By Paarth Shah, REALTOR® · July 24, 2026 · The Peninsula (San Mateo County)
In 2026, the San Mateo County housing market is still expensive, still competitive, and still moving quickly, though the exact numbers depend on which source and which property type you look at.
On price, the picture varies by dataset. Redfin and Compass data put the countywide median near $1.8 million over the three months ending May 2026, up about 2.5% year over year. Zillow's average home value sat around $1.7 million as of late May 2026, up roughly 1.6% for the year. Local brokerage reports that weight single-family homes more heavily show higher figures: one Peninsula team reported a median of about $2.6 million through March 2026, and single-family homes closing June 2026 near a $2.15 million median. The takeaway is that prices are elevated and rising modestly, with single-family homes carrying the higher end.
Inventory remains tight. As of early April 2026 there were roughly 821 active listings countywide. Measured in months of supply, single-family homes sat near 1.9 months earlier in the year, which is firmly seller-favored territory, while condos and townhomes ran closer to 3.7 months, a more balanced range.
Homes also sell fast. Average days on market across the county has run in the low twenties, with single-family houses often selling in around 10 to 19 days and condos taking a bit longer. Quick sale times usually signal steady buyer demand relative to what is for sale.
On the buyer versus seller balance, the market tilts toward sellers for well-priced single-family homes, especially move-in-ready listings in strong school areas. Condos and townhomes give buyers somewhat more room and time.
Conditions also vary by city. The city of San Mateo, for example, showed prices up around 13% over the three months ending May 2026 against a countywide gain of about 2.5% in the same window. Pricing, competition, and pace differ meaningfully between communities, so a countywide median only tells part of the story.
If you want to understand what these trends mean for a specific neighborhood or price range, I am glad to walk through the current numbers with you. You can reach me through the contact page or at paarth@brokerbela.com.
In 2026 San Mateo County remains a high-priced, competitive, seller-leaning market, with a countywide median near $1.8 million by some sources and higher for single-family homes, tight inventory, and fast sale times that vary by city and property type.
Sources
This is general market commentary, not financial, investment, or legal advice; figures are as of publication and can change. Verify specifics, including any school assignments, ratings, or boundaries, independently. Bela Realty & Investments is committed to Equal Housing Opportunity and does not steer clients toward or away from any neighborhood on the basis of a protected characteristic.