February 2026 East Bay Housing Market Update: What Buyers & Sellers Should Know

The East Bay real estate market is off to a steady—but strategic—start in 2026. With interest rates stabilizing and buyer demand slowly returning, sellers have more power than they did in late 2025, but pricing and timing remain key.

Here’s a breakdown of where things stand in Alameda and Contra Costa Counties, and what it means for you if you're planning to buy or sell this spring.

📊 Key Metrics: February 2026 Snapshot

Alameda County

• 🏷️ Median Sale Price: $968,000

• 🕒 Average Days on Market: 29

• 📉 Inventory: Down 8% YoY

• 🏠 Sales-to-List Price Ratio: 101%

Contra Costa County

• 🏷️ Median Sale Price: $882,000

• 🕒 Average Days on Market: 33

• 📉 Inventory: Down 6% YoY

• 🏠 Sales-to-List Price Ratio: 99.5%

30-Year Fixed Mortgage Rate: ~6.3% (per Freddie Mac)

🔍 What We’re Seeing in the East Bay Right Now

✅ Buyers are cautiously re-entering the market after sitting on the sidelines in Q4. Many are eager to lock in rates before a potential rise later in the year.

✅ Sellers with move-in ready homes and flexible pricing are seeing strong activity—especially in Lafayette, Pleasant Hill, and Alameda.

🏘️ Condos and townhomes are gaining traction as first-time buyers look for affordable entry points in cities like Oakland, Hayward, and Concord.

🏡 Local Trends Worth Watching

• ADU potential is driving interest in homes with large lots in El Cerrito and San Leandro

• Homes near BART stations continue to command a premium (especially in Berkeley and Walnut Creek)

• High-end inventory ($1.5M+) is moving slower, but buyers are negotiating on upgrades and concessions

💡 What It Means for Sellers

• Now is the time to prep if you’re considering a spring listing

• Partner with a local agent to price strategically based on neighborhood demand

• Staging and presentation remain crucial as buyers become more selective

💡 What It Means for Buyers

• Start early: Pre-approvals take longer during seasonal upticks

• Be realistic about budget—competition is returning for well-priced homes

• Work with an agent who knows how to spot value and negotiate smartly

📉 Pro Tip

While we're not in a “hot” market, serious buyers and motivated sellers are making deals happen. If you're thinking about moving in 2026, February is a great time to position yourself before the spring rush.