Austin Housing Market, September 2026: The Plain English Version

Unlock MLS released its September 2026 Central Texas Housing Report on October 13. Here is what it says about the City of Austin, and what I think it means.

The headline numbers, City of Austin

• 777 homes sold, 12.7% fewer than September 2025
• $570,958 median price, 4.2% higher than a year ago
• 4,502 active listings, 10.3% fewer than a year ago
• 5.4 months of inventory, 0.3 months less than a year ago
• 92.5% average close to list price, up from 90.8%
• $2,195 median rent, 4.4% lower than a year ago

What it means for buyers

Fewer homes sold, but prices did not fall. Homes closed at 92.5% of list price on average, which tells me buyers are still negotiating, just a little less aggressively than last year. With 5.4 months of inventory, you have choices. Take your time, and use inspections and concessions to your advantage.

What it means for sellers

Prices are holding up, which is good news. But buyers are selective. Homes that are priced well and presented beautifully are the ones selling. If your home has been sitting, it is worth looking at price and presentation together.

The bigger picture

Unlock MLS noted that a recent rise in interest rates created another hurdle for buyers. Rates are one of the biggest drivers of buyer activity right now, so if they ease, I would expect activity to follow.

Every neighborhood is different

Citywide medians blend very different neighborhoods and home types. If you want the numbers for your zip code, I'm happy to pull them.

Source: Unlock MLS Central Texas Housing Report, September 2026, City of Austin.