Netflix is officially coming to Monmouth County — and that’s big news for our local economy, our home values, and day-to-day life here in Central Jersey. Netflix isn’t just another company setting up shop; it’s building a major East Coast production hub right in our backyard at Fort Monmouth.
I’m Cori, a full-time real estate agent who’s been helping people buy and sell homes in New Jersey for about 20 years. I love sharing what’s really happening in our market — without the drama — and this is one development that’s absolutely worth paying attention to if you live, work, or invest in Monmouth County. If you follow real estate, local news, or even just binge-watch Netflix on the couch, what’s happening at Fort Monmouth ties all of that together in a very real way.
Monmouth County has always had that “Is it North? Is it South? Is it Central?” kind of personality. Some people still insist Central Jersey doesn’t exist, but anyone who lives here knows that’s nonsense. We have a unique mix of Shore towns like Asbury Park and Neptune, classic suburbs like Marlboro, Manalapan, Holmdel, Freehold, and Middletown, and vibrant downtowns like Red Bank and Long Branch. We’re not quite Philly suburbs, and we’re not inner-ring New York suburbs either. We sit in that perfect middle ground where you can hit the beach, head into New York City or Philadelphia, and still come home to a driveway and a backyard. So when a global brand like Netflix chooses Monmouth County for its new studio complex, that’s not an accident. It’s a vote of confidence in our location, lifestyle, and long-term growth.
Netflix purchased roughly 290 acres of the former Fort Monmouth Army Base, which stretches across Eatontown and Oceanport. They’re transforming it into Netflix Studios Fort Monmouth — a roughly $900 million to $1 billion investment. The plan includes up to 12 state-of-the-art soundstages, production and post-production facilities, and support buildings, offices, and related infrastructure. This isn’t a temporary filming location. This is Netflix putting down deep, long-term roots in Monmouth County and effectively turning Fort Monmouth into a major media and entertainment hub for the East Coast.
Construction has already begun, with demolition and site prep underway at the old Army base. This project will unfold in phases over the next several years. In the short term, we’ll see heavy construction activity, more site work, and local hiring related to the build-out. Over the medium term, portions of the studio may be operational by around 2027–2028. In the long term, full build-out will be completed later, with more permanent jobs and steady day-to-day operations. In the early stages, we’ll mainly feel the impact in the form of construction traffic and temporary jobs. As the studio comes to life, the more lasting effects will show up in employment, local spending, and yes — the housing market.
Economically, this is a major win for New Jersey and especially for Monmouth County. A project of this scale brings thousands of construction jobs during the build-out phase and thousands of permanent positions once the studio is fully operational — from camera crews and editors to security, catering, transportation, and administrative staff. It also means increased spending at local restaurants, shops, hotels, and service providers. This move fits into New Jersey’s broader strategy to attract film and TV production through tax incentives and a business-friendly environment for media companies. Netflix’s arrival helps anchor an entire ecosystem of creativity, production, and support services — with Monmouth County at the center.
Now let’s talk about what most homeowners and buyers really want to know: What does this mean for home values? Towns closest to Fort Monmouth — including Eatontown, Oceanport, Tinton Falls, Long Branch, Shrewsbury, and Red Bank — will likely feel the first wave of increased housing demand. We can expect renters who want to live close to work at Netflix Studios, buyers (including executives and staff) looking for homes within a short commute, and extra interest in townhomes, condos, and modest single-family homes near major routes like the Parkway. When a major employer of Netflix’s size sets up in an area, it usually helps create a solid “floor” underneath housing demand. It doesn’t guarantee runaway prices, but it does support long-term stability and growth.
The impact won’t be limited to the immediate surrounding towns. People drawn to jobs at Netflix Studios will bring all kinds of lifestyle preferences, and Monmouth County is uniquely positioned to offer something for everyone. Walkable downtown lovers may gravitate toward places like Red Bank, Long Branch, and Asbury Park. Families focused on top-rated schools and more space may target Marlboro, Manalapan, Freehold, Holmdel, or Colts Neck. Beach lovers may opt to live along the coast and commute inland to Fort Monmouth. Western Monmouth communities — especially towns like Marlboro and Manalapan — may benefit from a wider “halo effect.” People will be willing to drive a bit further in exchange for schools, yard space, and suburban amenities. If you already own a home in these areas, that’s encouraging over the long term.
Investors are already paying attention to Netflix’s move. Many are exploring multifamily properties near major commuting routes, condos and townhomes that could appeal to young professionals, and single-family homes in strong school districts for long-term rentals. Then there are the “early movers” — buyers who understand that demand may increase over the next several years and would rather get in now than compete later. They’re not expecting overnight price spikes; they’re looking at Netflix as a long-term stabilizing force that strengthens an already desirable market.
Will home prices skyrocket overnight? The honest answer is: probably not overnight. But this project should provide long-term support for home values, especially in and around Fort Monmouth and in high-demand school districts across Monmouth County. Right now, our market continues to see relatively low inventory, has steady buyer demand, and is still experiencing relatively short days on market in many price ranges. We’re not starting from a weak or “struggling” place. We’re starting from strength — and the arrival of Netflix adds another layer of momentum.
Beyond real estate, expect day-to-day life here to evolve in positive ways. A major studio complex like this can help shift Monmouth County from a primarily “summer Shore” vibe to a more year-round economic engine. We’re likely to see more restaurants, shops, and services opening or expanding to support both residents and studio employees, increased year-round activity around areas like Eatontown, Oceanport, Long Branch, and Red Bank, and some traffic adjustments and infrastructure changes near Fort Monmouth as the area is redesigned and improved. Netflix has also discussed partnering with local schools and community programs, which could create new opportunities in film, media, and production for students and residents. That’s an exciting prospect for families thinking about long-term education and career paths for their kids.
So what does all of this mean for you personally? If you already own property in Monmouth County, Netflix’s arrival is one more foundation of long-term value, particularly if you’re near Fort Monmouth or in a town with strong schools and commuter access. If you’re thinking about buying, this is a good time to clarify your budget and goals, understand your preferred towns, and explore options before competition potentially increases over the next few years as the project progresses. If you’re relocating to Monmouth County, you’re choosing a county that offers a rare mix of beaches, suburban comfort, vibrant downtowns, and now, a major Netflix media hub that brings jobs, culture, and long-term investment.
Netflix at Fort Monmouth isn’t just about entertainment; it’s about economic growth, community investment, and the next exciting chapter for Monmouth County. If you’d like to talk about what this means for your home’s value, your buying plans, or your long-term strategy as an investor or homeowner, I’d be happy to help. Feel free to call, text, or message me anytime. And if you’ve found this helpful, share it with a friend, client, or neighbor who’s curious about what Netflix means for our local market. Are you excited about Netflix moving in? A little nervous about change? Or secretly hoping they film a new series on your street? Let’s talk about it.
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Hi, I’m Cori Dunphy, your trusted Monmouth County real estate expert and a local agent with RE/MAX Central. I proudly serve buyers and sellers across Monmouth, Ocean, and Middlesex Counties.
After over two decades helping clients across New Jersey, I bring a unique blend of deep local knowledge, sharp market insight, and a focused, confident approach to every transaction. Think of me as your seasoned guide, ready to make your real estate journey straightforward and successful.
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