

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What kinds of people like retiring here

People who want to live in Delaware but close to Washington or Baltimore might like it in Smyrna, if they like small town life.

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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.

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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.

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Cultural environment

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.

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Medical facilities

The nearest hospital is in Dover, about 11 miles away.

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Transportation

There are no nearby commercial airports, but Baltimore, New Castle, and Philadelphia are reasonably close.

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Valuable Links

Delaware retirement guide
City Data page for Smyrna
Town of Smyrna

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Facts about SMYRNA

State: DE
Environment: Rural,Suburban,Small Town,
City Population: Less than 10,000
Median age of Population: 25-44
Avg Jan Temperature: 21-40
Median HH Income: 20,001-40,000
Average Home Price (MLS): $100,000-$200,000
Annual Property Tax on a $200,000 house: Less than 2000
Total Crime Index: 91-100 (slightly below average)
Cost of Living Index: 81-90 (low)
Culture Index: 81-90 (low)
State Sales Tax: No
State Income Tax: Yes
Name of the Guide: boomer1

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