Why everyone’s moving to this NJ town you’ve never heard of

Everyone knows about the towns that have become the fastest-growing in New Jersey. Jersey City’s hipsters, professionals, and New York commuters have made it one of the most popular cities in the state.

Lakewood’s orthodox Jewish population has given its population a boost.

Millstone, with its low tax rate, expansive yards and rural feel, attracts people with no kids who don’t care that there isn’t a school in town.

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A fast-growing NJ town

But Rocky Hill, a tiny borough in Somerset County, has quietly become one of New Jersey’s fastest-growing towns.

Between 2012 and 2022, its population surged by 45%, making it the second fastest-growing municipality in the state during that period.

What’s drawing people to this little pocket of Central Jersey?

First off, it’s charming. Rocky Hill is the kind of place where historic homes line tree-shaded streets, and the community feels tight-knit. Despite its small size (just 0.6 square miles), it offers a peaceful, village-like atmosphere that’s hard to find elsewhere.

Then there’s the location. Nestled along the Millstone River, it’s just a short drive from Princeton, offering easy access to shopping, dining, and cultural events. Yet, it remains removed from the hustle and bustle, providing a serene retreat for its residents.

For commuters, Rocky Hill is approximately 48 miles from New York City, with a typical drive taking around 1 hour and 15 minutes, depending on traffic. Alternatively, residents can access NJ Transit trains from nearby stations like Jersey Avenue or New Brunswick, reaching NYC’s Penn Station in under an hour.

Economically, Rocky Hill is thriving. As of March 2025, the average home value in Rocky Hill is $722,793, reflecting a 5.6% increase over the past year. While prices are on the rise, and homes are too cheap, it seems worth it to people because they remain more affordable compared to neighboring towns like Princeton, offering more space and value for the investment.

Education is another draw. With 72.5% of residents holding a bachelor’s degree or higher, the borough boasts a highly educated population.

Rocky Hill offers the best of both worlds: small-town charm with easy access to urban amenities. It’s no wonder people are making the move. Just don’t tell everyone. They'd like to keep it a little secret.

Opinions expressed in the post above are those of New Jersey 101.5 talk show host Judi Franco only.

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Opinions expressed in the post above are those of New Jersey 101.5 talk show host Judi Franco only.

Report a correction 👈