The Los Angeles County housing market showed mixed signals in February 2026, with prices declining slightly while inventory and buyer activity presented uneven trends, according to a new report from the California Association of Realtors.
The report found the median price for single-family detached homes reached $842,660 in February. That reflects a 4.2 percent drop from the previous month and a 1.1 percent decrease compared with the same time last year.
Housing data from the association points to ongoing affordability challenges across the region, including in the San Gabriel Valley, where elevated prices continue to limit access for many first-time buyers.
Home Sales Show Modest Decline
Year-over-year home sales dipped 0.3 percent in February, signaling a relatively flat market compared with 2025 levels. On a monthly basis, sales increased 14.2 percent, suggesting some seasonal rebound in activity.
Despite the monthly gain, overall sales remain below earlier peaks, reflecting continued caution among buyers facing high borrowing costs and limited affordability.
Local markets such as El Monte, Baldwin Park, and Temple City mirror these broader trends, where demand persists but purchasing power remains constrained.
Inventory Levels Increase Across County
Unsold inventory rose to 4.2 months in February, up 2.4 percent from the same period last year. On a monthly basis, inventory declined 6.7 percent, indicating some tightening compared with January.
The increase in available homes may provide some relief for buyers, though supply remains below levels considered balanced for a healthy market.
Housing experts note that a balanced market typically requires closer to five to six months of inventory. Current levels suggest conditions still favor sellers in many areas.
Time On Market Shortens
The median time a home stayed on the market fell to 32 days in February. That marks a 15.8 percent decrease from the previous month and a 6.7 percent increase year over year.
The shorter selling period suggests that well-priced homes continue to attract buyers quickly, even as overall affordability pressures persist.
Real estate professionals say homes in desirable neighborhoods and near transit corridors continue to move fastest, including parts of the San Gabriel Valley.
Outlook Remains Uncertain
The February data highlights a housing market in transition. While price declines may offer modest relief, affordability remains a central concern due to income gaps and financing costs.
Regional communities continue to feel the impact as buyers weigh timing and costs. Sellers, meanwhile, face shifting expectations as inventory gradually increases.
The California Association of Realtors said market conditions will depend on interest rates, housing supply, and broader economic factors in the coming months.
For San Gabriel Valley communities, the latest data underscores the need for sustained policy focus on affordability and supply. Residents and prospective buyers can review the full report and ongoing updates from the California Association of Realtors at https://www.car.org/marketdata as housing conditions continue to evolve across the region.
