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Installation Guide

Dover AFB

Air Force Dover, Delaware

Off-Base Living

Top neighborhoods near Dover AFB

Camden Wyoming

A quiet Kent County community south of Dover with a small-town feel, good schools, and newer suburban developments preferred by many base families.

15–20 min to main gate

SuburbanFamily-friendlyAffordable

Smyrna

A growing town north of Dover with new construction neighborhoods, a charming historic downtown, and easy base access via Route 1.

15–20 min to main gate

SuburbanNew constructionFamily-friendly

Dover (Wesley College area)

The city of Dover proper with access to state capital amenities, the Dover International Speedway, and the most direct commute to base.

5–10 min to main gate

UrbanMilitary communityAffordable
Schools

Capital School District

Capital School District serves Dover. Many families prefer the Caesar Rodney School District (Camden Wyoming area) or the Smyrna School District, both of which are rated higher. Delaware's small size means multiple good options are within reach.

What families should know

  • Caesar Rodney High School is well-regarded for academics and athletics
  • Smyrna High School has been recognized for student performance growth
  • Delaware's proximity to Philadelphia and Baltimore metro resources
Things to Do

Life around Dover AFB

Entertainment

Dover International Speedway

The 'Monster Mile' NASCAR track hosts two major race weekends per year, transforming Dover into a massive motorsports hub.

Attraction

First State National Historical Park

Commemorates Delaware's role as the first state to ratify the Constitution, with sites throughout Dover and the surrounding county.

Outdoors

Delaware Beaches (Rehoboth, Dewey)

World-class Atlantic beaches just 45–50 miles east with boardwalks, dining, surf, and outlet shopping at Rehoboth.

Entertainment

Firefly Music Festival Grounds (The Woodlands)

Dover Downs hosts the massive annual Firefly Music Festival attracting top national and international acts each summer.

Dining

Casapulla's Subs

A Delaware institution for Philly-style hoagies and subs, beloved by military and civilian locals across Kent County.

Outdoors

Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge

A stunning Delaware Bay tidal marsh refuge north of Dover with exceptional shorebird and waterfowl migration viewing.

Housing Market

Buying or renting near Dover AFB

Home Prices

$260,000–$380,000

Typical Rent

$1,300–$1,800/mo

Dover sits in central Delaware with no state income tax, making it financially attractive. The market is stable but competitive. Coastal Delaware demand pushes prices up slightly compared to inland areas.

Popular neighborhoods: Camden Wyoming, Smyrna

Buying near Dover AFB with a VA loan: $0 down and no PMI. Estimate your allowance with the BAH calculator, follow the PCS checklist, and read the full VA Loan Guide before you go under contract.

Orders to Dover AFB?

Get pre-approved before you arrive. A VA loan specialist can have your numbers ready this week.

Call (719) 259-2246