Long Branch Joins New Jersey’s Expanding Film Industry
The Jersey Shore is becoming more than a destination for beaches, boardwalks, and summer tourism. It is increasingly becoming a destination for film, television, digital media, and creative businesses.
The latest example is the opening of Unlimited Studios in Long Branch, a new production facility that will officially open its doors on June 20. Located at 122 Myrtle Avenue, the studio represents another step in New Jersey’s transformation into one of the fastest-growing film production hubs on the East Coast.
New Jersey’s Film Industry Momentum Continues
Over the past several years, New Jersey has emerged as a major player in film and television production. State tax incentives covering up to 40% of qualified production expenses have attracted some of the biggest names in entertainment. Netflix is currently investing nearly $1 billion to redevelop the former Fort Monmouth military base into a massive production campus spanning hundreds of acres across Oceanport and Eatontown. The project will eventually include multiple soundstages, production facilities, backlot space, and supporting infrastructure. Additional investments from major studios in Newark and Bayonne are helping fuel a statewide expansion that is expected to increase New Jersey’s dedicated soundstage capacity dramatically in the coming years.
Why This Matters to Local Real Estate
When people hear about film studios, they often think about movies and television shows. However, these projects can have significant economic impacts that extend far beyond the entertainment industry.
Large-scale studio developments create demand for:
- Commercial office space
- Warehousing and industrial properties
- Hospitality and lodging
- Restaurants and retail businesses
- Residential housing for production crews and support staff
- Professional services ranging from legal and accounting firms to title and settlement companies
As new businesses move into an area, they often bring employees, contractors, and suppliers who need places to live and work. This increased demand can stimulate local real estate markets and encourage additional investment throughout the community.
Long Branch Gets a Seat at the Table
Unlike the massive studio campuses being developed elsewhere in the state, Unlimited Studios is targeting independent filmmakers, content creators, podcasters, advertisers, and smaller production teams.
The 3,000-square-foot facility includes:
- A professional cyclorama wall for video production
- A dedicated podcast studio
- Post-production editing facilities
- Camera and lighting equipment rentals
- High-speed connectivity
- Production support services
This type of creative infrastructure can help attract entrepreneurs, media companies, marketing agencies, and digital creators who may choose to establish operations in the area. For Long Branch, that means more opportunities to diversify the local economy while supporting year-round business activity beyond the traditional tourism season.
The Ripple Effect of Economic Development
Economic development projects often begin with a single announcement but create ripple effects throughout a community. The redevelopment of Fort Monmouth, ongoing investments throughout Monmouth County, and now the addition of production facilities in Long Branch are all examples of how strategic investment can reshape a region’s future. For property owners, homebuyers, investors, and business owners, these developments are worth watching. While no single project guarantees increased property values, sustained economic growth often strengthens demand for both residential and commercial real estate over time.
Looking Ahead
The Jersey Shore’s evolution into a center for entertainment, technology, and creative industries continues to gain momentum. As production companies, studios, and related businesses establish a presence in Monmouth County, communities like Long Branch stand to benefit from new jobs, increased investment, and expanded economic opportunities. At Counsellors Title Agency, we closely monitor developments that impact New Jersey’s real estate market. Whether it’s a major redevelopment project, new business investment, or emerging economic trends, understanding these changes helps buyers, sellers, lenders, attorneys, and real estate professionals make informed decisions.
The cameras may be rolling in Long Branch, but the larger story is about growth, investment, and the continued transformation of New Jersey’s coastal communities.