January 2026 Market Update – Brunswick County Coastal NC
Here is our latest market update for the real estate market in Brunswick County, NC. If you are considering our lovely area for your retirement, second home or investment, you're in the right place. This January 2026 market update for Brunswick County, NC gives you the latest numbers on what's happening with homes, condos, townhomes, and land lots in this coastal area. We'll cover current inventory, median prices, days on market (DOM), new listings, sold properties, and year-over-year trends as of January 2026. Plus, I'll share some forward-looking thoughts on the area's outlook, based on ongoing retiree migration and stable demand in communities like Ocean Isle Beach, Sunset Beach, Holden Beach, and Calabash. Suzanne Polino, who's been helping folks in Brunswick County for over a decade, mentions how these trends make coastal NC a smart pick for retirees seeking value in gated golf and beach communities.
Right now, Brunswick County has a steady inventory of about 4,778 active listings, with a median price around $434,900 — that's up 4.82% from last year, reflecting continued interest in the area's beaches and low taxes. Days on market average 87 days, up 11.11% YOY, showing a slight slowdown but still a healthy market. New listings are up 11.2% overall from 2025, with sold properties totaling over 6,300 for the year (7.8% increase). Compared to 2025, property values in Brunswick County have risen about 2.3% on average, driven by new construction and resale demand. Looking ahead, with NC's tax benefits and Brunswick County's 4% annual population growth, the outlook is positive — expect 3–5% appreciation through 2027 as more retirees move from high-tax states like NY and NJ.
Now, how does Brunswick County stack up against other coastal areas? Compared to Myrtle Beach, SC (median price $390K, DOM 95 days), Brunswick County offers better tax advantages and quieter beaches. Versus Outer Banks, NC (median $550K, DOM 80 days), it's more affordable with milder winters. Florida's Sarasota area (median $450K, DOM 75 days) has higher humidity and taxes. Hilton Head, SC (median $600K, DOM 100 days) is pricier with similar amenities. Compass Pointe (Leland) has strong popularity for its resort-style pools and fitness, high growth potential, stable resale, property values around $450K. Ocean Ridge Plantation (Ocean Isle Beach) is popular for its multiple golf courses, high growth with ongoing development, stable values at $450K. Sea Trail Plantation (Sunset Beach) is stable with 54 holes and beach access, very popular for stay-and-play, growth in remodels, values around $400K.
In short, Brunswick County holds its own with lower property values, strong stability from its gated setup, growing popularity among retirees, and solid growth potential as the area booms. Suzanne Polino notes that the areas beaches and location make it a compelling choice for a wide variety of home and condo buyers. For personalized insights, reach out anytime at 910-477-1378
Current Market Snapshot for Brunswick County
| Metric | January 2026 | Year-Over-Year Change |
|---|---|---|
| Active Listings | 4,778 | +15.09% from Jan 2025 |
| Median Price | $434,900 | +4.82% from Jan 2025 |
| Average Days on Market | 87 | +11.11% from Jan 2025 |
| New Listings (Month) | 409 | +2.8% from Jan 2025 |
| Sold Properties (Month) | 525 | +12.2% from Jan 2025 |
Single-Family Homes in Brunswick County
| Metric | January 2026 | Year-Over-Year Change |
|---|---|---|
| Active Listings | 2,500 | +10% from Jan 2025 |
| Median Price | $488,557 | +2.3% from Jan 2025 |
| Average Days on Market | 85 | +10% from Jan 2025 |
| New Listings (Month) | 250 | +5% from Jan 2025 |
| Sold Properties (Month) | 300 | +8% from Jan 2025 |
Condos & Townhomes in Brunswick County
| Metric | January 2026 | Year-Over-Year Change |
|---|---|---|
| Active Listings | 1,500 | +20% from Jan 2025 |
| Median Price | $377,850 | +1.6% from Jan 2025 |
| Average Days on Market | 90 | +12% from Jan 2025 |
| New Listings (Month) | 150 | +3% from Jan 2025 |
| Sold Properties (Month) | 200 | +15% from Jan 2025 |
Key Trends This Month in Brunswick County
Inventory remains steady but up from last year, with demand strong for gated golf and beach communities. Prices are stable with slight increases, due to Brunswick County's popularity. Sellers are getting 98% of list price, and buyers are moving on new listings. Suzanne Polino sees more out-of-state retirees inquiring, drawn to the area's low taxes and mild weather.
Ready to Explore Brunswick County Listings?
As your local coastal expert, Suzanne Polino can guide you to the perfect home in Brunswick County Coastal NC.
ASAP Realty
Suzanne Polino, REALTOR®
Coastal NC Real Estate Specialist
suzy@suzysellsnc.com
(910) 477-1378
SuzySellsNC.com
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