Cities and Towns in Sussex County, Delaware

Founded in 1664, Sussex County is one of 3 counties in the state of Delaware. Historically, Sussex County was formed from Whorekill (Hoarkill) District. Formerly known as Deale County. The city of Georgetown is the county seat. With FIPS code of 5, Sussex County has a population of 247,527 and area of 1,196 square miles (3,098 km²).

List of all cities in Sussex County, DE alphabetically

City/Town	Postal Code	Area Code
Bethany Beach, DE	19930	302
Bethel, DE	19931	302
Blades, DE	19973	302
Bridgeville, DE	19933	302
Clarksville, DE	19970	302
Dagsboro, DE	19939	302
Delmar, DE	19940	302
Dewey Bch, DE	19971	302
Dewey Beach, DE	19971	302
Ellendale, DE	19941	302
Farmington, DE	19950	302
Fenwick Island, DE	19944	302
	19975	302
Frankford, DE	19945	302
Georgetown, DE	19947	302
Greenwood, DE	19950	302
Harbeson, DE	19951	302
Laurel, DE	19956	302
Lewes, DE	19958	302
Lewes Beach, DE	19958	302
Lincoln, DE	19960	302
Long Neck, DE	19966	302
Milford, DE	19963	302
Millsboro, DE	19966	302
Millville, DE	19967	302
	19970	302
Milton, DE	19968	302
Nassau, DE	19969	302
Ocean View, DE	19967	302
	19970	302
Rehoboth, DE	19971	302
Rehoboth Beach, DE	19971	302
Seaford, DE	19973	302
Selbyville, DE	19944	302
	19975	302
Slaughter Beach, DE	19963	302
West Fenwick, DE	19975	302

Major Cities and Towns in Sussex County, Delaware

Georgetown

Area, Population, Zip Codes, and Coordinates

• Area: 4.1 square miles
• Population: Approximately 7,598 (2020 Census)
• Zip Codes: 19947
• Latitude and Longitude: 38.6901° N, 75.3851° W

Location and History

Georgetown is the county seat of Sussex County, located in the southern part of Delaware. Founded in 1791, Georgetown was established to serve as the new county seat, replacing Lewes, which was considered too remote for the growing county. The town was planned with a circular layout, centered around The Circle, where the Sussex County Courthouse is located. Georgetown has long been a center for agriculture, with the surrounding area known for its poultry farms, corn, and soybean production. The town’s strategic location in the center of Sussex County has made it a hub for legal, governmental, and commercial activities. Georgetown is also known for its historic buildings and annual events, including the Return Day, a unique post-election celebration that dates back to 1792.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Georgetown is served by the Indian River School District, with Sussex Central High School and Georgetown Middle School being key educational institutions. The town is also home to the Delaware Technical Community College’s Owens Campus, offering a range of academic programs and vocational training. Major landmarks in Georgetown include The Circle, where the historic Sussex County Courthouse and the historic Sussex County Jail are located, and the Marvel Carriage Museum, which showcases a collection of antique carriages and offers insights into the town’s history. The annual Return Day celebration, held two days after Election Day, features a parade, an ox roast, and the ceremonial “burying of the hatchet,” symbolizing the end of political rivalry.

Seaford

Area, Population, Zip Codes, and Coordinates

• Area: 5.3 square miles
• Population: Approximately 8,766 (2020 Census)
• Zip Codes: 19973
• Latitude and Longitude: 38.6412° N, 75.6119° W

Location and History

Seaford is a city located in western Sussex County, along the Nanticoke River. The area was originally settled in the 1600s by Native Americans and European settlers and became an important trading post in the 18th century. Seaford was officially incorporated in 1865 and grew rapidly with the arrival of the railroad, which facilitated the transportation of goods, particularly agricultural products and timber. The city became known as the “Nylon Capital of the World” in the 20th century due to the establishment of the DuPont nylon plant, which played a significant role in the local economy for decades. Today, Seaford is a vibrant community that blends its industrial heritage with a strong sense of community and rich cultural history.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Seaford is served by the Seaford School District, with Seaford High School and Seaford Middle School being the primary educational institutions. The city is also home to the Seaford Public Library, which offers a variety of resources and programs for residents. Major landmarks in Seaford include the Governor Ross Mansion and Plantation, a beautifully restored Victorian-era home that offers tours and insights into the region’s history, and the Nanticoke Riverwalk, which provides scenic views of the river and access to outdoor activities. The city’s annual Seaford Christmas Parade is a popular event that draws visitors from across the region, celebrating the holiday season with floats, music, and community spirit.

Lewes

Area, Population, Zip Codes, and Coordinates

• Area: 4.3 square miles
• Population: Approximately 3,303 (2020 Census)
• Zip Codes: 19958
• Latitude and Longitude: 38.7746° N, 75.1393° W

Location and History

Lewes is a historic coastal town located at the mouth of the Delaware Bay, known as “The First Town in the First State.” Founded in 1631 by Dutch settlers, Lewes is one of the oldest towns in Delaware and played a significant role in the early colonial history of the state. The town was originally a whaling and trading post and later became a center for shipbuilding and fishing. Lewes has preserved much of its historic character, with a charming downtown area featuring colonial-era buildings, museums, and shops. The town’s location along the coast has made it a popular destination for tourism, particularly during the summer months, with visitors drawn to its beaches, historic sites, and vibrant cultural scene.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Lewes is served by the Cape Henlopen School District, with Cape Henlopen High School and Shields Elementary School being key educational institutions. The town is also home to the Lewes Public Library, which provides a range of services and programs for the community. Major landmarks in Lewes include the Zwaanendael Museum, which commemorates the town’s Dutch heritage, and the Lewes Historical Society, which operates several historic buildings and museums that offer insights into the town’s rich past. The Cape Henlopen State Park, located just outside of Lewes, is another significant landmark, offering miles of beaches, hiking trails, and opportunities for outdoor recreation. The annual Lewes Tulip Celebration is a popular event that showcases the town’s beauty and heritage, drawing visitors from across the region.

Rehoboth Beach

Area, Population, Zip Codes, and Coordinates

• Area: 1.6 square miles
• Population: Approximately 1,108 (2020 Census)
• Zip Codes: 19971
• Latitude and Longitude: 38.7209° N, 75.0760° W

Location and History

Rehoboth Beach is a popular coastal resort town located along the Atlantic Ocean in eastern Sussex County. The town was founded in 1873 as a Christian camp meeting site and quickly developed into a seaside resort, attracting visitors from the surrounding region. Rehoboth Beach’s boardwalk, which was built in the early 20th century, became a major attraction, featuring hotels, shops, and entertainment venues. The town’s charming streets, sandy beaches, and vibrant boardwalk have made it a favorite summer destination for generations. Rehoboth Beach is known for its friendly, family-oriented atmosphere and has also become a popular spot for festivals, events, and culinary experiences.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Rehoboth Beach is served by the Cape Henlopen School District, with students attending schools in nearby Lewes, including Cape Henlopen High School. The town is also home to the Rehoboth Beach Public Library, which offers a variety of resources and community programs. Major landmarks in Rehoboth Beach include the Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk, a mile-long promenade lined with shops, restaurants, and amusements, and the Rehoboth Beach Bandstand, which hosts free concerts and events throughout the summer. The town’s beaches, known for their clean, white sand, are a major draw for residents and visitors alike. The annual Rehoboth Beach Jazz Festival and the Sea Witch Festival are major events that attract large crowds, celebrating music, culture, and the Halloween season.

Millsboro

Area, Population, Zip Codes, and Coordinates

• Area: 3.6 square miles
• Population: Approximately 4,520 (2020 Census)
• Zip Codes: 19966
• Latitude and Longitude: 38.5912° N, 75.2916° W

Location and History

Millsboro is a growing town located in central Sussex County, near the Indian River. The town was established in the late 18th century and was named after its early mills, which were vital to the local economy. Millsboro developed as a center for agriculture and industry, with the surrounding area known for its production of corn, soybeans, and poultry. The town’s location along the Indian River facilitated trade and transportation, contributing to its growth. In recent years, Millsboro has seen significant residential and commercial development, attracting new residents with its affordable housing, community amenities, and proximity to Delaware’s beaches and outdoor recreation areas.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Millsboro is served by the Indian River School District, with Indian River High School and Millsboro Middle School being key educational institutions. The town is also home to the Millsboro Public Library, which offers a range of services and programs for residents. Major landmarks in Millsboro include the Nanticoke Indian Museum, which preserves the history and culture of the Nanticoke people, and Cupola Park, a waterfront park along the Indian River that provides opportunities for fishing, picnicking, and boating. The town’s annual Nanticoke Indian Powwow is a significant cultural event that celebrates the heritage and traditions of the Nanticoke tribe, drawing visitors from across the region. The nearby Baywood Greens golf course and community is another popular destination, known for its beautiful landscapes and upscale amenities.

Map of Cities in Sussex County, DE