Hillsborough Township

BY ERIN McFEETERS

The perfect blend of suburbia and scenic natural beauty is in reach in the Somerset County township of Hillsborough. With sprawling open space, historical ties to the Revolutionary War, and countless township-sponsored events throughout the year, Hillsborough boasts convenient access to everything the Garden State has to offer.

“Hillsborough has a very unique community feel as we have 43,000 residents, but a tight community where everybody seems to know everybody. That’s a wonderful thing nowadays as the world has gotten faster and people have become busier,” said Mayor of Hillsborough Township Robert J. Britting. “Hillsborough Township is the place where you can live and still feel like life moves a little slower in every good way possible.”

Hillsborough’s history dates back to 1771 and the township was officially incorporated by the New Jersey Legislature in 1798. According to Hillsborough Township Administrator Anthony Ferrera, Hillsborough is one of the original 104 townships in the state with deep historical roots and dozens of Revolutionary War sites located within Hillsborough and the surrounding area.

“Hillsborough is a wonderful place to live and raise a family,” said Ferrera. “It boasts some of the best schools in the nation, parks and hiking trails, farms, rivers, and streams, and a wide variety of restaurants, shops, and activities that appeal to Hillsborough’s diverse community.”

Named one of the best places to live in America by Money Magazine’s America’s Best Places to Live and New Jersey Monthly Magazine’s Best Places to Live in New Jersey, along with many others, these achievements reflect the schools, diversity, sustainability, health, and quality of life for Hillsborough residents, according to Ferrera.

According to New Jersey Realtors® February 2024 housing market data report, there were 23 single family home closed sales in Hillsborough year-to-date, a 21.1% increase over the same time last year. The median sales price for single family homes clocked in at $680,000, a 13.1% increase over last year, and single family homes continue to receive over asking with the percentage of list price received at 102.5% year-to-date.

Aspiring Hillsborough homeowners can expect a town that puts their community first and holds events in every season so there’s always something to do.

“The community overall is like a big family. I have seen the community come together during bad times and good times for one another. The community events are hit and well supported,” said Akhtar Farzaie, who runs Bella Pizza in town. “Newly elected Mayor Robert J. Britting, and his administration heavily involved in the community puts the community, its people and businesses first.”

Attend the Christmas tree and menorah lighting, participate in the scarecrow festival and vote for your favorite, dine at a Hillsborough-favorite restaurant during restaurant week this Sept. 24-29, and so much more.

“It seems like there is something happening at all times. Sports activities, annual fairs, live music events, and charity events,” said co-founder and operator at Eminato, Orest Levytskyy. “Hillsborough residents are incredibly charitable and community minded. There are many charitable organizations in town and the community is always willing to lend a helping hand.”

Levytskyy’s coffee and tea shop, Eminato, is in the heart of Hillsborough. “We’re all about balance, flavor, and fuel in everything that we do. On our menu, you can find delicious specialty coffee, matcha, superfood lattes, smoothies, bubble teas, and more,” said Levytskyy. “Our space is that comfy spot where you have your most engaging conversations or do your best work while sipping on delicious, handcrafted beverages.”

Eminato participates in Hillsborough’s annual restaurant week and Levytskyy said the town creates promotional videos with the mayor about the restaurants and their specials and then shares the video in the township newsletter.

According to Farzaie, the Economic and Business Development Office does an amazing job going above and beyond to help local businesses. He said small business owners also have access to the Hillsborough Business Association which helps support local businesses through promotion and development programs. The HBA, along with the Hillsborough Township Committee, also developed Experience Hillsborough, to highlight the very best of what the town has to offer.

Hillsborough’s 12 parks throughout town provide a multitude of ways to enjoy the natural beauty of the township. Ann Van Middlesworth Park is Ferrera’s favorite place in town and features 72 acres of softball fields, basketball courts, a universal playground, sensory garden, enclosed bee hives, and so much more. Parts of the Sourland Mountain Preserve is also in Hillsborough where residents and visitors alike can hike, bird watch, mountain bike, and more. The mountain is visible in many spots in town, boasting some of the best Hillsborough views.

“There is a small soccer field off of Willow Road where I sit with my children and watch the sunset,” said Britting. “Those are the moments for me that drive every decision I make, and every ounce of energy I put into what I do. I also love driving on Willow Road during the sunset as the Sourland mountains have the most insanely gorgeous sunsets I have ever seen.”