Clayton’s location makes commuting across the state easy
Clayton is just 15 miles from Dover, and the town’s modern suburban neighborhoods sit on the edge of visually endless farms and forests, attracting homebuyers looking for a slower pace of living without losing access to the state capital. “It’s a draw for people who want to be away from the hustle and bustle, but close enough to modern conveniences,” says Terra King, a Realtor with RE/MAX 1st Choice who’s been selling homes in the area since 2006. The town’s location in central Delaware also allows locals to travel throughout the state easily. “You’re no more than 15 miles side-to-side from the state borders," King says. "You can get around this area pretty quickly." Clayton also holds its own job opportunities, offering warehouse roles at Walmart's local distribution facility, manufacturers like Eagle Group and food suppliers like Hanover Foods Corp.
Colonial Revivals dominate the town’s newer neighborhoods
There are some pre-war Nationals and colonials, but many homes in Clayton have been constructed in the last 25 years with Colonial Revival architecture. Houses sit on lots that are slightly larger than those found in the surrounding area, usually range up to a quarter-acre. Properties typically sell for $250,000 to $550,000. There are also two- and three-bedroom townhomes that usually go for $290,000 to $350,000.
Smyrna School District schools, with dual enrollment at Smyrna High
Neighborhood kids are served by the Smyrna School District, which earns a B from Niche. Students may start at Clayton Elementary, which gets a B and teaches kindergarten through fourth grade, before going to Clayton Intermediate, which has fifth and sixth grade and scores a B-plus. Smyrna Middle teaches seventh and eighth graders and receives a B, while Smyrna High has a B-minus and offers dual enrollment courses through schools like the University of Delaware and Wilmington University.
Commuting via State Route 1 and U.S. Route 13
Commuters can take U.S. Route 13 and State Route 1 south 10 miles to Dover. Route 13 also runs 38 miles north directly into Wilmington. Bayhealth Hospital is 13 miles away in Dover, while Wilmington Airport is located 30 miles away.
Public parks, trails in Blackbird State Forest and coastal day trips
Along Smyrna Avenue, Clayton Community Park provides a shaded playground for neighborhood kids. Eight baseball, softball and T-ball diamonds just north of town host Little League games for Clayton and Smyrna. The George C. Wright Municipal Park, 2 miles away, has a larger playground, basketball courts and a skate park. Blackbird State Forest is 6 miles north with over 40 miles of hiking, biking and horseback riding trails. King says locals also make the 55-mile trip down the coast to Cape Henlopen State Park, which has miles of sandy beaches and ocean access. “People who fish can get a permit to drive on the beach,” King adds. “You gotta get there early, though, because the parking lots fill up fast in the morning.”
Small-town dining with big-name stores nearby
Popular locally owned spots line Main Street in Clayton. Jack’s on Main serves upscale American dishes, while Kee's Cookies & Cupcakes offers an assortment of baked goods. The town is also just 10 miles from Dover Mall, which has over 60 retailers. For groceries, it's a 2-mile drive to ACME Market in Smyrna, and more chains like Aldi and Food Lion can be found along Route 13.
Annual events and NASCAR races draw local crowds
Clayton and Smyrna collaborate on several events throughout the year, including the area’s July Fourth celebrations. The day starts with a parade, there are activities at Municipal Park and the night ends with one of Delmarva’s largest fireworks displays. The towns also collaborate on Smyrna’s annual carnival, a two-weekend event in March with amusement rides, games and fair food. Locals also head 10 miles south to Dover Motor Speedway to watch NASCAR races.
![Logan Soter-Reardon]()
Written By
Logan Soter-Reardon
