Delaware Home Security Guide

Delaware has an overall crime rate of 21.07 per 1,000 residents (2024 FBI data). Violent crime is 3.61 per 1,000 - right at the national average. Property crime is 17.46 per 1,000, slightly below average. However, crime varies dramatically by city, with Dover and Wilmington having very high crime rates.

Delaware's safety varies dramatically by location. Wilmington and Dover are among the most dangerous cities in America for their size - both rank in the top 100 most dangerous. But suburban areas like Bear and Middletown are much safer. Sussex County beach communities also have lower crime. Choose your neighborhood carefully.

Dover has one of the highest crime rates in America for its size, with a rate of 73.4 per 1,000. Property crime, especially theft, drives most of this. As the state capital with a large transient population and regional retail, Dover sees disproportionate crime. Motor vehicle theft is also notably high.

Given Delaware's higher crime rates in certain cities, professional monitoring is recommended. ADT and Vivint have strong presence in Wilmington and Dover. SimpliSafe works well for DIY installation. Consider adding vehicle protection given Delaware's high auto theft rates - GPS trackers and steering wheel locks.

Given high motor vehicle theft in Wilmington and Dover, consider vehicle GPS tracking and garage security. For homes, video cameras, glass break sensors, and 24/7 monitoring are important. Motion-activated lighting helps deter property crime. In high-crime areas, reinforced door frames and smart locks add extra protection.