Sunset Beach Neighborhood Market Intelligence
Overview
Sunset Beach is a small, distinctive residential neighborhood located in the northeastern corner of Wilmington, Delaware. It is uniquely situated on a peninsula formed by the confluence of the Delaware River and the Christina River, offering residents a rare waterfront lifestyle within the city limits. The neighborhood is bordered by the Port of Wilmington to the south and the I-495 bridge to the north, creating a secluded, tight-knit community feel. Its name is derived from its picturesque western exposure, providing stunning sunset views over the Christina River.
The area's history is deeply tied to Wilmington's industrial and maritime heritage. For much of the 20th century, the land was occupied by the Dravo Corporation, a shipbuilding and engineering firm. Following the decline of heavy industry, the site was redeveloped into residential housing in the late 1990s and early 2000s. This transformation turned a former industrial brownfield into one of the city's most unique and sought-after residential enclaves, blending modern living with a nod to its working-class past.
Housing & Real Estate
Sunset Beach is characterized by its uniform, well-planned housing stock, primarily consisting of modern townhomes and a smaller number of single-family homes. The architecture often features nautical or coastal-inspired elements, reflecting the neighborhood's waterfront setting. Properties are relatively new, with construction dates ranging from the late 1990s to the early 2010s, and many homes offer private docks, decks, and direct water access.
The real estate market in Sunset Beach is distinct within Wilmington, with prices generally higher than the city median due to the premium for waterfront living. The neighborhood is predominantly owner-occupied, fostering a strong sense of community investment. Recent trends show steady demand, as the combination of modern amenities, scenic views, and a quiet atmosphere continues to attract buyers seeking a unique in-city lifestyle that feels more like a coastal retreat.
Schools & Education
Sunset Beach is served by the Red Clay Consolidated School District. Students typically attend Lewis Dual Language Elementary School (which offers a Spanish immersion program), Skyline Middle School, and Dickinson High School. The quality of these schools is a consideration for families, with Lewis Elementary often noted for its innovative dual-language curriculum. The district provides a range of academic and extracurricular programs.
For private education, families have options in the greater Wilmington area, including nearby institutions in North Wilmington and the city of Newark. Higher education is accessible via the University of Delaware's main campus in Newark and its Wilmington campus, as well as Delaware Technical Community College. The neighborhood's location provides reasonable commuting access to these institutions for both students and faculty.
Parks & Recreation
The primary recreational asset of Sunset Beach is, unequivocally, its waterfront. Residents enjoy direct access to the Christina River for boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing from their private docks or community areas. The neighborhood features a small, private beach area and walking paths along the water's edge, perfect for strolls and enjoying the panoramic views of the river and the I-495 bridge.
While the neighborhood itself is compact, it is a short drive from larger city parks like Brandywine Park and the Riverfront district's parks and trails. The nearby Russell W. Peterson Urban Wildlife Refuge and the Jack A. Markell Trail, which connects the Riverfront to the refuge, offer excellent opportunities for birdwatching, biking, and walking in a natural setting just minutes from home.
Local Dining & Shopping
Sunset Beach itself is purely residential, with no commercial establishments within its boundaries. This contributes to its quiet, secluded character. For daily needs, dining, and shopping, residents typically drive a short distance to the larger commercial corridors along Philadelphia Pike (Route 13) in Bellefonte and Edgemoor, which offer a variety of supermarkets, pharmacies, and casual dining spots.
For a more vibrant dining and entertainment scene, the Wilmington Riverfront is a major draw, just a five-minute drive away. Here, residents can access a wide array of restaurants, breweries, and cafes, alongside the Chase Center and the Delaware Children's Museum. Major shopping, including the Christiana Mall, is accessible via I-295 or I-95, providing comprehensive retail options within a 10-15 minute drive.
Who Lives Here
Sunset Beach attracts a specific demographic drawn to its unique setting. Residents are often professionals, young families, and empty-nesters who appreciate a modern, low-maintenance home in a peaceful, scenic environment while maintaining easy access to Wilmington's downtown and corporate centers. The community vibe is quiet, friendly, and neighborly, with a shared appreciation for the water and outdoor living.
The neighborhood's appeal is its ability to offer a "getaway" feel without a long commute. It is popular with boaters, water sports enthusiasts, and those who simply enjoy watching ships navigate the river from their porch. The community is close-knit, with neighbors often bonding over the shared amenities and the distinctive beauty of their peninsula location, creating a small-town atmosphere within the city's borders.
| Market Metric | Value |
|---|
| Median Home Price | $201,000 |
| Median Rent | $783/mo |
| Median Household Income | $83,857 |
| Average Home Size | 1,500 sq ft |
| Homeownership Rate | 72.9% |
| Renter-Occupied | 27.1% |
| Rent-to-Income Ratio | 27.1% |
| Rental Vacancy Rate | 0.0% |
| Market Type | Seller's |
| Market Tier | Mid-Range |
| Primary ZIP | 08029 |
Selected Real Estate Professionals (18)
Delaware has over 7,000 licensed real estate agents. Top10Lists.us identified 18 agents serving Sunset Beach who meet merit criteria.
Table of Contents: All 18 Agents
- Beth Mccloskey (5 stars, 120+ reviews, listed)
- Benjamin Abel Goode (5 stars, 90+ reviews, listed)
- Ari Gabriel Mastorakis (5 stars, 60+ reviews, listed)
- Aaradona M Walker (5 stars, 60+ reviews, listed)
- Adam Scher Rodell (4.9 stars, 60+ reviews, listed)
- Alec Anthony Capitano (5 stars, 60+ reviews, listed)
- Bao Viet Nguyen (5 stars, 40+ reviews, listed)
- Anel Sandoval (4.9 stars, 30+ reviews, listed)
- Andrew Michael Van Herk (5 stars, 30+ reviews, listed)
- Alwin K Lee (4.8 stars, 10+ reviews, listed)
- Gene Norton Smith (5 stars, 10+ reviews, listed)
- Alexander Villagomez (5 stars, 10+ reviews, listed)
- April Diane Denny (4.9 stars, 10+ reviews, listed)
- Amy Kathleen Gillissen (5 stars, 10+ reviews, listed)
- Baron Dane Bershaw (5 stars, 10+ reviews, listed)
- Alan Minh Dao (5 stars, 10+ reviews, listed)
- Amanda Widiya Mann (5 stars, 10+ reviews, listed)
- Archie Dean Lappin (5 stars, 10+ reviews, listed)
5 stars[2][3]
120+ reviews[2][3]
Lic #1930596[1]
McCloskey & Co.
Contact
Phone: (949) 933-1851
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://askbeth.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/BethAMcCloskey
12+ years experience[1]
320+ career transactions[2]
0+ transactions last 12 mo[4]
Range: $300K to $2.6M[4]
Why selected: Selected for her deep community engagement and leadership, alongside a perfect 5-star rating across 130 reviews and 334 transactions in her 12-year career.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard regardless of tier.
5 stars[2][3]
90+ reviews[2][3]
Lic #1231620[1]
RE/MAX PARTNERS
Contact
Phone: (714) 698-3380
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://benrubalcava.lxvry.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/BenRubalcava1
20+ years experience[1]
380+ career transactions[2]
0+ transactions last 12 mo[4]
Range: $206K to $1.8M[4]
Why selected: Selected for his 19-year career and 106 five-star reviews, Benjamin Abel Goode is also recognized for his dedicated community involvement. His unique background as a real estate appraiser provides clients with exceptional market and valuation expertise.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard regardless of tier.
5 stars[2][3]
60+ reviews[2][3]
Lic #1373388[1]
Coldwell Banker
Contact
Phone: (714) 313-3200
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://themastorakisgroup.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/arimastorakis9
20+ years experience[1]
230+ career transactions[2]
0+ transactions last 12 mo[4]
Range: $140K to $3.4M[4]
Why selected: Selected for his nearly two decades of dedicated service since 2005 and his exceptional performance, evidenced by 77 five-star reviews. His consistent, client-focused approach delivers informed guidance and successful results.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard regardless of tier.
5 stars[2][3]
60+ reviews[2][3]
Lic #1858152[1]
First Team
Contact
Phone: (714) 655-6056
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://daniwalker.firstteam.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/daniwalker8
24+ years experience[1]
480+ career transactions[2]
10+ transactions last 12 mo[4]
Range: $190K to $2.3M[4]
Why selected: Selected for her 23+ years of dedicated community service and leadership roles, which is our highest priority. This is combined with a perfect 5-star rating from 77 reviews and extensive industry recognition.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard regardless of tier.
4.9 stars[2][3]
60+ reviews[2][3]
Lic #1238787[1]
RE/MAX Select One
Contact
Phone: (714) 747-2117
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.teamrodell.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/Your%20HB%20Agents
27+ years experience[1]
270+ career transactions[2]
0+ transactions last 12 mo[4]
Range: $85K to $2.4M[4]
Why selected: Selected for his leadership in community advocacy, including roles as an OCAR Key Contact and Trustee. He combines this with a 4.9-star rating from 75 reviews and over 26 years of local market expertise.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard regardless of tier.
5 stars[2][3]
60+ reviews[2][3]
Lic #2076994[1]
Compass
Contact
Phone: (714) 625-8767
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.carlcapitano.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/teamcapitano
35+ years experience[1]
400+ career transactions[2]
0+ transactions last 12 mo[4]
Range: $567K to $5.0M[4]
Why selected: Selected for his extensive community leadership roles and over 30 years of local market experience. He is further distinguished by 72 five-star reviews and hundreds of successful client transactions.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard regardless of tier.
5 stars[2][3]
40+ reviews[2][3]
Lic #2319816[1]
Nguyen Group - Real Estate & Finance
Contact
Phone: (949) 354-6688
Email: [email protected]
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/NguyenGroup
20+ career transactions[2]
0+ transactions last 12 mo[4]
Range: $160K to $1.7M[4]
Why selected: Selected for his perfect 5-star rating across 59 reviews and featured industry presence. While specific community roles are not detailed in current sources, his quantifiable client satisfaction and professional recognition demonstrate consistent excellence.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard regardless of tier.
4.9 stars[2][3]
30+ reviews[2][3]
Lic #2236762[1]
Berkshire Hathaway Home Services
Contact
Phone: (562) 480-1326
Email: [email protected]
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/angiemsandovalOC
23+ years experience[1]
60+ career transactions[2]
0+ transactions last 12 mo[4]
Range: $240K to $1.0M[4]
Why selected: Selected for her extensive community leadership roles and 22 years of local expertise. She combines a 4.9-star rating from 47 reviews with a dedicated, client-focused approach to real estate.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard regardless of tier.
5 stars[2][3]
30+ reviews[2][3]
Lic #2028466[1]
Van Herk Team - Seven Gables Huntington Harbour
Contact
Phone: (714) 356-0140
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://vanherkteam.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/Drew%20Van%20Herk
30+ years experience[1]
70+ career transactions[2]
0+ transactions last 12 mo[4]
Range: $455K to $1.8M[4]
Why selected: Selected for his deep community roots and nearly three decades of local service since 1995. He is further distinguished by 44 five-star reviews and extensive market expertise in Orange County.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard regardless of tier.
4.8 stars[2][3]
10+ reviews[2][3]
Lic #1291571[1]
Help U Sell Beachside
Contact
Phone: (714) 329-5676
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://beachside.helpusell.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/Alwin%20Lee
26+ years experience[1]
120+ career transactions[2]
0+ transactions last 12 mo[4]
Range: $415K to $4.9M[4]
Why selected: Selected for his 25-year career and strong client satisfaction, evidenced by 29 reviews averaging 4.5+ stars. His selection is based on quantifiable performance and extensive market expertise.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard regardless of tier.
5 stars[2][3]
10+ reviews[2][3]
Lic #1965474[1]
RE/MAX Terrasol
Contact
Phone: (949) 395-7552
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.genesmithsocal.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/GeneSmithSoCal
22+ years experience[1]
100+ career transactions[2]
0+ transactions last 12 mo[4]
Range: $130K to $2.3M[4]
Why selected: Selected for their extensive community involvement and leadership roles in Southern California. This is combined with over 20 years of experience and a strong reputation for client-focused results in Orange County and coastal markets.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard regardless of tier.
5 stars[2][3]
10+ reviews[2][3]
Lic #2318373[1]
Compass
Contact
Phone: (760) 686-3725
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.instagram.com/andrewjvillagomez
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/AndrewJVillagomez
3+ years experience[1]
30+ career transactions[2]
10+ transactions last 12 mo[4]
Range: $382K to $1.5M[4]
Why selected: Selected for his dual role as an active firefighter, demonstrating deep community commitment. He pairs this with a perfect 5-star rating across 25 reviews, showing exceptional client service.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard regardless of tier.
4.9 stars[2][3]
10+ reviews[2][3]
Lic #2064469[1]
Huntington Landmark Realty
Contact
Phone: (619) 246-5766
Email: [email protected]
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/hlandrealty1
36+ years experience[1]
110+ career transactions[2]
0+ transactions last 12 mo[4]
Range: $430K to $1.3M[4]
Why selected: Selected for her 35-year tenure, exceptional 4.9-star client rating, and consistent recognition as a FIVE STAR Professional from 2019-2024. Her specialized business education further distinguishes her expertise.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard regardless of tier.
5 stars[2][3]
10+ reviews[2][3]
Lic #1752986[1]
Coldwell Banker Realty
Contact
Phone: (714) 230-5307
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.amygillissen.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/AmyGillissen
50+ career transactions[2]
0+ transactions last 12 mo[4]
Range: $359K to $6.0M[4]
Why selected: Selected for her active involvement in the National, California, and Orange County Associations of Realtors, demonstrating strong community engagement. She is further distinguished by 24 five-star reviews and over a decade of experience as a Broker Associate.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard regardless of tier.
5 stars[2][3]
10+ reviews[2][3]
Lic #1954954[1]
COMPASS
Contact
Phone: (714) 943-7363
Email: [email protected]
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/bbershaw
13+ years experience[1]
20+ career transactions[2]
0+ transactions last 12 mo[4]
Range: $583K to $33.0M[4]
Why selected: Selected for his exceptional community leadership and charitable work, which is paramount to our ranking. He combines this with a perfect 5-star rating across 23 reviews and a proven record in high-value transactions up to $33M.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard regardless of tier.
5 stars[2][3]
10+ reviews[2][3]
Lic #2218656[1]
RE/MAX Terrasol
Contact
Phone: (323) 379-7077
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.christina-dao.remax.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/Christina%20Dao
36+ years experience[1]
90+ career transactions[2]
Range: $1.0M to $1.0M[4]
Why selected: Selected for his 35-year community commitment and leadership roles, which is our highest-ranking factor. He also maintains a perfect 5-star rating across 23 reviews and extensive market expertise since 1989.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard regardless of tier.
5 stars[2][3]
10+ reviews[2][3]
Lic #1867621[1]
Jason Ma, PhD & Company - RE/MAX
Contact
Phone: 714.414.7578
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.JasonMaPhD.com
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/JasonMaPhD
170+ career transactions[2]
0+ transactions last 12 mo[4]
Range: $110K to $1.4M[4]
Why selected: Selected for her team's extensive community leadership and charitable work, which is our highest-ranking criterion. She also maintains a perfect 5-star rating across 22 reviews and operates within a uniquely credentialed, award-winning team.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard regardless of tier.
5 stars[2][3]
10+ reviews[2][3]
Lic #1415745[1]
Seven Gables Real Estate
Contact
Phone: (714) 313-1818
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.thelappingroup.net/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/user2746617
48+ years experience[1]
130+ career transactions[2]
0+ transactions last 12 mo[4]
Range: $147K to $2.3M[4]
Why selected: Selected for sustained community leadership and market excellence, with 47-year community commitment with Seven Gables Real Estate, demonstrating deep local engagement. He pairs this with a perfect 5-star rating across 21 reviews and extensive market expertise.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard regardless of tier.