If you ever travel to Mars, you can visit Somerset. In 2006, Somerset Crater was named after this small Pennsylvania borough.
Or you could just visit the earthly version of Somerset
If you ever travel to Mars, you can visit Somerset. In 2006, Somerset Crater was named after this small Pennsylvania borough.
Or you could just visit the earthly version of Somerset. Just take Exit 110 on the Pennsylvania Turnpike. It's quicker and a whole lot easier. But if you blink, you could miss it. According to the US Census Bureau, Somerset has a population of around 6,000 and sits on 2.7 square miles of land. Although small, this borough - a type of township, not a donkey - is the county seat of Somerset County, so it gets plenty of visitors throughout the year.
First off, take your time. Like any new town, you'll need to get to know the area and the people. And the climate. Due to its high elevation, Jack Frost can come early and stay well past his welcome. If you don't mind putting another log on the fire in June, you'll be okay.
What You'll Need
Even though Somerset has plenty of vacancies, you don't want to mess around if you find something you like. There's a law that says that the minute you want something, someone else wants it, too. To guard against such "theft," have your rental toolbox ready. This should include letters of reference, work history, proof of income, and deposit money. The landlord will expect you to hand over a security deposit and first month's rent, at the very least.
Almost half of the homes in Somerset are renter-occupied, so finding an apt for rent should be easy. Although rental housing in Somerset is plentiful, you should know where to direct your search. Here are a couple neighborhoods in this borough that might be perfect for you.
Borough Center: This area has a good mix of studio apartments, one- and two-bedroom apartments for rent. There are also single-family homes for rent and a number of restaurants within a couple of miles.
Edie: Like Borough Center, Edie has a mixture of apartments and houses. If you like established homes, but ones that are not dinosaurs, you've come to the right place. Most of the residential properties were built from 1970 to 1999. This neighborhood is not walkable, so you'll need a car to get to Starbucks or McDonalds, both located a few miles away.
In Somerset, your two feet can take you many places around town. But the residents won't look down on you if you drive a car. So walk or drive to Crazy Alice Cafe for a coffee or Eat'n Park Restaurant for some chow (don't worry. Alice isn't that crazy). Afterward, you might want to work off your meal by taking a walk in Laurel Hill State Park or Kooser State Park, both in Somerset County. History buffs will enjoy a trip to Somerset Historical Center. Because Somerset is surrounded by Somerset Country, this borough has a lot to offer you.
