2025 San Mateo County Housing Recap: Prices, Trends, and What’s Next

Market Update Jeff Lang January 13, 2026

Some cities saw million-dollar gains and intense buyer competition, while others struggled. 2025 revealed just how uneven the market really was.

Have you been wondering how the real estate market in San Mateo County performed last year? If you are a homeowner, buyer, or just curious about local trends, 2025 was a year full of big changes and surprising numbers–especially with where home values were headed.

Here’s a simple breakdown of the most important highlights from the year.

Prices reached new highs across many cities. San Mateo County remained one of the most expensive places in the country to live. According to recent numbers, the income needed to afford a median-priced home in the area reached an incredible $524,000 per year. That means the typical family would need to make over half a million dollars a year just to comfortably buy a home.

When looking at price growth over the past ten years, the numbers are even more eye-opening. Cities like San Carlos saw home values grow by about $1 million, ending at a median price of $2.6 million. Burlingame jumped up to $3 million, and Hillsborough topped the charts with homes averaging $5.6 million. These numbers show how strong the market has been over the past decade.

A tale of two markets shaped how homes sold. Even though prices remained high, not every home sold quickly or easily. In fact, 2025 was a clear example of what many agents call “a tale of two markets.” This means that while some homes sold fast and with multiple offers, others sat on the market for weeks or even months.

“This shows how important it is to prepare and price your home well if you want to sell quickly.”

Homes that were priced right and looked great to buyers sold fast and often above asking price. Others that needed updates or were overpriced struggled to find a buyer.

Buyers were very picky, and the homes that stood out received the most attention. This shows how important it is to prepare and price your home well if you want to sell quickly.

Overbids showed where the competition was hottest. In some cities, buyers were so eager that they offered well above the asking price. Homes in Redwood Shores sold for 9% above list price. Belmont followed closely at 8%, and San Mateo County came in at 7%. These numbers show that well-prepared homes in the right areas remained in high demand even in a market that felt slower overall.

These overbids weren’t random. They happened because those homes had something special, whether it was location, condition, or pricing that made buyers act fast.

If you want to know your home’s value or understand the best time to buy or sell, I’m here to help. Call me at 650-766-6412 or email [email protected], and let’s talk about your real estate goals. I can walk you through local trends, answer your questions, and help you take the right next step in today’s market.

Jeff Lang

Primary phone
(650) 766-6412
License Number
#01221669
Email
[email protected]
Address
1440 Chapin Ave,
Burlingame, CA 94401

About The Author

Jeff Lang's career in real estate is a testament to his strategic, growth-oriented mindset and his dedication to helping clients navigate the unique landscapes of San Mateo County. With his focus on areas from Burlingame to San Carlos and Pacifica since 2011, Jeff has become an invaluable asset to those seeking the perfect balance of urban and suburban life. His appreciation for the county's temperate weather and easy access to a plethora of outdoor activities resonates deeply with his clientele, who seek both the vibrancy of urban living and the tranquility of suburban spaces.

Beginning his journey in commercial real estate in San Francisco in 1997 and later transitioning to residential real estate in La Jolla, Jeff has honed a deep understanding of the industry. Known for his professional, caring, and patient approach, he brings a results-oriented and responsive attitude to every transaction. Jeff's unique strength lies in his ability to outperform competitors by leveraging his extensive experience and education.

Jeff leverages his education having received his JD and an MBA, alongside numerous real estate certifications including Master Certified Negotiations Expert and Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist, enabling him to devise winning strategies for each transaction. His approach not only ensures success but also puts his clients at ease, earning their trust and loyalty.

Outside of real estate, Jeff's life is as dynamic and multifaceted as his professional pursuits. His hobbies range from trail running and hiking with his dog to playing golf, tennis, and pickleball, and he's an enthusiastic Peloton user. A proud graduate of law school at the age of 42 and an Ironman triathlon finisher, Jeff's achievements speak to his determination and commitment. These qualities, combined with his professional expertise, make him an exceptional choice for buyers, sellers, and investors—especially in the $2m+ range—who are looking for more than just a transaction but a partnership with a seasoned expert who will turn them into raving fans.

In his over two decades in real estate, Jeff is most proud of partnering with his clients to build the life of their dreams. It helps that Jeff is a negotiations shark, having competed nationally as president of the negotiations team in law school and as a Master Certified Negotiation Expert (MCNE). His MBA and JD also give him and his clients a competitive advantage in every transaction, leading to his listings selling for 4.8% more than the average San Mateo County agent and offers getting accepted 6x more frequently.

If you are looking for an agent who will take on your goal as their own and be relentless in their pursuit of achieving that goal, then you want Jeff as your partner. He’s completed five marathons, including one in Antarctica, and dozens of triathlons, including an Ironman. His passion for taking on a challenge and grinding away to craft creative solutions is unparalleled. Jeff has a natural talent for putting things in perspective, keeping your eye on the prize, and clarifying the strategy to provide opportunities for success in your transaction.

A few of Jeff’s other certifications include NAR’s ePro for advanced digital marketing and NAR’s Green Designations for sustainability in real estate, Pricing Strategy Advisor (PSA) certification, Keller Williams’ BOLD program, and Tony Robbins’ Mastery University. He is also a member of the Institute for Luxury Marketing. These help him and his clients outpace the competition by selling at a higher price and getting offers accepted more often. This track record and partnership continue to provide repeat and referral business, the basis for his growing business.

Reach out to Jeff for a free consultation to discuss your real estate goals. He would be happy to make your goals his and utilize his extensive experience to make it happen.