Orange County Housing Market: Spring 2026 Update

Median prices cross $1M as inventory tightens ahead of peak season. Here's what buyers and sellers need to know right now.

By Shasta Greene · March 29, 2026 · 6 min read

Spring 2026 is shaping up to be one of the most competitive real estate markets Orange County has seen in three years. As inventory tightens and buyer demand accelerates ahead of the summer season, both prices and pace of sales are climbing.

Median Price Crosses $1 Million

The median single-family home price in Orange County reached $1,024,000 in March 2026 — a 6.2% increase year-over-year and the first time the county-wide median has crossed the $1M threshold. Coastal cities like Newport Beach and Laguna Beach continue to command premiums of $2.5M+, while inland communities in Lake Forest and Mission Viejo offer better relative value in the $750K–$950K range.

Inventory: Still Historically Tight

Active listings across OC stand at approximately 2,800 — well below the 5,000+ typical of a balanced market. The month's supply of inventory sits at 1.9 months, firmly in seller's territory. Well-priced homes in high-demand neighborhoods are receiving multiple offers within 7–10 days.

• Average days on market: 18 (down from 31 a year ago)
• Homes selling above list price: 42% of transactions
• Cash buyers represent 28% of closed deals
• Mortgage applications are up 11% month-over-month

What Sellers Should Know

If you've been waiting for the right moment to list — this is a compelling window. Demand is high, competition among buyers is fierce, and well-presented homes are achieving strong results. However, pricing accuracy remains essential. Overpriced homes still sit; the market rewards strategic positioning, not wishful thinking.

Shasta Greene is an Orange County, California real estate advisor and REALTOR®, DRE #02174153.