Greater San Diego REALTORS® March 2026 Report: Sales Rise Amid Tight Inventory, Sustaining Seller's Market

Greater San Diego Association of REALTORS® — March 2026

The Greater San Diego housing market experienced increased sales activity in March 2026, with total sales reaching 45, up from 35 in February 2026 and 36 in March 2025. Active listings stood at 91, contributing to a Months of Inventory (MOI) of 2.1, indicating a seller's market, according to figures published by the Greater San Diego Association of REALTORS®.

Market Analysis

Total sales in March 2026 climbed to 45, a notable increase from 35 sales recorded in February 2026 and 36 sales in March 2025. This surge in activity, combined with 66 new listings and 91 active listings, points to robust demand within the market. The Sales-to-New-Listings Ratio (SNLR) of 68.2% further underscores strong buyer interest, as more than two-thirds of new listings resulted in sales.

The Months of Inventory (MOI) for March 2026 registered at 2.1 months, a slight increase from 2.0 months in February 2026 and 1.9 months in March 2025. Despite this marginal rise, the market remains firmly in seller's territory, characterized by limited supply. This sustained low inventory environment continues to exert upward pressure on market dynamics, favoring sellers.

Property Type Analysis

A breakdown by property type reveals distinct trends within the market. Detached homes accounted for 30 sales in March 2026, while attached homes, including townhouses, saw 15 sales. In the Escondido North (92026) area, detached homes recorded a median price of $1,030,000, experiencing a 14.8% year-over-year increase in median price. Attached homes in the same area posted a median price of $662,500, with a significant 15.2% year-over-year increase in median price and a 114.3% year-over-year increase in closed sales.

Detached homes in Escondido North (92026) spent an average of 51 days on the market and sold for 96.2% of their original list price, with 62 units in inventory and 2.1 months of supply. Attached homes demonstrated slightly faster movement, with an average of 47 days on the market and selling for 98.2% of their list price. Attached inventory stood at 29 units, representing 2.8 months of supply, indicating a competitive environment for both property types, particularly for attached homes.

Regional Highlights

The broader Greater San Diego market continues to exhibit characteristics of a competitive seller's market. The consistent increase in total sales from prior periods, coupled with a relatively stable but low Months of Inventory, suggests sustained buyer demand across the region. New listings are being absorbed quickly, as evidenced by the SNLR.

Specific regional data, such as that from Escondido North (92026), illustrates these trends, showing robust median price growth for both detached and attached properties. The strong year-over-year price appreciation and high percentage of list price achieved in this area reflect the broader regional dynamics where demand outpaces available supply.

For Buyers

In this seller's market, prospective buyers should prepare for competitive conditions, including potentially multiple offers and homes selling close to or above asking price. Securing pre-approval for financing is crucial, and working with an experienced REALTOR® can provide a strategic advantage in identifying suitable properties and crafting compelling offers. Flexibility on move-in dates or minor contingencies may also strengthen an offer.

For Sellers

Sellers are currently in a favorable position, with low inventory and strong buyer demand. To maximize returns, sellers should focus on presenting a well-maintained and market-ready home. Professional staging and photography can significantly enhance a property's appeal. Pricing strategically based on recent comparable sales, rather than overpricing, can attract serious buyers and facilitate a quicker sale, capitalizing on the current market momentum.