Livingston County Real Estate: 2026 Market Trends & Forecast

Whether you are a first-time homebuyer, a seasoned investor, or a homeowner considering a move, understanding the local landscape is key to making a confident decision. As we move into 2026, Livingston County, Michigan, continues to be one of the most resilient and sought-after markets in the Midwest.

This blog post breaks down the current market trends, economic forecasts, and real estate data you need to know for the year ahead.

Livingston County Market Trends: What to Expect in 2026

The Livingston County real estate market is transitioning from the "inventory squeeze" of recent years into a more balanced, active environment. While the market remains competitive, there is a palpable sense of optimism for both buyers and sellers.

1. Home Values and Sales Forecast

As of early 2026, the median home sale price in Livingston County holds steady near $385,000–$390,000. While the double-digit price jumps seen in 2021-2023 have cooled, local experts project a healthy 4% price growth throughout the year.

Unlike other regions that might see a "crash," Livingston County’s prices are buoyed by a persistent housing shortage and high demand for its top-tier school districts and suburban-rural lifestyle.

2. The "6% Sweet Spot" for Mortgage Rates

The big story for 2026 is the stabilization of mortgage rates. After years of volatility, rates are settling into the 5.9% to 6.2% range.

• For Buyers: This increases purchasing power compared to the 7%+ peaks of previous years.
  
  
• For Sellers: This "unlocks" many homeowners who were previously hesitant to trade their low pandemic-era rates for a new mortgage.
  
  

Local Economic Outlook: A Powerhouse of Growth

Real estate doesn't exist in a vacuum; it’s driven by jobs. Livingston County continues to outperform the state average in economic stability.

Key Economic Indicators for 2026:

• Low Unemployment: The county's unemployment rate is projected to hover between 2.5% and 3.0%, one of the lowest in Michigan.
  
  
• Job Growth: Employment is expected to exceed pre-pandemic levels by 5.6%, with significant gains in the Construction, Health Services, and Professional/Technical sectors.
  
  
• Commuter Appeal: Its location between Detroit, Ann Arbor, and Lansing makes it a primary choice for remote and hybrid workers seeking more square footage and land.
  
  

Actionable Tips for Your 2026 Move

For Sellers: Prepare for Competition

With inventory expected to increase by nearly 13%–15% this year, your home needs to stand out.

• Focus on "Move-In Ready": Today’s buyers are budget-conscious regarding renovations. Minor updates to lighting, hardware, and fresh neutral paint can yield a high ROI.
  
  
• Strategic Pricing: Overpricing in a 6% rate environment can lead to "stale" listings. Use recent local comps (within the last 90 days) for accuracy.
  
  

For Buyers: Be Ready to Act

• Get Pre-Approved Early: In popular areas like Brighton and Howell, multiple offers are still common for well-priced homes.
  
  
• Look at "Days on Market": Some great homes are sitting longer because of minor cosmetic issues. These represent the best negotiation opportunities in 2026.
  
  

The Bottom Line

Livingston County remains a "seller-leaning" market but is finally offering more breathing room for buyers. With a strong local economy and interest rates finding a new "normal," 2026 is shaping up to be a banner year for local real estate.

Are you curious about what your specific home is worth in today’s market? Would you like me to generate a customized list of the most recent home sales in a specific Livingston County zip code for you? Get in touch anytime at 810-522-0558!