CHESTER COUNTY, PA — Zillow’s latest housing market report shows sellers nationwide are stepping back as high costs sideline many buyers, slowing the pace of new listings and flattening home value growth. For Chester County, where housing prices remain among the highest in Pennsylvania, the findings reinforce an already competitive, seller-driven environment.
As of late summer 2025, Chester County reported a median sale price of $552,083 and a median list price of $595,000, well above state and national averages. Inventory remains tight, with just over 1,000 active listings in August and homes moving to pending status in about a week. More than half of all sales in July closed above asking price, underscoring the strength of seller leverage.
By contrast, Zillow data shows a national market in transition, with 26% of listings recording price cuts in August and new listings hitting record lows for the month. Inventory, though up year-over-year, slipped from July levels as fewer homeowners chose to sell. Nationally, homes took a median of 27 days to secure a buyer, compared with Chester County’s far faster pace.
The divergence underscores regional divides. While buyer-friendly markets are emerging in the South and parts of the West, the Northeast remains tilted toward sellers. Chester County, with strong demand, constrained supply, and rapid absorption rates, fits squarely in this category.
“Buyers who can afford a home and have been waiting for the right moment should look closely at what’s available now,” said Zillow Senior Economist Kara Ng. That advice may resonate locally, but Chester County’s market conditions suggest affordability remains a higher barrier than opportunity.
With steady long-term price growth and limited inventory, Chester County continues to defy the national cooling trend. For buyers, the window of leverage opening elsewhere has yet to materialize here, leaving sellers in a commanding position as the fall market begins.
For the latest news on everything happening in Chester County and the surrounding area, be sure to follow MyChesCo on Google News and MSN.