Borough of Morrisville
Bucks County, Pennsylvania

Morrisville Borough [†], Pennsylvania, is a small, historic community located in Bucks County, just across the Delaware River from Trenton, New Jersey. Covering about two square miles, it had a population of 9,809 according to the 2020 Census. Named after Robert Morris, a key financier of the American Revolution, the borough was incorporated in 1804, though its history stretches back further. It began as a trading post of the Dutch West India Company from 1624 to 1627 and later grew around a ferry crossing known as Colvin’s Ferry, tying it closely to both Trenton and Philadelphia.

Geographically, Morrisville sits at the falls of the Delaware River, a strategic spot that once led Robert Morris to push for it to become the nation’s capital—a bid that nearly succeeded. Today, it’s bordered by Falls Township to the south, Lower Makefield Township to the north, and the river to the east, with a small salient of land making it mostly surrounded by New Jersey. The borough spans 2.0 square miles, with 1.8 square miles of land and 0.2 square miles of water, including parts of the Delaware Canal State Park along its eastern edge.

Morrisville is known for its low crime rate—one of the lowest in Pennsylvania—and a strong sense of community. It’s home to over 1,500 local businesses and features a mix of historic charm and natural beauty. Key attractions include Summerseat, a National Historic Landmark that served as George Washington’s headquarters from December 8-14, 1776, before the Battle of Trenton. The borough also boasts parks like Williamson Park, the Morrisville Riverfront Preserve, and a dog park, alongside a levee offering views of Trenton’s skyline. Its climate is humid subtropical, with hot summers and cold winters, typical of southeastern Pennsylvania.

Education falls under the Morrisville School District, one of the state’s smallest, fostering tight-knit ties between students and the community. Transportation is a strong suit—U.S. Route 1 and the Trenton-Morrisville Toll Bridge connect it to New Jersey, while SEPTA’s Route 127 bus links it to nearby hubs. Amtrak and SEPTA trains pass through but don’t stop; the nearest station is in Trenton.

Historically, Morrisville has seen moments of fame, like when its Little League team won the World Series in 1955. Housing mostly consists of single-family homes and twins, built largely between the 1920s and 1950s, with neighborhoods like Capitol View and Morris Heights. The cost of living is about 23% higher than the U.S. average, with a median home value of $267,106 in 2022. Jobs have grown slightly, with an unemployment rate of 6.1%, just above the national average.

It’s a quiet, self-contained place with a rich past, where residents take pride in their tidy streets and local culture—think community theater at Actors’ NET and a library in a former church. Three bridges tie it to Trenton, making it a convenient spot for commuters while keeping its small-town feel intact.