Newark, DE 55+ Active Adult Retirement Communities

Newark is a charming small town in Northern Delaware that borders the eastern edge of Maryland. It has all the necessary amenities for active adults, including abundant parks and an active downtown. Affordable housing, all four seasons, and quick transportation to multiple major cities make 55+ communities in Newark an in-demand destination for retirees.

Climate & Geography

Located in The Wedge, a tripoint meeting of Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Delaware, Newark is park of the coastal plain region. This area experiences all four seasons. Summers tend to be hot and humid, while winters are mild with some freezing temperatures and snowfall. The Appalachian Mountains to the west and the Atlantic Ocean to the east help regulate temperatures, but extreme heat or cold is possible for a few days a year.

Recreation, Culture & Entertainment

Newark is an outdoor lover’s dream with over 12,000 acres of parkland surrounding the city. Within city limits, residents can hike at Iron Hill Park and the Newark Reservoir. White Clay Creek State Park also has freshwater fishing, autumn hayrides, and other seasonal events, while Glasgow Park offers picnic pavilions, soccer fields, and dog parks in addition to its hiking and biking trails.

Downtown Newark is a quaint destination with boutiques and antique shops, as well as over 70 local and chain restaurants. It also hosts yearly events like the Taste of Newark and Food and Brew Festival. The one-mile Main Street also leads directly to the University of Delaware’s main campus.

Cost of Living & Taxes

The cost of living in Newark is very similar to the overall cost of living in the entire state. They are both above the national average in housing, health care, utilities, and transportation. Groceries tend to match the U.S. average. Though the cost of housing is higher than average in Newark, it is among the most affordable cities compared to other mid-Atlantic states.

Delaware is tax friendly to retirees. Social Security is not taxed, while other forms of retirement income are taxed but eligible for deduction. Property taxes are low, and there are also tax credit opportunities for retirees. In addition, there are no sales taxes in the state, leaving more room in a retiree’s budget for traveling and entertainment.

Health Care

55+ communities in Newark are part of the greater Philadelphia metro area. Gallup’s Well-Being Index ranks the greater Philadelphia metro area as one of the top 115 communities, with its highest score in physical health and comfort.

Christiana Care Hospitals is the only hospital in Newark that is nationally ranked as high performing by U.S. News. It is also the No. 1 hospital in Delaware and the No. 3 in greater Philadelphia. Other nearby hospitals include Union Hospital-Elkton and Sr. Francis Hospital-Wilmington.