Sussex County lies in the southern part of the U.S. state of Delaware. It is one of three counties in the state and is located on the Delmarva Peninsula in the United States. The administrative center, or county seat, is the town of Georgetown.
Overview
Sussex County covers the largest land area of any county in Delaware and includes a mix of agricultural inland areas and popular Atlantic coastal resorts. Its shoreline communities and state parks make tourism an important part of the local economy, while farming—especially poultry, corn, and soybeans—remains significant in the interior.
Population
At the 2000 census the county had 156,638 residents. Over the following decades the population grew substantially; by the 2020 census the number of inhabitants was approximately 237,378, reflecting development along the coast and inland suburban expansion.
Communities and Attractions
- Georgetown serves as the county government center and hosts a historic town circle.
- Coastal towns such as Rehoboth Beach, Lewes, and Bethany Beach attract seasonal visitors for beaches, boardwalks, and summer events.
- Rural areas of the county contain farms, small towns, and wildlife preserves that support outdoor recreation and agriculture.
Government and Services
The county government provides regional services including land use planning, public safety coordination, and maintenance of certain roads and public records. Local municipalities operate their own police, fire, and zoning authorities within town limits.
Geography and Climate
Sussex County is largely low-lying, with coastal plains, bays, and marshlands along the Atlantic. The climate is humid subtropical, with warm summers and mild winters compared with inland Mid-Atlantic regions, contributing to year-round recreational opportunities along the coast.