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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GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Somerset, NJ sell after 37 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 $547,100, up 4% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Pristine & Expansive Colonial Residence in the heart of NJ., Open floor plan with bright throughout. A welcoming living and dining rooms, a sun-drenched sunroom, and a well-appointed center-island kitchen,skylights & light-filled breakfast area.The inviting great room, centered around a gas fireplace. A versatile first-floor bedroom or private office flexibility to accommodate today's lifestyle
Some homes simply check the boxes. Others make you want to linger a little longer. Welcome to 11 Marigold Lane, where beautifully updated living spaces and a private backyard retreat come together to create a home you'll never want to leave. Rich HWF flow throughout the main level, leading to the heart of the home a beautifully remodeled kitchen offering abundant Shaker cabinetry, expansive
Opportunity Knocks! Bring your vision and transform this 4-bedroom home into the home of your dreams. The possibilities are endless with this perfect handyman special, located on a quiet dead-end street in a highly desirable neighborhood. The home features a spacious living room, an eat-in kitchen with a center island, and a cozy family room with a fireplace. Huge backyard offering endless
PRICE IMPROVEMENT! Now offered at an exceptional new price, this beautifully maintained second-floor condominium combines comfort, convenience, and outstanding value in Somerset Run, Central New Jersey's premier gated 55+ active adult community. Filled with natural sunlight and enhanced by a desirable southern exposure, the thoughtfully designed floor plan features a spacious living room with
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 107 Bayberry Drive " Quail Brook, Somerset,Nestled in a private setting backing to a peaceful wooded area, this spacious and bright 2-bedroom, 2.5-bath townhome offers comfort, convenience, and endless potential in the highly desirable Quail Brook community.Step inside to find an inviting eat-in kitchen featuring ample cabinet space and appliances, perfect for everyday living. The
Welcome to this move-in ready 4 bedroom, 2.5 bath bi-level featuring a bright, open layout. Main living area has vaulted ceilings creating an airy, spacious feel in the main living and dining rooms. Upper level with 3 bedrooms and 2 full bathrooms, main living room, kitchen, formal dining room. Lower level features 1 bedroom, family room, half bath and laundry/utility room w/ a high efficiency
Excellent opportunity to own approximately 0.55 acres of vacant land in the Somerset section of Franklin Township. Whether you are looking to build your dream home or invest in one of Somerset County's most desirable locations, this property offers outstanding potential. Conveniently located near Rutgers University, Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital, downtown New Brunswick, major highways
Welcome to this luxury townhome in Sterling Pointe, a 55+ premier active adult community. A stunning two-story NEXT GEN style living, with a foyer that welcomes you into an open-concept floor plan filled with natural light. The formal dining area is perfect for entertaining while the inviting living room showcases soaring ceilings and a cozy gas fireplace. The large eat-in kitchen is a chef's
Historic Charm, Modern Luxury: Exquisite 1895 Fully Remodeled Colonial. Tucked away on a peaceful dead-end street, this remarkable home has been completely transformed w/ exceptional craftsmanship & no expense spared. Blending timeless character w/ modern sophistication, this move-in-ready home offers the best of both worlds. Extensive updates include newer electrical, HVAC, HWH, siding,
Open and sun-filled North East Facing end-unit townhome in the highly sought-after Garden Homes at Quailbrook community. Gather with family and friends in the spacious living room, then enjoy memorable meals in the formal dining room. The kitchen offers ample cabinetry and countertop space to prepare your favorite recipes. A practical powder room and laundry room complete the main level.
Beautiful updated End Unit with Deck. Has 2 huge Bedrooms, 2.5 Bathrooms, 1 Garage, Privacy and close to Shopping, Rutgers University, St. Peters Hospital, Robert Wood Johnson Hospital, Transportation & major Hwy easy access to 287, NJ Turnpike, and Routes 18, 27, & 1
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
NORTHEAST FACING! STUNNING END UNIT WITH HARDWOOD FLOORS! LOADED WITH UPGRADES! EAT IN KITCHEN,LIVINGROOM AND DINING ROOM WITH SLIDING GLASS DOORS TO DECK. MASTER BEDROOM WITH PRIVATE BATH AND WALK INCLOSET. FULL FINISH BASEMENT AND 1 CAR GARAGE. PERFECT FOR ENTERTAINING! COMMUTERS DREAM!BUS SERVICE TONYC AND TRAIN!
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
2-bedroom, 2-bath second-floor unit, centrally located for ultimate convenience. Nestled along the scenic edge of Quail Brook Golf Course, the charming Colonnade Homes community offers peaceful living at its finest. The beautiful naturally lite kitchen features refrigerator, dishwasher, Gas oven range. A spacious living and dining area provides the perfect setting for both everyday living and
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
Luxury apartments centrally located in the heart of Franklin Township in Somerset County. Spread throughout 5 buildings, the property features 1, 2, and 3 bedroom apartments and townhouses. Somerset Square is central to shopping, dining, recreational destinations, and transportation options. With thoughtfully designed layouts, Somerset Square has a sense of community for its residents with its
* Gracious living and savings galore! These newly-renovated, garden-style apartments in prestigious Franklin Township, boast incomparable living, unparalleled convenience, and just-in-time savings in this tough economy! If you're ready to take a break from the hustle of city living, then The Arbors at Franklin Township is just the place for you! Everything about this community says home. Enjoy
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
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
Recently built apartment building located on the border of New Brunswick and Somerset, less than one mile from Rutgers University and the New Brunswick Train Station.Apartment Features Include:Free laundryFree garage parkingWater includedConvenient location near Rutgers, downtown New Brunswick, shopping, dining, and transportationAvailable units are leasing
Short term leases available also! Call for details!! At Easton North our 1 and 2-bedroom apartments have balconies, large living areas, and dishwashers. Rent includes heat and cooking gas. units have air-conditioning and high-speed Internet capability. The propery is owner managed and has on site 24-hour emergency maintenance. Grounds include pool, tennis court, and playground with a clubhouse
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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)
