Market Report

REAL ESTATE MARKET UPDATE FOR COLUMBUS, OHIO

AND SURROUNDING AREAS

January 2026 Columbus Ohio Housing Market Update

The Columbus Ohio housing market saw a steady start to 2026, even in the middle of winter weather across Central Ohio. Home sales remained stable year-over-year, with 1,504 homes sold in January 2026 compared to 1,506 homes sold in January 2025 – a sign that buyer demand has held firm despite seasonal slowdowns and interest rate uncertainty. New listing activity also remained consistent, with 2,226 new homes coming to market in January, up slightly (0.4%) from the same time last year. At the same time, pending sales increased by 5.5% year-over-year, with 2,152 homes going under contract – indicating that many buyers are still actively preparing for a spring move.

Inventory Is Improving in Central Ohio

Housing inventory across the Columbus region continues to increase. The market ended January with 4,164 homes for sale – a 7.2% increase from 3,886 homes available in January 2025. Inventory typically declines during the winter months, so this increase gives buyers more options heading into the spring market. Months of supply rose to 1.7 months, which still reflects a seller-leaning market. While buyers may have more choices, well-priced, move-in-ready homes in neighborhoods like Worthington, Upper Arlington, Dublin, Powell, Lewis Center, and Clintonville continue to attract strong interest.

Columbus Home Prices Continue to Rise

Home prices across Central Ohio moved higher to begin the year:

Median list price: $325,000 (up 4.8% year-over-year)
Median sale price: $319,900 (up 6.7% year-over-year)

As inventory expands, homes are also taking slightly longer to sell. The median days on market increased to 48 days, up 11.6% from last year. For buyers, this often means more time to compare homes and negotiate terms. For sellers, it reinforces the importance of strategic pricing, preparation, and positioning when entering the market.

Local Market Spotlight: Hilliard

The Hilliard City School District saw notable activity in January, with 68 home sales – a 62% increase from January 2025. The City of Hilliard itself recorded 23 sales, up 109% year-over-year. This increase in closings was driven in part by a 29% rise in new listings, with 103 homes added to the Hilliard market during the month.

If you are considering buying or selling a home in Columbus or surrounding Central Ohio communities in 2026, understanding current inventory levels, pricing trends, and neighborhood-specific demand can help guide your next steps.

(Data provided by Columbus REALTORS® MLS, January 2026) View Your Neighborhood Update

Frequently Asked Questions About the Columbus Ohio Housing Market (January 2026)

Is now a good time to buy a home in Columbus Ohio in 2026?

With housing inventory in Central Ohio up 7.2% year-over-year and pending home sales increasing 5.5% in January 2026, many buyers are seeing more options heading into the spring market. While the market still favors sellers with just 1.7 months of supply, buyers may have more time to compare homes and negotiate terms than in recent years.

Are home prices rising in Columbus Ohio?

Yes. The median sale price in Central Ohio reached $319,900 in January 2026, reflecting a 6.7% increase compared to the same time last year. Median list prices also rose to $325,000, indicating continued demand across the Columbus housing market.

How competitive is the Columbus Ohio housing market right now?

The Columbus real estate market remains competitive, especially for well-priced homes in move-in-ready condition. Although inventory is improving, buyers should still expect strong interest in homes located in neighborhoods such as Worthington, Upper Arlington, Dublin, Powell, Lewis Center, and Clintonville.