Delaware, known as the First State, was the first of the original colonies to ratify the U.S. Constitution on December 7, 1787. With an area of about 1,982 square miles and a population of just over one million as of 2024, it is the second smallest state after Rhode Island. Delaware sits in the Mid-Atlantic, bordered by Pennsylvania to the north, Maryland to the south and west, and New Jersey and the Atlantic Ocean to the east. The capital is Dover, and Wilmington is the largest city and economic hub. The state’s name comes from the Delaware River, itself named for Thomas West, the third Baron De La Warr.
Delaware’s flag, adopted on July 24, 1913, displays the state seal inside a buff-colored diamond on a colonial blue background. The state is often called “The Diamond State,” a nickname linked to its strategic location on the Eastern Seaboard. Delaware is organized into three historic counties—New Castle, Kent, and Sussex—each established in 1682. The state stretches about 96 miles from north to south and ranges from 9 to 35 miles wide, making it easy to explore from end to end in a single day.
Delaware’s landmarks reflect centuries of history and culture. Old Swedes Church in Wilmington has been in continuous use since 1698. The Delaware Memorial Bridge connects Delaware with New Jersey and is one of the most recognizable twin-span suspension bridges in the country. Other highlights include Winterthur Museum and Gardens, the Mount Cuba Center botanical garden, the Darley House, and the Claymont Stone School. Along the coast, Rehoboth Beach and Bethany Beach draw visitors with boardwalks, family-friendly attractions, and miles of shoreline. Although Delaware does not have a capital-N “National Park,” it is home to First State National Historical Park and several state parks, wildlife refuges, and scenic preserves.
Delaware offers a calm, well-connected lifestyle with no state sales tax, strong shopping options, and quick access to Philadelphia, Baltimore, and Washington, D.C. Most industry and population cluster around Wilmington, while the southern counties retain a relaxed coastal and rural feel. The state’s motto, “Liberty and Independence,” captures the spirit of its communities. With a moderate climate, good schools, cultural festivals, and welcoming towns, Delaware is a comfortable place to live for families, professionals, and retirees alike.
Back to map
