Housing Market Update: January 2026

# Housing Market Update: January 2026 Here's your comprehensive look at the housing market conditions for January 2026, including mortgage rates, pricing trends, and regional insights. ## Current Mortgage Rates | Loan Type | Rate | |-----------|------| | 30-Year Fixed | 6.33% | | 15-Year Fixed | 5.62% | *Source: Freddie Mac PMMS* ## National Overview - **Average Median Home Price:** $357,484 - **Highest Price State:** Hawaii ($848,926) - **Most Affordable State:** West Virginia ($155,600) - **Buyer's Market States:** 26 of 51 ## Best Markets for Buyers These states currently favor buyers with higher inventory and slower price growth: - **Alabama:** 45 days on market, 3.20% YoY change - **Alaska:** 52 days on market, 2.10% YoY change - **Arkansas:** 48 days on market, 4.10% YoY change - **Florida:** 55 days on market, -1.20% YoY change - **Georgia:** 42 days on market, 3.50% YoY change ## Lowest Property Tax States If you're looking to minimize ongoing costs, consider these states: - **Hawaii:** 0.27% effective rate - **Alabama:** 0.38% effective rate - **Colorado:** 0.49% effective rate - **Nevada:** 0.49% effective rate - **South Carolina:** 0.51% effective rate ## Regional Price Comparison | Price Range | Example States | |-------------|----------------| | Under $250K | Alabama, Arkansas, Iowa | | $250K-$400K | Alaska, Connecticut, Delaware | | $400K-$600K | Arizona, Colorado, Florida | | Over $600K | California, Hawaii, Massachusetts | ## What This Means for Buyers At 6.33% on a 30-year mortgage: | Home Price | Monthly P&I (20% down) | |------------|------------------------| | $155,600 | $773 | | $357,484 | $1,776 | | $848,926 | $4,217 | ## Action Items 1. **Compare rates** from multiple lenders 2. **Check your state** for first-time buyer programs 3. **Use our calculator** for personalized estimates 4. **Get pre-approved** to shop with confidence Explore our [state guides](/blog?category=state-guides) for detailed information on buying in specific locations. --- *Data sources: Tax Foundation, Freddie Mac, state housing agencies. Updated January 2026.*