Building on the momentum of 2025, the housing markets in Southeastern Wisconsin and
Dane County enter the spring season showing remarkable resilience and adaptability. Despite ongoing affordability pressures and interest rate uncertainty, buyer demand remains steady, pricing continues to strengthen, and overall market activity reflects a more balanced and sustainable pace.
#3 in the State
- 2,630 Sides
- $1,433,234,365 Total Sales
- $531,051 Average Price
- 227 Agent Count at the end of 2025
- $6,313,807 Average Agent Production
Building on the momentum of 2025, the housing markets in Southeastern Wisconsin and Dane County enter the spring season showing remarkable resilience and adaptability. Despite ongoing affordability pressures and interest rate uncertainty, buyer demand remains steady, pricing continues to strengthen, and overall market activity reflects a more balanced and sustainable pace.
Across the region, homes are still moving, sellers are maintaining strong negotiating positions, and buyers are benefiting from more thoughtful decision-making time. The market has clearly transitioned from rapid acceleration to a healthier long-term equilibrium.
Across the nine counties tracked, total sales volume rose in most major markets, led by strong gains in Dane, Jefferson, Waukesha, Walworth, and Washington Counties. While total transaction counts declined modestly in several areas, median sales prices increased across every county, reinforcing continued value growth. Days on Market (DOM) declined significantly throughout the region, signaling improved efficiency and strong buyer engagement.
Standout Counties
- Jefferson County led the region in volume growth, posting a 21.3% increase in sales volume. While transaction counts remained flat, median prices rose 5.0% and Days on Market fell more than 45%, highlighting strong demand in this more affordable, lifestyle oriented market.
- Washington County delivered consistent performance with volume up 6.3%, transactions slightly higher, and median prices rising 5.5% Reduced market time reflects sustained demand among move-up and suburban buyers.
- Waukesha County continued its momentum. Sales volume increased 9.2%, median prices climbed 10.1%, and DOM declined 26.5%, reinforcing its role as a regional powerhouse.
- Walworth County long favored by second home and lakefront buyers, saw volume rise 6.6% and prices jump 11.5%. Faster sales and strong pricing demonstrate continued interest in recreational and investment properties.
Key Metro Markets
- Milwaukee County posted solid gains, with volume up 4.2% and median prices rising 6.2%. Transactions dipped slightly, but faster marketing times indicate continued strength in urban and close-in suburban housing.
- Dane County remained a major driver of regional growth, with sales volume increasing 6.8% despite a modest decline in transactions. Median prices rose to $454,900, and Days on Market dropped from 51 to 32 days, reflecting strong buyer competition and continued confidence in Madison-area housing. remained a major driver of regional growth, with sales volume increasing 6.8% despite a modest decline in transactions. Median prices rose to $454,900, and Days on Market dropped from 51 to 32 days, reflecting strong buyer competition and continue confidence in Madison-area housing.
Lake & Lifestyle Markets
- Kenosha County experienced softer activity, with volume down 8.3% and sales declining nearly 12%. However, median prices rose 9.8%, and DOM dropped significantly, showing that well-positioned homes are still commanding strong buyer interest.
- Racine County remained stable overall. While volume and sales dipped slightly, median prices increased 11.1%, reflecting sustained value growth despite fewer transactions.
- Ozaukee County saw modest declines in volume and transactions, though median prices climbed 6.4%. This suggests continued pricing resilience in higher-end segments, even as buyer activity moderated.
Looking Ahead
As the spring market gains momentum, the fundamentals in Southeastern Wisconsin and Dane County remain rock-solid. While buyers continue to navigate the nuances of interest rates and affordability, the region’s appeal is undeniable—bolstered by steady employment growth, diverse inventory, and a reputation for long-term appreciation. We enter the second quarter of 2026 with a market clearly positioned for stability and measured, sustainable growth.
Sincerely,
Compass Real Estate of Wisconsin
