Located just west of the Washington, DC border, Somerset, MD is a small, close-knit neighborhood known for tree-lined streets, beautiful homes, and a genuinely neighborly spirit. For anyone considering a move to Montgomery County, Somerset is a standout choice—offering peaceful residential living with easy access to the capital’s amenities. Here’s a local’s look at what makes Somerset such a unique and beloved place to call home.
Community Vibe: Small Town Warmth Minutes from the City
Although Somerset is nestled right up against bustling Bethesda and Chevy Chase, it stands out for its tranquil, almost village-like feel. Walking along Dorset Avenue or Essex Avenue, you’ll find residents greeting each other by name, children playing together in driveways, and neighbors gathering for impromptu block parties. The Town of Somerset is an incorporated municipality, which means it’s self-governed and residents are highly engaged—town meetings are well-attended, and there’s a real sense of collective pride.
Somerset has an intergenerational population: young families mingle with long-established homeowners whose children (or even grandchildren) grew up here. Community events such as the annual Fourth of July picnic at Capello Park or the spring plant exchange are cherished traditions that help newcomers feel right at home.
Housing Types: Elegant Homes and Historic Charm
Somerset is primarily residential, and the housing stock is one of its biggest draws. The neighborhood features:
- Stately early-20th-century homes, many with Craftsman, Colonial Revival, or Tudor details
- Spacious single-family houses with large, manicured lots
- Some newer custom builds that blend seamlessly with the older architecture
Wide streets like Warwick Place and Surrey Street are lined with mature oaks and maples, creating a lush canopy in spring and spectacular color in autumn. Homes here are meticulously maintained, often passed from one generation to the next—contributing to a strong sense of permanence and care in the neighborhood’s appearance.
Walkability: Convenience Without the Congestion
One of Somerset’s greatest perks is its walkability. Although it feels set apart from the hustle and bustle, you’re just a 10-minute stroll from Friendship Heights Metro (via the pedestrian-friendly Willard Avenue), making it easy to commute into D.C. or explore the shops at The Shops at Wisconsin Place.
- Quiet sidewalks encourage evening dog walks and morning jogs
- Local traffic is calm, with few through-streets—perfect for biking and kids walking to school
Within a mile, you’ll find grocery stores (Whole Foods, Giant), pharmacies, coffee shops, and restaurants. Residents often remark they can often “do it all” on foot—be it errands, a trip to the farmers’ market, or even catching a movie.
Schools and Family-Friendliness: Top-Tier for Kids
Families are drawn to Somerset for its outstanding public schools, part of the high-performing Montgomery County district. Somerset Elementary School, situated right on Warwick Place, is a hub of activity and boasts an active PTA and robust enrichment programming. Older students attend Westland Middle School and Bethesda-Chevy Chase High School—both highly regarded.
Beyond academics, the area’s quiet streets, low traffic, and public parks make it ideal for raising children. Playdates at the Town Hall playground are a daily ritual, and local babysitting co-ops and neighborhood book clubs provide built-in support for parents.
Parks and Green Spaces: Nature in Your Backyard
Green space is a treasured feature in Somerset. Capello Park, centrally located on Cumberland Avenue, is the neighborhood’s primary gathering spot—it offers:
- Well-maintained playgrounds and sports fields
- Picnic tables and barbecue grills for family get-togethers
- Walking paths that wind through mature trees
Many homes back up to parkland, and the Capital Crescent Trail is just a short bike ride away, connecting Somerset to miles of scenic, traffic-free paths stretching all the way to Georgetown. In spring and early summer, gardens burst into bloom, and open green lawns invite outdoor play and quiet evening strolls.
Safety: Peace of Mind Day and Night
Somerset residents appreciate the sense of safety that comes from living in a small, well-connected neighborhood. The Town contracts its own police patrol in addition to Montgomery County services, and the local government is highly responsive to resident concerns.
- Community watch programs and good lighting add security
- It’s common to see kids biking or walking home from school unaccompanied
Neighbors look out for each other, and crime rates in the area remain consistently low by county and metro standards.
Proximity to Downtown and Major Employers: The Best of Both Worlds
Somerset’s location is hard to beat—buffered from city noise but close enough to enjoy all that D.C. has to offer. Commuters can:
- Hop on Metro’s Red Line at nearby Friendship Heights or Bethesda stations
- Drive downtown via Wisconsin Avenue in about 20 minutes outside of rush hour
- Access major employers in Bethesda, Chevy Chase, NIH, and Walter Reed Medical Center in under 10 minutes
The neighborhood’s eastern border, Little Falls Parkway, also puts residents close to biking trails and nature getaways, offering a remarkably balanced lifestyle.
What Residents Love Most: Pride, Tradition, and Tranquility
When you ask Somerset residents what they love most, you’ll hear praise for:
- The welcoming, supportive nature of the community—neighbors genuinely become friends
- The unique mix of privacy and sociability, where you can find peace but also always have a local event or gathering to join
- The beautiful, walkable streets and the feeling of being tucked away, even with the conveniences of urban living a stone’s throw away
Somerset has been lovingly maintained for over a century and continues to attract residents who value its rich history, scenic beauty, and enduring sense of belonging.
Whether you’re starting a family, downsizing, or simply seeking a community with a true “small town” spirit near the heart of the city, Somerset, MD offers a lifestyle that’s hard to match.