Milwaukee, WI Housing Market Report

The Milwaukee real estate market entering December 2025 remains a competitive environment characterized by steady appreciation and tight inventory levels. With a median home value of $211,990, the market has seen a consistent 4.3% year-over-year increase, reflecting resilient demand despite broader economic shifts. The sale-to-list ratio currently sits at exactly 1, indicating that homes are generally selling for their full asking price. This suggests a balanced but lean market where sellers still hold a slight edge due to the limited supply of available properties.

Price trends over the last six months show a remarkably steady upward trajectory, with values climbing incrementally every month since July. This slow and steady growth is driven by a combination of limited active inventory, which stands at just 2,904 units, and a slight acceleration in the pace of sales. Homes are currently spending an average of 50 days on the market, a marginal decrease from the previous year, signaling that well-priced homes are being absorbed by the market efficiently. The rental market is mirroring this growth, with median rents rising at a nearly identical rate of 4.34% annually.

Looking ahead, the Milwaukee-Waukesha metro area appears poised for continued stability. For buyers, the slight 1.82% increase in active inventory offers a bit more choice than in previous years, but the lack of price softening means they must remain decisive. Sellers can expect to receive offers close to their asking price, provided the home is in good condition. As we move into 2026, the primary challenge for the Milwaukee market will be whether inventory can keep pace with demand to prevent further erosion of affordability in this historically accessible Midwestern hub.