Houston Real Estate Market Report & Regional Comparison
A data-driven look at the Greater Houston market — with a focused comparison of North Houston, West Houston, and Southwest Houston.
This report covers key April 2026 market metrics, regional price trends, inventory levels, and what it all means for buyers, sellers, and relocation clients.
Executive Summary
The Houston real estate market in April 2026 continued its trajectory toward a more balanced and buyer-friendly environment. Increased sales activity, moderating prices, and a significant expansion of inventory — combined with improved mortgage rates — defined the month.
North Houston Highlights
The Woodlands maintained its premium status with rapid appreciation (+10.3% YoY), while Conroe offered competitive pricing and strong growth opportunities for value-focused buyers.
Market Direction
Houston's market is outperforming national trends, with single-family home sales up 4.4% year-over-year and inventory expanding — giving buyers more choice and negotiating power.
Greater Houston Market — April 2026 Key Metrics
A snapshot of overall market conditions across the Greater Houston area this month.
Homes Sold
Single-family homes sold, up 4.4% year-over-year
Median Sale Price
Down 1.6% year-over-year — improving affordability
Avg Sale Price
Average sale price down 1.4% year-over-year
Days on Market
Up from 55 days in the prior year period
Active Listings
Up 6.5% year-over-year — more choices for buyers
Months of Inventory
Up from 4.8 months — exceeds national average of 4.1 months
Houston vs. National Performance
Houston continues to outpace national real estate trends heading into mid-2026.
+6.8%
Houston single-family home sales vs. April 2019 pre-pandemic levels
Below Pre-Pandemic
National home sales remain below pre-pandemic levels — Houston leads the recovery
6.33%
30-year mortgage rate — down from 6.73% in April 2025, supporting buyer demand
4.9 Months
Houston inventory exceeds the national average of 4.1 months, giving buyers more leverage
Regional Comparison — April 2026
How North Houston stacks up against other key Houston submarkets across the metrics that matter most to buyers and sellers.
The Woodlands — Luxury & Rapid Appreciation
The Woodlands continues to be one of Houston's highest-performing luxury markets, driven by natural beauty, extensive amenities, and a strong corporate presence.
$640K–$647K
Median home price in April 2026 — a +10.3% year-over-year increase
30 Days
Average days on market — highly competitive seller's market with rapid turnover
3.0–3.5 Months
Low inventory reinforces scarcity and continues to drive price appreciation
Conroe — Competitive Pricing & Growth Potential
Conroe offers an accessible entry point into the North Houston market with a dynamic mix of affordability, new listings, and long-term growth opportunity.
~$305,000
Median home price — significantly more accessible than nearby luxury markets
~5.0 Months
Balanced inventory gives buyers real choices without intense bidding competition
Growth Community
Steady influx of new listings and development activity signal strong long-term upside
West & Southwest Houston — Katy and Sugar Land
Two strong suburban markets with distinct appeals — Katy for value and new construction access, Sugar Land for stability and top-rated schools.
West Houston — Katy
Median Price: ~$335,000–$350,000
YoY Change: -2.4%
Inventory: ~5.0 months
DOM: ~60 days
Katy is a popular choice for buyers seeking value and new construction, particularly in the $250K–$500K range. Its proximity to the Energy Corridor makes it a strategic location for commuters.
Southwest Houston — Sugar Land
Median Price: ~$460,000–$480,000
YoY Change: -0.27%
Inventory: ~4.5 months
DOM: ~55–65 days
Sugar Land is highly valued for its diverse community, top-rated Fort Bend ISD schools, and excellent medical facilities — a reliable choice for families prioritizing education and stability.
Why North Houston Stands Out
Across both The Woodlands and Conroe, North Houston offers a compelling blend of advantages for a wide range of buyers.
The Woodlands — best-in-class appreciation at +10.3% YoY with elite master-planned living
Conroe — affordable entry point with growth potential and balanced buyer-friendly inventory
Natural beauty, well-planned communities, and diverse economic opportunity across both areas
Improved mortgage rates (6.33%) create a favorable window for both buyers and sellers
Houston outperforms national sales trends — up 6.8% vs. April 2019 pre-pandemic baseline
Moving to North Houston?
From The Woodlands and Conroe to Spring, Magnolia, Porter, and New Caney, North Houston is one of the fastest-growing areas in the region.
Explore dedicated insights on:
New Construction Communities
Discover the latest developments and planned communities shaping North Houston's growth.
Larger Homesites and Acreage
Find properties with more space, privacy, and room to grow in North Houston's expanding corridors.
Long-Term Growth Opportunities
Understand which areas are positioned for the strongest appreciation and development over time.
Ready to Explore Your Options?
If you're thinking about buying, selling, or relocating to the Houston area, you can explore available homes, new construction opportunities, and private listings below.
View Homes & New Construction
Terrel D. Terrell, REALTOR®
eXp Realty LLC
License # 723700
1 Riverway Dr Ste 1700, Houston, TX 77056
Phone: (713) 403-8223