With a population of approximately 23,690 as of the 2020 census, Montgomery Township in Somerset County combines open spaces, local businesses, and a strong sense of community. The area is known for its township-style governance, historic roots stretching back to the 18th century, and a blend of suburban and semi-rural character that appeals to families, professionals, and those seeking a little breathing room outside of a big city. It’s also recognized for its highly regarded school system and its long-standing focus on land-use planning and open-space preservation, which continues to shape the landscape and character of the community today.

The region once operated as farmland, laid out in long, narrow parcels that extended from fertile fields across woodland and up toward the ridge of the province line. Over time, the transition from agricultural plots to residential neighborhoods and small business districts was deliberate and thoughtful. Community leaders emphasized protecting open spaces and limiting uncontrolled development, so many of the original rural impressions remain visible. Among the lesser-known local stories is that of the old North Princeton Developmental Center, a sprawling state-owned property that the township acquired in 2007 to convert into passive-use parkland instead of allowing dense subdivision. That decision, and others like it, reflects the community’s continuing commitment to thoughtful growth and environmental stewardship.

The food scene here is a mix of comfort and creativity. For Italian fare, Beniamino’s Cucina & Pizza In nearby Skillman is a local favorite known for its scratch-made tortellini, margherita pizzas, and family-style hospitality. The Tiger’s Tale Bar & Grill, just a short drive down the same road, has become a go-to for hearty pub fare, from pulled-pork sliders to fish tacos and classic wings. It’s the kind of place where locals meet after work or catch a game over a pint. A newer standout is Kasia Market in Belle Mead, a sprawling 30,000-square-foot international grocery and restaurant concept that opened in late 2024. Inside, visitors can browse an array of Asian and global groceries, fresh seafood, a butcher section, and a bustling eatery called The Hungry Tiger, which serves Korean-inspired dishes and quick bites. The market’s mix of cultural flavors and modern design has made it a new local attraction and a symbol of the area’s continued evolution.

There’s plenty to explore beyond dining, too. Nature enthusiasts can wander through county-owned parklands and trails that crisscross the township, many of which still show traces of the area’s agricultural past. Woodland paths, meadow clearings, and preserved farm structures paint a vivid picture of what life here once looked like. The township takes pride in preserving these spaces and ensuring that residents have access to the outdoors year-round. Each autumn, the community gathers for its annual Restaurant Week, when local eateries, cafés, and bakeries offer special menus and deals to encourage residents to dine locally. It’s one of the most anticipated weeks of the year, drawing crowds eager to support hometown businesses and try new dishes. Throughout the year, residents also take part in volunteer-driven cleanup days, seasonal festivals, and local events coordinated by the township’s Economic Development Commission, which helps maintain the close-knit spirit that defines the area.

Among the bits of local lore passed down over the years is the story of the Skillman Dairy Farm property. Today it’s largely open land, but it once served as the New Jersey State Village for Epileptics in the late 19th and early 20th centuries before becoming part of a state developmental center. The history is layered and fascinating, and remnants of the site’s past still linger in the area’s collective memory. Another lesser-known fact is that this very township once straddled the old provincial boundary dividing East and West Jersey in the 1600s. The line, invisible to modern eyes, still subtly influences the shape of creeks and ridge lines that cut across the landscape today.

As your community partners in home and property maintenance, we understand that even in well-kept neighborhoods, unwanted visitors can sometimes make their way indoors. At Fuessel Pest, we offer professional pest and wildlife control services designed for Montgomery Township. If you’ve noticed signs of pests or want to prevent future issues, our team can help with reliable inspections and targeted treatment plans. Contact Fuessel Pest today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can help protect your home or business.