USA Delaware | North America

Delaware is located in the Mid-Atlantic region of the Northeastern United States, bordering Pennsylvania to the north, New Jersey and the Atlantic Ocean to the east, and Maryland to the south and west. It is the second-smallest state by area. The capital city is Dover.

History & Culture

Delaware was the first state to ratify the U.S. Constitution (December 7, 1787), earning the nickname "The First State." In 2026, the state is a focal point for America’s 250th Anniversary (Delaware 250), with major events including "Tavern Talks" at Wilmington Brew Works and the "250 Ride" from Dover to Philadelphia in July. Primary religious affiliations are Protestant (46%) and Catholic (23%). Social etiquette reflects a blend of Mid-Atlantic reserve and coastal hospitality, with a standardized 18–25% tipping expectation.

Language & Communication

English is the universal language. Spanish is the second most common language (spoken by approx. 12% of the population). The regional dialect is categorized as Mid-Atlantic, sharing characteristics with Philadelphia and Baltimore accents, particularly in New Castle County.

Population & Economy

The population is approximately 1.05 million. GDP per capita is approximately $77,000 USD. The economy is a global hub for corporate services, with over 60% of Fortune 500 companies incorporated in the state due to the Court of Chancery. Key sectors include financial services (JPMorgan Chase), pharmaceuticals (AstraZeneca), and agriculture (poultry). In 2026, real GDP growth is projected at 1.9%, with healthcare and social assistance expected to be the primary drivers of job creation.

Visa & Entry Policy

Effective January 1, 2026, under Presidential Proclamation 10998, visa issuance is suspended or restricted for nationals of 39 countries to enhance security vetting. A full travel ban applies to 19 nations (including Afghanistan, Haiti, and Syria). Citizens of most EU nations and the UK require an ESTA for stays up to 90 days. There is no Visa on Arrival system. Customs enforcement at Wilmington Airport (ILG) is strict regarding agricultural products.

Currency & Payment Systems

The currency is the United States Dollar (USD). Card payments and mobile "tap-to-pay" are universal. Delaware has no statewide sales tax, making it a regional destination for "tax-free shopping." Cash is primarily used for small tips and at seasonal beach concessions. ATM availability is high.

National Transport Grid

Intercity travel is dominated by the I-95 corridor and the Route 1 expressway. Amtrak provides high-speed service via the "Acela" and "Northeast Regional" lines at the Wilmington station. Domestic aviation is anchored by Wilmington Airport (ILG) and nearby Philadelphia International (PHL). In 2026, the Delaware Department of Transportation (DelDOT) is executing major interchange improvements at I-95 and SR 896 to alleviate congestion.

Digital Infrastructure

Major mobile network providers are Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile. 5G coverage is comprehensive across the state. By early 2026, the state has achieved near-universal broadband access (91.4% current) through aggressive fiber expansion. Digital infrastructure for 2026 includes the implementation of a state-wide Carbon Reduction Strategy aimed at integrating smart traffic sensors to reduce transportation emissions.

Climate & Seasonality

The climate is humid subtropical, featuring hot, humid summers and mild to cold winters. For the 2025–2026 winter, La Niña conditions have resulted in above-normal temperatures and below-normal precipitation/snowfall across the Atlantic Corridor. Summer (July–August) is the peak season for the Delaware Beaches (Rehoboth, Dewey).

Health & Safety

No mandatory vaccines are required for entry. Specific environmental risks include coastal flooding during tropical storms and tick-borne illnesses in inland rural areas. The emergency number for Police, Ambulance, and Fire is 911.

Top 3 Major Regions & Cities

New Castle County (Corporate/Finance/Edu): Hub city is Wilmington.

Kent County (Government/Aviation/Agri): Hub city is Dover.

Sussex County (Tourism/Beaches/Poultry): Hub city is Rehoboth Beach/Georgetown.

Local Cost Index

1L Water: $2.10 USD

1 Domestic Beer: $6.00 USD

1 Sim Card (Data Plan): $45.00 USD

Facts & Legends

Fort Delaware on Pea Patch Island is considered the most haunted site in the state, with reported sightings of a "blue man" ghost and Confederate prisoner apparitions. Coastal folklore includes the "Corpse Light" of Cape Henlopen, a phantom beam said to have lured ships to their doom. Another prominent legend is the "Headless Soldier of Cooch’s Bridge," a Revolutionary War specter. Additionally, the dunes of Cape Henlopen are rumored to hide the buried treasure of Captain William Kidd.