January 2026 Market Recap for Surf City, NC: Coastal Activity and Pricing Trends

Kicking off the new year, the real estate landscape in Surf City, NC delivered an active January with both sellers and buyers experiencing real opportunity and subtle shifts. Are you curious about the direction of this coastal market and how it may impact your next move?

This month's report brings context to numbers, trends, and the underlying market pulse shaping decisions for buyers, sellers, and investors. January 2026 in Surf City, NC saw measurable changes across pricing, inventory, and closing dynamics, hinting at a competitive yet evolving space.

Surf City, NC Market Metrics in January 2026

Let us dive into the numbers that defined our local housing scene. The median sale price landed at $565,000, marking a year-on-year decrease of 2.4 percent. For buyers, this suggests an easing from the peak, while sellers remain in a strong position due to persistent demand. The number of homes sold was 28 this January, paired with 34 new listings entering the market, adding breathing room for those on the hunt for a new home.

Inventory continues to be a focal point with 57 active listings and just 1.8 months of supply. Why does this matter? Low supply keeps pressure on prices and supports continued competition among buyers. Meanwhile, an average of 34 days on market means properties are selling, but not at a breakneck speed. Staying attentive to average days on market can help you plan realistic timelines—especially if you're wondering how to sell your house fast in Surf City, NC this season.

Key Price Movements for January 2026

The list-to-sale price ratio held at 97.8 percent, confirming that buyers are paying close to asking price—a clear marker of healthy interest and balanced negotiation power. Sellers, note that 18 percent of deals closed with concessions, often amounting to $5,000, slightly easing the cost for buyers.

The average price per square foot moved up to $327, a 1.3 percent annual increase. Every dollar counts, especially for investors who analyze returns and entry opportunities.

• Affordable homes in Surf City, NC this January 2026 are found among the 27 percent of listings that are attached townhome or condo units—an increased share offering more choice for different budgets.
• If you're still weighing, is it a good time to buy in Surf City, NC? Modest price shifts and increased concessions signal it's worth a closer look.
• For luxury buyers, the top deal was $1,235,000 for a five-bedroom oceanfront property; first-time buyers saw deals as low as $272,000 for a two-bedroom inland home.

Inventory, Listings, and Market Position

Sellers in January enjoyed listing strength, yet faced a rising expired and withdrawn listing rate now at 7 percent—more than double last year. Pricing ideally is essential. The influx of 34 new listings helped inventory, but with only 1.8 months of supply, strategic positioning is still key.

Smart buyers leveraged the 18 percent rate of seller concessions, negotiating valuable support while acting decisively when ideal homes appeared. With 23 homes pending at last count, those entering the market today are likely to see similar momentum.

Living and Investing in Surf City, NC: Insights and Opportunities

Beyond the sales world, the rental landscape remains individualized, with monthly rents from $2,650 up to $3,700 based on property size and location. Days on market for rentals varied from 22 to 61. No aggregate rent data was available, so renters are best served by close monitoring of individual listings and working with an agent who knows the latest shifts.

Why These Numbers Matter: January's Takeaways

For every buyer, seller, or investor, staying attuned to days on market, current inventory, and seller concessions helps shape informed strategies throughout January 2026. The evolving blend of prices, concessions, and listing types means the answer to is it a good time to buy in Surf City, NC? depends on market timing and readiness.

Curious about affordable homes in Surf City, NC this January 2026 or need to refine your approach for success? Let these anchors guide you: Surf City, NC market timing, buying opportunities in Surf City, and selling your home in Surf City, NC. Decisions made with informed confidence are the key to unlocking your goals.