More Homes, Higher Prices: What's Actually Happening in Rochester's Housing Market?

If you've been following Rochester real estate, you've probably noticed that our local market hasn't followed quite the same trajectory as much of the country. And September's numbers tell an interesting story.

According to Realtor.com's September 2026 data, active listings in the Rochester market increased 5.6% compared to last year. New listings were also up 7.6%, giving buyers a little more to choose from.

But here's where it gets interesting: the median listing price still increased 4.7% year over year, reaching approximately $298,350. Nationally, median listing prices actually declined 1.4% over the same period.

So, what does that mean if you're buying or selling in Rochester?

For buyers, additional inventory is encouraging, but it doesn't necessarily mean less competition. Well-priced homes in desirable locations can still attract significant interest, and being prepared remains important.

For sellers, the market is still favorable, but pricing and presentation matter. With more homes available, buyers have additional opportunities to compare properties, making a thoughtful listing strategy especially valuable.

As we move further into fall, I'll be watching whether inventory continues to grow and how quickly newly listed homes are selling. Those trends will tell us much more about where our local market is heading than any national headline.

Rochester real estate has always been highly neighborhood-specific, and understanding those differences is where local experience really matters.

Erin Duffy Kruss | Rochester, NY Real Estate

Source: Realtor.com, September 2026 Rochester Housing Market Data