New Jersey is rapidly reasserting itself as a powerhouse in film production, with major studio investments reshaping not only the entertainment landscape but also the real estate market across the state. With Lionsgate, Netflix, and Paramount all anchoring new production facilities, the Garden State has officially cemented its return to filmmaking prominence, offering an attractive alternative for West Coast talent seeking proximity to New York without the daily commute. For actors, producers, and industry professionals, New Jersey now presents a range of residential options that combine convenience, luxury, and lifestyle amenities, all within striking distance of state-of-the-art production hubs. For more updates on New Jersey’s entertainment scene and filming locations, Explore New Jersey’s dedicated film and TV coverage provides a deep dive into the industry’s growth.
Bayonne and Jersey City have become focal points of this real estate evolution, largely driven by the Paramount-anchored 1888 Studios. The area has seen billions poured into waterfront luxury housing, reflecting a remarkable demographic shift. According to CREA United, median incomes in key sections of Jersey City now exceed $200,000, while renter-occupied units have grown from 64,905 to 94,113 over the past decade. Owner-occupied units have also risen from 28,744 to 35,907, signaling both increased demand and confidence in the city’s housing market. The influx of production-related professionals and affluent newcomers has fueled demand for high-end condos and waterfront townhomes, often featuring sweeping skyline and harbor views, designer finishes, and state-of-the-art amenities tailored to busy lifestyles.
Montclair, situated north of the upcoming Lionsgate studio in Newark, has long cultivated a reputation as a haven for arts-oriented residents and media personalities. Known for its elegant streets, top-tier schools, and thriving cultural scene, Montclair attracts individuals seeking a mix of suburban serenity and easy urban access. The town’s property market is thriving, with over 100 luxury homes currently available, including standout estates such as a ten-bedroom, twelve-and-a-half-bathroom property listed at $5.6 million with Sotheby’s—a sanctuary of sophistication for buyers seeking both space and style. Montclair’s history of celebrity residents, from late-night host Stephen Colbert to former Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers, underscores its appeal as a destination for high-profile homeowners looking for privacy and community amenities.
Along the Jersey Shore, oceanfront communities such as Asbury Park and Long Branch have undergone dramatic transformations over the last several years, blending gentrification with vibrant arts and cultural scenes. Both towns now offer a combination of nightlife, dining, and scenic coastal living that appeals to creative professionals and entertainment insiders. Asbury Park’s luxury high-rise, Lido, features a four-bedroom, three-and-a-half-bathroom unit with a private balcony listed at $4.66 million, while Long Branch’s Atlantic Club offers comparable high-end units, including a four-bedroom, four-and-a-half-bathroom residence listed at $5.5 million and a more modest one-bedroom, two-bathroom unit at $1.1 million. These communities are increasingly capturing the attention of those seeking both lifestyle and investment value in one package.
For celebrities and industry figures with families, inland towns like Colts Neck continue to be highly desirable. With estates that combine expansive acreage, privacy, and access to some of New Jersey’s most prestigious schools, Colts Neck has long attracted high-profile residents including Jon Stewart, Bruce Springsteen, and Queen Latifah. The town provides a more traditional, family-oriented setting while still remaining within commuting distance to key production studios and cultural centers.
New Jersey’s renaissance in film production is proving to be more than just an industry story—it is driving an entire ecosystem of real estate development, cultural enrichment, and lifestyle evolution. From waterfront luxury in Jersey City to historic estates in Montclair and the revitalized boardwalks of Asbury Park, the state is offering a spectrum of options for both entertainment professionals and high-net-worth buyers. With major studios anchoring production and new residential developments following in lockstep, New Jersey is not only reshaping its entertainment footprint but also solidifying its status as a premier destination for luxury living and creative opportunity.
