This Stunning NJ County is One of the ‘Most Livable’ in the U.S. — Famous for its A+ Schools and Historic Downtowns

It’s no secret we love New York City — but are the Tri-State suburbs having their moment?! A new 2025 study from Niche has officially ranked Somerset County, New Jersey among the best places to live in the entire country — and it’s just a short drive from New York City. Known for its scenic parks, excellent schools, and charming small-town downtowns , Somerset County earned an overall A+ rating , making it one of the top-rated counties in both New Jersey *and* the U.S. Somerset County’s national ranking ---------------------------------- According to Niche’s comprehensive 2025 analysis, Somerset County came in 16th overall in the U.S. , falling behind different counties from all across America — including Maryland’s Howard County at number one overall, multiple counties from Georgia (#2, 5, 10, 14, and more), plus others from Texas, Indiana, Virginia, and more. The Tri-State area county racked up top marks across nearly every category, earning: * Overall Grade – A+ * Public Schools – A+ * Good For Families – A+ * Outdoor Activities – A * Health & Fitness – A+ * Nightlife – A * Diversity – A * Jobs – B+ * Commute – B- * Housing – B * Cost of Living – C With median home values around $523,900 and median rent at $1,921 , most residents (roughly 74%) own their homes—meaning people move here and stay here. This recognition isn’t the county’s only award this year, either. The county also took the #1 spot for “Best Counties to Live in New Jersey” and #1 for “Best Counties for Families” statewide — along with #3 for outdoor activities. What makes Somerset County so livable ------------------------------------- Somerset County combines suburban comfort with lush open space and historic character — all within an hour of Midtown Manhattan. It’s the kind of place where you can grab coffee at a local café, take a riverside walk, and still make it home from the city by dinner. The county seat, Somerville , has become a local favorite for its walkable downtown , lined with boutique shops, acclaimed restaurants, and lively summer street fairs. Over in Bridgewater , residents enjoy modern conveniences like the Bridgewater Commons Mall and family outings at TD Bank Ballpark , home of the Somerset Patriots Minor League Baseball team. For nature lovers, Duke Farms in Hillsborough is the crown jewel — a 1,000-acre estate turned public nature preserve that features miles of scenic walking and biking trails, a beloved orchid greenhouse , and even a bald eagle nest cam watched by thousands online each year. Niche’s data highlights exactly what locals already know — Somerset County offers that elusive balance of opportunity, beauty, and community. Its proximity to both NYC and Philadelphia makes it ideal for commuters, while its strong schools, thriving job market, and outdoor amenities make it one of America’s best places to live. Source: https://secretnyc.co/best-counties-to-live-2025-somerset-county-nj-niche-study/