The Ultimate Guide to Moving to Seaford, Delaware

Small-town America’s appeal is undeniable. Feeling safe walking down sidewalks and having people you know greet you at the grocery store is nice. And we love the American Dream of beautiful, treed neighborhoods with well-kept yards. Seaford, Delaware, fits perfectly into the American image of this small-town community. This Sussex County town fully embraces its centuries-old identity and its love for neighborly values. If you’re considering moving to Seaford, this guide will walk you through what you need to know about this unique town.

About Seaford, DE

Seaford is a quintessential Mid-Atlantic small town in the southwest corner of Sussex County, Delaware. Yes, it has a colonial history traces early settlement to the 1700s. It has a Main Street downtown with 19th-century buildings.

Seaford presents a strong sense of community pride. It’s the kind of place the whole community heads to Friday night high school football games or attends the July Fourth fireworks display.

But it’s also known as the “Nylon Capital of the World” due to its significant role in the nylon manufacturing industry. This manufacturing turn re-positioned Seaford as a place of economic importance in Sussex County.

Seaford History

Seaford’s story begins long before the first European settler arrived on its shores. The land at the head of the Nanticoke River was a sanctuary for the Nanticoke peoples and their ancestors for millennia. Captain John Smith’s exploration in 1608 marks the first known European contact.

The settlers’ arrival heralded a slow and sometimes turbulent development period. Conflicts between the Nanticoke Indians and English settlers eventually led to the Nanticoke being pushed out of the area. A flourishing colonial community grew in their wake. The American Revolution brought skirmishes with British forces. Later on, the Underground Railroad operated routes through the slave-owning state.

Much of the Seaford economy centered around agricultural products–primarily tobacco and poultry–until DuPont chose Seaford for the world’s first Nylon plant in 1939. That brought manufacturing to the region, more people, and an economic boost.

Modern Seaford’s preservation of its heritage harmonizes seamlessly with the town’s innovative spirit. Residents cherish the town’s well-manicured parks, family-friendly events, and the ease of living within a community where neighbors are more than just people living next door.

Cost of Living

One of the primary concerns when weighing a move is the cost of living. Seaford, Delaware, may surprise you as its cost of living is above the national average. Delaware isn’t known for being inexpensive, but small-town Seaford runs 5% more than the typical Delaware cost of living.

A primary reason living in Seaford costs more is its average healthcare costs. Residents do have healthcare options in the town, which is an economic center for southwestern Sussex, but the diversity of providers and specialty services are more limited. That means residents have to travel elsewhere to seek these services.

However, housing, transportation, and miscellaneous expenses are all within reach. In fact, housing runs 15% below average, allowing for a comfortable lifestyle that doesn’t break the bank. Deciding if Seaford’s cost of living makes sense for you depends on your budget and personal spending.

Housing in Seaford

The Seaford real estate market runs under the national average, with the January 2024 median sold price reporting at $287,500. This was up 16.4% from the prior year. Choices are varied, with waterfront properties on the scenic Nanticoke River to historic homes and more modern developments nearby. Whatever you’re looking for, Seaford homes come at an attractive price point that is often lower than you might find in neighboring Delaware or Maryland cities.

Types of Homes

Seaford’s architectural landscape is a mosaic of styles. Dubbed a “historic preservation area” by the National Secretary of Interior, the town has quite the collection of Colonial Revival, Queen Anne, and Italianate homes. Meanwhile, new residential developments are a testament to Seaford’s growing popularity as a place to live. Chances are, you can find a home appealing to your needs and budget.

Job Market

Centrally located Seaford grew at the crossroads between Wilmington, DE, and Norfolk, VA. Originally, Seaford thrived as an agricultural hub. The Nanticoke River has long been a transportation highway, even after the advent of roads and cars, making it easy to ship out Sussex area produce.

Before the 1900s, Seaford was a top tobacco producer. That outflow morphed into poultry production at the turn of the last century. Then DuPont came in to build the first nylon plant, causing more people to move to Seaford. Unfortunately, that plant shut down in 2004.

But Seaford’s economy has remained strong, with three business parks and a revitalized downtown area. Nanticoke Health Services is a prominent employer in the region. Next to that, the Seaford School District is another significant employer.

Further helping Seaford’s job market is its entrepreneurial spirit. Delaware is one of the five states without any sales taxes and has a generous pro-business regulatory environment. The town is actively invested in diversifying its economy, so it is independent of one industry (like nylon manufacturing) and supports local businesses.

Things to Do

Seaford may be a small town, but “small” doesn’t mean “boring.” It’s brimming with activities to keep residents entertained.

Natural Attractions

Turn to the meandering Nanticoke River for a rejuvenating day boating, fishing, or simply enjoying the waterfront scenery. Much of the inland parts of the tributary remain pristine and are home to rare and endangered species. Seaford has four launch points for paddle and motorized craft.

Nearby are several wild areas, from the Redden State Forest outside Georgetown to the Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge Nanticoke Unit across the Maryland border.

The historic Woodland Ferry can take you across the Nanticoke as it has been for passengers since 1793. It’s a unique experience that helps visitors access the Nanticoke Park and Phillips Landing natural areas.

Cultural Attractions

Seaford’s events and festivals celebrate the town’s heritage and love for contemporary arts. The fun Nanticoke Riverfest was one of the standouts for its on-water and on-land activities until its last year in 2023. Residents would come to cheer on the canoe and kayak races, participate in the Duck Dash, and cheer on the Boat Parade. The Float-In event will still occur in July 2024, paired with Seaford’s Friday Night Live!, a Main Street live music festival.

The Eastern Shore AFRAM Festival continues Delaware’s tradition of exceptional music events. This cultural festival brings the sounds of jazz, Calypso, reggae, and gospel to the Seaford Sports Complex.

The Seaford Museum ranks among Delaware’s best. Find invaluable resources for learning about the town’s past from its original Nanticoke inhabitants through the nylon fiber industry years.

Seaford Education

In Seaford, prioritizing education is paramount for families. The Seaford School District is committed to delivering a high-quality educational journey, equipping students for success in the 21st century. Comprising six schools—four elementary schools, one middle school, and one high school—the district, although small, adeptly addresses diverse academic needs. Over 21 sporting clubs and various extracurricular activities further enrich students’ well-rounded experiences.

The district’s dedication to innovation is evident through its incorporation of technology and a steadfast focus on STEM education, ensuring students are well-prepared for the future. In addition to the public schools, Seaford boasts three private schools catering to K-12 education.

While Seaford lacks colleges or universities, the broader Sussex County provides access to branches of three universities.

Seaford Healthcare

Access to quality healthcare is vital, and Seaford is well-prepared. Under the management of TidalHealth, Nanticoke Memorial Hospital is the leading healthcare facility for residents in the Sussex area.

Services include specialized care in cancer treatment, cardiology, and women’s health. The hospital’s commitment to patient-focused care and community engagement solidifies its importance for Seaford healthcare access.

Complementing the hospital, TidalHealth operates multiple clinics and hosts various specialists to ensure the diverse medical needs of the residents are well-catered for.

Community and Lifestyle

Seaford stands out for its strong sense of community and relaxed lifestyle. Here, residents appreciate living in a tight-knit neighborhood where neighbors are like family. Life moves leisurely, encouraging a deeper appreciation of each day’s simple pleasures. The community’s schedule is filled with engaging events such as farmers’ markets and festive holiday parades.

Recreational choices are spread across six parks and nature trails, which include a comprehensive sports complex. From here, the Seaford Parks Department coordinates recreational sports and cultural programming for all ages.

Golf is available at picturesque courses, like Hopper’s Landing Golf Course. The public 18-hole championship course includes a driving range and a putting green.

Just outside town is the adrenaline-pumping Middleford Speedway. Cars race around the 1/4-mile oval dirt track in seasons from April to November.

Moving to Seaford Checklist

Staying organized and prepared is important as you plan your move to Seaford. Here’s a checklist to help you keep track of all the essential steps:

Visit Seaford

Make a trip to Seaford to get a feel for the town. Stop in at its stores and restaurants to chat with the locals. This can help you determine if moving to Seaford is the right fit for you and your family.

Research Neighborhoods

Take the time to research Seaford neighborhoods and consider factors such as proximity to schools, job centers, and amenities. Highway 20 splits Seaford into north and south. Downtown is laid in a grid pattern, and there are some homes on The Island in the middle of the Nanticoke. North has more businesses, a hospital, and homes on slightly larger lots. Across the river is the independent town of Blades, but it is another option for looking at Seaford area homes.

Connect with a Real Estate Agent

A local real estate agent can be an invaluable resource in your search for a new home. They can guide you through the Seaford housing market and help you find a property that meets your needs.

Plan Your Move

Create a moving plan that includes packing, hiring movers, and any necessary travel arrangements. Remember to notify essential parties of your address change, such as government agencies, banks, and utility companies.

Explore Job Opportunities

If you’re moving to Seaford without a job lined up, explore the local job market and connect with potential employers. Consider the employment options in the area and how they align with your career goals.

Get to Know the Community

Seaford has many community civic organizations and churches to get to know the locals. Engaging with the community can help you acclimate to your new town and make the transition smoother.

Moving to Seaford, DE

Ready to join a welcoming community with a rich history and promising future? Seaford is truly a small-town gem. Life here has the nostalgic charm of old America. Whether captivated by its historic beauty, storied past, or strong community spirit, you’ll discover a place to call home in this delightful Delaware town.