May 2026 · Single-Family Homes
Manatee County Market Report
Source: Florida REALTORS® / Stellar MLS
Median Sale Price
$460,000
-3.8% vs. May 2025
Closed Sales
782
-0.5% vs. May 2025
Median Time to Contract
47 Days
-5 days vs. May 2025
Months of Inventory
4.4
Down from 5.2 last year
New Pending Sales
839
+19.2% vs. May 2025
List Price Received
95.4%
+1.1 pts vs. May 2025
The month in review
Manatee County single-family hit pause on price growth in May after April's strong 6.1% gain. The median fell 3.8% year-over-year to $460,000 — but the volume story tells a different tale. Average sale price rose 4.5% to $667,503 and total dollar volume climbed 4.0% to $522 million, driven by higher-end closings in Lakewood Ranch and along the coast. Sellers are landing 95.4% of their original list price, up over a full point from last May.
The forward-looking indicators are bullish. New pending sales surged 19.2% while new listings barely moved (-1.4%), meaning demand is outpacing fresh supply. Active inventory dropped 11.8% to 2,832 homes and months of supply tightened from 5.2 to 4.4 — the same level as Sarasota County. Homes are going under contract in 47 days, down from 52 last year. The median price dip looks like a mix-shift issue, not a market weakness — the underlying demand metrics are the strongest we've seen in Manatee all year.
If you’re buying
Don't be fooled by the median price dip — it reflects what sold, not a weakening market. Pending sales up 19% means more competition is coming. Inventory is down nearly 12% from last year and homes are selling 5 days faster. If you're targeting Lakewood Ranch, Parrish, or east Manatee under $500K, be ready to move quickly with a strong pre-approval.
If you’re selling
The demand metrics are excellent: pending sales up 19%, homes selling faster, and you're keeping more of your asking price than a year ago. List price received at 95.4% is the highest in any segment this month. Supply at 4.4 months is firmly in your favor. Price accurately — the median dip doesn't reflect market weakness, but overpricing will still cost you. Homes priced at market are moving fast.
Market data is sourced from the MLS and local REALTOR® association reports and is deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Figures reflect the stated property type and area for the period indicated and are provided for general informational purposes only — they are not an appraisal, a guarantee of value, or investment advice. For an analysis specific to your property, request a custom report.
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