The DFW housing market in 2026. Here's the data.
Current market snapshot:
- Median home price (DFW metro): $385,000. Source: Zillow, March 2026.
- Year-over-year change: +3.2% (more moderate than 2021-2022 frenzy).
- Median days on market: 28 days. Source: Realtor.com
- Inventory: improving but still below pre-2020 levels.
By area: | Area | Median Price | YoY Change | |------|-------------|------------| | Dallas (city) | $365,000 | +2.8% | | Fort Worth (city) | $320,000 | +3.5% | | Plano | $485,000 | +2.1% | | Frisco | $520,000 | +3.8% | | McKinney | $420,000 | +4.2% | | Arlington | $310,000 | +3.0% | | Denton | $350,000 | +4.5% | | Richardson | $390,000 | +2.5% |
Source: Zillow Home Value Index, March 2026.
Should you buy?
Arguments for buying now:
- Mortgage rates have stabilized (mid-6% range)
- DFW population growth = long-term appreciation
- Building equity > paying rent
- Tax benefits (mortgage interest deduction + homestead exemption)
Arguments for waiting:
- Prices may soften if rates drop and inventory increases
- Renting is cheaper than buying in many DFW areas right now
- Flexibility to move without selling
The math (rent vs buy, $385K home):
- Monthly mortgage (6.5%, 20% down): ~$1,950 (P&I) + $700 (tax/insurance) = $2,650
- Comparable rent: $1,800-2,200
- Breakeven on buying vs renting: ~5 years in most DFW scenarios
Sources:
- Zillow.com — DFW Home Value Index
- Realtor.com — DFW market data
- Freddie Mac — mortgage rate data
- NYT Rent vs Buy calculator
What are you seeing in the market?