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
Samantha Salgado,
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 56 days. The median sale price for homes in Smithfield, NC over the last 12 months is $324,900, up 1% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
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
THE SANDERS-STALLINGS STORYBOOK COTTAGE A Rare Fairytale European Cottage in Historic Smithfield AN ENCHANTING LANDMARK IN HISTORIC SMITHFIELD The Sanders-Stallings Storybook Cottage is one of the most architecturally distinctive and historically significant residences in Johnston County. Rising gracefully along North 3rd Street beneath a canopy of mature trees walking distance to downtown
HOME IS UNDER CONSTRUCTION - Discover timeless elegance and modern convenience in this beautifully designed 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath home with a spacious upstairs loft--thoughtfully crafted by Adams Homes. Located in the heart of the fast-growing Smithfield community, this brand-new build is an exceptional blend of style, comfort, and value. From the moment you step inside, you'll be welcomed by a
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
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,
Exceptional space, modern updates, and incredible value in the heart of downtown Smithfield! Offering over 3,300 square feet with 5 bedrooms and 3 full baths, this spacious home is priced to sell and offered well below tax value. Thoughtful updates throughout blend with timeless character, creating a home that's ready for its next owner. Inside, you'll find generously sized living areas, a
Low maintenance living means more weekends on the lake and less time on chores. Imagine this: Think weekends done right with pool day Saturday, lake day Sunday, and an easy commute home to a townhome that doesn't ask anything of your weekend but to enjoy it. That's life near Holt Lake and the Country Club of Johnston County, and this Smithfield townhome places you in the heart of it all. The Club
THE SANDERS-STALLINGS STORYBOOK COTTAGE A Rare Fairytale European Cottage in Historic Smithfield AN ENCHANTING LANDMARK IN HISTORIC SMITHFIELD The Sanders-Stallings Storybook Cottage is one of the most architecturally distinctive and historically significant residences in Johnston County. Rising gracefully along North 3rd Street beneath a canopy of mature trees walking distance to downtown
Welcome to this 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom single residence located in Smithfield, NC. Situated on a generous 6,970 square foot lot, this property offers comfortable living space with practical room configurations. The home features thoughtfully laid out bedrooms and bathrooms to accommodate various living arrangements. This single residence presents a solid opportunity for buyers seeking
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 + New Lawn Mower & Microwave! 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 3-bedroom,
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—Why Pay Today's Rate? Ask for Details! Discover this move-in-ready, end-unit townhome in Smithfield, NC, featuring 3 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, modern finishes, and an assumable VA loan available to qualified buyers. This rare financing opportunity may allow an eligible buyer to take advantage of a lower interest rate than current market rates—potentially making
Welcome to this charming two-bedroom, one-and-a-half-bath single residence located in the Belmont community of Smithfield, NC. This home offers practical living space designed to meet the needs of today's homeowners. With 3 comfortable bedrooms and multiple bathrooms, this property provides functional comfort for residents. Situated in the established Belmont subdivision, this residence presents
Welcome to 159 S Copper Fox Ln in the highly sought-after Franklin Townes subdivision of Smithfield, NC. This beautiful home, scheduled for completion in September 2025, is located in Johnston County and offers convenient access to local amenities and major highways. Families will appreciate the excellent school assignments: Wilson's Mills Elementary, Smithfield Middle School, and
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: $55 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.
Welcome to this move-in-ready end-unit townhome in Smithfield, featuring 3 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, modern finishes, and a bright, open-concept layout. Built in 2024, the home offers additional windows, abundant natural light, extra privacy, and comfortable space for everyday living. The kitchen includes granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, a French-door refrigerator, ample cabinetry,
Welcome to 215 Clear Water Drive, a spacious 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home offering 1,568 square feet of living space. This property features an open concept layout perfect for modern living. The large open living room provides ample space for relaxation and entertainment. The modern kitchen boasts a full appliance suite. Stainless steel appliances elevate the kitchen's contemporary appeal. A
Property Id: 2713378 Brand-New Lennar Townhome for Rent in the Highly Sought-After Finley Landing Community 249 Lily Patch Ln, Smithfield, NC 27577 Experience the perfect blend of style, comfort, and convenience in this brand-new Lennar townhome located in one of Smithfield's most desirable communities—Finley Landing. Ideally situated just minutes from Downtown Smithfield, Carolina
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 54 Pedernales Dr, a spectacular single-story home nestled in the highly desirable Arrowhead Pointe community. This beautifully designed residence features a bright, open-concept floor plan detailed with gorgeous dark wood-inspired plank flooring,
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
Welcome to your dream home! Step inside this pet-friendly home featuring modern finishings and a layout designed with functionality in mind. Enjoy the storage space found in the kitchen and closets as well as the spacious living areas and natural light throughout. Enjoy outdoor living in your yard, perfect for gathering, relaxing, or gardening!Take advantage of the incredible location,
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, 2.0 bathrooms, and approximately 1,500 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.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
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: $55 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.
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 $2334.70. That covers your base rent, $2195.00 + our required services designed to make your life easier: Air Filter Delivery Fee ($9.95), Internet
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