Selma is a Johnston County town with deep railroad roots, and those roots are still easy to see. It sits just east of Smithfield along Interstate 95, which makes it a practical spot for anyone who travels north and south often.
Where Selma Is and Getting Around
Selma is next to Interstate 95 and U.S. 70, just northeast of Smithfield. U.S. 301 also runs through the area. Selma is also on the rail line, and the town’s restored Union Station serves Amtrak passengers, according to the Town of Selma. Please check Amtrak directly for current routes and schedules.
A Short History of Selma
Selma began as a railroad town around 1867 near a North Carolina Railroad station and was chartered on February 11, 1873, according to the Town of Selma. Its rail heritage includes the historic Mitchener Station and the 1924 Union Station, which was restored in 2002. You can read more about the town’s National Register districts on the Selma Historic Districts page.
Parks and Outdoor Space
The Town of Selma maintains several parks, including Blackley Athletic Park, Edgebrook Park, Raiford Street Park, Sumner Street Park, Vick Park and Art Out Loud Park. You can find details on the Selma Parks page.
Downtown and Things to Do
Downtown Selma has historic buildings near the rail line and Union Station. The town hosts events through the year. The Town of Selma website lists what is coming up.
Homes in the Selma Area
Homes in the Selma area include older houses near the historic downtown and rail line, neighborhoods closer to the interstate and rural properties out in the county. Because Selma and Smithfield sit side by side, many of my buyers look at both. For current prices, I pull recent MLS sales for the exact area and home type rather than quoting a single average.
Land and Acreage Near Selma
For land outside town utilities, septic suitability is reviewed by Johnston County Environmental Health, and zoning depends on whether the parcel is in the town or the county. My guide to buying and selling land in North Carolina covers the questions to ask.
Official Selma and Johnston County Links
- Town of Selma: Official town website
- Johnston County government: Johnston County website
- U.S. Census Bureau QuickFacts, for current population and housing data: Census Bureau QuickFacts
Schools
Public schools here are part of the Johnston County Public Schools. Attendance zones can change, so I always suggest confirming a specific address with the district’s own address lookup tool before you make a decision.
Nearby Towns and Guides
Buying or Selling in Selma
If you travel often along I-95 or love the idea of a historic railroad town with a restored Union Station, Selma may be a good fit, and I would be glad to show you around. I live next door in Smithfield, so the Selma area is close to home for me. If you are selling here, I will help you present your home with the care this town deserves.
Frequently Asked Questions About Selma
Is Selma close to Smithfield?
Yes. Selma sits just northeast of Smithfield, and the two towns share access to I-95 and U.S. 70.
Where can I find official town information?
See the official links above. The town and county websites are the best source for permits, utilities, zoning and current projects.