California Home Sales Rose Slightly in August
Statewide single-family home sales grew by 2.4% as the median price climbed to $901,420.
Updated on Sept. 19, 2026 in Residential
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California existing single-family home sales reached a seasonally adjusted annualized rate of 269,620 units in August. This activity occurred alongside a rise in the statewide median home price to $901,420.
Why it matters
The modest increase in sales volume reflects a dynamic housing market currently contending with shifting mortgage costs. Homeowners and buyers are navigating these price adjustments as rates have fluctuated through the summer and early fall.
The statewide median home price reached $901,420 in August, up from July, while sales reached an annualized rate of 269,620. This remains below the record high of $930,260 reached in May 2026.
The players
California Association of Realtors
A trade organization that provides official market housing data and reports for California properties.
Federal Reserve
The central bank of the United States, whose monetary policy decisions influence nationwide mortgage interest rate trends.
The details
Housing data is measured using a seasonally adjusted annualized rate, which smooths out monthly volatility to show the broader trend. As mortgage rates averaged 6.67% in August and climbed to 7.38% by September 18, 2026, buyers and sellers faced a changing financial landscape. Regional price variations persist, with the Bay Area continuing to see significantly higher median prices of $1.2 million compared to more accessible markets in Northern California and the Central Valley.
Timeline
May 2026: Statewide median home price reached a record high of $930,260.
August 2025: Median home price was $900,620.
August 2026: California median home price rose to $901,420.
September 16, 2026: Release of the August housing report.
September 18, 2026: Average 30-year fixed mortgage rate reached 7.38%.
The Home Front
This August data provides a snapshot of how California's housing market is tracking against historical benchmarks like the May 2026 record high. It illustrates a market continuing to adjust to rising mortgage interest rates after a year of varied price performance.
Homeowners should monitor their local property values, as regional differences in areas like the Bay Area versus the Central Valley can significantly impact home equity. Potential buyers should keep a close eye on interest rate fluctuations, which reached 7.38% as of mid-September.
The takeaway
The California housing market continues to show resiliency with a 2.4% rise in sales, even as buyers encounter rising mortgage costs. Keep a record of your most recent property tax assessment or local market analysis to track your home's estimated value against these statewide shifts.
Further reading
For broader trends in the state housing market, explore our Residential section.
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