Smithfield holds a special place for me. My husband and I bought our first home here in 2023, so when I talk about Smithfield, I am talking about a place I know as a homeowner, not just as a REALTOR®. It is the county seat of Johnston County and sits right on the Neuse River.
Where Smithfield Is and Getting Around
Smithfield is in the center of Johnston County, southeast of Raleigh. Interstate 95 runs along the town, and U.S. 70 and U.S. 301 pass through it. U.S. 70 is the long-planned future Interstate 42 corridor toward Clayton, Garner and the coast, according to the NCDOT U.S. 70 Corridor page. Interstate 40 is a short drive to the west. Drive times change with traffic and construction, so I always suggest testing your own commute at the hours you would actually drive it.
A Short History of Smithfield
Smithfield was chartered in 1777 at a spot known as Smith’s Ferry on the Neuse River. According to the Town of Smithfield’s town plan, John Smith Jr. set aside land for the town along with acreage beside the river as public commons. That riverside commons is still a public park today, which I think is a lovely thread connecting the town’s beginning to the present.
Parks and Outdoor Space
- Smithfield Town Commons sits on the Neuse River with a greenway, boat ramp, amphitheater and picnic areas, as described by Johnston County Parks and Open Space.
- Smithfield Community Park and several neighborhood parks are maintained by the town. You can see the current list on the Smithfield Parks and Recreation facilities sheet.
The Neuse River is one of the things I enjoy most here. A walk along the river at the Town Commons is an easy way to get a feel for the town.
Downtown and Things to Do
Downtown Smithfield is the historic center of town and home to county government offices. As the county seat, it is where you will find many of the Johnston County offices you may need as a homeowner, from the Register of Deeds to tax services. If you buy a home anywhere in the county, there is a good chance you will find yourself downtown at some point.
The Ava Gardner Museum is in downtown Smithfield and tells the story of the actress, who grew up in Johnston County. For festivals, events and downtown programs, the Town of Smithfield website is the best place to check.
My Favorite Spot: Brightleaf Flea Market
If you ask me for one place to visit in Smithfield, it is the Brightleaf Flea Market at 2320 S. Brightleaf Blvd. It has a large indoor market space, outdoor vendors and a fresh produce market, and it is open on weekends. I love wandering through it. Please check the market’s About page for current hours before you go.
Homes in the Smithfield Area
Homes in the Smithfield area range from older houses on the streets around downtown to newer subdivisions on the edges of town and rural homes with acreage out in the county. Every street is a little different, so I like to walk a buyer through a few styles before we narrow the search. For current prices, I pull recent sales from the MLS for the exact area and home type you are considering rather than leaning on a single average.
The streets around downtown have a mix of older homes, some with front porches and mature trees, along with smaller homes and properties that have been updated over the years. Older homes can be full of character, and they can also come with questions about roofs, foundations, wiring and plumbing, so a good inspection during due diligence matters.
Is a Home in a Historic District Different?
It can be. Some properties near historic downtowns are in designated historic districts or overlay zones that have rules about exterior changes. Before you buy, check with the Town of Smithfield planning department about any district rules for that address.
My Closings in the Smithfield Area
These are closings from my Past Closings page:
- 509 E Johnston Street, Smithfield: represented the buyer, 2023
- 550 Main Street, Smithfield: represented the buyer, 2024
Land and Acreage Near Smithfield
Much of Johnston County outside the town limits is rural, and I am often asked about land. Before you buy a lot, check septic suitability with Johnston County Environmental Health, zoning with the town or county planning office, and flood maps for parcels near the Neuse. My guide to buying and selling land in North Carolina walks through each step.
Official Smithfield and Johnston County Links
- Town of Smithfield: 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 Smithfield
Smithfield is where my husband and I bought our first home, so helping someone buy or sell here feels personal to me. Whether you are drawn to the Neuse River and the Town Commons or need to be near the county offices downtown, I would love to help you find your place.
Thinking of selling? Here is how I approach selling your home.
Frequently Asked Questions About Smithfield
What is your favorite place in Smithfield?
The Brightleaf Flea Market on S. Brightleaf Blvd. It is one of the first places I take people who are new to town.
Do you live in Smithfield?
Yes. My husband and I bought our first home here in 2023.
Where can I check zoning or historic district rules?
The Town of Smithfield planning department is the best source for zoning, permits and any historic district rules for a specific address.
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.