People look to North Star for its connection to nature
North Star is known for its natural setting and convenience to Philadelphia. The community traces its roots back to the early 1950s, when a group of engineers purchased two farms, creating a tract large enough for homes and new beginnings. Today, many newcomers relocate here from more densely populated areas, drawn by North Star's spacious lots. "People look to North Star because they want to be in the more woodsy-type feel," says Bobby Carter, a Realtor with Crown Homes Real Estate, with seven years of experience. "Every one of my clients likes the privacy." Minutes from Newark and Kennett Square, about 30 miles from Wilmington, and under 45 miles from Philadelphia, North Star strikes a natural balance near city limits. The community's Cap Index Crime Score of 1 out of 10 is significantly lower than the national average of 4.
Wooded lots, suburban layouts and a mix of home styles
Traditional and custom-built properties have a foothold here. "It's a good mix, but it's a lot of Colonial and ranch styles. Ranch ramblers are popular," Carter says. Roads through the community are curved and rolling, framed by woodland and farmland. Some areas of North Star showcase the manicured tidiness of a traditional suburban layout. In others, homes are surrounded by forest. Lots may be less than 8,000 square feet to over 2 acres. Prices range from $400,000 to $890,000, depending on home size, build year, condition and location. Carter says properties on back roads, in natural, woodsy settings, are highly sought out.
Public, magnet and private school options serving the community
Most students attend schools within the Red Clay Consolidated School District, which serves over 14,500 students and earns an A-minus from Niche. North Star Elementary is the feeder school for the community to various middle and high schools. The school earns an A-minus rating and has a strong visual arts program. The district offers school choice through magnet programs, standard open enrollment and out-of-district placements. Carter notes that The Independence School, educating grades 3 to 8, is a popular private school with an A rating.
A local swim club and a preserve with trails nearby
North Star Swim Club is a recreational focal point from May to September. "You have to be a member," Carter says. "But most people who don't have pools go there." The club hosts the North Star Swim Team and also offers social activities, including floating sound baths and poolside yoga. White Clay Creek State Park is near the community with a fishing creek, miles of trails, a disc golf course and a public 18-hole golf course. Hockessin Athletic Club, about 2 miles away, holds group fitness classes and has a heated outdoor pool that swimmers use year-round. Brandywine Park's attractions, including Delaware's only zoo, are within 12 miles. Fox Point State Park is around 20 miles away on the banks of the Delaware River.
A local creamery and more variety in Hockessin and Kennett Square
While North Star isn't a shopping or dining destination, it does have a local standout: Woodside Farm Creamery. Operating from a historic farm, the creamery makes its ice cream on site in various, sometimes surprising flavors, like bacon. Just outside North Star in Hockessin, ACME Markets and a range of local and chain eateries cluster in one shopping center, including the happy-hour spot Two Stones Pub. For a change of pace, Kennett Square's walkable downtown strip is less than 8 miles away with local coffee shops, clothing boutiques and restaurants. The Naked Olive is a popular spot featuring a Mediterranean-inspired menu. Chains, like H&M and Barnes & Noble, are at Christiana Mall, roughly 10 miles away.
Farm visits and a longstanding mushroom festival in Kennett Square
Woodside Farm Creamery organizes pop-up gatherings, including visits to the farm for telescope viewing. Nearby events include a longstanding mushroom festival held in downtown Kennett Square annually in September. The celebration spotlights local mushroom farms, featuring a parade, food tastings and craft vendors.
State routes and public transit serving commuters
Delaware Route 72 and Delaware Route 896 pass through North Star, and Interstate 95 is nearby. DART First State operates fixed bus routes and paratransit services in Northern Delaware, including North Star. Wilmington Airport is about 11 miles away, and ChristianaCare Hospital is roughly 8 miles from the community.
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Written By
Kathryn Ashworth
