Q1 2026 · Single-Family Homes
Manatee County Market Report
Source: Florida REALTORS® / Stellar MLS
Median Sale Price
$488,510
+0.7% vs. Q1 2025
Closed Sales
1,808
+8.5% vs. Q1 2025
Median Time to Contract
60 Days
+12 days vs. Q1 2025
Months of Inventory
4.7
Down from 5.2 last year
New Listings
2,985
-4.7% vs. Q1 2025
List Price Received
94.2%
-1.3 pts vs. Q1 2025
The quarter in review
Manatee County is the standout in the region. It's the only local market where the median price actually rose year-over-year — up 0.7% to $488,510 — while Sarasota County and the broader metro saw modest declines. Sales climbed 8.5% to 1,808 closings with total dollar volume up nearly 10% to $1.2 billion.
The growth corridors of Lakewood Ranch, Parrish, and Palmetto are driving this strength. Months of supply at 4.7 is the tightest in the region, firmly in seller territory. Active inventory dropped 8.1% to 2,991 homes while new listings fell just 4.7% — a smaller decline than Sarasota's 20%, suggesting Manatee sellers are more confident about listing. Pending sales jumped 13.6%, confirming strong buyer demand. The only flag: homes are taking 60 days to go under contract (up from 48), and sellers are getting 94.2% of asking — buyers have a little more room to negotiate than a year ago, but not much.
If you’re buying
Manatee is the most competitive single-family market in the region with 4.7 months of supply and rising prices. If you're targeting Lakewood Ranch or Parrish new construction, builder incentives are your best negotiating lever — resales have less wiggle room. Get pre-approved and be ready to move quickly on well-priced homes.
If you’re selling
You're in the strongest position of any seller in Southwest Florida right now. Prices are up, inventory is tight, and buyer demand is climbing. That said, 94.2% of list price means buyers still push back on aspirational pricing. Hit the market at fair value and you'll attract strong offers — reach too high and you'll miss the momentum.
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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