Greater San Diego Association of REALTORS® Market Report - May 2026

Greater San Diego Association of REALTORS® — May 2026

In May 2026, the Greater San Diego real estate market shows signs of a buyer's market with total sales reaching 8, a decrease of 11.1% compared to the same month last year. New listings totaled 12, while active listings stand at 42, resulting in 6.5 months of inventory.

Market Analysis

The current market conditions indicate a shift towards buyers, with a sales-to-new-listings ratio (SNLR) of 66.7%. This suggests that while new listings are entering the market, demand is not keeping pace, leading to an increase in inventory. The total sales of 8 in May reflect a slight uptick from April's 7, but a decline from 9 sales in May 2025 highlights a softening market trend year-over-year. The months of inventory at 6.5 indicates a balanced market, leaning towards buyers, as it exceeds the typical range of 4-6 months considered normal.

Property Type Analysis

In May, all sales were attributed to detached properties, which accounted for 100% of the transactions. The attached and townhouse segments saw no sales, indicating a potential gap in inventory or buyer interest in these property types. The absence of activity in the attached market may suggest that buyers are currently favoring detached homes, possibly due to preferences for space or outdoor areas, which have become increasingly important post-pandemic.

Regional Highlights

Regionally, the market reflects a broader trend of increasing inventory levels compared to the previous year, where active listings were at 57 in May 2025. This increase in available homes may provide buyers with more options, but it also indicates a cooling in demand. The months of inventory has improved from 7.9 in May 2025 to 6.5 in May 2026, suggesting that while the market is still competitive, it is becoming more favorable for buyers as they have more time to make decisions.

For Buyers

Buyers are encouraged to take advantage of the current market conditions, where increased inventory offers more choices and negotiating power. With the sales-to-new-listings ratio indicating a buyer's market, potential homeowners should consider exploring various neighborhoods and property types to find the best fit for their needs.

For Sellers

Sellers should be aware of the current market dynamics and the increased competition from active listings. To attract buyers, it is essential to price homes competitively and ensure they are well-presented. Highlighting unique features and maintaining flexibility in negotiations can help sellers stand out in a market that is leaning towards buyers.