Destination Delaware

This section will answer many of your questions regarding the life science industry in Delaware, the state's economy, tax structure and cost of living, education, transportation, climate, recreational opportunities, history and more.

If after using this resource you have specific questions or suggestions, please e-mail us at Info@InfoResource.org and we will respond as quickly as we can to your inquiry or suggestion.

Industry Overview | Economy/Cost of Living | Education
Recreation & Entertainment | Transportation | Geography & Climate
History | Suggested Reading List

The First State, first of the original Thirteen Colonies to become a state, whose diminutive size belies the possibilities within it; this is Delaware, whose motto "Liberty and Independence" continues to bring promise and success in the 21st century.

Industry Snapshot

Delaware hosts a burgeoning biotechnology and life sciences industry. The First State is bolstered by its legacy as the "chemical capital of the world", as it is home to DuPont. Additional strengths for Delaware include its role as U.S. headquarters for pharmaceutical manufacturer AstraZeneca, and its close proximity to the hubs of Washington, D.C. and Baltimore, Maryland.

Economy/Cost of Living

With a population of roughly 853,000 people, Delaware ranks 45th among the states in population size. Major First State cities include Wilmington, Dover, Newark, Milford, Seaford, Middletown, Elsmere, Smyrna, New Castle, and Georgetown.

Education

Delaware is home to many educational opportunities for students of any age. School aged children may attend public schools in one of the state's 19 public school districts, or may attend private, parochial, or charter schools, or be homeschooled. Delaware also provides outstanding opportunities for higher education.

Recreation & Entertainment

Delaware boasts ample recreational opportunities within its borders. Whether one is interested in cultural pursuits or in enjoying Delaware's natural beauty, the First State is sure to appeal to any taste.

Transportation

Delaware's central location on the Atlantic seaboard assures easy access to major eastern hubs. The main artery through the state is Interstate 95, running from Philadelphia at the northern border to the Maryland border south of Newark. The spur I-295 connects with the New Jersey Turnpike, which leads to New York and New England.

Geography & Climate

Delaware is located on the mid-Atlantic coast of the United States. The state's total area of 2,489 square miles makes it the 49th largest among the United States. The First State is bordered to the north by Pennsylvania, to the south and west by Maryland, to the northeast by the Delaware River and Delaware Bay across from New Jersey, and to the east by the Atlantic Ocean.

History

Modern day Delaware was long inhabited by Native American peoples prior to European exploration and settlement. These peoples were primarily the Nanticoke and Minqua tribes.

Suggested Reading List

A list of select guides and reference books about Delaware.