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Johnston County

New construction homes for sale in Johnston County, NC

1,070 homes

New home communities in Johnston County, NC

73 communities

Master Planned Communities in Johnston County, NC

1 master planned community

Recently Added Communities in Johnston County, NC

Popular Communities in Johnston County, NC

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Housing market in Johnston County, NC

  • State
    North Carolina
  • Cities
    49
  • Single family
    1,020
  • Townhouses
    71
  • Multi family
    7
  • Condominiums
    0
  • Active builders
    45
  • Starting price
    $223,730
  • Median price
    $374,994.5
  • Price per square foot
    $191.43

Real estate price trends

Home price data reflects 1070 listings in Johnston County, NC, sourced from Jome and updated regularly

*Based on Jome markets

What it's like to live in Johnston County?

Economic & Geographic Profile

Rapid industrial expansion and a strategic position within the Research Triangle region drive the economy in Johnston County. Major global employers in the pharmaceutical and biotechnology sectors, such as Novo Nordisk and Grifols, provide a robust employment base for the local workforce. This growth is supported by the county's proximity to Raleigh, making it a vital residential and commercial corridor in North Carolina’s coastal plain.

Cities & Community Character

The county features a mix of established municipalities like Smithfield and Clayton alongside expanding rural townships. While the county seat offers a historic commercial core, surrounding areas maintain an agricultural heritage that provides a spacious alternative to the denser urban centers of the Triangle. These communities offer a transition from suburban convenience to open, low-density landscapes.

Market Trends & Development

High demand for housing has fueled significant residential development in Johnston County, particularly in the northwestern corridor near the Wake County line. Developers are increasingly focusing on master-planned communities in Johnston County that offer modern amenities and larger lot sizes than are typically found in neighboring metropolitan areas. This surge in new construction homes in Johnston County reflects a broader trend of suburban migration toward regions with available land and infrastructure.

Regional Value & Lifestyle

Homebuyers often find greater purchasing power here compared to the immediate Raleigh-Durham market, allowing for larger floor plans and expanded outdoor living spaces. Given the humid subtropical climate, modern builds prioritize energy-efficient cooling systems and high-performance insulation to manage summer utility costs. The region offers a balance of quiet living with convenient access to major interstate transit routes for regional commuting.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the current median sale price for a property in Johnston County, NC?

As of December 2025, the property market in Johnston County, NC, showcases a median sale price of $377,945. This market analysis includes a portfolio of 1129 newly built homes, each crafted by one of the 45 innovative developers in the area, highlighting a diverse range of residential options.

Who are the major developers of new construction homes in Johnston County, NC?

Eastwood Homes, D.R. Horton, Adams Homes, Smith Douglas Homes and True Homes stand out as the key developers for new construction homes in Johnston County, NC. Each of these builders has a strong presence in the area, offering a range of modern housing options.

Where are the most active new home markets in Johnston County?

Known locally as "JoCo," the county is a booming overflow market for the Raleigh metro. Clayton is the primary hub, hosting massive developments like Flowers Plantation that function almost as self-contained towns. The Cleveland community (near the I-40/NC-42 interchange) is also seeing explosive growth due to its commuter convenience. Further south, Smithfield and Selma offer new construction options at price points that are generally more attainable than the northern suburbs bordering Wake County.

How is the commute from Johnston County to Raleigh?

Johnston County is strategically positioned for commuters. US-70 (and the future I-42 corridor) serves as the main artery connecting Clayton to downtown Raleigh. Interstate 40 provides a direct link for residents in the western part of the county to reach the Research Triangle Park (RTP) and Cary. While traffic volume has increased with population growth, the completion of the I-540 outer loop extension is expected to significantly improve connectivity for northern Johnston County residents in the coming years.

Can I use USDA financing for new homes in Johnston County?

Yes, this is a significant advantage for the area. Despite its rapid suburbanization, large portions of Johnston County still fall within the eligible boundaries for USDA Rural Development loans. This program allows qualified buyers to purchase a home with zero down payment. While the dense centers of Clayton may be excluded, many new subdivisions in Archer Lodge, Wilson’s Mills, and the outskirts of Smithfield often qualify. Buyers should check the specific property eligibility map with their lender.