Raritan Borough is a charming and tight-knit community in the heart of Somerset County, New Jersey. With plenty of green spaces, excellent schools, and convenient access to major transportation routes, Raritan Borough offers a unique blend of small-town living and big-city amenities.
Whether you're looking for a new place to call home, starting a family, or seeking a great location to launch your business, Raritan Borough has it all.
Raritan, New Jersey is a town with a rich history and a vibrant present. The town has grown and evolved over the years, thanks to the contributions of many individuals and groups. Today, Raritan is a picturesque town, with a proud history that has left its mark on the community.
The history of Raritan dates back to colonial times. In the late 1600s, the area was inhabited by Native Americans, and the first European settlers arrived in the early 1700s. Over the next few decades, the town grew and developed, and by the late 1700s, it had become an important trading center.
Several historical landmarks and buildings in Raritan stand as a testament to its rich history. One of the most significant landmarks is the Old York Road Bridge, which was constructed in 1751.
It is the oldest bridge in the state and played a crucial role in the transportation of goods and people from one side of the Raritan River to the other. The bridge was particularly important during the Revolutionary War, as it was a vital link between the east and west sides of the river.
Another noteworthy building is the Christ Church, which was built in 1760 and is now on the National Register of Historic Places. The church is an excellent example of Georgian architecture and is still in use today.
Some other landmarks include the Benjamin Van Doren House, which dates back to 1781 and is also on the National Register, and the Raritan Public Library, which was built in 1929.
Several significant events have also influenced the town's development over the years. One of the most notable was the construction of the Raritan Canal in the early 1800s. The canal enabled the transportation of goods and people between New York City and Philadelphia, and it played a crucial role in boosting the town's economy.
As Raritan grew, several historical figures emerged, who left their mark on the town. One such figure was Nicolas J. Carra, who served as Raritan's mayor for over 20 years. He was known for his commitment to the town and played a significant role in its development.
As of the latest census data, the population stands at around 7,800 people, making it a small yet vibrant and diverse community.
When it comes to race and ethnicity, Raritan Borough is a melting pot of cultures. The majority of the population identifies as White, with a percentage of almost 80%. However, the remaining 20% is composed of different racial and ethnic groups such as Hispanic or Latino, Black or African American, and Asian populations.
In terms of household size, the average number of people living in a household is approximately 2.5. This may be due to the fact that a significant proportion of the population is made up of young professionals or retirees. The median income for families and individuals in Raritan Borough is slightly higher than the national average, with a household income of approximately $90,000 per year.
Despite the high median income, there is a small percentage of the population living below the poverty line. The latest data shows that roughly 5% of residents in Raritan Borough struggle with poverty.
As for age distribution, Raritan Borough caters to a wide range of age groups. While there is a significant proportion of residents aged 45 to 64, around 30% of the population falls under the 25 to 44 age bracket. Moreover, the gender ratio in Raritan Borough skews towards females, making up around 52% of the population.
Education in Raritan Borough is a top priority for families residing within the area. The Bridgewater-Raritan Regional School District is highly respected, and its schools are widely regarded as some of the best in the surrounding area.
The district encompasses an impressive eight elementary schools, three middle schools, and two high schools, serving a sizeable number of students from various age groups.
Bridgewater-Raritan High School, in particular, is known for its rigorous academic program that prepares students for college and beyond.
Public high school students have the option to attend Somerset County Vocational and Technical High School, which offers technical and vocational programs, as well as traditional course offerings.
In addition to public schools, there are also several private and alternative schools available within the area. St. Ann Classical Academy is one of the highly-rated private schools, providing a classical education curriculum to its students.
Private schools like this one provide a unique educational approach and offer smaller class sizes, providing a more personalized learning experience.
Whether parents choose to send their child to a public school or opt for a private or alternative education, there is no shortage of options in Raritan Borough and its surrounding areas. The education available is highly valued, which is reflected in the ratings and accolades received by many of the schools.
If you're new to Raritan, NJ and wondering about the different transportation options available, let us guide you through the various modes of commuting in the area.
First and foremost, the Raritan Train Station is a crucial commuting spot that offers train rides to Newark Penn Station. The NJ Transit Raritan Valley Line runs through this station, connecting you to Newark and other parts of New Jersey. The train ride is comfortable, and you can catch up on some rest or work while you're on board.
Apart from the train station, there are also several major highways and local roads that you can take to get around Raritan. The US Route 202 passes through Raritan, connecting you to popular destinations like Bridgewater Commons mall. The Interstate-78 is another major highway that offers easy access to neighboring towns and cities.
If you're looking for a more eco-friendly mode of transportation, you can always opt for the Lakeland Bus system, which provides regular services from Raritan to New York City. These commuter buses are comfortable, spacious, and equipped with air conditioning, making for an enjoyable ride.
If you're driving, you can also take advantage of the "Park & Ride" facilities available in Raritan. These parking lots are conveniently located near popular destinations, and you can park your car and take the bus or train to your destination.
This charming town located in Somerset County, New Jersey, is full of fascinating places to explore, each with its own unique charm and significance.
First on the list is Duke Farms. This picturesque 2,700-acre property is a nature lover's paradise that features gorgeous gardens, hiking trails, and wildlife observation points.
The property is open to the public and offers a variety of family-friendly activities, such as bike tours, educational programs, and seasonal events. Duke Farms is a must-see destination for nature enthusiasts of all ages.
Next up is the Raritan Valley Community College. This dynamic institution offers a variety of academic programs and vocational training options to students from all backgrounds.
The campus also hosts a variety of cultural events and community outreach programs throughout the year, such as art exhibits, music concerts, and theater performances. If you're looking to learn something new and engaging, the Raritan Valley Community College should be on your list.
Another must-see location is the John F. Kennedy Memorial Park. This tranquil park is a lovely place to unwind and soak up nature's beauty. It's also home to several athletic fields and play areas for kids, making it an ideal spot for a family outing. The park is dedicated to the legacy of President Kennedy and serves as a reminder of his contributions to the nation.
No visit to Raritan is complete without trying out the delicious steaks at Char Steakhouse. This renowned restaurant uses only the finest and freshest ingredients in its dishes, and the ambiance is fantastic. The staff is friendly and helpful, and the wine list is impressive. It's no surprise that Char Steakhouse often tops the list of favorite restaurants in the area.
Last but not least is the Garden State Multiple Listing Service. This statewide network connects realtors and clients to help people find their dream homes. With a massive database of listings and advanced search features, Garden State MLS is the go-to resource for anyone looking to buy or sell real estate in Raritan and beyond.
