Netflix’s groundbreaking $1 billion New Jersey studio investment aligns perfectly with President Trump’s vision of revitalizing American film production through his newly implemented 100% tariff on foreign-made movies.
Key Takeaways
- Netflix is investing $1 billion to transform a 292-acre former Army base at Fort Monmouth into a cutting-edge production facility with 12 sound stages spanning 500,000 square feet.
- The project will create 1,500 permanent entertainment industry jobs and 3,500 construction jobs, with completion expected by 2028.
- New Jersey’s generous tax incentives (up to 35% credit on film production expenses) played a crucial role in Netflix’s decision to build in the state.
- The investment coincides with President Trump’s America-first film production policy, including a 100% tariff on movies produced outside the United States.
- Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos revealed the company has contributed $125 billion to the U.S. economy over the past four years, highlighting the economic impact of domestic production.
A New Hollywood on the East Coast
Netflix’s decision to establish a major production hub in New Jersey marks a significant shift in America’s entertainment landscape. The streaming giant is transforming an old U.S. Army base into Netflix Studios Fort Monmouth, creating what will become one of the most advanced film and television production facilities on the East Coast. The nearly 500,000-square-foot complex will feature 12 sound stages, a backlot, post-production facilities, and extensive office space on a sprawling 292-acre site.
“I was in love with this idea from the very first conversation with Gov. Phil Murphy,” Stated Ted Sarandos, Netflix co-CEO.
Tax Incentives Drive Investment
The decision to build in New Jersey wasn’t merely coincidental. The state has positioned itself as a premier destination for film and television production through what Governor Phil Murphy calls “the single best film-incentive program in the entire country.” New Jersey offers up to 35% credit on qualified film production expenses and up to 40% for digital media post-production work. The state legislature has extended these tax incentives through June 30, 2039, providing long-term stability for production companies.
“The single best film-incentive program in the entire country,” Stated Gov. Phil Murphy.
The project will receive approximately $387 million in state tax credits, a substantial investment that state officials believe will pay dividends through job creation and economic growth. Even those initially skeptical of the program have come around. State Sen. Declan O’Scanlon, a Republican representing Monmouth County who originally opposed the tax incentives, now acknowledges their effectiveness in attracting major industry players like Netflix.
“We’re kicking California’s ass” Stated Sen. Declan O’Scanlon (R-Monmouth).
Aligning with America-First Film Production
Netflix’s massive investment comes at a pivotal time as President Trump implements new policies designed to restore America’s dominance in film production. The administration recently announced a 100% tariff on foreign-produced movies, creating powerful financial incentives for studios to keep their productions on American soil. This policy shift aims to counter the trend of production companies seeking cheaper alternatives overseas, which has led to job losses and economic decline in traditional filmmaking hubs.
“The Movie Industry in America is DYING a very fast death. Other countries are offering all sorts of incentives to draw our filmmakers and studios away from the United States,” Stated Donald Trump, President of the United States.
Netflix’s decision to double down on American production facilities demonstrates confidence in the President’s approach. Ted Sarandos highlighted the company’s substantial contributions to the national economy, noting that “Over the past four years, Netflix has contributed $125 billion to the U.S. economy and hired more than 140,000 cast and crew members.” The Fort Monmouth project will significantly expand this economic footprint while creating thousands of well-paying jobs.
Economic Impact and Industry Response
The Fort Monmouth development is projected to create 1,500 permanent jobs in the entertainment production industry upon completion, with an additional 3,500 jobs related to the construction phase. Local officials have promised streamlined permitting processes to avoid bureaucratic delays that have hampered production in states like California. Monmouth County Commissioner Director Thomas Arnone made this commitment explicit, telling Netflix executives, “We will make this easy for you.”
“It’s going to be great for our industry as long as the local, state and federal governments do their part to offer competitive tax breaks to keep productions and the thousands of union jobs that TV/film creates here in the beautiful new studios that are being built as well as the established studios already in the NYC area.”
With a target completion date of 2028, Netflix Studios Fort Monmouth represents a vote of confidence in American creativity, craftsmanship, and innovation. The streaming giant already has seven productions underway in New Jersey, demonstrating immediate commitment to the region. As this facility takes shape over the next few years, it will serve as a cornerstone of President Trump’s vision for bringing Hollywood production back to American soil, ensuring that the label “Made in America” once again becomes synonymous with the world’s finest film and television content
