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About Delaware County
Where Tradition Meets Tomorrow
Delaware County stretches across southeastern Pennsylvania like a welcoming gateway to Philadelphia, where 576,000 residents and over 8,500 businesses create one of the region's most diverse economic landscapes. This is where the prestigious Main Line communities of Radnor and Haverford share borders with revitalized urban centers like Chester and Upper Darby - where century-old stone estates stand minutes from cutting-edge research facilities and bustling commercial corridors.
A Powerhouse Economy
Media, our charming county seat known as "Everybody's Hometown," exemplifies Delaware County's unique blend. Its walkable downtown features 300+ independent businesses, from farm-to-table restaurants to boutique shops, all thriving in Victorian-era buildings. Meanwhile, just miles away, Boeing's massive Ridley Park facility employs thousands in aerospace manufacturing, and the Philadelphia International Airport's cargo operations in Tinicum Township move billions in goods annually.
The I-95 corridor through Chester and Eddystone hosts major logistics operations and the growing Riverfront development. The Blue Route (I-476) spine connects thriving commercial centers from Springfield to Newtown Square. And throughout the county's 49 municipalities, you'll find everything from biotech startups in Swarthmore to century-old family businesses in Brookhaven.
Why Businesses Choose Delaware County
The advantages are clear: direct access to Philadelphia's market without the city's taxes and regulations. Commercial space costs 25-40% less than Center City. Our educated workforce - with 38% holding bachelor's degrees or higher - draws from 12 colleges and universities within the county, including Swarthmore, Haverford, and Villanova just across the border.
The diversity here is economic rocket fuel. Upper Darby's 69th Street corridor buzzes with immigrant-owned businesses serving dozens of ethnic communities. The waterfront is transforming with Harrah's Philadelphia Casino and Chester's soccer stadium anchoring new development. Healthcare giants like Crozer Health and Main Line Health continue expanding, while professional services firms cluster along the Blue Route.
Life in Delaware County
This is suburban Philadelphia at its most authentic - neither purely suburban nor urban, but something uniquely its own. Tree-lined streets in Swarthmore and Rose Valley preserve their Quaker heritage. Ridley Creek State Park offers 2,600 acres of trails and historic sites. The Brandywine River winds through scenic Chadds Ford, while the Delaware River waterfront provides industrial strength.
Families love the excellent school districts in Wallingford-Swarthmore, Radnor, and Tredyffrin-Easttown. Young professionals flock to Media's nightlife and Lansdowne's diverse dining scene. And everyone appreciates that you can find everything from million-dollar Main Line estates to affordable starter homes in Clifton Heights or Folcroft.
Your Gateway to the Northeast Corridor
Location is Delaware County's superpower. Philadelphia's Center City is just 15 miles from Media. Wilmington, Delaware sits 20 miles south. New York City is 95 miles northeast. Baltimore is 90 miles southwest. This prime position puts 40 million consumers within a two-hour drive.
Transportation infrastructure is unmatched: I-95 runs along the eastern edge, I-476 (Blue Route) bisects the county north-south, US Route 1 provides a commercial corridor, and SEPTA's extensive rail network offers 50+ stations connecting to Philadelphia and beyond.
Discover Delaware County Businesses
Whether you're seeking professional services in Newtown Square, exploring ethnic restaurants in Upper Darby, finding healthcare in Springfield, or scouting industrial space in Chester, our directory connects you with Delaware County's dynamic business community. From Main Line luxury to Delaware River industry, from college towns to diverse neighborhoods, discover why Delaware County is greater Philadelphia's economic engine.
Delaware County Demographics & Statistics
Population Statistics (2023)
Total Population
576,195
Median Age
39 years
Population Density
11 communities
Delaware County Economic Overview
Median Household Income
$88,576
Poverty Rate
10.2%
Unemployment Rate
6.9%
Delaware County Housing Market
Median Home Value
$302,400
Median Rent
$1,315/mo
Owner Occupied
70%
Delaware County Education Attainment (Adults 25+)
Frequently Asked Questions About Delaware County
What is the population of Delaware County?
As of 2023, Delaware County has a population of approximately 576,195 residents, making it the 5th most populous county in Pennsylvania. The county has grown steadily, with the highest concentrations in Upper Darby Township (85,000+), Haverford Township (50,000+), and Chester city (33,000+).
What are the major cities and towns in Delaware County?
Major municipalities include Upper Darby (largest township), Media (county seat), Chester (only city), Radnor Township, Haverford Township, Springfield Township, Marple Township, and Ridley Township. The county comprises 49 municipalities with over 8,500 businesses serving diverse communities from Main Line suburbs to urban centers.
How do I start a business in Delaware County?
Register your business with the PA Department of State, obtain an EIN from the IRS, and secure local permits from your municipality. Chester requires a business privilege tax license, while townships have varying requirements. The Delaware County Commerce Center and SCORE Delco provide free counseling, and the Delco Strong initiative offers additional support for small businesses.
What are the major employers in Delaware County?
Top employers include Boeing (5,000+ employees in Ridley Park), Crozer Health System (5,000+ employees), Main Line Health facilities, SAP America (Newtown Square), Sunoco (Marcus Hook), Philadelphia International Airport operations (Tinicum), and numerous colleges including Swarthmore, Haverford, and Widener University. The county supports over 8,500 businesses across all sectors.
What is the average commercial rent in Delaware County?
Commercial rents vary by location: Media downtown retail averages $25-35/sq ft, Blue Route office space runs $22-30/sq ft, Upper Darby retail costs $15-25/sq ft, and industrial space in Chester/Eddystone averages $8-12/sq ft. These rates are typically 25-40% lower than Philadelphia's Center City, making Delaware County attractive for business growth.
What business incentives are available in Delaware County?
Delaware County offers Keystone Opportunity Zones in Chester with significant tax benefits, LERTA tax abatements in various municipalities, the Delco Strong grant program for small businesses, and workforce development through the Delaware County Workforce Development Board. The county's Redevelopment Authority also provides financing assistance for qualifying projects.
How far is Delaware County from major cities?
Media is just 15 miles from Philadelphia's Center City (25 minutes), 20 miles from Wilmington, DE (30 minutes), 95 miles from New York City (2 hours), 90 miles from Baltimore (1.5 hours), and 35 miles from Trenton, NJ (45 minutes). This strategic location provides access to 40+ million consumers within a 2-hour drive.
What highways run through Delaware County?
Major highways include I-95 (East Coast corridor along the Delaware River), I-476 (Blue Route running north-south), US Route 1 (Baltimore Pike commercial corridor), US Route 30 (Lancaster Avenue through Main Line), and I-76 (Schuylkill Expressway) just north of the county. These provide excellent access for the county's 1,200+ transportation and logistics businesses.
What is the workforce like in Delaware County?
Delaware County has a highly educated workforce with 37.8% holding bachelor's degrees or higher, well above the national average. The median age is 39.8 years, providing experienced workers. With 12 colleges and universities in or adjacent to the county, businesses have access to both skilled workers and interns across all industries.
What languages are spoken in Delaware County?
While English predominates, Delaware County is increasingly diverse with significant Spanish-speaking populations in Upper Darby and Chester. The 69th Street corridor in Upper Darby features businesses serving Korean, Chinese, Vietnamese, and South Asian communities. Many of the county's 1,100+ food service businesses offer multilingual services.
Is Delaware County good for healthcare businesses?
Healthcare is a major sector with 1,500+ health-related businesses including Crozer Health's four hospitals, Main Line Health facilities, and specialized centers. The aging population and educated workforce create strong demand for medical services, medical technology companies, and healthcare support businesses throughout the county.
Where are the main commercial districts in Delaware County?
Key commercial areas include Media's State Street (downtown dining/retail), 69th Street Terminal area (regional shopping hub), Blue Route corridor through Newtown Square (corporate offices), Baltimore Pike (US Route 1 retail), Springfield Mall area, and the Chester Waterfront (entertainment/gaming). These districts house thousands of the county's 8,500+ businesses.
What is the sales tax in Delaware County?
Pennsylvania's 6% state sales tax applies throughout Delaware County with an additional 2% local sales tax, bringing the total to 8% (the extra 2% goes to Philadelphia and surrounding counties for transit). Clothing, unprepared food, and manufacturing equipment remain tax-exempt, benefiting the county's retail and manufacturing sectors.
Is Delaware County growing?
Yes, Delaware County shows steady growth with continuous business expansion and development. Major projects include the Chester Riverfront renaissance, Crozer Health's facility upgrades, Promenade at Granite Run redevelopment, and numerous mixed-use projects along the Blue Route. The county has added over 1,000 new businesses in the past five years.
What is the cost of living in Delaware County?
Delaware County's median household income is $88,576 with median home values at $302,400. While higher than the PA average, it's significantly more affordable than neighboring Montgomery County or Philadelphia's Center City. The overall cost of living is about 10% above the national average but offers excellent value given the high quality of life and proximity to Philadelphia.
Does Delaware County have public transportation?
SEPTA provides extensive public transit with the Media/Elwyn Line, Wilmington/Newark Regional Rail, Norristown High Speed Line, and multiple trolley lines including the historic Media trolley. The 69th Street Terminal is a major transportation hub. Over 50 stations connect the county to Philadelphia and beyond, supporting both commuters and businesses.
What permits do I need to open a restaurant in Delaware County?
Restaurants need a PA business license, EIN, local business license from your municipality, health permit from Delaware County Health Department, liquor license from PLCB (if applicable), fire safety inspection, and signage permits. Media, Chester, and larger townships may have additional requirements. The process typically takes 2-4 months.
How do Delaware County property taxes compare to surrounding counties?
Delaware County's average effective property tax rate is approximately 1.85%, higher than Chester County (1.27%) but comparable to Montgomery County (1.51%) and lower than Philadelphia (1.40% plus city wage tax). The higher rate supports excellent schools and services that attract businesses and residents.
Are there co-working spaces in Delaware County?
Yes, Delaware County has numerous co-working options including Delco Coworking in Media, spaces in Newtown Square's Ellis Preserve, and various locations along the Blue Route. These serve the county's growing remote workforce and 2,000+ professional services businesses. Rates range from $200-500/month for dedicated desks.
What banks offer small business loans in Delaware County?
Major lenders include WSFS Bank, TD Bank, PNC, Citizens Bank, and local institutions like Franklin Mint Federal Credit Union and First Bank of Delaware County. The county's 600+ financial services businesses offer various loan products. SCORE Delco and the Commerce Center provide free assistance with loan applications.
What are the fastest-growing business sectors in Delaware County?
Healthcare services, professional/technical services, accommodations/food service, and e-commerce fulfillment show strong growth. The casino/entertainment sector is expanding with Harrah's Philadelphia. Life sciences companies are clustering near universities, and ethnic restaurants are booming in Upper Darby and along Baltimore Pike.
Can I operate a home-based business in Delaware County?
Yes, most Delaware County municipalities allow home-based businesses with proper permits. Requirements vary but typically limit customer visits, employees, signage, and business vehicle parking. Check with your specific municipality among the county's 49 communities for local zoning ordinances and permit requirements.
What educational institutions support workforce development in Delaware County?
Delaware County hosts 12 higher education institutions including Swarthmore College, Haverford College, Widener University, Neumann University, and Delaware County Community College with multiple campuses. These institutions provide workforce training, continuing education, and partnerships with local businesses, producing 15,000+ graduates annually.
How is the waterfront development affecting Delaware County businesses?
The Delaware River waterfront is experiencing major transformation with Harrah's Philadelphia Casino, Chester's Subaru Park (MLS stadium), and new mixed-use developments creating thousands of jobs. The Chester Riverfront has attracted $500+ million in investment, spurring growth in hospitality, retail, and service businesses throughout the eastern county.
What makes Delaware County attractive for professional services firms?
Delaware County offers Class A office space along the Blue Route at 25-40% less than Center City Philadelphia, an educated workforce (37.8% with bachelor's degrees+), excellent transportation access via SEPTA and highways, and prestigious business addresses in Main Line communities. The county hosts 2,000+ professional services firms from law to consulting.