Netflix Expansion & Its Real Estate Impact

The rolling green of Monmouth County, long known for its suburban charm and proximity to New York City and the Jersey Shore, is entering a new era—this time, under the glimmering lights of Hollywood. With Netflix officially breaking ground on a sprawling $1 billion production campus at the former Fort Monmouth military base, Monmouth County is poised for a transformation that reaches far beyond the entertainment world. The streaming giant's investment promises not only thousands of new jobs and an economic boost, but also a profound and lasting impact on the local real estate market.

Let's take a closer look at what this means for luxury buyers, investors, and homeowners in Monmouth County.

In May 2025, Netflix began demolition and early-stage construction on what will become one of the most ambitious studio complexes on the East Coast. Located on a 292-acre site that spans the boroughs of Oceanport and Eatontown, the new campus will feature 12 purpose-built soundstages, totaling nearly 500,000 square feet, along with post-production facilities, executive offices, a hotel, retail, a cinema, and even water tanks for filming aquatic scenes.

The project, expected to reach full completion by 2028, represents a public-private collaboration between Netflix and the Fort Monmouth Economic Revitalization Authority (FMERA). With New Jersey offering up to $387 million in film and digital media tax incentives, it's no surprise Netflix chose this historic location as its next major production hub.

From a global content powerhouse's perspective, Fort Monmouth offers unparalleled access to major metro areas, seaport infrastructure, a highly educated workforce, and an appealing lifestyle for talent and executives. But the local implications are just as compelling—particularly for real estate.

Even before Netflix broke ground on the project, local agents began to notice a shift. Properties in and around Oceanport, Eatontown, and neighboring Tinton Falls started attracting speculative interest from investors, developers, and New York City professionals who anticipate future demand driven by the studio's presence.

While the full buildout is still a few years off, the mere confirmation of Netflix's plans caused ripples:

• Home prices in Oceanport and Eatontown are already trending upward, with some reports noting an 8–12% increase in median home values over the past 12 months.
• Rental demand is surging, particularly for short-term and furnished rentals, as early-stage contractors, consultants, and production staff begin spending time in the area.
• Land parcels and teardown homes are getting a second look from developers eager to capitalize on potential new housing demand from studio workers and support industries.

And we're only at the beginning.

The profile of incoming residents and buyers is shifting. Industry insiders anticipate a growing need for both workforce housing and luxury residences. While not everyone working at the studio will be a high-net-worth buyer, a significant number of executives, talent agents, showrunners, and visiting celebrities will require accommodations that align with their lifestyle.

That puts the spotlight on Monmouth County's more exclusive pockets—quiet streets in Oceanport, stately homes in Little Silver, and new construction luxury properties throughout Tinton Falls and Shrewsbury. Gated communities, estates with pool terraces and guest quarters, and homes with proximity to both the studio and the shore will all be in high demand.

Beyond the obvious increase in demand for residential real estate, the Netflix development may also reframe how the region markets itself. We're seeing the early stages of what might become a "creative economy corridor" within Central Jersey.

Think about it this way: talented professionals and creatives are drawn to places where they can live well, access cultural amenities, and balance work and leisure. Monmouth County, with its coastline, golf courses, charming downtowns, and excellent public and private schools, checks all the boxes. Add in a major media campus, and suddenly it's not just a suburb—it's a destination for the entertainment world.

That transformation could influence:

• Retail and hospitality growth in nearby towns, with boutique hotels, cafés, and wellness offerings expanding to serve both locals and studio visitors.
• Commercial leasing interest from production vendors, equipment suppliers, and post-production services.
• Increased investment in infrastructure, including roads, broadband access, and transit improvements.

All of which enhances the quality of life—and by extension, the appeal of living and investing in Monmouth County.

For those already invested in Monmouth County or considering making a move, the Netflix expansion presents a strategic opportunity.

• For Buyers: Purchasing now in areas within a 10–15-minute radius of Fort Monmouth means potentially riding the early stages of a multi-year appreciation cycle. Properties with space for home offices, guest quarters, and cinematic views may hold special appeal for creative professionals.
• For Sellers: If you've been waiting for the right time to list, this wave of attention may yield competitive offers—particularly if your home is updated, well-located, and market-ready. Expect interest from out-of-area buyers to grow as word spreads.
• For Investors: There's opportunity in short- and medium-term rentals, particularly in high-end, fully furnished properties. Studios will need places to house cast and crew, often for weeks or months at a time. Properties near the train line or within easy reach of both the studio and the beach will likely see elevated occupancy and premium nightly rates.

While Oceanport and Eatontown are at the epicenter of the expansion, surrounding towns are poised for complementary growth. Consider:

• Little Silver: Already popular for its waterfront access and proximity to amenities in Shrewsbury and Tinton Falls, expect interest only to grow as the community sits less than 10 minutes from the Netflix Studios.
• Red Bank: Offering a blend of historic charm and modern amenities, Red Bank is a cultural hub, with plenty of arthouse cachet that aligns well with entertainment industry buyers.
• Long Branch: A coastal option for those who want a beachside lifestyle within commuting distance of the studio.

Netflix's commitment to Monmouth County marks a defining moment for the region—economically, culturally, and residentially. For real estate professionals and homeowners, it's more than just good news; it's a call to attention—including changes to the county's trajectory. And for those who understand the nuances of timing, location, and lifestyle appeal, it's a grand opportunity to be part of and take advantage of something cinematic—before the credits roll.

If you're ready to explore more of Monmouth County, including the area's luxury homes and real estate offerings—or are considering listing a luxury residence of your own for sale—contact Ten Hoeve Advisory today to start your Monmouth County real estate journey.