Largest Cities in Delaware: Delaware is one of the smallest states in the United States in terms of size, but it has a lot to offer in terms of historical, political, and economic development.
Located in the Mid-Atlantic, Delaware is strategically situated on the Atlantic Ocean and is home to many friendly businesses, offering the best access to three major metropolitan areas in the United States: Washington, D.C., Philadelphia, and New York City.
Although Delaware has relatively small cities in comparison to other states, Delaware’s cities are still important for providing services to all Delaware residents, including government services, education, job opportunities, and residential living.
By understanding how people are distributed across the cities in Delaware, we get a better sense of how people live, work, and access needed services.
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Largest Cities in Delaware by Population
Below is a list of the most populous cities in Delaware, as per Delaware demographic data of 2026
| City | Population |
| Wilmington | 73,176 |
| Dover | 40,191 |
| Newark | 30,506 |
| Middletown | 25,686 |
| Bear | 22,604 |
| Glasgow | 16,095 |
| Brookside | 15,262 |
| Milford | 14,079 |
| Hockessin | 13,608 |
| Smyrna | 13,326 |
Source: delawaredemographics.com
1. Wilmington
Wilmington is the largest city in Delaware and serves as a major economic and cultural center. It is well known for its financial services sector, historic neighborhoods, and access to the Christina and Delaware Rivers. The city also functions as an important employment hub for the state.
2. Dover
Dover is the capital of Delaware; it is the heart of state government and administration. The Dover Air Force Base also has a large impact on the economy and stability of the population in this area.
3. Newark
Newark, Delaware, has become known as a university town (University of Delaware). The area has many opportunities for education, commerce, and growth, all contributing to a diverse population made up of students, professionals, and families.
4. Middletown
Middletown is a town that has shown consistent growth in its population for several years; it's appealing as a place to live because of the active environments created by community association development and good quality schools, in addition to proximity to the main roads through the state connecting north and south Delaware.
5. Bear
Bear is a residential community located in New Castle County. It is known for its suburban environment and proximity to Wilmington and Newark, making it a preferred location for commuters.
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