The Sonoma County housing report for single-family homes presents a wealth of new information and interesting insights. If you are looking to understand the nuances of the Sonoma County real estate market as we kick off the new year, you are in the right place.
Winter is traditionally a slower season for real estate, but the data for January 2026 tells a fascinating story of low supply, rising prices, and a resilient buyer pool. Whether you are looking to buy a family home in Santa Rosa or sell a vineyard estate in Healdsburg, understanding these numbers is crucial.
What is the Sonoma County housing market like in January 2026?
To put it simply: The Sonoma County housing market is tighter than it has been in years. We are seeing a classic supply-and-demand squeeze.
Let’s look at the numbers. The months of inventory have plummeted to 1.71, a staggering 40% decrease from last month. In a balanced market, we usually expect 4 to 6 months of inventory. At 1.71 months, we are firmly in a seller’s market territory. This scarcity is further highlighted by the active listings count, which sits at just 550 homes, a 38% decrease from last year (2025).
However, despite this lack of inventory, the market isn’t asleep. Sold listings are actually up 8% compared to the close of 2025, with 260 homes changing hands. This activity has pushed the Median Sold Price to $835,500, a 4% increase from last month.
Interestingly, while prices and demand are up, the Median Days on Market has increased by 22% to 66 days. This suggests a dichotomy: desirable, well-priced homes are moving, but buyers are becoming more selective, or transaction times are lengthening due to financing hurdles.
For a broader look at where we are heading later this year, check out our Sonoma County Home Market Forecast 2026.
Sonoma County home prices by segment
The aggregate data gives us the big picture, but the Sonoma County real estate market behaves differently depending on the price point. With the Median Estimated Value sitting at $790,880, slightly lower than the actual sold price, it is clear that buyers are willing to pay a premium for the right property.
Sonoma County Homes Under $1M selling fast
This is the most active segment of the market. With the median sold price at $835,500, the majority of transactions are happening here. The competition is fierce because inventory is so low.
Financing plays a massive role in this segment. Affordability is key, and changes in lending rates can make or break a deal. Understanding what the US Mortgage Rate Drop to 6% Means for You is essential for buyers trying to stay competitive in this price bracket.
Sonoma County balanced market for $1-2 million range
As we move into the mid-range market, things stabilize slightly. While the inventory is still tight, buyers in this range tend to have more leverage than entry-level buyers. The Median price per sqft has risen 5% to $591, indicating that even in this range, value is climbing. Buyers here are looking for turnkey properties; homes that need work may sit closer to that 66-day average.
Sonoma County Luxury Market
The luxury tier in Sonoma County remains unique. High-end buyers are less sensitive to interest rates but very sensitive to property condition, location, and insurance.
One major factor influencing luxury buyers, especially those looking at estates in the hills or vineyards, is safety and insurability. Properties that adhere to safety standards are commanding better attention. We highly recommend reading our Guide to NFPA Firewise USA in Sonoma County to understand how property safety influences market value.
Recommendations for buyers and sellers during winter
Navigating the Sonoma County housing market this winter requires strategy.
For Sellers: You have the upper hand regarding supply. With inventory down 40% month-over-month, you have very little competition. If your home is well-prepared, you can capitalize on the 4% price increase we’ve seen recently.
- Tip for Seniors: If you are looking to downsize or transition to a new lifestyle, now is a great time to sell while equity is high. You might want to explore why a Seniors Real Estate Specialist (SRES) is Your Best Ally to help manage this transition smoothly.
For Buyers: Patience and readiness are your tools. The “days on market” stat of 66 days is misleading; the best homes sell much faster. Have your financing ready.
- Tip for Retirees: If you are moving to the area for retirement, you don’t necessarily have to fight the bidding wars on single-family starter homes. Check out our Guide to 55+ Communities in Sonoma County for options that might offer a more relaxed pace and better availability.
What to expect in Sonoma County Housing Market for 2026
If January is the compass for the year ahead, the Sonoma County real estate market is pointing toward a year of intense scarcity and steady value growth.
The “Seller’s Market” is back. With inventory sitting at a historic low of 1.71 months, you have maximum leverage. Expect quick sales if your home is prepped and priced correctly. 2026 will be about agility. With active listings down 38%, the best properties won’t wait. Success will come to those who are ready to strike when the right home hits the market.
We are seeing a “quality over quantity” market. Navigating this tight inventory requires expert guidance. As your dedicated Sonoma County Realtor, Emily Martin is here to ensure you win in the market.
Why choose Sonoma Realtor Emily Martin?
Emily has called California home for over a decade and likes to think of herself as a California “native.” Learning at a young age from her mother, Linda K. Martin, a top-producing real estate agent for 40+ years, Emily has been immersed in real estate all of her life. As a homeowner in her early 20s in Manhattan’s Gramercy Park, followed by San Francisco, and now Healdsburg, Emily understands the intricacies of home ownership in highly sought-after regions such as Manhattan, San Francisco, Sonoma County, Napa Valley, and her beloved hometown of Healdsburg, California.
Whether clients are buying their dream home, purchasing a second home, selling a cherished property, or investing in the market, Emily is here to make their dreams a reality. Her extensive luxury experience, attention to customer service, marketing expertise, strong work ethic, and passion enable her to provide a level of service that is truly distinctive.
As the journey begins, here’s what clients can expect:
Unmatched Luxury Expertise
With a deep-rooted understanding of the luxury market, Emily brings a wealth of knowledge and insight into luxury goods, sales, and lifestyle. Whether clients are buying or selling, she has the expertise to navigate the world of real estate and the Healdsburg Luxury Homes market.
A Tradition of Excellence
With a family legacy spanning four decades in real estate, excellence is not just a goal—it’s a tradition. Emily is committed to upholding the impeccable reputation her mother, Linda K. Martin, a top North Shore Chicago agent, has built by delivering nothing short of excellence to her clients.
Unwavering Dedication & Passion
Emily is dedicated to her clients’ success. From the moment they embark on this journey together, she provides unwavering support, guidance, and attention to detail, ensuring a seamless and stress-free experience. When asked to describe Emily, the first words that come to her clients ‘ minds are passionate, energetic, experienced, and dependable.
Explore the Luxury Lifestyle in Healdsburg’s Wine Country
Luxury real estate is not just about properties; it’s about a lifestyle. It’s about finding the perfect blend of elegance, sophistication, and comfort that feels like home. It’s the feeling clients get when they walk into their dream home.
Contact Sonoma Realtor Emily Martin today at: [email protected] or 707-926-3200 to begin an extraordinary real estate experience. Together, you’ll create a story worth telling, a life worth living, and a legacy worth building.