Featured Article

January 2026 by the Numbers: Carolina Beach, NC Market Overview

Published on Saturday, January 3, 2026
Bill Frey
Frey Realty NC
Focus areas include Burgaw, Carolina Beach, Hampstead, Kure Beach, Leland, Oak Island, Southport, Surf City, Wilmington and Wrightsville Beach, along with surrounding towns, communities and neighborhoods.
Contact Bill Frey



What can we learn from the numbers shaping January 2026 in Carolina Beach, NC? This month, buyers, sellers, and investors have been making choices in one of the region’s fastest-moving environments. The January 2026 data points all angle toward continued vibrancy: 27 homes sold, a median sale price of $697,000, and 68 active listings at month’s end.

Sellers in Carolina Beach, NC saw most homes move in just 22 days, highlighting a pace that is both fast and favorable. For clients questioning is it a good time to buy in Carolina Beach, NC?, market velocity and healthy demand offer positive cues. Strong fundamentals and a focus on strategic guidance have kept this area’s momentum through the start of the year.

Sales, Pricing, and Demand in Carolina Beach, NC for January 2026

The average sale price per square foot came in at $563, increasing by 6.5 percent year-over-year. Why should this matter? Higher prices per foot, when paired with only 2.9 months of inventory, reflect resilient buyer interest and limited supply. 32 new listings rolled out in January 2026, giving buyers more options but keeping competition tight—especially since 48 percent of contracts were signed in under 10 days.

Cash purchases made up a notable 28 percent of transactions. Such a high rate signals investment confidence within Carolina Beach, NC. Sellers are benefitting from a list-to-sale price ratio of 97.8 percent, and agents are fielding fewer price reductions and appraisal issues than in past cycles.

Key Market Indicators for January 2026

Affordable Homes and Fast Movers

Those searching for affordable homes in Carolina Beach, NC this January 2026 face strong demand—homes under $500,000 made up just 15 percent of all transactions, which increases competition for this segment. For those who do secure a property, average marketing time is swift, requiring both buyers and their agents to have a clear strategy.

Tour Smarter, Offer Stronger

Work directly with Bill Frey to align budget, search alerts, and offer strategy for Carolina Beach, NC. Call or Check market updates, and find out how your plans can benefit from local expertise in January 2026.

The Rental and Investment Angle in January 2026

Renters and landlords both navigated a market where units ranged from $1,950 condos to $3,600 houses, with premium amenities multiplying demand. Investors attentive to the $2,200 to $2,600 range found faster lease-ups and fewer vacancy gaps. If you are debating how to sell your house fast in Carolina Beach, NC, accurate pricing and strong presentation prove essential.

  • 27 sales closed
  • Median list price: $710,000
  • Cash buyers: 28 percent
  • Fastest-moving price band: $600,000-$800,000
  • Seller concession average: $1,600
  • Rental absorption strongest at $2,200-$2,600

Why the Carolina Beach, NC Market Stands Out

Clients and professionals each benefit from a detailed look at January 2026. Bill Frey assists clients in navigating an ever-changing market, keeping everyone ahead of the curve in both strategy and expectation. For a deeper look into buying, selling, or investing, do not miss the best research, listings, and local expertise in Carolina Beach, NC.

Bill Frey
Written by Bill Frey
Frey Realty NC
Carolina Beach, NC market report
Buyer Guidance

Carolina Beach, NC Market Report

Get a Carolina Beach, NC market snapshot with current pricing trends, inventory levels, and property insights tailored to the neighborhoods you care about.

Carolina Beach, NC home valuation
Seller Strategy

Selling in Carolina Beach, NC

Get a clear estimate of what your Carolina Beach, NC home could sell for in today's market, based on recent comparable sales, local demand, and how your property is positioned.

Connect with Bill Frey
Work With a Professional

Your Carolina Beach, NC Real Estate Resource

Not sure which Carolina Beach, NC neighborhoods fit your lifestyle or budget? I'll help you narrow options, avoid surprises, and make confident decisions whether you're buying, selling, or investing.



More from Bill Frey in Carolina Beach, NC

Recent market reports and neighborhood articles in this area.

January 2026 Opportunities: Buying in Carolina Beach, NC’s evolving market

Published on Tuesday, January 13, 2026
By Bill Frey Frey Realty NC

Carolina Beach, NC Market Pulse: January 2026 at a glance

Published on Monday, January 12, 2026
By Bill Frey Frey Realty NC