Long Beach, CA Real Estate Market Update: What Home Prices & Inventory Look Like in 2026

Long Beach home prices are up 5.8% year-over-year as of August 2026, with a median sale price of $899,405, and homes are moving faster too — a median of 43 days on market, down from 50 days a year ago. Mortgage rates climbed back above 7.3% this week, which is adding pressure on affordability even as the market tilts more toward sellers than it did earlier this year. Here's what's actually driving those numbers, which neighborhoods are seeing the most competition, and what it means if you're buying or selling in Long Beach this fall.

 

How Much Are Homes Selling for in Long Beach Right Now?

 

Over the three months ending August 2026, Long Beach homes sold for a median price of $899,405, up 5.8% compared to the same period last year, according to Redfin. Sales volume also grew: 700 homes sold in August 2026, up 5% from 666 the year before. About 38.8% of homes sold above their list price, and the average sale-to-list ratio was 99.8% — meaning most sellers are getting close to full asking price. Redfin scores the market 63 out of 100 on its Compete Score, putting Long Beach in "somewhat competitive" territory.

 

How Fast Are Homes Moving Off the Market?

 

The median time on market dropped to 43 days, down from 50 days a year ago. That's a meaningful shift: buyers have less time to deliberate before a home goes under contract, and sellers have more leverage to hold firm on price and terms. If you're buying, it means getting pre-approved and ready to move before you start touring is more important than ever.

 

How Are Mortgage Rates Affecting Long Beach Buyers?

 

The average 30-year fixed mortgage rate climbed to 7.36% this week, up from 7.09% just seven days earlier. On a home at Long Beach's median price of roughly $899,000 with 20% down, that jump adds real dollars to a monthly payment — which is why more buyers are asking about rate buydowns, adjustable-rate options, or waiting for a dip before locking in.

 

Which Long Beach Neighborhoods Are Seeing the Most Demand?

 

Waterfront communities like Belmont Shore and Naples Island continue to draw strong buyer interest for their walkability and canal or beach access, while Bixby Knolls offers a more suburban feel with tree-lined streets, and Downtown Long Beach appeals to buyers who want walkable urban living near dining, transit, and the waterfront. Inventory citywide sits at roughly 553 active listings, keeping competition tight in the most desirable pockets.

 

What Does This Mean If You're Buying or Selling This Fall?

 

Sellers are in a stronger position than earlier this year, with homes selling close to list price and in fewer days — but pricing still matters, since overpricing in a rate-sensitive market can mean sitting longer than the 43-day median. Buyers should expect some competition in high-demand neighborhoods, come in with financing ready, and talk to a lender early about how this week's rate move affects what you can comfortably afford.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

 

Is Long Beach a buyer's or seller's market right now?

It's leaning toward sellers, with a 63/100 Compete Score and most homes selling close to list price, but it's not extreme — buyers with strong financing still have room to negotiate on contingencies and timing.

 

Why did mortgage rates jump this week?

Rates rose to 7.36% from 7.09% in the span of a week, reflecting broader movement in the bond market; rates can shift week to week, so it's worth checking in with a lender regularly rather than assuming last month's rate still applies.

 

Which Long Beach neighborhoods are most competitive right now?

Belmont Shore, Naples Island, and Downtown Long Beach tend to see the most buyer interest and fastest sales, largely because of walkability, waterfront access, or proximity to transit and dining.

 

Should I wait for rates to drop before buying in Long Beach?

It depends on your timeline and the specific home — home prices in Long Beach have risen 5.8% over the past year, so waiting for a lower rate could mean paying more for the home itself; a local lender can run the numbers on refinancing later versus buying now.

 

Updated for September 2026.