Somerville NJ, located in Somerset County, has a rich history that dates back to the early settlement by the Dutch in the 17th century. The town was originally purchased from English proprietors of the colony and was established as a place for trade and commerce.
Shortly after the American Revolution, a church, courthouse and tavern were built at the crossroads, giving Somerville its early foundations as a developing community.
Today, Somerville offers a wealth of notable sites for visitors and residents alike. These include the 1909 Somerville CourtHouse, which still stands as a testament to the town's rich history, and the colonial Wallace House, located in nearby Somerset.
Whether you're interested in exploring Somerville's rich heritage or simply soaking up the town's unique atmosphere, there's no shortage of things to see and discover in this charming part of New Jersey.
Somerville, New Jersey has a rich and fascinating history that dates back to the colonial era. The town was first settled in the early 1700s by Dutch and English settlers, who were attracted to the area's fertile farmland and access to the Raritan River.
The name Somerville came from the four brothers of the Somerville family of Ireland, who were friends of the famous Beekman family of New York. As the town grew, it transformed from a sparsely populated farming community to a bustling town.
This was largely due to the completion of the railroad in 1840, which connected Somerville to other towns and cities in the state. The development of water power along the Raritan River also played a key role in this transformation, facilitating the growth of industry and commerce in the area.
Over time, the town grew from a small farming community to a bustling commercial and industrial center, thanks in part to the completion of the railroad in the mid-19th century. Today, Somerville is home to a thriving arts scene, a bustling downtown area, and a diverse community of residents who are committed to preserving its unique history and traditions.
Somerville NJ experiences a continental climate, characterized by hot, humid summers and cold winters. The average temperature in July, the hottest month, is around 85°F, while January, the coldest month, has an average temperature of 27°F.
The borough also receives an average annual rainfall of 48 inches and an average of 26 inches of snowfall per year. Despite the climate variations, Somerville NJ is still a beautiful place to live, work, and visit.
The town's picturesque landscape, complete with lush greenery and beautiful riverside views, makes it an attractive location for nature lovers.
Somerville, NJ is located in the heart of Somerset County, which is known for its scenic beauty, outdoor recreation, and rich history.
It is bordered by several neighboring townships, including Bridgewater Township, Raritan, Hillsborough Township, Manville, Bound Brook, South Bound Brook, Branchburg, Millstone, Middlesex, and Readington. The location of Somerville makes it an ideal spot for both residential and commercial purposes.
Somerville is situated in central New Jersey and is easily accessible by several interstate highways. The town is located less than an hour's drive from both New York City and Philadelphia.
This enviable location makes Somerville an ideal destination for commuters looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city living while still being able to enjoy easy access to some of the most vibrant regions on the East Coast.
Somerville shares borders with many townships, each of which has a unique character and charm of its own. Bridgewater Township, for example, is home to the iconic Bridgewater Commons Mall and the world-renowned pharmaceutical company, Sanofi Aventis.
Hillsborough Township boasts of a variety of recreational activities, including parks, golf courses, and waterways. Raritan is a small, charming town that has a rich history and a wide range of dining and entertainment options.
With such close proximity to these other townships, Somerville provides residents and visitors with a wealth of things to see and do.
Somerville, New Jersey, experiences a humid subtropical climate, characterized by hot summers and generally mild winters. The average temperature ranges from the mid-20s in the winter to the high 80s in the summer. The town receives an average annual precipitation of about 48 inches and experiences some snowfall during the winter months.
Summer temperatures in Somerville are warm with an average high of 86°F in July, the hottest month of the year, while January is the coldest month with an average low of 18°F. The town experiences a range of seasonal variations, with the spring months being cool and rainy, followed by warm, sunny summers. Fall brings with it cool, crisp temperatures and pleasant sunshine, while winter is relatively mild, with some occasional snowfall.
Somerville is not immune to extreme weather events such as hurricanes, floods, and extreme temperatures. However, compared to other areas in New Jersey, Somerville is less prone to such events due to its more inland location. As with any community, local industries and residents must remain vigilant and prepared to face these weather challenges when they occur.
The climate of Somerville can provide unique advantages and challenges for its residents and industries. Mild and sunny weather in the summer months can be advantageous for outdoor activities and tourism. On the other hand, snowfall and occasional intense weather events can negatively impact business and daily life. Overall, the climate of Somerville is typical of the region and residents are accustomed to the seasonal variations that accompany it.
Situated in central New Jersey, the town of Somerville boasts a flat topography that makes it ideal for walking or biking. Surrounded by the cities of Raritan, Bridgewater, and Bound Brook, Somerville has several natural borders that provide both scenic beauty and protection from extreme weather events.
With the presence of the Raritan River and several smaller streams, Somerville offers ample opportunities for water-based recreational activities like kayaking and fishing.
Somerville is also home to several landmarks that hold significant historical and cultural importance to the community. One such landmark is the Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Somerset, which is a leading healthcare facility that offers comprehensive medical services to patients in the area.
Another iconic location is the Somerville Fire Department Museum, which showcases the rich history of the local fire department and its important role in the community. Somerset Hall, another landmark, is a historic building constructed in the 1700s that served as the county courthouse and jail.
Meanwhile, Governor-Somerset County is an administrative building that houses several county offices. Together, these landmarks add to the rich and diverse character of Somerville, making it a unique place to live and visit.
Somerville has a population of around 12,000 residents, with a median age of 39 years old. The borough is predominantly made up of younger families, with a median household income of $85,000.
The population is ethnically diverse, with a mix of Caucasians, African Americans, Hispanics, and Asians. The median home value in Somerville is around $355,000, making it an affordable option for those looking to buy a home in New Jersey.
Education is a priority in Somerville, with a strong public school system and highly regarded private schools nearby. Somerville High School is consistently ranked as one of the best high schools in the state, providing students with an exceptional education.
The community is also home to Raritan Valley Community College, a two-year college that offers students the opportunity to earn an associate degree. With a low crime rate and friendly neighbors, Somerville is an excellent place to raise a family.
Somerville, NJ has experienced growth in its population size over time. In recent years, this growth has been relatively stable, with a population of around 12,000 residents.
The median household income of $85,000 suggests a stable economic condition for the borough. Over time, household sizes have tended to decrease with more younger families settling down in the area.
The borough has a median age of 39 years old, which can be attributed to young families and recent graduates moving to the area.
Somerville, NJ is ethnically diverse, with a mix of Caucasians, African Americans, Hispanics, and Asians residing in the area.
here has been a noticeable increase in racial diversity over time, with a significant shift towards Hispanics and Asians.
This shift has contributed to the diverse culture and community in Somerville, making it a great place to live for people from different backgrounds. The median home value in the borough is around $355,000, making it an affordable option for people who want to settle down in New Jersey.
Somerville, NJ is a diverse community that is home to a variety of races and ethnicities. According to recent demographic data, the town has a population of approximately 12,054 residents.
Of this population, 62.1% identify as White, 7.4% as Black or African American, 21.7% as Hispanic or Latinx, and 6.6% as Asian. The racial and ethnic diversity of Somerville adds to the town's vibrancy and cultural richness.
It is worth noting that the racial and ethnic composition of Somerville has shifted over time. For example, in 1990, the town's population was nearly 90% white. However, as the town has become more diverse, the percentage of white residents has decreased, and the percentage of people of color has increased.
Specifically, the Latin population has grown substantially, increasing by over 10% since 2010. These demographic shifts are reflective of broader changes across the state and country, as more diverse communities become more commonplace.
According to recent data, the median household income in Somerville is $76,231, which is slightly above the national average. The median family income in the borough is $101,796, while the per capita income is $39,849.
Despite being home to a relatively affluent community, Somerville still faces issues related to poverty. Approximately 8% of the population lives below the poverty line, which is below the state average but still significant in a town of this size.
Population trends and racial diversity in Somerville may have an impact on the borough's economic statistics. As mentioned earlier, Somerville has become more diverse in recent years. The Latin population, in particular, has grown substantially, which has likely contributed to both the borough's economic growth and its poverty rates.
The town's diverse population also plays a role in its local economy, as it has resulted in a wide selection of restaurants and businesses, many of which cater to the various cultures and ethnicities represented within the community.
Based on the available information, some of the top 5 most relevant keywords to include in this section include median household income, poverty line, per capita income, population trends, and racial diversity.
Understanding these economic statistics and population trends is crucial for both residents and businesses in Somerville, as it provides a comprehensive understanding of the local economy and its potential for growth.
Points of Interest in Somerville, NJ
Somerville is a unique borough in New Jersey that offers its visitors and residents a distinctive experience that can't be found anywhere else.
The town is home to a vibrant and bustling downtown area that boasts a shopping and dining district that can keep any visitor entertained for hours. The downtown area is in a constant state of development and consistently introduces new local businesses, which captures the town's spirit of entrepreneurship.
Somerville's parks and preserves offer a peaceful respite from the hustle and bustle of daily life. The unpaved trails and verdant scenery make it an ideal spot for an afternoon, picnic or a quick hike.
The Tour of Somerville is a significant annual cycling race that further demonstrates the borough's commitment to promoting a healthy lifestyle and its love of sports.
The event's carnival-like atmosphere is a charming representation of the town's sense of community, which is evident even in its recreational events. The town also celebrates a strong cultural heritage with exhibits and landmarks that showcase the rich history and cultural diversity of Somerville.
Specific attractions, like the Wallace House and Old Dutch Parsonage, are popular with tourists and beautiful examples of the town's colonial architecture.
