Lewes, often referred to as “The First Town in The First State,” is a historic coastal gem located where the Delaware Bay meets the Atlantic Ocean. Founded in 1631, it blends rich maritime heritage, coastal charm, and a strong sense of community making it one of Delaware’s most desirable places to live.
Info
What to know
- Population 3,303 at the 2020 census
- Area 5.12 sq mi
- Lewes was the site of the first European settlement in Delaware, a whaling and trading post that Dutch settlers founded on June 3, 1631
Community
Why Homebuyers Choose Wilmington
- Homebuyers who appreciate historic charm, coastal recreation, and a strong sense of community in a picturesque small-town setting.
Lifestyle
Take life to the next level
- The city offers a unique mix of historic architecture and modern coastal living. Stroll through downtown and you’ll find cobblestone streets lined with boutique shops, local cafés, and restored colonial homes. Just minutes away, residents enjoy easy access to Cape Henlopen State Park, a beloved natural retreat with miles of beaches, walking trails, and biking paths.
Neighborhoods
Pilot Point
Description:
Situated along the coast near Cape Henlopen State Park, Pilot Point is a quiet waterfront neighborhood known for its scenic views, beach access, and proximity to downtown Lewes. It offers a peaceful coastal lifestyle with easy access to both nature and local amenities.
Housing style & price:
A mix of beach-style single-family homes and townhouses, many with decks or balconies overlooking the Delaware Bay. Median home prices typically range from $700K–$1.2M.
Advantages:
Direct access to beaches, trails, and state park areas; short drive to Lewes’ shops and dining.
Considerations:
Higher property values and seasonal tourist traffic can affect accessibility during summer months.
Best for:
Buyers seeking a coastal retreat with stunning views and convenient access to outdoor recreation.
Bay Breeze Estates
Description:
A well-established neighborhood south of Lewes, Bay Breeze Estates offers a peaceful residential environment just minutes from both the beaches and Rehoboth outlets.
Housing style & price:
Single-family homes built primarily in the 1990s–2000s, with traditional Colonial and ranch styles. Prices typically range from $400K–$550K.
Advantages:
Large lots, mature trees, quiet streets, and quick access to Route 1.
Considerations:
Older homes may need occasional updates; limited community amenities.
Best for:
Those who prefer a tranquil suburban neighborhood with quick access to coastal attractions.
Lewes Beach
Description:
Lewes Beach is one of the area’s most sought-after neighborhoods, offering bayfront living and a classic beach-town feel. It’s steps from the sand and within walking distance of downtown Lewes.
Housing style & price:
Features a mix of historic cottages and luxury new builds, many with waterfront views. Median prices often range from $900K–$1.8M.
Advantages:
Walkable to the beach, restaurants, and marinas; unbeatable coastal scenery.
Considerations:
High demand and limited inventory make it one of the priciest areas in Sussex County.
Best for:
Buyers looking for premium coastal living in a walkable, historic seaside setting.
Villages of Five Points
Description:
Located just north of downtown Lewes, Villages of Five Points is a planned community designed around walkability and convenience. It features a town center with restaurants, shops, and recreational spaces, making it one of Lewes’s most popular modern developments.
Housing style & price:
A mix of single-family homes, townhomes, and condos built in the early 2000s. Median home prices range from $450K–$650K, depending on style and location within the community.
Advantages:
Walkable to shops and dining, community pool, tennis courts, and quick access to Route 1 and downtown Lewes.
Considerations:
Proximity to Route 1 can mean more traffic during peak summer months.
Best for:
Buyers seeking a low-maintenance lifestyle in a well-connected, amenity-rich neighborhood close to the beach.
Henlopen Landing
Description:
South of downtown Lewes near Coastal Highway, Henlopen Landing is a family-oriented community offering spacious homes and resort-style amenities. It’s ideal for those who want a balance of suburban living with beach-town access.
Housing style & price:
Primarily modern single-family homes built between 2004–2015, featuring open layouts and large lots. Median prices typically fall between $475K–$650K.
Advantages:
Clubhouse, fitness center, community pool, and convenient access to both Lewes and Rehoboth Beach.
Considerations:
HOA fees apply; homes are close to Route 1, so some road noise is possible.
Best for:
Families or retirees looking for a comfortable, active community with resort-style amenities near the coast.
Bayfront at Rehoboth
Description:
A prestigious community located off Camp Arrowhead Road, Bayfront at Rehoboth combines luxury coastal living with natural surroundings, including access to Rehoboth Bay and scenic wooded areas.
Housing style & price:
High-end custom-built homes featuring coastal and craftsman designs. Median home prices range from $750K–$1.3M.
Advantages:
Private beach, pool, clubhouse, and kayak launch on Rehoboth Bay. Beautiful landscaping and a strong sense of community.
Considerations:
Higher HOA costs; slightly farther from downtown Lewes and Rehoboth amenities.
Best for:
Buyers seeking upscale waterfront living with community amenities and tranquil natural beauty.
School Districts
Cape Henlopen School District
Cape Henlopen School District serves Milton, Lewes, Rehoboth Beach, and surrounding areas of eastern Sussex County. Known for its high-performing schools, strong community support, and coastal connection, the district emphasizes both academic excellence and whole-child development.
Highlights:
- Schools: H.O. Brittingham Elementary (Milton), Milton Elementary, Mariner Middle School, and Cape Henlopen High School.
- Programs: Offers extensive Advanced Placement (AP) options, dual enrollment with Delaware Tech and the University of Delaware, and specialized programs in STEM, arts, and environmental science.
- Community Focus: The district is deeply involved with local organizations, offering coastal conservation projects and community-based learning.
- Strengths: Consistently ranks among Delaware’s top-performing districts, with modern facilities, including a newly built high school campus.
- Ideal For: Families seeking strong academics, active community involvement, and access to both traditional and innovative learning opportunities near the coast.
Sussex Technical School District
The Sussex Technical School District provides a career and technical education model that prepares students for both the workforce and higher education. Its flagship school, Sussex Technical High School, attracts students countywide, including those from Milton, offering hands-on training alongside strong academic instruction.
Highlights:
- Schools: Sussex Technical High School (grades 9–12).
- Programs: Offers over 20 technical areas of study, including healthcare, construction, automotive technology, engineering, culinary arts, and information technology. Students can earn industry certifications and college credits through partnerships with Delaware Technical Community College and other institutions.
- Community Focus: Maintains close partnerships with local employers, ensuring students gain real-world experience through internships and cooperative work placements. The district also promotes leadership and community service through student organizations like SkillsUSA.
- Strengths: Exceptional graduation and job placement rates, state-of-the-art facilities, and a reputation for producing skilled, career-ready graduates.
- Ideal For: Students and families seeking a hands-on, career-focused education that balances academics with technical expertise and professional development..