Eastern Newark

Proximity and price points are two big reasons homebuyers choose to settle down in Eastern Newark. About 15 miles southwest of Wilmington, this convenient suburb also offers residents access to public transportation and a well-respected school system.

“It’s mostly subdivision living here,” says Associate Broker and Realtor Angela Allen with Patterson Schwartz Real Estate. “It’s a well-established and well-maintained community where you can get to know your neighbors or live more privately, if that’s your preference.” A large portion of the community was once farmland, so the trees that you see throughout the neighborhood were planted here. Many of the three- and four-bedroom homes, which include a few ranch styles, some colonials and many split-levels, were built in the 1950s and 1960s and are between 1,400 and 1,800 square feet. You can get a three-bedroom ranch-style for about $300,000 or a Dutch colonial for close to $350,000. Allen describes lots as, “small, green and well-manicured”, and with homes being a modest size as well, residents often stay in the area through their retirement years. “There’s really no need to downsize,” she says.

Homes in the area are considered relatively affordable, and there are discounts on property taxes for residents aged 65 and older who have lived here for 10 years. “People definitely move to the area for the lower taxes,” Allen says. “A lot of people also come here because of the local public school system.”

The Red Clay Consolidated School District has an overall rating of A-minus from Niche and includes traditional schools, magnet programs and language immersion opportunities. Students may begin their educational journeys at one of several elementary schools in the district, such as Forest Oak Elementary School, which is rated B-plus by Niche. Stanton Middle School has a C-plus Niche rating. The educational experience here includes athletics, music electives and field trips. The John Dickinson School, rated B by Niche, offers the International Baccalaureate program and extracurricular options such as robotics, marching band and a literary magazine. For families interested in a private school option, Saint Mark’s is a co-educational and academically rigorous school that is rooted in Catholic tradition. “It’s very popular,” Allen says. “A lot of people send their kids here.”

When you and your crew want to spend some time outdoors, you can head to the playground at Eastburn Acres Park or play a round of disc golf at Greenridge Disc Golf Course. If you prefer a more traditional game, White Clay Creek Country Club offers a public, 18-hole championship course with perks for members, including tee-time reservations and discounts. Allen notes that the area is also home to open spaces that are ideal for hiking and fishing or simply relaxing and enjoying the outdoors.

Along Kirkwood Highway, the area’s main thoroughfare, you’ll find a variety of Japanese, Italian and Mexican eateries, in addition to plenty of retail options. At Limestone BBQ and Bourbon, you can select from brisket, pulled pork and prime rib, or go all in with the Philthy Feast, a shareable option that includes savory sides and two meat choices. If you’d rather dine at home, Bachetti Bros. is the go-to spot for delicious deli items or pre-made meals like beef stroganoff and chicken cordon bleu. “From here you’re also about 15 minutes away from Christiana Mall, which is a very popular shopping spot that has additional restaurant choices,” Allen says.

You’ll find that most residents drive to work and to take care of errands, but there are options if you need a lift. Local buses that are run by DART, a multi-modal transit system, make many stops along Kirkwood Highway, and train service is available in Wilmington. “Some people take the train all the way to Baltimore or Washington,” Allen says.

Eastern Newark offers a nod to suburban life of yesteryear with access to modern amenities, good schools and public transportation. Factor in the community’s relatively affordable price points and tax breaks, and you have more than a handful of reasons to consider making Eastern Newark your new home.

Written By

Melissa Face

Photography Contributed By

Bill Marrs

Video By

Nathan Allen