A riverside suburb with plenty of park space, near Rutgers University-New Brunswick
Somerset takes charming countryside elements and blends them with modern suburban lifestyles. This mix is largely due to Somerset’s location: New Brunswick to the east bustles with the oldest campus of Rutgers University, but traveling west brings parks, gardens and trails. The city is also part of Franklin Township, a municipality rich with history. “It’s got such a long history. It was originally settled by Lenape Native Americans many years ago, and Franklin Township was originally incorporated on February 21, 1798,” says Mark J. Schmidt, a Realtor with RE/MAX Country.
Somerset’s 20,000 people have easy access to nearby amenities. “You’re close to everything. You’ve got shopping and entertainment nearby, it’s a quick trip to the beach, and it’s great for commuters, as you’ve got easy access to the train and buses to New York. There’s lots of parks, and we have a great library,” says Schmidt. Heavy duty industries provide support for the local economy. Meda and Catalent deal in pharmaceuticals, and New Brunswick next door is nicknamed “The Healthcare City.” Manufacturing and IT infrastructure jobs are also present.
Embrace the charm of Somerset, NJ's homes.
Step into a peaceful oasis along Somerset's enchanting canal.
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Traditional suburban styles rule in Somerset, but townhouses and condos are available too
The bulk of Somerset is residential and full of winding streets with names like Cedar Brook Drive and Magnolia Road. Suburban surroundings are enhanced by classic styles, like three-bedroom and four-bedroom split-level homes with driveways, attached garages and fenced backyards. Prices range from $475,000 to $700,000. Oftentimes there are colonial influences on these homes, with covered front porches and slender white columns and railing. Modern traditional homes appear, too, priced between $775,000 and $1 million. Many of these larger properties are located on the west side.
But for those who prefer to look beyond single-family options, Somerset is full of townhouses and condos. Priced from $200,000 to $560,000, these can grow to over 2,200 square feet and contain three bedrooms. Congruent with the area’s historic look, many of these units are colonial influenced – but they aren’t vintage. “The townhouses here are newer than in Middlesex County, and they’ve done really well over the past decade, because of a friendly price point, too,” says Pratiksha Kumar, a real estate agent with Berkshire Hathaway. The national median is $418,700, reported by the National Association of Realtors.
Charming homes are nestled in the heart of Somerset, NJ.
Somerset is also full of townhouses and condos, priced in the $200,000 to $560,000 range.
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Franklin Township Public Schools earns a B from Niche
Students in Somerset can attend Franklin Township Public Schools, which enrolls over 7,000 learners and is rated B by Niche. Franklin High is known for diverse extracurriculars. The Model United Nations Club won awards at the Rutgers Model Congress competition in 2022. Rutgers University’s New Brunswick campus next door is the oldest of three campuses. It has undergraduate and graduate programs, but the campus is best known as the birthplace of college football. Cedar Hill Preparatory School is a popular private school, and Central Jersey College Prep is one of many charter schools, serving kindergarten through 12th grade. “The charter school options are a big reason people like the area,” says Kumar.
Students in Somerset can attend Franklin Township Public Schools, which enrolls over 7,000 learners and earns a B from Niche.
Where knowledge blooms and friendships thrive in Somerset, NJ
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Colonial Park is large, scenic and dog-friendly
Outdoor recreation is an important asset for Somerset. The Raritan River runs across the north end, providing amenities like the Delaware & Raritan Canal State Park Trail. Buccleuch Park is also on the water. It has athletic facilities, gardens and a historic colonial mansion. As the terrain becomes more rural on the west side, residents will find scenic spots like Colonial Park, a massive 680-acre facility full of gardens and nature trails. There’s even a dog park. “Colonial Park is beautiful, it’s good for picnics and I prefer to take my dog there because it’s so big,” says Kumar. On the south side there’s an earthy touch, too, with Snyder’s Farm offering berry picking, a farmers market and meet-and-greet opportunities with farm animals.
Buccleuch [book-loo] Park is also on the water. It has athletic facilities, gardens and a historic colonial mansion.
Be sure to make time to walk down to the the water and enjoy the picturesque scenery.
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Brew pubs are popular hangouts in Somerset
The dining scene focuses on comfort foods and classics, while also riding the latest trends in favor of community hangouts and locally produced beverages. Stateside Tap + Tavern is a popular place to congregate, tucked in a strip mall but presenting colorful cocktails and bar bites inside. Beer fans can go to Jersey Cyclone Brewing Company, which offers craft pours in an expansive neo-industrial setting. Shopping centers are also where residents run errands. Franklin Towne Center contains a Stop & Shop and is surrounded by cosmopolitan dining options like sushi and Indian food. Hamilton Street also presents diverse restaurants, from Chinese takeout to barbecue to French fine dining.
Somerset's brewery culture is in full swing.
The dining scene focuses on comfort foods and locally produced beverages, and includes spots like Stateside Tap + Tavern.
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Train service to NYC from nearby New Brunswick
Despite Somerset’s web of smaller residential streets, there are a few main thoroughfares used for traversing the city. Easton Avenue tracks along the river, moving east-west. John F. Kennedy Boulevard stretches north-south, providing access to area churches and synagogues, as well as connecting with Easton Avenue at the site of Rutgers Plaza shopping mall.
Commuters can go to the New Brunswick train station, about 7 miles away. From here, riders reach New York City in a little over an hour. Drivers can make the 35-mile journey on Interstate 95. Or there’s the option of the New Brunswick Park & Ride, where bus riders get to the city in about two hours.
Somerset County updates emergency response program
Somerset County police enact a new mental health program in 2024. Officers will respond to certain emergencies in the manner of a psychiatrist or doctor, determining such things as what drug a person may have taken. According to the office of the state attorney general, in Franklin Township, of which Somerset is a part, there was a 34% increase in total crimes from 2021 to 2022.
Written By
Paul Spencer
Photography Contributed By
Chris Pirone
Video By
Everett Hall-McNeill
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
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an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Somerset, NJ sell after 36 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in Somerset, NJ over the last 12 months is $550,000, up 7% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Premium Location Private Wooded SettingTucked against a serene wooded backdrop, this pristine Captiva Loft model offers a rare blend of privacy, natural beauty, and refined living.Featuring three bedrooms, a loft, and a sunroom, this home is designed for both comfort and versatility within one of the area's most sought-after active adult communities.Step inside to a bright, open layout
Welcome to this sought-after northwest-facing Colonial in the desirable Quailbrook Fairway development. This beautifully updated home offers 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, a 2-car garage, and a full basement, combining comfort, space, and an unbeatable location. A generous driveway accommodates parking for at least four cars, adding to the home's impressive curb appeal. Step inside to an inviting open
Welcome to Sterling Pointe, one of Central New Jersey's premier 55+ active adult communities, where resort-style amenities and everyday convenience come together in a vibrant, welcoming setting. This spacious Captiva Loft model offers over 3,400 square feet of well-designed living space, featuring 3 bedrooms, 3 full baths, a private office, expansive loft, and an additional bonus room ideal for a
Premium Location Private Wooded SettingTucked against a serene wooded backdrop, this pristine Captiva Loft model offers a rare blend of privacy, natural beauty, and refined living.Featuring three bedrooms, a loft, and a sunroom, this home is designed for both comfort and versatility within one of the area's most sought-after active adult communities.Step inside to a bright, open layout
Welcome to this sought-after northwest-facing Colonial in the desirable Quailbrook Fairway development. This beautifully updated home offers 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, a 2-car garage, and a full basement, combining comfort, space, and an unbeatable location. A generous driveway accommodates parking for at least four cars, adding to the home's impressive curb appeal. Step inside to an inviting open
Dont miss this beautifully designed 3 bedroom 3 bath home featuring a bright open layout enhanced by rich hardwood flooring throughout much of the main level a private office and a separate dining room perfect for entertaining Elegant Waterford hallway lighting and custom made chandeliers add a refined sophisticated touch The dramatic Great Room serves as the heart of the home showcasing
Welcome to the most sought-after luxurious and spacious townhome in Sterling Estates an Adult Community with its vinyl hardwood floors throughout. This home is nestled in the desired Sterling Point Community. This elegant residence boasts an open-concept design, inviting an abundance of sunlight into every room. Upon entering, you're greeted by a stunning two-story foyer that seamlessly leads
Discover an exceptional opportunity to build your dream home on this nearly 1-acre, shovel-ready lot at 56 Gates Road in the serene neighborhood of Somerset, NJ. This flat, tree-free parcel is ideal for constructing a new single-family residence. Located on a quiet street, the lot offers a perfect setting for peaceful living. It features public utilities, including electric, sewer, and gas,
Welcome to refined resort-style living in the prestigious Somerset Renaissance, a premier gated 55+ active adult community. This elegant residence offers an exceptional blend of comfort and sophistication, featuring 2 spacious bedrooms and 2 beautifully appointed full baths designed for effortless living. Sun-filled interiors create a warm and inviting ambiance, while the expansive living area
Welcome to Sterling Pointe, one of Central New Jersey's premier 55+ active adult communities, where resort-style amenities and everyday convenience come together in a vibrant, welcoming setting. This spacious Captiva Loft model offers over 3,400 square feet of well-designed living space, featuring 3 bedrooms, 3 full baths, a private office, expansive loft, and an additional bonus room ideal for a
Where luxury living meets nature's serenity, this exceptional Somerset residence offers the perfect blend of elegance, space & lifestyle. Set on a picturesque, North facing, .52-acre corner lot backing to 47+ acres of protected public land, this beautifully designed home provides privacy, scenic views & over 4,665 sq ft of finished living space, enhanced by a fully owned solar system w/ minimal
It is not every day that One gets to buy a MOVE-IN READY house that sits on a HUGE LOT(begging for an EXPANSION). This home(built in 1985) is now being sold by its ORIGINAL OWNER... The home has the TRADITIONAL BI-LEVEL layout for 4 Bedrooms, Bathrooms, Kitchen, Dining and Living including SPACIOUS RECREATION and LAUNDRY areas that combine as 3 additional rooms... The well preserved HARDWOOD
Lovely "Colonial Townhome" at Quailbrook!, 2 Bedroom 2.5 Bath with Upgraded kitchen counters/backsplash/floor/S.S. Appliances/Windows/Sliders/Heat/Air/Master shower tile and Vanity. Backyard with Deck!,near Pool/Clubhouse/Tennis/Shopping!. Low maintenance fee!, Avail Immediately!, Easy commute to Rutgers College and Prep, Saint Peters and Robert Wood Johnson Hospitals and Trains and Charter
Welcome to 17 Home Street - a beautifully updated multifamily property, fully renovated in 2025, offering options for an excellent investment potential or owner-occupancy in a prime location. Tenants vacated on March 31, 2026, leaving the option to rent with tenants of your choice or live in one rent the other ? the possibilities are endless! This property features a charming open front porch.
Discover comfort and charm in this beautifully maintained 2-level townhouse located in the highly sought-after Franklin Park community. The main level features a bright and welcoming living room that flows seamlessly into a well-equipped kitchen and a cozy dining area perfect for everyday living. A convenient half bath completes the first floor.Upstairs, you'll find three spacious bedrooms,
Explore the comfort of this well-maintained, second floor, 2-bed condo in the sought-after Trendmakers at Quailbrook community. Step into a welcoming open floor plan, abundant natural light, and a spacious living room. The galley style kitchen has been freshly painted with new hardware accents and connects seamlessly to a formal dining room for entertaining. The master bedroom features a walk-in
Welcome home to this charming 3-bedroom, 1-bathroom residence located in a one-story four-plex in desirable Franklin Township. This inviting home features a bright living room, a spacious eat-in kitchen ideal for everyday dining, and a relaxing open porch perfect for enjoying fresh air and quiet moments.Conveniently situated just minutes from NYC-bound transportation, major highways, shopping,
The Park at Franklin is the perfect balance of suburban living with the convenience of an urban lifestyle. Close to fine dining, shopping and entertainment, you won't need to go far to enjoy all of what highly sought after Franklin Township has to offer. Easy access to major highways including Route 287, Garden State Parkway and New Jersey Turnpike will make your commute a breeze. Our community
Move right into this bright and inviting 4-bedroom, 2-bath home featuring a warm, comfortable layout filled with natural light. The spacious living room serves as the heart of the home, offering an easy flow for everyday living and relaxation. First-floor bedrooms add excellent versatility and can easily function as a home office, den, guest room, or flex space. The kitchen features modern
As the best Somerset, NJ apartments, The Harrison has studios, one bedrooms, and two bedrooms for rent. All homes are bright and spacious, with large windows, private balconies, custom kitchen cabinetry, hardwood flooring, and large spacious closets. The Harrison offers amenities like a refreshing swimming pool, fitness center, tennis court, and a modern clothes care center.The Harrison is steps
Beautifully maintained and updated 5-bedroom, 2.5-bath Cape Cod offering the perfect blend of comfort, space, and modern upgrades. This home features custom-designed bathrooms, a spacious primary bedroom with a walk-in closet, elegant crown moldings, and recessed lighting throughout. Enjoy a stylish combination of hardwood flooring, tile, and plush carpeting. The large eat-in kitchen is equipped
These new townhouse style apartments are over-sized and provide lots of extra space with either a finished loft or large basement with finished room. They also boast ample closets, granite & stainless steel appliances in the kitchens, balconies, full size washer and dryer, Energy Star design, security systems and ceramic tile baths and hardwood floors. In addition to beautifully finished
This 3 bedroom 2 full bath ranch on a large corner lot with a private backyard is convenient to Rutgers, RWJ & St Peters Hospitals, major highways, shopping and more. This home offers an eat-in kitchen with granite counters, a family room, dining room and large living room. Both baths have been updated. The slider in the kitchen leads to a paver patio and a large yard with privacy fence. Located
Contemporary 1 and 2 bedroom apartments with oversized floorplans featuring 9-foot ceilings, large kitchens with stainless steel, Whirlpool appliances and abundant counterspace and cabinetry, extra-large walk-in closets, and flexible living areas such as dining spaces, patio/balconies, or solariums that can be used as a home office or den, located on a meticulously landscaped 22-acre campus with
Meticulous and beautifully updated 3-bedroom townhome for rent in the Forest Gate community in Somerset. This bright and spacious home features a one-car attached garage, 2.5 bathrooms, and full-house hardwood floors that create a warm, modern feel throughout.The main level offers an open-concept layout with a generous living and dining area, perfect for everyday living and entertaining. The open
Tucked away in Franklin Township, Hempstead Gardens, a pet free community, offers perfect apartment style living. We provide the seclusion of a comfortable suburban community with easy access to major corporations, great shopping malls, wonderful restaurants and excellent schools. Enjoy our beautifully landscaped setting with friendly neighbors and professional on-site management. Our location is
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![Buccleuch [book-loo] Park is also on the water. It has athletic facilities, gardens and a historic colonial mansion.](https://imagescdn.homes.com/i2/eOQplLW6JmLtOkHHbSOFQlIdCi5Dvg6t_12T-XAY79I/117/somerset-nj.jpg?p=1)
