Monday, May 19, 2008

Retire to New Castle, Delaware

As the first capitol of the first state, founded in 1651 by the Dutch, New Castle with its unique cobblestone streets is recognized as a crown jewel. Unlike many historic communities, New Castle is a residential town where people live and work. Each house reflects the individuality of its past and present owners. New Castle has been named a National Historic Landmark..
This small, picturesque village allows vacationers, as well as business travelers, a refreshing respite from the pressures of daily life. Whether you enjoy the beaches, the Brandywine Valley, or other treasures of Delaware, be sure to include New Castle in your search for the perfect place to retire.

Population:As of the census of 2000, there were 4,862 people, 2,012 households, and 1,339 families residing in the city.

Housing Costs: Estimated median house/condo value in 2005: $197,500 (it was $123,000 in 2000)

Nearest Large Cities: Nearest city with pop. 50,000+: Wilmington, DE (5.9 miles , pop. 72,664).
Nearest city with pop. 200,000+: Philadelphia, PA (37.0 miles , pop. 1,517,550).


Hospitals/medical centers in New Castle:
DELAWARE PSYCHIATRIC CENTER (1901 N DUPONT HIGHWAY)
MEADOWWOOD BEHAVIORAL HEALTH SYSTEM (575 SOUTH DUPONT HIGHWAY

Transportation:
Airports certified for carrier operations nearest to New Castle:
NEW CASTLE COUNTY (about 3 miles; WILMINGTON, DE; )
PHILADELPHIA INTN (about 27 miles; PHILADELPHIA, PA; )
DOVER AFB (about 39 miles; DOVER, DE;)

Amtrak stations near New Castle:
6 miles: WILMINGTON (M. L. KING BLVD, & FRENCH ST.). Services: ticket office, partially wheelchair accessible, enclosed waiting area, public restrooms, public payphones, snack bar, ATM, paid short-term parking, paid long-term parking, car rental agency, taxi stand, intercity bus service, public transit connection.
14 miles: NEWARK (429 S. COLLEGE AVE.). Services: public payphones, free short-term parking, call for car rental service, call for taxi service, public transit connection

Universities and Colleges: College/University in New Castle:
WILMINGTON COLLEGE (Full-time enrollment: 3,087; Location: 320 DUPONT HWY; Private, not-for-profit; Website: www.wilmcoll.edu; Offers Doctor's degree

The great thing about New Castle is that it's all real, not a colonial Disney creation. It is where you'll find great examples of colonial, Dutch and Federal architecture. As I read about this interesting town, I have realized that its history is one of the main attractions. I have noted that there are many museums, tours to historical sites, and a great deal of small town charm.