Buying in Central Ohio This Summer? Here's What the Data Says

More Homes to Choose From Than a Year Ago

If the past couple of summers left you frustrated by thin inventory and bidding wars, June's numbers offer a bit of relief. Total inventory across central Ohio grew 7.0% year over year to 5,551 homes, according to the Columbus & Central Ohio Regional MLS. That's the most breathing room buyers have had in recent memory, even though the market is still tilted toward sellers overall.

Months of supply sits at 2.2, up from a year ago. A balanced market is typically 4 to 6 months, so this is still a competitive environment — just less extreme than it's been.

Prices Are Rising, But Slowly

The median sales price in central Ohio reached $352,000 in June, up just 0.6% year over year. That's a meaningful shift from the sharp annual increases buyers have faced in recent years. It doesn't mean prices are falling — they're not — but it does mean you're less likely to feel like the ground is shifting under you between the time you start looking and the time you make an offer.

Don't Expect Homes to Linger

The average time on market held at 25 days in June, matching last year. Single-family homes led activity with 2,732 closings, up 5.8% year over year, while condo sales held essentially flat at 368. Pending contracts — a leading indicator of where the market is headed — climbed 4.8% year over year, which tells us buyer activity is building, not slowing.

• Well-priced homes in sought-after school districts are still moving quickly
• South-Western City (Grove City), Westerville City, and Big Walnut Local school districts all posted double-digit gains in closed sales this June
• Getting pre-approved and ready to move before you fall in love with a house is still the difference-maker

What This Means for Your Search

More inventory gives you room to be selective, but it doesn't mean you can afford to be slow. The combination of rising pending contracts and steady days-on-market tells us serious buyers are still moving with purpose. If you've been waiting for the market to hand you leverage, June's data suggests that window is opening — but it's not wide open, and it won't stay this way indefinitely. 

The Bottom Line

You have more options than buyers did a year ago, and prices are climbing at a much gentler pace. But homes in strong school districts are still selling in about three and a half weeks. Being prepared — financially and logistically — matters as much as ever. 

Margaret Lipp | RE/MAX Premier Choice

Serving Upper Arlington, Dublin, Worthington, Clintonville, Hilliard, Powell, Grandview, and all Central Ohio communities

Data source: Columbus REALTORS® Central Ohio Housing Report, June 2026. Statistics reflect Columbus & Central Ohio Regional MLS data and are believed accurate but not guaranteed.