You should check out Yardley in Bucks county. Great highway access, lower taxes than Nj. I used to live in Robbinsville, NJ and that was a great town for families also.

A lot of upper level execs at J&J live just across the border in PA (for financial reasons I'm sure). When we moved here, we debated it but my wife would've spent a lot of time on the road and time is something you can't get back and the financial savings weren't as noticeable ;-). We drew an approx 30 min commute around Somerville and looked to see if we could find something amenable. As you've probably figured by now, the further you get from the city and direct train lines into city, real estate tends to be less expensive.

I lived in both Hunterdon County and Bucks County and have family in Princeton NJ.

Hunterdon County is not a nice place to raise kids. It used to in the early 2000s but not anymore. Flemington in particular is very run down nowadays and if you are considering public schooling, the school systems are subpar contrary to belief. Hunterdon Central High School is the WORST!

Bucks County is a lot nicer. Public schooling is good from my experience. Doylestown in particular is a beautiful town with a great central borough, LOTS to do for kids, the town is right next to the high school, Doylestown Township is nice and expansive, great big houses and all. It is a lot cheaper to live in PA as well.

Princeton, although I did not grow up there, is by far the best out of these areas. Beautiful town, sooo much to do and walk around, their prestigious university is right next to town and is a beautiful sight. The high school is close to town as well, and the Princeton Public School District is some of the best in the state.

I recommend you scope out all areas for yourself and see what would be the best fit for you and your children.