Delaware named one of the best states for pickleball players in 2025

Delaware ranked the 10th best state in the country for pickleball players. (Photo by Aleksander Saks on Unsplash)

Delaware has been ranked the 10th best state in the country for pickleball players, according to a new national report by PodPlay Pickleball Business Guide.

The ranking is based on the number of pickleball venues per capita, with Delaware offering 3.52 facilities per 100,000 residents. The report analyzed the availability of indoor and outdoor pickleball courts across the U.S., identifying states and cities with the highest number of courts relative to population size. Vermont topped the list with nearly 11 venues per 100,000 residents, followed by Maine, Hawaii, South Dakota, and Idaho rounding out the top five.

Wilmington ranked as the fifth-best city in the country for pickleball access, with 13.97 courts per 100,000 residents. The city offers 10 venues with a combined total of 16 indoor and 29 outdoor courts, providing year-round options for local players.

“These findings reveal which areas have embraced the pickleball trend and how different regions adapt based on their weather patterns,” said Ben Borton, co-founder of PodPlay.

Florida dominated the city-level rankings, with Sarasota, Bradenton, and Boynton Beach claiming the top three spots due to their abundance of outdoor courts and favorable climate. Wilmington was the highest-ranked city outside the Southeast to make the top five.

“Florida cities make the most of endless sunshine with plenty of outdoor courts, while northern states like Vermont and Maine ensure year-round play through a significant number of indoor courts,” said Borton.

The report used data from Places2Play and the U.S. Census Bureau, considering cities with at least 10 venues. Rankings were based on the number of locations per 100,000 residents, as well as the balance of indoor and outdoor courts.

The results highlight growing national interest in pickleball and the expanding infrastructure supporting the sport across diverse regions.

For full rankings and methodology, visit podplay.app.