Montgomery, Bernards, Warren, Bedminster. These four Somerset County towns all rank among the 50 best New Jersey suburbs to raise a family, according to New Jersey Family magazine’s 2017 rankings. In total, the list of more than 500 towns includes 18 townships and boroughs from Somerset, with 9 falling within the top 100.
What makes Somerset County towns so accommodating for families? Let’s take a closer look at their common defining qualities:
- Idyllic escapes not too far from the New York metropolitan area
Families in Somerset County are lucky to have homes here. While they live in idyllic, countryside-like neighborhoods, they are not too far removed from the major economic centers of the Tri-State area, where majority are employed.
Somerset County neighborhoods boast refreshing rural landscapes with flourishing, natural surroundings. These locales are much quieter, more private, safer, and healthier than any hectic, crowded city. Coming home here is surely a satisfying reward after a long, hard day’s work.
- Thriving local economies with plenty and convenient amenities
Somerset County may be in close proximity to the New York metropolis, but that doesn’t mean that its towns lag behind when it comes to modern amenities and conveniences. Residents don’t have to drive to Jersey City or Manhattan to find high-quality commercial centers, healthcare facilities, and social services.
Communities here have prolific economies of their own, encouraging and supporting the growth of local businesses. Some large companies, including multinational corporations from various industries, are also setting up shop in the expansive spaces in and around the county, opening up high-profile employment opportunities for the area’s residents.
- Diverse recreational opportunities that enrich day-to-day living
Itching for a few rounds of golf over the weekend? No problem. Want to go hiking and camping with the kids? Go for it! How about a trip to the museum to see what your town was like centuries ago? You can do that, too.
Sprawling green spaces, natural landscapes, and a rich historic and cultural background provide plenty of recreational opportunities for Somerset County residents. Here, entertainment, education, and enrichment can happen anywhere you look!
- Exciting downtown districts, each with a unique history and character
Somerset County’s vibrant downtown districts all have a story to tell, many dating way back to the country’s infancy. This is why the downtown areas of Somerset County’s townships and boroughs mean more than just shopping centers and restaurant rows.
Historic and cultural sites are well-preserved, making for outstanding destinations for both tourists and locals. Notable events are also celebrated in these town centers, bringing local communities closer together while also showcasing local pride to visitors.
- Excellent schools, with Ivy League universities close by
If you have young kids in your family, check out towns and communities like Warren, Basking Ridge (located in Bernards Township), and Bernardsville for some of the highest-rated school districts in the area.
The best part? The county’s excellent preparatory educational programs match perfectly with Somerset’s close proximity to the nation’s Ivy League schools – including Princeton University less than 15 miles away.
Want to learn more about Somerset County’s family-friendly communities? Explore this website or talk to Cindy Pagnotta and her team for the best local real estate information and market insights in Central Jersey.