CHESTER COUNTY, PA — While much of the nation tiptoed into 2026 with falling home values and cautious buyers, Chester County charged ahead, cementing its reputation as one of Pennsylvania’s fiercest seller’s markets.
In January, the county’s median home sale price ranged between $540,000 and $549,000 — a roughly 5% jump from January 2025 — even as national home values slipped for the sixth consecutive month, according to the Zillow Home Value Index.
Across the U.S., the typical home value now stands at $358,968, with prices down 0.4% month over month in January and just 0.2% higher than a year earlier. But in Chester County, demand remains intense and supply remains critically thin.
Active listings hovered around just 521 units in January — far below the six-month supply considered balanced — fueling frequent bidding wars and pushing many properties to or above asking price. Total sales volume still topped $174.6 million, despite a seasonal cooldown from December’s year-end surge.
West Chester and Phoenixville remain among the most competitive boroughs in the state, with homes routinely going under contract in approximately 16 to 20 days. But they are no longer alone.
West Goshen led the county in speed, with homes averaging just 15 days on market. Exton followed closely at 16 days, bolstered by major redevelopment plans, including the proposed transformation of the Exton Square Mall into a mixed-use residential and commercial community.
Berwyn and West Brandywine also saw rapid turnover, averaging 18 days on market. Downingtown continues to attract buyers with its strong school district and redevelopment initiatives, while Coatesville’s revitalization efforts are drawing investor interest. Kennett Square, Oxford, Malvern, Devon, and Chester Springs remain high-demand enclaves, particularly among luxury and long-term buyers.
Nationally, buyers appear to be gaining modest leverage. Zillow reports 1.11 million homes for sale nationwide in January — 6% higher than a year ago — with homes taking a median of 47 days to go pending. The share of homes selling above list price has also declined compared to last year.
Mortgage conditions have improved somewhat. The estimated monthly payment on a typical U.S. home has fallen 8.4% year over year, driven largely by lower rates. Forecasters expect mortgage rates to ease into the low-6% range by the end of 2026.
Even so, affordability remains strained in high-cost counties like Chester. Analysts suggest January and February represent a strategic window for buyers willing to compete before the traditional spring surge intensifies.
Chester County’s economic foundation — supported by healthcare, education, and technology sectors — continues to anchor property values. In contrast to the broader national cooling trend, the county’s market remains tight, competitive, and resilient.
For buyers and sellers alike, one message is clear: while the national housing market is stabilizing, Chester County is still running hot.
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