Welcome to Somerset County
Somerset County, New Jersey – Community Overview & Real Estate Guide
In the heart of Central New Jersey, Somerset County blends historic towns, corporate hubs, and preserved open space. From walkable boroughs like Somerville (the county seat) and Bernardsville to riverside and canal-town neighborhoods in Franklin, residents enjoy fast access to I-78, I-287, US-22, and US-202/206, plus a deep parks network anchored by Duke Farms, Sourland Mountain Preserve, and the Delaware & Raritan Canal State Park. The mix of employment centers, commuter rail, and greenspace supports both primary-home and long-term investment demand.
Overview of Somerset County, NJ
Covering about 305 sq mi (≈302 sq mi land) with just over 3 sq mi of water, Somerset spans from the Watchung foothills to the Raritan River. A robust trail and park system—Duke Farms, Washington Valley Park, Natirar, and the D&R Canal—supports year-round outdoor life. Transit options include the Raritan Valley Line (Somerville, Raritan, Bound Brook, Bridgewater) and the Gladstone Branch (Bernardsville, Basking Ridge, Far Hills, Peapack-Gladstone), with highway access that makes New York, Newark, Princeton, and Philadelphia reachable for work or weekends.
Historic Downtowns Duke Farms & Sourland I-78 / I-287 / RVL
| Key Facts about Somerset County, NJ | |
|---|---|
| Area | ≈ 305 sq mi total; ≈ 302 sq mi land; ≈ 3.1 sq mi water |
| County Seat | Somerville |
| Established | May 22, 1688 (charter) |
| Population (2023 est.) | ~348,800 |
| Signature Parks & Trails | Duke Farms (Hillsborough); Sourland Mountain Preserve; Delaware & Raritan Canal State Park; Washington Valley Park; Natirar |
| Main Roads & Rail | I-78; I-287; US-22; US-202/206; NJ-27 & NJ-28; NJ Transit Raritan Valley Line & Gladstone Branch |
From vibrant main streets and employment centers to expansive preserves and canal towpaths, Somerset County delivers day-to-day convenience with real outdoor depth—an appealing fit for commuters, remote professionals, and long-term investors alike.
Location & Connectivity in Somerset County, NJ
Somerset County sits in Central New Jersey with quick access to I-78, I-287, US-22, and US-202/206. Walkable downtowns like Somerville, Bernardsville, and Bound Brook pair with major employment corridors in Bridgewater and Franklin Township, plus extensive parks and preserves.
Day-to-day mobility is primarily by car, supported by two NJ TRANSIT rail lines (Raritan Valley Line and Gladstone Branch). Ride-share apps operate broadly; Newark Liberty International (EWR) is the primary airport, with regional options nearby.
| Connectivity & Transportation — Somerset County, NJ | |
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| Location Map & Overview | Central New Jersey between the Watchung foothills and the Raritan River. Quick regional access to Newark/Jersey City/NYC and Princeton via highways and commuter rail. |
| Nearby Areas & Communities |
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| Attractions & Points of Interest |
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| Public Transport |
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| Road Access & Main Highways |
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| Parking | Municipal and private lots in downtown Somerville, Bernardsville, and Bound Brook; station and county-park lots at major trailheads and venues. |
| Walking & Cycling | Extensive paths at Duke Farms, trails in Sourland Mountain and Washington Valley Park, and towpath mileage along the D&R Canal for biking/running. |
| Taxi & Ride Apps | Uber and Lyft widely available near town centers and stations; local taxi and shuttle providers operate regionally. |
| Airport Access |
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Somerset County pairs commuter convenience with deep parkland and trail access—ideal for residents seeking suburban amenities, strong connectivity, and a robust outdoor lifestyle.
Somerset County Real Estate Market Trends (2025)
In Central New Jersey, Somerset County combines historic towns, suburban subdivisions, and rural estates. As of mid–late 2025, the county’s median sale price is about $615K with a median price per sq. ft. near $305. Market activity is competitive, with homes typically selling in ~30–45 days. Prices vary: boroughs like Somerville and Bound Brook offer more attainable entry points, while Basking Ridge, Bernardsville, and Far Hills anchor the luxury segment.
| Property Type | Median Price (USD) | Price per Sq.Ft (USD) | Average Rent (USD/month) | Rental Yield |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR Condo | $385,000 (est.) | $300 | $2,100 | 6.5% (est.) |
| 2BR Townhome | $465,000 (est.) | $305 | $2,300 | 6.0% (est.) |
| 3BR Single-Family Home | $675,000 (est.) | $310 | $2,800 | 5.0% (est.) |
| 4BR Single-Family Home | $890,000 (est.) | $310 | $3,300 | 4.5% (est.) |
Methodology & notes: Countywide median sale price (~$615K) and $305/sq.ft. based on 2025 regional market reports. Rental estimates reflect typical Somerset County leases (2024–25). Values vary by town, age of home, lot size, and school district rankings.
Lifestyle in Somerset County, NJ
Life in Somerset County blends historic downtowns, preserved parklands, and strong commuter access. Anchored by Somerville and Bridgewater, the county stretches from the Watchung foothills to the Delaware & Raritan Canal. Residents enjoy top-rated schools, cultural venues, and a balance of suburban convenience with rural tranquility—all within commuting distance to New York City, Newark, and Princeton.
Location in Somerset County
Central NJ between the Watchung Mountains and Raritan River. Easy access to I-78, I-287, US-22, US-202/206, and NJ Transit lines to NYC.
Community
Charming downtowns in Somerville, Bernardsville, and Bound Brook; family-friendly neighborhoods; active civic groups and annual events.
Dining
Restaurants range from Somerville’s lively Main Street dining scene to farm-to-table in Bernardsville and international cuisine in Franklin Township.
Education
Served by highly rated public school districts (e.g., Bernards Twp., Bridgewater-Raritan, Hillsborough). Options include private, parochial, and early childhood centers.
Housing
Mix of historic colonials, suburban subdivisions, townhomes, and luxury estates in Far Hills and Basking Ridge. Median home values around $615K (2025).
Transportation
Major highways plus NJ Transit’s Raritan Valley Line and Gladstone Branch. Commuter buses and ride-shares widely available; Newark Liberty ~35 min away.
Climate
Humid continental: warm summers, cold snowy winters, and colorful fall foliage. Seasonal shifts support year-round outdoor recreation.
Amenities
Shopping at Bridgewater Commons, healthcare at RWJ University Hospital & Robert Wood Johnson facilities, and county parks like Duke Farms and Colonial Park.
Demographics
Diverse population of families, professionals, and retirees. Many commute to NYC/Princeton; strong presence of healthcare, finance, and tech professionals.
Pros
Top schools, robust transit access, preserved green space, vibrant downtowns, and a strong economy anchored by pharma and finance.
Cons
Higher property taxes than the national average; rush-hour congestion; competitive housing in top districts.
Outdoor Activities
Hiking in Sourland Mountain Preserve, cycling the D&R Canal, golf at Neshanic Valley, and family picnics at Colonial Park & Natirar.
Somerset County offers a balance of suburban amenities and natural landscapes—ideal for commuters, families, and anyone seeking a high quality of life in Central New Jersey.
Amenities in Somerset County, NJ
Somerset County offers residents full access to everyday essentials—from major healthcare systems and supermarkets to diverse places of worship and pet-friendly services. Use the lists below to explore key amenities throughout the county.
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Hospitals & Clinics
Bridgewater • Somerville • Surrounding TownshipsSomerset County is served by multiple top-tier hospital systems and urgent care centers.- Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Somerset — Somerville
- RWJBarnabas Health – Bridgewater — Bridgewater
- Morristown Medical Center — nearby in Morris County
- Urgent Care centers — located in Hillsborough, Raritan, Bound Brook
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Supermarkets & Shopping
Bridgewater Commons • Somerville • HillsboroughFrom local groceries to regional malls, shopping is convenient across the county.- Bridgewater Commons Mall — anchor shopping and dining
- ShopRite — Hillsborough, Bound Brook, Somerville
- Wegmans — Bridgewater
- Costco Wholesale — Bridgewater
- Downtown Somerville — boutiques, cafés, specialty shops
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Places of Worship
Diverse Faith CommunitiesChurches, synagogues, temples, and mosques serve a wide range of traditions across the county.- Somerville United Methodist Church — Somerville
- Temple Sholom — Bridgewater
- Islamic Society of Basking Ridge — Basking Ridge
- St. Bernard of Clairvaux Catholic Church — Bridgewater
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Pet Services
Veterinary • Grooming • ParksSomerset County is highly pet-friendly, offering veterinary care, boarding, and outdoor spaces.- Bridgewater Veterinary Hospital — Bridgewater
- Hillsborough Veterinary Hospital — Hillsborough
- PetSmart & Grooming — Bridgewater & Somerville
- Duke Island Park — dog-friendly walking paths
Schools & Preschools in Somerset County, NJ
Families in Somerset County are served by award-winning public school districts, highly regarded private and parochial institutions, and a wide range of early childhood centers. Top districts include Bridgewater-Raritan, Bernards Township, Hillsborough Township, and Somerville. Private options like Rutgers Prep and Gill St. Bernard’s School offer additional academic depth, while Montessori schools and preschools provide strong early education.
Schools here emphasize strong academics, STEM, arts, and extracurriculars. Many towns feature active PTOs and enrichment programs. Proximity to Rutgers University and other nearby colleges adds higher-ed opportunities and community partnerships.
| School / Preschool | Type | Town | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hillsborough Elementary Schools | Public (K–4) | Hillsborough |
Part of Hillsborough Township Schools, highly rated for STEM and arts programs.
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| Van Holten Elementary | Public (K–5) | Bridgewater |
Well-regarded elementary in Bridgewater-Raritan district with strong community involvement.
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| Bridgewater-Raritan Middle School | Public (7–8) | Bridgewater |
Feeder to Bridgewater-Raritan High; known for academic clubs and athletics.
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| Bridgewater-Raritan High School | Public (9–12) | Bridgewater |
Large, diverse programs with AP courses, performing arts, and championship athletics.
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| Ridge High School | Public (9–12) | Basking Ridge |
Top-ranked high school in Bernards Township; strong academics and extracurriculars.
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| Rutgers Preparatory School | Private (PK–12) | Somerset (Franklin Twp.) |
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Investment Potential in Somerset County, NJ
Somerset County blends suburban stability with commuter convenience to New York City and regional job hubs. Investors find opportunities in long-term rentals, luxury single-family resales, and value-add renovations of older homes. Proximity to corporate centers, top-ranked schools, and regional hospitals provides durable housing demand.
Why Somerset County? Access to major highways (I-78, I-287, US-22), NJ Transit rail lines, and corporate campuses in Bridgewater, Basking Ridge, and Bedminster. Top-rated school districts and a high quality of life keep resale values strong. Rental markets remain steady, especially near downtown Somerville and Bound Brook transit villages.
- Buy & Hold: 3–4BR homes in Hillsborough, Bridgewater, and Somerville rent quickly to families.
- Luxury Resale: Estates in Bernardsville, Basking Ridge, and Far Hills command premium resale values.
- Value-Add/Flip: Mid-century homes updated with modern kitchens, energy efficiency, and open layouts appeal to today’s buyers.
- Risk & Underwriting: Property taxes are among the highest in the U.S.—investors must factor these into cash flow models.
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Rental Snapshot (Typical Monthly Ranges)
2BR Condo: ~$2,000–$2,400 • 3BR SFR: ~$2,700–$3,300 • 4BR SFR: ~$3,400–$4,200
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What Performs Well
- Homes near NJ Transit rail stations (Somerville, Bound Brook, Bridgewater).
- Properties zoned to top schools (Ridge HS, Hillsborough, Bridgewater-Raritan).
- Renovated kitchens, finished basements, and energy-efficient upgrades.
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Compliance Checklist
- Verify municipal rental registration requirements.
- Review HOA bylaws for condo/townhome rentals.
- Account for Somerset County property taxes in ROI calculations.
With its balance of commuter convenience, strong school districts, and luxury enclaves, Somerset County offers investors durable demand and steady long-term fundamentals.
Thinking About Moving to Somerset County?
In the heart of Central New Jersey, Somerset County offers a balance of suburban comfort, scenic open spaces, and commuter access to both New York City and Philadelphia. Towns like Somerville, Basking Ridge, and Bridgewater blend historic charm with modern convenience, while I-78, I-287, and NJ Transit lines connect residents to regional job hubs.
Housing ranges from single-family homes on spacious lots and townhomes in master-planned communities to condos near downtowns and transit villages. Premiums track with school district rankings, commuter rail proximity, and luxury estate enclaves in Bernardsville, Bedminster, and Far Hills.
Daily life is defined by access to top-rated schools, parks and preserves like the Delaware & Raritan Canal and Duke Farms, and retail destinations such as Bridgewater Commons. Families enjoy a mix of cultural venues, golf courses, and community events, all within easy reach of Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) and regional transit.
Frequently Asked Questions about Somerset County
- How much does it cost to live in Somerset County?
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- Condos/Townhomes: typically $300K–$600K depending on location and amenities
- Single-family homes: $550K–$1.2M+ with premiums in towns like Basking Ridge, Bernardsville, and Montgomery
- Luxury estates: $2M+ in Far Hills, Bedminster, and Bernardsville
Ranges are typical for recent MLS sales; values vary by township, school district, and commuter access. - Is Somerset County a good place for investment properties?
- Yes—its mix of suburban growth, corporate presence, and strong schools support long-term value. Investors often target multi-family rentals, townhomes near transit hubs, and value-add flips in established neighborhoods. Always review municipal zoning and property taxes, which vary by township.
- What is the rental market like?
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- Apartments & Townhomes: ~$2,200–$3,200/month for 2–3BR units
- Single-family rentals: $3,500–$5,500+/month in desirable school districts
Rental demand is steady due to proximity to NYC, corporate campuses, and Rutgers University. - What types of properties are common?
- A diverse mix of single-family homes, condominiums, and townhomes. Historic Colonials and Victorians are found in Somerville and Bound Brook, while Bedminster, Bernards, and Montgomery offer modern subdivisions and estate properties.
- What makes Somerset County unique?
- Its blend of top-rated schools, historic charm, expansive parks and trails (like Duke Farms and Watchung Reservation), and strong commuter access via I-78, I-287, and NJ Transit. It’s both a suburban haven and a commuter’s gateway to NYC and Philadelphia.
- How do people get around, and which airports serve the area?
- Most travel is by car, with direct access to I-78 and I-287. NJ Transit’s Raritan Valley Line provides service to Newark and New York City. Nearby airports include Newark Liberty International (EWR) and Trenton-Mercer (TTN).
- Which schools serve Somerset County?
- Highly rated public schools in towns like Montgomery, Bernards, and Bridgewater-Raritan anchor the county, along with private institutions such as the Pingry School and Rutgers Preparatory School. Somerset also benefits from proximity to Rutgers University in New Brunswick.
Somerset County blends suburban lifestyle, strong schools, and easy access to NYC and Philadelphia—ideal for families, professionals, and investors seeking long-term value.
