Seattle Housing Market: Trends & Prices (2026)
Seattle Real Estate Market Overview
(Last Updated – 4/2025)
As of September 2026, Seattle is considered the strongest buyer’s market on record. Sellers outnumber buyers by 72%, giving buyers more negotiating power since they have plenty of housing options to choose from. This drastic shift in the real estate market, which was still considered a seller’s market just last year, is due to stagnant demand, leading to a surge in listings amid sellers’ uncertainty about whether housing demand will rise again.
With a population of more than 780,000, Seattle is the 19th largest city in the U.S. It may get a bad rap for its weather, but the rain creates lush greenery and gives the city a sparkling clean feel. Plus, more-spacious homes allow for office areas for remote workers.
Currently, Seattle has a 71.5% employment rate, and the average median household income is $118,745, according to the latest U.S. Census Bureau data.
A benefit of Seattle that big cities don’t always offer is ease of movement. According to Walk Score, the city is considered a walker’s paradise and has world-class public transportation and some bikeable infrastructure. Car ownership in Seattle is also lower than the U.S. average, with an average of only one car per household.
Seattle Real Estate Market Trends
Those looking to move to Seattle are not alone. The Seattle real estate market has been very competitive in recent years and is still considered very competitive. Often, homes get many offers, some even with waived contingencies.
Most houses stay on the market for just 15 days and sell for 1% over list price. According to Redfin, highly desired homes go pending in five days and also sell for 1% over asking price. The good news for buyers is that as of August 2026, Seattle home prices have fallen 2.8% compared to the same time in 2025, with homes selling at a median price of $874,421. That means you won’t have to take out quite as big of a home loan to afford a house here.
Recommended: Local Housing Market Trends by City$874,421
Median Sale Price
$533
Median Price Per Sq. Ft
15 days
Median Time on Market
Seattle Housing Market Forecast
If you’re hoping to purchase a home in this area, expect to face high competition, as homes are selling quickly and typically receive multiple offers. The strong job market, scenic views, and cultural scene make it a desirable location for millennials and people of all backgrounds.
Demographics of the Seattle Market
If you love rain, Seattle may be the perfect fit for you. This city gets about 147 rainy days a year.
The upside is that Seattle is home to the original Starbucks, and this city takes its coffee seriously. There will be no shortage of hot cups of joe to keep you warm on drizzly days.
Median Income: $118,745
Median Age: 35.4
College Educated: 70.1%
Homeowners: 43.7%
Married: 41%
Popular Seattle Neighborhoods
Like any big city, Seattle has many great neighborhoods to choose from. But compared with sprawling cities such as Los Angeles, Seattle is compact. It’s both pedestrian- and bike-friendly and has great public transportation options.
No matter what neighborhood you choose, it’s likely you’ll be able to take advantage of everything the city has to offer.
Recommended: Price-to-Rent Ratio in 50 CitiesSouth Park
South Park is a primarily residential neighborhood in South Seattle along the Duwamish River with local businesses and community spaces woven into its residential streets. These community spaces include South Park Playground, offering sports courts and play areas, and Duwamish Waterway Park, which overlooks the river. While quieter than the more commercial districts, the neighborhood connects easily to the rest of Seattle via major roads and bus routes.
Quick Facts
Population:
3,410
Median Age:
37
Housing Units:
1,275
Bike Score:
63/100
Walk Score:
63/100
Transit Score:
41/100
Median Household Income:
$95,780
South Park Housing Market
Redfin considers South Park a very competitive market. The typical home goes pending in 16 days and sells for about 1% below list price. Hot homes go pending quicker — in around eight days — and sell closer to list price.
In August 2026, median home sale prices were up 8.3% compared to last year. Homes stay on the market, on average, for about 13 days.
Median Sale Price
$498,260
Median Price Per Square Foot
$296
Capitol Hill
Capitol Hill is a vibrant and densely populated neighborhood located just east of downtown Seattle. Known for its eclectic culture and lively atmosphere, the area features a diverse array of bars, restaurants, boutiques, and entertainment venues, particularly along Broadway, 15th Avenue, and Pike/Pine.
This area of Seattle was formerly the center of the grunge movement and has maintained a passion for music, theater, and art.
Quick Facts
Population:
32,246
Median Age:
37
Housing Units:
19,155
Bike Score:
84/100
Walk Score:
93/100
Transit Score:
76/100
Median Household Income:
$143,248
Capitol Hill Housing Market
The Capitol Hill market is considered very competitive, with the average home going pending within 17 days and selling for 1% below list price.
Median Sale Price
$892,069
Median Price Per Square Ft.
$596
Columbia City
Columbia City is a historic Seattle neighborhood with a strong sense of community and abundant outdoor recreation. The neighborhood, close to the Rainier Valley and Lake Washington waterfront, blends residential charm with convenient access to restaurants and shops along Rainier Avenue, one of Columbia City’s main thoroughfares.
Families are also drawn here for the highly regarded local schools, including Orca K‑8, Aki Kurose Middle School, Dearborn Park International Elementary, and Franklin High School.
Quick Facts
Population:
6,458
Median Age:
38
Housing Units:
2,588
Bike Score:
67/100
Walk Score:
85/100
Transit Score:
62/100
Median Household Income:
$104,771
Columbia City Housing Market
The Columbia City housing market is very competitive, and the median home sale price dropped 15.7% compared to last year.
Many homes get multiple offers, some with waived contingencies, and the average homes sell for around list price after an average of 17 days on the market.
Median Sale Price
$724,600
Median Price Per Square Ft.
$454
West Seattle
West Seattle has a semi-suburban feel, with scenic views of Puget Sound and a quieter atmosphere, while remaining part of Seattle proper. Alki Beach Park stands out with its waterfront walking paths, sandy beach, and views of the downtown skyline. Meanwhile, Lincoln Park boasts extensive trails, sports fields, and beach access, perfect for outdoor recreation and kid-friendly play.
The West Seattle Junction, located at the intersection of California Avenue SW and SW Alaska Street, is the neighborhood hub, offering family-friendly restaurants, cute boutiques, and year-round events, including a weekly farmer’s market, second-Thursday art walks, and a Christmas market.
Quick Facts
Population:
83,384
Median Age:
39
Housing Units:
39,159
Bike Score:
61/100
Walk Score:
58/100
Transit Score:
38/100
Median Household Income:
$120,339
West Seattle Housing Market
Redfin considers West Seattle to have a very competitive housing market. Many homes get multiple offers, some with waived contingencies. The median home price was $834,597 in August 2026, which was down 1.8% from last year. Average homes are pending within 11 days and sell for around list price.
Median Sale Price
$834,597
Median Price Per Square Ft.
$509
Belltown
Belltown is a vibrant and densely populated neighborhood located just north of downtown Seattle, Washington. Historically a low-rent, semi-industrial arts district, Belltown has transformed into a hub of trendy restaurants, boutiques, nightclubs, and residential towers. The neighborhood is named after William Nathaniel Bell, on whose land claim it was built.
Residents enjoy a variety of dining options, chic boutiques, and art galleries, as well as a legendary music scene. Belltown’s proximity to landmarks such as Pike Place Market, the Seattle Art Museum, and the Olympic Sculpture Park adds to its appeal. The area boasts a high walkability score, making it convenient for residents to access amenities and public transportation.
Quick Facts
Population:
12,762
Median Age:
34
Housing Units:
10,071
Bike Score:
76/100
Walk Score:
98/100
Transit Score:
97/100
Median Household Income:
$140,450
Belltown Housing Market
The median home price in Belltown was $469,273 in August 2026, which was down a whopping 30.5% from the previous year.
Redfin considers this a somewhat competitive market, with some homes receiving multiple offers. Typical homes are pending in about 76 days for 4% below list price.
Median Sale Price
$469,273
Median Price Per Square Ft.
$618
SoFi Home Loans
It’s easy to see why Seattle has become such a popular market to buy a home in. There are dozens of amazing neighborhoods to choose from, whether you’re young and single or have a family to look after. The city also currently has the strongest buyer’s market on record, giving you plenty of affordable options to choose from.
If you think Seattle could be your home sweet home, then you may need to consider different mortgage loans during your home-buying process.
Looking for an affordable option for a home mortgage loan? SoFi can help: We offer low down payments (as little as 3% - 5%*) with our competitive and flexible home mortgage loans. Plus, applying is extra convenient: It's online, with access to one-on-one help.FAQ
What is the current trend in Seattle home prices?
Seattle home prices showed a moderate decrease in August 2026 after a brief rise earlier in the year. Due to stagnating housing demand, Seattle has a strong buyer’s market, giving homebuyers more bargaining power.
Is Seattle a buyer’s or seller’s market?
Seattle is a very strong buyer’s market, with median sales prices dropping 2.8% year over year as of August 2026. Homes receive multiple offers and sell quickly, particularly in popular neighborhoods such as West Seattle and Capitol Hill.
How competitive is the Seattle housing market?
Seattle’s housing market remains competitive. Well-priced homes in desirable neighborhoods often sell within days, with many receiving multiple offers. Buyers are encouraged to have preapproval and work with a local agent.
What is the median home price in Seattle?
According to Redfin, the median sale price in Seattle is $874,421. However, prices vary widely depending on the neighborhood and type of home, with some areas well above the citywide average.
This content is for educational and informational purposes only. The products, services, or features discussed may not currently be available via the SoFi platform. Any references to third-party products, services, or companies do not constitute an endorsement, recommendation, or solicitation by SoFi. Readers should independently evaluate their options and consider their individual financial needs and circumstances before making any decisions. ©2026 SoFi Technologies, Inc. All rights reserved.
Non affiliation: SoFi isn’t affiliated with any of the companies highlighted in this article.
SOHL-Q326-187