With a walkable historic downtown, busy commercial corridor and I-95 rest area, Smithfield is a rural town with many identities — including one that is still evolving. “Downtown has a nice mix of shops, including jewelry and formal wear stores, but the nightlife part is where we’re trying to take off,” says Michele Brownlee, Realtor with Coldwell Banker Advantage in Smithfield and a 21-year resident of North Carolina. Smithfield also has an Art Deco movie theater and a museum honoring an old Hollywood starlet buried there, and a stone veneer courthouse built in the Classical Revival style. Homebuyers can find what they're looking for in Smithfield whether it's something historic or a brand new build.
With just over 13,000 residents, Smithfield still has that small town feel.
Smithfield is walker friendly and has paved sidewalks all through town.
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History and shopping in downtown Smithfield
Downtown Smithfield is a historic town center developed between the late 19th- and mid-20th century. One- and two-story brick veneer buildings house pizza shops, delicatessens and law offices in this walkable area. One local institution is the Howell Theatre, an Art Deco movie house showing films since 1935. Before a show, residents enjoy breakfast and lunch at The Diner, a no-frills local establishment serving key lime pie, club sandwiches and a variety of daily specials. “The Diner has been owned by the same husband and wife team since before I was here,” says Brownlee. The subs at Gotham’s Deli and crepes at the Gilded Pear are also local favorites. Along North Brightleaf Boulevard, the main commercial thoroughfare in Smithfield, there are chain stores like Lowe’s and Belk, fast food eateries like McDonald’s and Chick-fil-A and grocery stores like Food Lion and Walmart Supercenter. People shop for J. Crew sweaters and Coach bags at the Carolina Premium Outlets.
For over 20 years, Gotham's Deli has brought a touch of the Big Apple down to the South.
Check out the many shops downtown Smithfield has to offer.
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Colonials in Carolina
Smithfield has a gridded downtown area where neighbors can walk to restaurants from their houses. In its residential areas, one-story houses sit right next to each other on windy, suburban streets behind tall trees and roadside bushes. A two- or three-bedroom home in need of some renovations can go for under $200,000. On the other end of the price range, a newly built home with four or five bedrooms can go for as high as $650,000. Some neighborhoods like Brooklyn offer historic homes from the 1920s with classic architecture. Others have subdivisions like Avery Landing where stick built homes with large garages are currently being built.
Smithfield is a great place to raise a family.
Homes built in the 1930s' and 1940s can be found around downtown Smithfield.
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The desirable Smithfield-Selma High School
Smithfield is zoned for Johnston County Schools, a large school district with a B rating from Niche. Some kids will attend South Smithfield Elementary School, Smithfield Middle School and Smithfield-Selma High School, which serves Smithfield and the neighboring town of Selma. All three schools have a C-plus rating from Niche. Construction on a new auxiliary gymnasium at Smithfield-Selma High School started in late 2023. “Smithfield-Selma is known for its great culinary program, and its marching band,” says Brownlee. “A lot of kids want to go to school there just so they can be in the band.”
Smithfield-Selma High School has a locally famous band.
The Smithfield Middle School fighting Knights are the envy of the class around Smithfield.
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Access to I-95 and near by cities
Smithfield is located along Interstate 95, making it a popular spot for those passing through, but it also makes for a convenient commute to Fayetteville and larger cities. Raleigh is 31 miles northwest of Smithfield and Durham is 55 miles away. The Amtrak stops nearby in Selma, providing a direct route to Washington, D.C., and New York City.
The location right next to I-95 in Smithfield makes shopping at Carolina Premium Outlets easy.
Smithfield is the county seat of Johnston County, NC.
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Green space along the Neuse River
Smithfield sits along the Neuse River, a 250-mile waterway connecting Raleigh to North Carolina’s original capital of New Bern. The word “Neuse” is derived from the Neusiok tribe and translates to “peace,” which is fitting because it’s a calm, flowing river. Those exploring downtown can stroll along the Smithfield Neuse Riverwalk, which runs from Riverside Cemetery to Smithfield Community Park. Next to the park is the Smithfield Recreation & Aquatics Center, an indoor athletic facility with a pool, fitness classes and summer camps for kids. Smithfield Community Park has football and soccer fields, picnic tables and a playground area.
Smithfield is situated on the Neuse River in Johnston County, NC.
Go for a stroll along the Nuese River in Smithfield at Town Commons Park.
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Ava Gardner and Ham & Yam
One of Smithfield’s most famous landmarks is the Ava Gardner Museum, created to honor the Hollywood actress buried in town at Sunset Memorial Park. Known for roles in films like “Show Boat” and “The Night of the Iguana,” Gardner is a Golden Age of Hollywood legend. The museum has rotating exhibits and artifacts like movie posters and outfits from Gardner’s various films. Every year, the museum hosts an Ava Gardner Festival with film screenings, book signings and special presentations over the course of a weekend in October. In May, the community comes together for the Smithfield Ham & Yam Festival, a one-day event with entertainment, inflatables, about 130 vendors and country ham biscuits from the Kiwanis Club of Smithfield.
Ava Gardner may be Smithfield's most beloved resident. Her museum can be visited downtown.
The Kiwanis serve up the finest ham biscuits around at the Smithfield Ham and Yam Festival.
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Written By
Joyelle Ronan
Photography Contributed By
Lawrence Hiatt
Video By
Benjamin Rose
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Dave Harney,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Smithfield, NC sell after 65 days on the market compared to the national average of 58 days. The median sale price for homes in Smithfield, NC over the last 12 months is $325,000, up 2% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
137 Bayberry is the kind of property that gives you space to breathe, room to roam, and a peaceful place to call home. Set on 5 beautiful acres in a no HOA neighborhood, this updated home offers the privacy and freedom so many buyers are looking for. From the fully fenced yard and private pond to the storage building and wide-open outdoor space, this property was made for enjoying life at home.
Welcome to this beautifully crafted 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath home located in the highly desirable Elk Creek community in Smithfield. Currently in the final stages of construction, this exceptional home by Adams Homes offers outstanding quality, thoughtful design, and incredible value.The spacious family room features a stunning marble fireplace and flows seamlessly into the open dining area,
Welcome home to exceptional craftsmanship, timeless design, and nearly an acre of beautiful property. Situated on a spacious 0.946-acre homesite, this stunning 4-bedroom home with a versatile bonus room offers the perfect blend of comfort, and functionality for any season of life. From the moment you arrive, the expansive front yard and side-load two-car garage create a welcoming first
NO HOA | USDA ELIGIBLE | Downtown Smithfield Brick Ranch | Walkable Lifestyle | Investor-Friendly Opportunity Rare opportunity to own a charming brick ranch in the heart of Downtown Smithfield offering walkable convenience and strong flexibility for both homeowners and investors seeking long-term rental or Airbnb-style income potential. Just minutes from restaurants, shopping, entertainment,
Your Summer Starts Here — Smithfield, NC Townhome for Sale Near Holt Lake. Why wait for vacation when you can live in your own private retreat? This stunning townhome for sale in Smithfield, NC is perfectly positioned near the scenic Holt Lake and the Country Club of Johnston County, offering the ultimate blend of relaxation and recreation. With the community pool opening just in time for summer
What a View! Welcome to 175 Watersedge Lane, Smithfield, NC — a beautifully updated home offering peaceful pond views and a serene setting in a quiet neighborhood with no HOA. This move-in ready home features a complete interior remodel, including stunning quartz countertops, new laminate and tile flooring, and fresh paint throughout and RING doorbell. The modern updates blend style and
Timeless All-Brick Charmer in a Coveted Neighborhood From the moment you arrive, this classic all-brick Cape Cod captivates with its storybook curb appeal, blooming azaleas, mature trees, manicured boxwoods, and a welcoming brick walkway set the tone for what awaits inside. Step through the elegant front door flanked by leaded glass sidelights into a gracious foyer featuring gleaming hardwood
Private 1.26-Acre Retreat - Fully Updated Ranch with No HOA! Move-in ready 3BR/2BA ranch in Gin Branch Estates offering 1,385 sq. ft. on a private 1.26-acre lot. Enjoy an open living space with cozy fireplace, formal dining room, and bright breakfast nook. Recent upgrades include fresh paint, new luxury vinyl plank flooring, modern fixtures, and an updated kitchen with granite countertops,
$3,000 Lender Incentive + Lawn Mower & Microwave (New in Box)! Charming Smithfield bungalow—ideal as a primary residence, downsizing opportunity, or income-producing Airbnb—perfectly located with easy access to Raleigh and Goldsboro. Walk to the hospital, local restaurants, the Neuse River Trail, and Neuse Little Theatre for added convenience and lifestyle appeal. This beautifully updated
137 Bayberry is the kind of property that gives you space to breathe, room to roam, and a peaceful place to call home. Set on 5 beautiful acres in a no HOA neighborhood, this updated home offers the privacy and freedom so many buyers are looking for. From the fully fenced yard and private pond to the storage building and wide-open outdoor space, this property was made for enjoying life at home.
Experience refined living in this beautifully appointed townhome located in a sought-after 55+ community. Designed for both comfort and elegance, the inviting interior features a spacious den highlighted by a stunning corner fireplace with gas logs--perfect for cozy evenings. The gourmet kitchen showcases custom cabinetry, granite countertops, and stainless steel appliances, seamlessly flowing
Assumable VA Loan Opportunity - Ask for Details! Welcome to this beautifully designed 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath corner-unit townhome in the heart of Smithfield, offering the perfect blend of modern comfort, style, and convenience. With an assumable VA loan available for eligible buyers, this home presents a rare opportunity to potentially secure a lower interest rate than today's market conditions.
Gracious 4-bedroom painted brick home with a backyard oasis complete with an in-ground saltwater pool, expansive entertaining deck, and charming cabana/ADU. The one-bedroom cabana features its own welcoming covered porch overlooking the tranquil swimming pool, along with an open-concept living area and kitchen.Inside the main home, the bright and spacious updated kitchen flows seamlessly into
Welcome Home where refined living meets a true water driven lifestyle. Set on nearly three private acres within one of Smithfield's most exclusive lake communities, this custom-built estate offers a rare blend of luxury, recreation, and preserved natural surroundings. Centered around a premier water ski lake, this community was designed for those who crave life on the water. And here, access
Historic character, massive square footage, and endless potential in the heart of downtown Smithfield! Known as the Samuel R. Brady House, this spacious 5-bedroom, 3-bath bungalow offers over 3,300 square feet and a rare opportunity to own one of downtown's classic homes priced BELOW tax value. Inside, you'll find high ceilings, large living spaces, a main-level primary suite, and a flexible
BEAUTIFUL OGBURN ACRES DUPLEX, OFFERING 3 BEDS, 2 BATHS, 1ST FLOOR MASTER BEDROOM, NEW LVP FLOORING THROUGH OUT FIRST FLOOR, NEW HOT WATER HEATER, FRESHLY PAINT, ROCKING CHAIR FRONT PORCH, DECK, UPDATED LIGHTING, BLINDS, LANDSCAPING INCLUDED, AND MUCH MORE!
Apply now or schedule your self-tour today and take the first step toward getting more than just a place to live. Rent with FirstKey Homes for a home that's right for you, plus professional service and maintenance, innovative resident programs, and more; that's the power of purple!This 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom rental home in Smithfield, NC, could be just what you’re looking for. See the
Coming soon - this home is currently being enjoyed by another resident but will be available soon. This home is professionally managed by Tricon, dedicated to creating exceptional rental experiences. Featuring 3 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, and approximately 1,550 square feet, this well-maintained home offers a high standard of rental living, supported by a team that puts residents first. As a
Please note, our homes are available on a first-come, first-serve basis and are not reserved until the holding fee agreement is signed and the holding fee is paid by the primary applicant.This home is priced to rent and won't be around for long. Apply now, while we make this home ready for you, or call to arrange a meeting with your local Progress Residential leasing specialist
Beautiful, pet-friendly home coming soon! Apply now, Move-In is available on or after the listed date. Upon approval, $500 reservation deposit to reserve (applied to security deposit and/or refundable). Application fee: $50 per adult. Security Deposit: one month?s rent. Pet fees: $250 + $40/mo per pet. Some homes may include pool ($150/mo), septic ($15/mo), and/or HOA fees; other fees may apply.
Please note, our homes are available on a first-come, first-serve basis and are not reserved until the holding fee agreement is signed and the holding fee is paid by the primary applicant.Coming soon! This home is currently being enjoyed by another resident but will be available soon. Please respect their privacy and do not disturb. You can complete the application process and reserve
SPLIT THE PAYMENT! Reserve your new home by paying 50% of your security deposit now, with the remaining balance due before move-in.Welcome to your new home at 120 Harris Rd! This spacious property features 3 bedrooms and 2 full bathrooms, with 1519 square feet of living space. It comes with a comfortable living room, a spacious dining room, and access to the backyard deck. Enjoy
Lease this home and get more from Invitation Homes professional property management. This home comes fully loaded with quality amenities, must-have services, high-end tech and ProCare® professional maintenance. Your estimated total monthly payment is $1938.70. That covers your base rent, $1799.00 + our required services designed to make your life easier: Air Filter Delivery Fee ($9.95), Internet
Welcome to this brand-new, low-maintenance townhome located in the master-planned community of Finley Landing. Featuring Lennar's popular Grayson floorplan, this home offers 2,012 square feet of beautifully designed, open-concept living space. The main level features a bright Great Room that flows seamlessly into the dining area and a chef-inspired kitchen complete with a center island and quartz
We’ve found the perfect place for you! Enjoy a peaceful lifestyle in the highly sought-after Marin Woods community, located just a short distance from Smithfield Community Park. With shopping, restaurants, and conveniences nearby, you’ll have everything you need right at your doorstep.This beautiful 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath home boasts laminate flooring throughout for easy maintenance, with
Located in downtown Smithfield, this home has the perfect blend of comfort and character! Enter the bright living room which adjoins the screened porch, there are two bedrooms and a full bathroom with tiled shower on the front side of the home. The sunlit kitchen leads to a dining area and a large family room. The primary bedroom and bathroom are located on the back end of the house. A one car
Nestled in the serene community of Ricks Mobile Home Park, this exquisite three-bedroom, two-bathroom gem exudes modern elegance and comfort. Step inside to discover a tastefully designed kitchen bar seamlessly blending into the cozy dining room, all adorned with luxurious LVP flooring. Located in the heart of Selma, this residence offers more than just a home; it provides a tranquil sanctuary
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