As California scrambles to keep its film industry rooted and New York wrestles with logistical congestion and rising costs, New Jersey is quietly — and aggressively — rewriting the script. With sprawling soundstages, historic backdrops, top-tier talent, and a film-friendly infrastructure backed by long-term tax incentives, the Garden State isn’t just talking about becoming Hollywood East — it’s already in production.
A Bold New Scene: Netflix Breaks Ground On $848M Studio In Fort Monmouth
On May 13th, Netflix officially broke ground on a massive $848 million production campus on 292 acres of the former Fort Monmouth Army base in Central New Jersey. The site will feature 12 purpose-built soundstages, and when completed, could become the largest film production complex on the East Coast.
At the groundbreaking, Fort Monmouth Commissioner Director Thomas Arnone had a clear message for Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos:
“We will make this easy for you”.
That sentiment echoes across the state — from Newark to Atlantic City — and it’s resonating with Hollywood decision-makers.
Infrastructure Meets Intent: Why New Jersey Is Ready
While California Governor Gavin Newsom recently admitted his state had “taken things for granted,” New Jersey has been laying bricks — literally. From Cinelease Studios in Jersey City to Newark Film Studios, Lionsgate’s new facility, and the behemoth 1888 Studios in Bayonne, purpose-built and repurposed spaces are popping up statewide, supported by a robust tax incentive program and statewide political will.
At Cinelease Studios, productions like Wild ‘N’ Out, Dumb Money, and American Horror Stories have found a home. Over in Newark, a 1930s-era bank turned film studio has hosted The Equalizer, West Side Story, and A Complete Unknown. These are not flash-in-the-pan shoots — they’re long-term investments signaling serious industry momentum.
The Newark Effect: Where History Meets Cinematic Grit
Newark has emerged as a crown jewel. With historic architecture, urban grit, and accessibility, it’s a favorite for period pieces and New York City stand-ins. As Mayor Ras Baraka puts it:
“Newark was made for the big screen. Every sidewalk, alley, and path has a story — and we have the workforce to tell it”.
Add in the city’s international airport, direct transit to NYC, and a growing local talent pool, and it’s no wonder productions are increasingly choosing Newark over Manhattan.
Tax Credits That Speak Volumes — And Last
Perhaps the most compelling aspect of New Jersey’s pitch? Its tax credit program — one of the most generous and future-focused in the nation. Productions can receive up to 35% back on qualifying expenses, with minimal red tape. Even more impressive: the credit is locked in through June 30th, 2039.
As Governor Phil Murphy notes:
“This isn’t about us — it’s about generations to come”.
That long-term vision is critical in an industry where stability and forward planning matter. And with bipartisan support, New Jersey is making it clear: they’re not just rolling out a red carpet — they’re building the foundation under it.
From Temporary Shoots To Permanent Jobs
Unlike some regions offering fly-by-night tax credits, New Jersey is pushing for sustainable growth.
“One of the knocks on other programs is productions blow through town and leave. We’re trying to build permanent, year-round employment and brick-and-mortar infrastructure” said NJEDA CEO Tim Sullivan.
And that’s exactly what’s happening. Lionsgate is developing a 350,000 sq ft facility in Newark. 1888 Studios in Bayonne will include 23 soundstages on 58 acres, the largest studio in the Northeast. ACX1 Studios in Atlantic City plans to build a pier-based complex with more ready-to-shoot sets than anywhere on the East Coast.
A Full-Circle Industry Ecosystem
From state-of-the-art studios to on-the-ground talent development at places like Montclair State University and the New Jersey Film Academy, the Garden State isn’t just creating filming destinations — it’s building a full ecosystem.
“The best crews live here. You can cheat almost any location here. We have it all — cities, beaches, forests, and small towns” says veteran producer Diane Raver, who’s worked across the globe.
Need a beach? Try Asbury Park. Need dense woods? Rewatch The Sopranos’ “Pine Barrens” episode. Need mid-century suburbia or gritty urban decay? Done and done.
A New Script For Hollywood
While California legislators only recently rallied around “Stay in L.A.” initiatives, New Jersey has been laser-focused on bringing it here to stay!
With its diverse locations, strategic proximity to NYC, an international airport, committed leadership, and a best-in-class incentive structure, New Jersey isn’t waiting for Hollywood to notice — it’s demanding the director’s chair. And as Netflix, Lionsgate, and dozens of other studios settle in for the long haul, one thing is for sure — Hollywood East isn’t a dream anymore, it’s in production now.
