A country lifestyle on the border of Pennsylvania and New Jersey
Owing its name to the nearby river that separates New Jersey from Pennsylvania, Delaware is a small township where country living is in high demand and plentiful supply. “Delaware is one of my favorite places to drive around because it’s so beautiful and relaxing,” says Linda Zotti, a Realtor with Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage who lives nearby in Flemington. “The views are bucolic; there’s just so many rolling hills and horse farms. The leaves are so vibrant in fall, and sometimes you’ll see a hot air balloon flying above the fields.” Despite the township’s rural feel, its location on the cusp of the New Jersey-Pennsylvania border puts it within driving distance of multiple major metropolitan areas and even closer to Flemington, a small-town hub for Hunterdon County amenities. Thanks to its highly rated schools and peaceful setting, the region has been attracting families steadily. “The elementary and middle school for Delaware is amazing, but it also integrates into Hunterdon Central High, which is bar none,” Zotti says.
Some cottages in Sergeantsville, plus sprawling estate-style mansions
Homes in Delaware are spread across the township, some clustered in small neighborhoods around Sergeantsville and others tucked just off winding backroads. Properties sit on lots of an acre or more, surrounded by trees and grazing pastures that provide privacy. Some smaller single-family homes from the late 20th century, including Colonial Revivals, ranch-style homes and New Traditional homes, can list in the $500,000 to $725,000 range. Custom-built and estate-style homes on multiple acres start at around $750,000 and can climb to upwards of $1 million, with luxury country mansions listing near the $2 million mark.
Historic homes now house local businesses in Sergeantsville
Most local businesses are centered in Sergeantsville. This historic small town shows off its storied past with its annual Thanksgiving in the Country celebration, which invites folks to tour some of its oldest houses in a tradition that’s been ongoing since 1973. One of its oldest and best-known properties is the Sergeantsville Inn, an old stone structure that has fed and sheltered hundreds of people over the years. Nowadays, it’s a popular date-night destination that’s best known for its upscale American fare, from seafood to its classic cheeseburger. Residents also shop across the street at the Farmer’s Table, a small country store selling locally sourced products. More grocery options are about 10 miles away, both to the north in Flemington and to the south in New Hope. “Dutch Country Farmer’s Market in Flemington is very popular,” Zotti says. “It’s only open Thursdays through Saturdays, but it’s an Amish market with lots of fresh produce.” Antique shops, feed stores and a couple of other casual restaurants can also be found across the area.
Rural recreation and kayaking on the Delaware River
Delaware’s wide-open spaces give energetic kids plenty of room to roam, as many properties here have over an acre of land. For those looking for sports fields and playgrounds, though, there are a few local options. Sarah Dilts Farm Park is perhaps the most popular local recreation area, as it’s home to numerous softball, baseball and soccer fields that often host evening practices and weekend youth games. Likewise, there are courts for tennis, volleyball and basketball. Gravel and mowed walking paths provide a place to stay active and enjoy the pastoral views while the kids hit the playground or the skating lot. For waterfront recreation, folks head to Delaware & Raritan Canal State Park or Bull’s Island Recreation Area. The former is situated on a historic canal that once linked Philadelphia and New York City, and the latter lies directly across a bridge in the Delaware River. Both have spots for fishing, kayaking and hiking along the water. More trails can be found at some of the township’s more rural parks, such as Wescott Preserve.
Zoned for highly rated Hunterdon Central High
Delaware Township School District operates Delaware Township School, which serves students in pre-kindergarten through the eighth grade. It scores a B grade from Niche and offers 20 clubs and extracurriculars for grades one through eight. High school students attend Hunterdon Central High, which receives an A and is part of the Hunterdon Central Regional High School District. Niche also ranks it as the No. 1 high school in Hunterdon County.
Head northeast into Flemington or hop on U.S. Route 202
U.S. Route 202 is just outside the township to the east, while New Jersey state highways 12 and 29 pass through small sections of the area. Perhaps Delaware’s most well-traveled thoroughfare is Sergeantsville Road, a one-lane country road that passes through Sergeantsville and continues northeast into Flemington. The borough is a hub for southern Hunterdon County and is home to Hunterdon Medical Center and entrances to Interstate 78. “It never feels congested at all, but you’re still close to conveniences,” Zotti says. “There might not be a lot of shopping in Delaware, but you can just as easily get into Flemington.” Trenton has a small domestic airport about 20 miles south, while international flights depart from Lehigh Valley International Airport, about 40 miles west in Allentown, Pennsylvania. Philadelphia and New York City are both roughly 55 miles away.
