May 2026 Real Estate Market Update for Both Fairfield and New Haven Counties
Understanding the market is one of the strongest tools you can have when buying or selling. These updates give you a quick look at the trends and opportunities shaping real estate in our local communities.
With experience as a homeowner, investor, landlord, builder, and former loan officer, I offer clear guidance and honest insight to help you move with confidence. Selling or buying in Fairfield or New Haven County, I’m here to make the process smooth and successful.
Our Economy
The U.S. added 115,000 jobs, beating expectations, while the unemployment rate held at 4.3%, signaling steady resilience despite global tensions and high gas prices. (Source: CNN)
Job growth slowed from March’s revised 185,000, which had been boosted by strike resolutions and favorable weather. Still, April’s gains far exceeded economists’ forecasts of 65,000, and the steady jobless rate reflects a slower-moving labor market shaped by aging demographics, reduced immigration, and rising tech adoption. (Source: CNN)
Healthcare and social assistance led job gains with 53,900 new positions, followed by transportation and warehousing (+30,300) and retail (+21,800). Leisure and hospitality added 14,000 jobs, and other services added 10,000. (Source: CNN)
The labor market remains in a “low‑hire, low‑fire” phase, but layoffs are rising in tech as companies shift investment toward AI. The information sector lost 13,000 jobs, while financial activities (-11,000), government (-8,000), and manufacturing (-2,000) also saw declines. (Source: CNN)
Federal Open Market Committee holds U.S. interest rates steady at April’s meeting. The next Federal Reserve Meeting is scheduled for June 16/17, meeting associated with a Summary of Economic Projection. (Source: Federal Reserve)
Mortgage Update
In March “CHFA Time To Own” Forgivable Down Payment Assistance released $34,644,141 for loan reservations. For a limited time, CHFA will offer Forgivable Down Payment Assistance to help homebuyers with down payment and closing costs to purchase their first home. (Source: CHFA.org)
The Mortgage Bankers Association reported on 5/15/2026 that mortgage applications rose in May, driven entirely by stronger home‑purchase demand. Refinances slipped slightly, but purchase activity remained resilient even with rates near recent highs. MBA’s Joel Kan noted that purchase applications are up 7% from last year as buyers push past economic and rate uncertainties and return to the market. (Source: Mortgage News Daily)
Ready to get started? Give me a call and I will get you connected with one of my trusted partners. Together we will guide you through every step of the process.
Do You Feel Like Fairfield County Homes Are Priced Out of Your Budget
If Fairfield County feels out of reach, New Haven County is a smart alternative. You’ll find lower average home prices, larger lots, and more options. All towns offer something unique without sacrificing convenience. Fairfield and New Haven Counties are just 30 miles apart and connected by I‑95, both counties offer coastal living, quiet countryside pockets, and easy commutes to NYC and Hartford. Sometimes the right fit is simply one County over
Real Estate
If you’re considering selling let’s discuss your home’s value! I can offer you experience and real-time market info. Buyers are active, inventory is limited, and competition is defining the market. This is a great time to cash out with current values on the rise.
Buyers, if you’re thinking about buying let’s talk! I will help you stay informed about neighborhoods, market trends and values. Get pre-approved for a mortgage so when the right home appears you can move forward confidently.
Fairfield County Activity
Fairfield County continues to see strong demand and increases in value compared to last year.
| Stats | Single Family | Condo’s |
| Currently Active | 1.055 Units | 372 Units |
| New Inventory | 985 Units – Down 4.9% | 288 Units – Down 5.6% |
| Coming Soon | 55 Units | 15 Units |
| Average Sales Price | $1,322,482 – Up 4.9% | $528,073 – Up 7.7% |
| Under Contract | 1,361 Units | 406 Units |
| Closed Sales | 473 Units – Down 12.7% | 186 Units – Down 17% |
| Closed Sales YTS | 1,894 Units – Down 7.4% | 859 Units – Down 5.6% |
Fairfield County has seen a significant increase in value over the past 5 years. Single family homes have increased an average of 25.60% and condos are up 37%. (Source: SmartMLS, LLC)
New Haven County Activity
New Haven County continues to see strong demand and steady growth compared to last year.
| Stats | Single Family | Condo’s |
| Currently Active | 793 Units | 354 Units |
| New Inventory | 840 Units – Up 8.4% | 264 Units – Up 3.9% |
| Coming Soon | 60 Units | 10 Units |
| Average Sales Price | $565,091 – Up 18.4% | $347,004 – Up 5.7% |
| Under Contract | 1,094 Units | 383 Units |
| Closed Sales | 455 Units – Down 11.8% | 185 Units – Up 4.5% |
| Closed Sales YTS | 1,915 Units – Down 4.1% | 741 Units – Down 2.4% |
Over the past 5 years New Haven County has seen extensive growth in home values. Average sales price for single family homes is up 38% and condos are up 44% in value. (Source: SmartMLS,LLC)
Your Neighborhood Market Trends
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Ready to Make a Move? Contact LeeAnn (203) 253-4567
I’ve assisted hundreds of sellers, buyers, seniors, relocations, landlords, uprisers or downsizers. Raise your standards! Your real estate goal is a journey filled with significant financial decisions and personal choices. It’s essential to partner with an experienced REALTOR® like me.
Compliments of LeeAnn DeLeo, A Trusted Name in Real Estate
Broker, Blogger, Stagent® & Professional REALTOR®
Century21 AllPoints Realty
(203) 253-4567
leeann.deleo@gmail.com
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The information provided herein is for informational purposes only. All real estate, economic data, market trends and projections are subject to change. If your home is currently listed with a Broker, disregard! Data collected 6/2/2026.