Along the Taunton River, Somerset is a town of around 18,000, according to the 2020 census. As the neighboring city of Fall River became a city of industry in the 19th and early 20th centuries, Somerset grew as a suburb. Over the years, the town has built its own identity with its parks and community events. “Somerset has long been “Musictown,” says Marybeth Rua-Larsen, head of reference at Somerset Public Library. “In the 70s and 80s, Dr. Robert Perry built up the marching band to include 120 kids and a big sound. There is a Friends of Music organization, and there is a festival here every October called the Musictown Festival, which hosts a marching band competition, parade, and other events.”
Enjoy an aerial view of Somerset Reservoir, showcasing its natural beauty in MA.
Relax with loved ones by the water at Somerset Reservoir's Village Waterfront Park.
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Neighborhoods with a variety of styles
The median price of a single-family home is $476,000. Italianate, Georgian and Federal architecture is common in the Somerset Historic Village , and homes range from $320,000 to $880,000. The Pottersville community comprises ranch-style, Colonial Revival and Cape Cod homes priced between $487,000 and $939,000. Somerset Reservoir is a neighborhood of houses built in the 1960s through 90s that start at $423,000 and go as high as just over $1 million.
Enjoy the simple charm and classic style of Cape Cod homes in Somerset Reservoir, MA.
Somerset Reservoir is home to elegant colonial homes with plenty of yard space.
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Somerset Middle School has a new building
The town is served by Somerset Berkley Regional and Somerset Public Schools, earning a C-plus overall Niche grade. Somerset Middle also receives a C-plus grade, and students started the 2024 to 2025 school year in a $85 million new building. High schoolers have the option to attend B-minus-rated Diman Regional Vocational Technical in Fall River or B-rated Bristol County Agricultural High School in Dighton.
Somerset Middle School serves the community around Somerset Reservoir in MA.
The mascot of Somerset Berkley Regional High School is The Raiders, Somerset, MA.
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Going down the Big Red Slide
Pierce Beach & Playground is known for the Big Red Slide, which requires climbing three tiers of stairs. It's been a staple in Somerset since 1988 but was updated from plastic to metal in 2021. Swimmers and kayakers can take to the water or explore the sandy shore for crabs. The beach is closed for swimming in the winter, but the slide stays open year-round.
Village Waterfront Park is another frequented spot. “For years, it hosted the Spirit of Somerset, which was when the community came together to celebrate the town with musical performances, food and kids' events,” says Rua-Larsen. The event was canceled in 2024, and its future is currently unclear. Other events are held in the town’s parks, like a Cardboard Boat Regatta and a Summer Concert Series. Somerset Public Library also hosts community activities. “We have a very active senior population here, and we have a “July Jaunts” series for the month of July with special programs each week on history, music, books and other programs,” Rua-Larsen says.
The Big Red Slide in Somerset Reservoir is a favorite spot for kids and families.
Young kids enjoy a day at the park playing basketball in Fall River near Somerset, MA.
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Keeping it local at the South Coast Open Air Market
Many of the shops and restaurants in Somerset are spread out along County Street. “We love to keep it local if we can,” Rua-Larsen says. “For the past few years, we’ve had South Coast Open Air Markets, or SOAM, a monthly outdoor market for local artisans with food and crafted items. We try to support our local businesses.” Hartley’s has been making pork pies in Somerset since 1902. With its location along the river, the town has many seafood options. Somerset Plaza is a shopping center with a grocery store.
Day trips to Boston and Cape Cod
The Braga Bridge stands above the Taunton River, carrying Interstate 195 from Somerset to Fall River. Massachusetts Route 138 runs through Somerset up to Rhode Island. Southeastern Regional Transit Authority runs buses through 10 Massachusetts communities, and the South Coast Rail Project is expected to expand the MBTA Commuter Rail into Somerset in 2023. T. F. Green Airport is around 30 miles away, while Logan International Airport is closer to 55 miles. “We also love the fact that we are within an hour of Boston and Cape Cod, so a great town for day trips,” Rua-Larsen says. Boaters can store their vessels at Somerset Marina & Yacht Sale.
Crime
Neighborhoods in Somerset average a CAP Index crime score of 2 out of 10, lower than the national average of 4.
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