Where is ncis filmed

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Last updated: April 8, 2026

Quick Answer: NCIS is primarily filmed in Southern California, with most production occurring at CBS Studio Center in Studio City, Los Angeles. The show has used this location since its 2003 premiere, with additional filming at practical locations throughout the Los Angeles area and occasionally in Washington D.C. for establishing shots.

Key Facts

NCIS has filmed at CBS Studio Center (Stage 10) since 2003
Approximately 80% of filming occurs on soundstages in Los Angeles
The show uses practical locations across Southern California for 15-20% of scenes
Washington D.C. establishing shots are filmed on location 1-2 times per season
Production typically spans 8-10 months annually for 22-24 episodes

Overview

The television series NCIS (Naval Criminal Investigative Service) has maintained consistent filming locations throughout its long-running history. Premiering in 2003 as a spin-off from JAG, the show follows a team of special agents investigating crimes involving the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps. Despite being set primarily in Washington D.C., practical production considerations have dictated filming locations in Southern California.

This geographical discrepancy between setting and filming location is common in television production, driven by factors like tax incentives, crew availability, and studio infrastructure. NCIS has successfully maintained its Washington D.C. setting through careful use of establishing shots, set design, and occasional location filming in the actual capital. The show's longevity—spanning over 20 seasons and 450+ episodes—has made its production patterns remarkably consistent.

How It Works

NCIS production follows a structured approach combining studio filming with practical location work.

Primary Studio Location: Since 2003, NCIS has filmed primarily at CBS Studio Center in Studio City, Los Angeles. The show occupies Stage 10, a 25,000 square foot soundstage where the main NCIS headquarters set is constructed. This includes the iconic bullpen, autopsy lab, director's office, and interrogation rooms that appear in nearly every episode.
Practical Location Filming: Approximately 15-20% of each episode is filmed at practical locations throughout Southern California. These include military bases like Naval Base Ventura County and Camp Pendleton, government buildings in downtown Los Angeles, and various urban and suburban locations that can double for Washington D.C. scenes.
Washington D.C. Filming: The production team travels to Washington D.C. 1-2 times per season to film establishing shots and specific exterior scenes. These typically include 3-5 days of filming capturing landmarks like the Navy Yard, Pentagon, and various government buildings that establish the show's geographic setting.
Production Schedule: Each season's 22-24 episodes require 8-10 months of production. Episodes typically film over 7-8 days each, with multiple units working simultaneously. The main unit handles studio scenes while second units capture location footage and establishing shots.

Key Comparisons

Feature	NCIS Filming Approach	Typical TV Production Approach
Primary Location	CBS Studio Center, Los Angeles (since 2003)	Various studios based on availability and deals
Location vs. Studio Ratio	15-20% location, 80-85% studio	Varies widely (10-50% location depending on genre)
Travel for Establishing Shots	Washington D.C. 1-2 times per season	Often uses stock footage or local doubles
Soundstage Size	25,000 sq ft permanent set	Typically 15-20,000 sq ft with rotating sets
Military Access	Regular access to actual bases in California	Limited access, often uses civilian locations

Why It Matters

Production Consistency: Maintaining the same studio location for 20+ seasons has created remarkable production efficiency. The permanent sets allow for faster filming schedules, with the show producing 22-24 episodes annually while many contemporary shows produce only 8-13 episodes. This consistency has contributed directly to the show's longevity and financial success.
Authenticity vs. Practicality: The filming approach balances authenticity with practical production needs. While the Washington D.C. setting is crucial to the show's identity, filming entirely in the capital would be prohibitively expensive and logistically challenging. The current approach allows for occasional authentic establishing shots while keeping most production in California's established film infrastructure.
Economic Impact: NCIS production employs approximately 200-250 crew members in Southern California annually, contributing significantly to the local film economy. The show's consistent production schedule provides stable employment in an industry known for project-based work, with many crew members working on the show for 10+ years.

The filming strategy has proven remarkably successful, allowing NCIS to maintain production quality while adapting to changing television landscapes. As streaming platforms alter production patterns across the industry, NCIS's consistent approach demonstrates how traditional television production methods can remain viable. Looking forward, the show's established infrastructure positions it well for potential future seasons or spin-offs, maintaining its place as one of television's most enduring procedural franchises.