51.4
County Score
Income & Jobs 99.5Health 96.2Schools 89.8

County Report Card

About Somerset County, New Jersey

Outperforming the national baseline

Somerset County achieves a composite score of 51.4, placing it above the national median of 50.0. This score reflects a high standard of living supported by immense local wealth and health resources.

A top-tier New Jersey performer

Somerset significantly outperforms the New Jersey state average of 41.4. It stands out as one of the state's premier locations for overall quality of life and economic stability.

Elite incomes and superior health outcomes

With a near-perfect income score of 99.5 and a health score of 96.2, Somerset is a powerhouse of well-being. The median household income of $135,960 provides residents with access to the finest services in the region.

Extreme housing costs and environmental risk

The cost score of 1.3 highlights a severe affordability crisis, with median home values reaching $523,900. Furthermore, a risk score of 9.1 suggests the area faces notable vulnerabilities to natural hazards.

A haven for high-earning professionals

Somerset County is the perfect fit for affluent professionals who value top-tier schools and health care above all else. Prospective residents must be prepared for some of the highest housing costs in the nation.

Score breakdown

Tax4Cost1.3Safety69.2Health96.2Schools89.8Income99.5Risk9.1Water59.3Weather55.4
🏛4
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty
🏠1.3
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty
💼99.5
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty
🛡69.2
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty
96.2
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty
🎓89.8
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty
9.1
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty
💧59.3
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty
🌤55.4
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty
🪨46
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty
🌱49.4
Lawn Care
Lawn difficulty score based on climate, soil, and grass suitability
LawnByCounty
🛒
Farmers Markets
Local market density, SNAP/EBT acceptance, and product variety
MarketsByCounty
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Deep Dives

Somerset County across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 10 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in Somerset County

via TaxByCounty

Somerset's rate is below national average

Somerset County's effective tax rate of 1.91% falls below the national median of 0.95%, ranking it in the middle tier nationally despite higher home values. The median property tax bill of $10,001 is 272% above the national median of $2,690, reflecting Somerset's significantly higher home values of $523,900.

Below state average, reasonable for NJ

Somerset's 1.91% effective rate sits below New Jersey's state average of 2.21%, making it one of the state's more moderate property tax environments. Yet the median tax bill of $10,001 exceeds the state average of $8,512 due to Somerset's substantially higher home valuations.

The lowest rate in this region

Somerset's 1.91% effective rate is the lowest among comparable counties—Warren (2.52%), Sussex (2.47%), Salem (3.03%), and Union (2.05%). This advantage matters for Somerset homeowners, even as their higher property values keep absolute tax bills relatively large.

A $523,900 home costs $10,001 yearly

The median Somerset County home valued at $523,900 generates an annual property tax bill of $10,001. Both mortgage holders and outright owners pay the same amount, indicating a consistent assessment approach across the county.

Somerset homeowners should verify assessments

Even in lower-tax counties, some homeowners are assessed above fair market value and can appeal for relief. A successful tax appeal in Somerset County could reduce annual bills and accumulate savings over decades of homeownership.

Cost of Living in Somerset County

via CostByCounty

Somerset's wealth powers housing affordability

Somerset County's 16.9% rent-to-income ratio ranks among the nation's most livable, despite median rents of $1,921 per month. A median household income of $135,960—nearly twice the national average—makes those higher housing costs manageable.

Somerset leads New Jersey in affordability

Somerset's 16.9% rent-to-income ratio is the lowest in New Jersey, beating the state average of 19.1% by 2.2 percentage points. This advantage stems from both higher local incomes and moderate rental costs relative to earnings.

Somerset rents reflect prosperity

At $1,921 monthly, Somerset rents exceed Sussex ($1,503) and Warren ($1,368) counties but remain manageable due to Somerset's much higher incomes. Home values of $523,900 position Somerset as the most expensive county in this group, matching its affluent profile.

High income absorbs Somerset housing costs

Somerset renters spend $1,921 monthly while homeowners pay $2,461, but these costs represent only 16.9% and roughly 21.7% of the $135,960 median household income respectively. This leaves substantial income for savings, services, and quality of life.

Somerset rewards higher earners relocating

If your household income matches Somerset's $135,960+ benchmark, you'll find the county's premium housing costs balanced by exceptional affordability ratios and abundant amenities. Professionals in tech, finance, and pharmaceuticals should evaluate Somerset's thriving job market alongside these favorable housing metrics.

Income & Jobs in Somerset County

via IncomeByCounty

Somerset ranks among America's wealthiest counties

Somerset County's median household income of $135,960 towers 81.8% above the national median of $74,755, placing it in the top tier of U.S. counties by earnings. This exceptional income level reflects Somerset's concentration of corporate headquarters, pharmaceutical executives, and highly educated professionals.

Tops New Jersey's income hierarchy

Somerset's $135,960 median income ranks among the highest in New Jersey, exceeding the state average of $100,891 by 34.7%. Only a handful of New Jersey counties match Somerset's wealth concentration and earning power.

Somerset vastly outearns comparable counties

Somerset households earn $21,644 more than Sussex County and $35,843 more than Warren County, the two other northern New Jersey neighbors in this comparison. This income premium reflects Somerset's status as a hub for pharmaceutical, biotech, and financial services firms.

High income supports premium housing costs

Somerset's 16.9% rent-to-income ratio remains comfortably below the 30% stress threshold, despite New Jersey's high rental markets. The median home value of $523,900 aligns well with Somerset incomes, allowing qualified buyers to build substantial home equity.

Leverage exceptional income for long-term wealth

Somerset's above-average per capita income of $70,321 creates exceptional opportunity for wealth accumulation through diversified investments and tax-efficient planning. High earners here should prioritize 401(k) maximization, tax-advantaged accounts, and real estate diversification beyond primary residences.

Safety in Somerset County

via CrimeByCounty

Somerset boasts an elite safety profile

Somerset County's total crime rate of 720.6 per 100K is less than one-third of the national average of 2385.5. This leads to an exceptional safety score of 98.9 out of 100.

A leader in Garden State safety

Somerset ranks as one of the safest counties in the state, with its safety score of 98.9 easily beating the New Jersey average of 97.6. Its total crime rate is roughly 50% lower than the state benchmark of 1525.9.

Safer than most regional neighbors

Somerset provides a more secure environment than adjacent Union County, where crime rates are much higher. Local safety is managed effectively by 22 reporting agencies across the county.

Low violent crime rates set Somerset apart

The county reports only 48.7 violent crimes per 100K, a fraction of the national average of 369.8. Property crime is also exceptionally low at 671.9 per 100K residents.

Smart security for Somerset residents

Maintaining these low rates requires continued community awareness and residential vigilance. Simple additions like doorbell cameras can further deter the property crimes that make up the majority of local incidents.

Health in Somerset County

via HealthByCounty

Somerset Leads on Life Expectancy

At 81.8 years, Somerset County residents enjoy the longest lifespans in the nation, beating the U.S. average of 78.8 years by three years. Only 11.9% report poor or fair health, well below the national 12% benchmark.

New Jersey's Healthiest County

Somerset's 81.8-year life expectancy exceeds the state average of 78.5 years by 3.3 years, making it the standout performer in New Jersey. The county's low poor/fair health rate of 11.9% reflects strong community health outcomes.

Clear Health Advantage Over Region

Somerset residents live 3.4 years longer than Sussex County (78.4 years) and 2.5 years longer than Warren County (78.3 years). With 110 primary care providers per 100K—four times Salem's level—Somerset's healthcare infrastructure supports its strong outcomes.

Robust Access, Lowest Uninsured Rate

Somerset's 5.3% uninsured rate ranks among the lowest in the state, below the 7.5% state average, and 326 mental health providers per 100K offer the densest behavioral health workforce statewide. Together, excellent primary care density (110 per 100K) and insurance coverage create seamless daily access to care.

Keep Coverage Strong in Somerset

While Somerset leads on insurance uptake, ensuring every resident stays covered is vital. Review your current plan at nj.gov/humanservices or contact 1-877-NJ-COVER to confirm you're getting the best options available.

Schools in Somerset County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Robust Suburban Education Network

Somerset County supports a massive student population of 52,020 across 84 public schools and 22 school districts. The system features 47 elementary schools and 14 high schools, offering a comprehensive path from early childhood through college prep. This expansive infrastructure is designed to handle high-capacity enrollment while maintaining specialized special education and charter options.

Superior Scores and Strategic Investment

With a school score of 69.4, Somerset County exceeds the New Jersey average and towers over the national median of 50.0. The county invests $13,333 per pupil, surpassing both the state and national averages for educational spending. This investment pays off with a 94.1% graduation rate, ensuring students are well-prepared for post-secondary success.

High-Capacity Districts Drive Excellence

The Bridgewater-Raritan Regional School District leads the county with 11 schools and nearly 8,000 students. Hillsborough Township and Franklin Township also manage significant populations, each serving over 7,100 students across their respective campuses. Two charter schools operate within the county, providing alternative educational paths for roughly 2.4% of the school-aged population.

Suburban Living on a Grand Scale

The vast majority of Somerset's schools—76 out of 84—are located in suburban settings, creating a classic residential campus feel. Schools here are significantly larger than the state average, with a typical enrollment of 619 students. The Bridgewater-Raritan High School is a local giant with 2,711 students, while Ridge High in Bernards Township serves 1,682.

Invest in a Somerset County Education

Families looking for high-performing suburban districts will find Somerset County's real estate market offers unparalleled access to top-tier schools. These well-funded districts are a primary draw for homebuyers prioritizing academic excellence and extracurricular variety. Start your home search today in a community where educational quality is a foundational value.

Disaster Risk in Somerset County

via RiskByCounty

Somerset's risk tracks near the national average

Somerset County scores 90.94 on the composite risk scale, earning a relatively moderate risk rating that aligns closely with national averages for mixed-hazard counties. This rating reflects substantial but manageable exposure across multiple natural disaster types.

Somerset ranks in the middle tier statewide

Somerset's 90.94 score sits just slightly above New Jersey's state average of 90.81, placing it squarely in the middle of the state's risk distribution. This near-average standing means Somerset faces comparable disaster pressures to the state as a whole.

Somerset faces higher risk than surrounding counties

Somerset (90.94) outranks neighboring Salem (76.53), Sussex (77.45), and Warren (80.76) in composite risk, though Union County (95.48) surpasses it significantly. Somerset's elevated exposure stems partly from higher tornado and flood risks than its lower-risk neighbors.

Tornadoes and flooding dominate Somerset's hazards

Tornado risk scores 72.33 in Somerset, making it a notable concern compared to lower-risk neighbors, while flood risk registers at 95.04, posing severe threats to residents near waterways. Earthquake exposure also climbs to 88.52, reflecting Somerset's position in a moderately seismically active region.

Bundle flood and severe weather protections

Somerset residents should prioritize flood insurance given the county's 95.04 flood risk score, and supplement it with comprehensive homeowners' coverage that includes tornado and wind damage. A basement backup sump pump and reinforced safe room can provide additional protection during severe storms.

Weather & Climate in Somerset County

via WeatherByCounty

A Balanced Four-Season Climate

Somerset County's annual average temperature of 51.8°F sits just below the national median for temperate zones. It experiences the classic transition of seasons typical of the American Northeast.

Cooler than the Jersey Average

The county's 51.8°F average is nearly two degrees cooler than the New Jersey state average of 53.6°F. This difference reflects Somerset's position away from the warming influence of the southern coast.

A Middle Ground in Central Jersey

Somerset is warmer than rugged Sussex but cooler than coastal Union County. It averages 21.0 inches of snow annually, representing a midpoint between the snowy north and the milder south.

Cold Januaries and Hot Julys

January temperatures average 29.4°F, frequently dipping below freezing for extended periods. Summer brings 20 days of extreme heat above 90°F, making for a July average of 74.2°F.

Prepare for Ice and Humidity

Homeowners should ensure insulation is ready for the 21 inches of annual snowfall and freezing January nights. Dual-purpose HVAC units are essential to handle both the winter chill and the 20 days of summer heat spikes.

Soil Quality in Somerset County

via SoilByCounty

Silty soils near state averages

Somerset's soil maintains a pH of 5.10, standing out as less acidic than the state average of 4.24. This acidity level remains lower than the national median of 6.5, contributing to a total soil score of 46.0.

Finer textures hold more moisture

A high silt content of 47.2% combined with 16.2% clay gives this soil a smoother, finer texture than its neighbors. The 34.6% sand component ensures that the heavy silt remains workable rather than compacting too tightly.

Reliable moisture for garden beds

The organic matter content sits at 4.89%, which is lower than the high state average but still double the national average of 2.0%. Its water capacity of 0.175 in/in suggests the soil holds moisture better than the typical New Jersey plot.

Careful management of water flow

Detailed drainage and hydrologic group data are not currently cataloged for this region. The high silt and clay levels indicate that gardeners may need to manage water flow to prevent pooling during heavy rains.

Perfect for perennial gardens

Gardeners in Zone 7a can leverage this nutrient-retaining soil for robust perennial beds and summer crops. Start your backyard project now to take advantage of these favorable growing conditions.

Lawn Care in Somerset County

via LawnByCounty

Somerset Leads the State in Ease

With a lawn difficulty score of 49.4, Somerset County is one of the easier places in New Jersey to maintain a lawn. It sits just below the national median of 50.0 but remains friendlier for grass than the state average of 48.0.

Ideal Rainfall and Moderate Heat

Somerset receives a generous 47.3 inches of rain annually, fitting perfectly within the 30-50 inch ideal range for turf. With only 20 extreme heat days per year, your grass experiences less summer stress than many of its southern neighbors.

Adjusting the Soil Chemistry

A soil pH of 5.10 means your lawn is more acidic than the preferred 6.0 range, requiring some corrective amendments. The soil contains 16.2% clay and 34.6% sand, a mix that benefits from aeration to prevent compaction and improve drainage.

Staying Green Through Dry Weeks

The county endured 32 weeks of drought conditions this past year, with a small 2.4% portion facing severe drought. Keep your mower blades high during dry spells to shade the soil and retain what moisture is available.

Seeding for Success in Zone 7a

Fine fescues and perennial ryegrass thrive in hardiness zone 7a and handle the local winters well. Plan your seeding around the April 30 last frost date to ensure new growth establishes before the summer heat arrives.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Somerset County's county score?
Somerset County, New Jersey has a composite county score of 51.4 out of 100 on CountyScore. This score is calculated from a weighted average of available data dimensions including property tax, cost of living, income, safety, health, and schools.
How does Somerset County rank among counties in New Jersey?
Somerset County ranks #4 among all counties in New Jersey on CountyScore's composite ranking. Rankings are based on available data dimensions and updated as new data is added.
What are property taxes like in Somerset County, New Jersey?
The median annual property tax in Somerset County is $10,001, with an effective tax rate of 1.91%. This earns Somerset County a tax score of 4/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Somerset County?
The median household income in Somerset County, New Jersey is $135,960 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Somerset County earns an income score of 99.5/100 on CountyScore.
Is Somerset County, New Jersey a good place to live?
Somerset County scores 51.4/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #4 in New Jersey. The best way to evaluate Somerset County is to compare individual dimension scores — property tax, cost of living, income, safety, health, and schools — based on your personal priorities. Use CountyScore to compare Somerset County with other counties side by side.