Charleston, SC Housing Market Report

The Charleston-North Charleston housing market has transitioned into a period of stabilization and increased choice for prospective homeowners as of December 2025. While the median home value remains high at $572,367, the year-over-year growth has flattened to a marginal 0.23 percent. The most significant shift is found in active inventory, which has surged by over 50 percent compared to last year. With 5,066 homes currently on the market and properties sitting for an average of 93 days—nearly a full month longer than a year ago—the leverage has shifted significantly toward buyers, who now have more time and selection than they have seen in several years.

Price trends over the last six months indicate a resilient but slow-moving market. After a slight dip in late summer, values have climbed steadily from $569,711 in July to the current December peak. This suggests that while the frantic bidding wars of the past have subsided, the underlying demand for the Charleston lifestyle continues to support high valuations. The sale-to-list ratio of 0.98 further confirms this trend, showing that sellers are generally receiving close to their asking price, though they are no longer commanding the significant premiums seen during the post-pandemic boom.

Looking ahead, the Charleston market appears to be entering a healthy equilibrium. For buyers, the increase in inventory and longer days on market provide a critical window to negotiate on repairs or closing costs without the pressure of immediate competition. For sellers, the strategy must shift toward realistic pricing and high-quality presentation, as the 'wait-and-see' approach from buyers is becoming more common. With rental rates continuing to climb at a faster pace than home values—up 2.9 percent year-over-year—the long-term value proposition of homeownership in the Lowcountry remains strong, provided participants are prepared for a slower transaction cycle.