By SPEAKIN’ OUT NEWS
While many U.S. housing markets are slowing under the pressure of high interest rates and rising prices, Huntsville is moving in the opposite direction. New data from ValleyMLS and the Huntsville Area Association of Realtors (HAAR) shows that home sales across North Alabama in October were higher than the same month last year, and the median sales price has remained almost flat, keeping the Rocket City one of the most stable markets in the South.
Real estate leaders say Huntsville’s strong economy, tech-driven job growth, and steady population growth are helping insulate the region from national trends.
Tamara Fox: Huntsville Is “Cooling Back to Normal”
HAAR President Tamara Fox told Axios Huntsville that one reason the market remains resilient is that local homeowners are still listing their homes, unlike in many parts of the country where owners feel “locked in” by low mortgage rates. “I don’t think they’re locked in here,” Fox said. “New inventory continues to enter the market.”
However, Fox cautioned that investor activity is rising in the most affordable price categories — homes typically purchased by first-time buyers. “Many of these purchases are concentrated in the segments most accessible to first-time homebuyers,” she said. “This can create additional barriers for families trying to achieve homeownership and contributes to upward pressure on prices.”
Even with those concerns, Fox said current trends show a market becoming more balanced. “Believe it or not, the North Alabama market is still trying to cool down to pre-pandemic levels,” she said. “The increase in days on market is excellent news for buyers. It signifies less intense competition, more homes to choose from, and greater opportunity for negotiation.”
Data Shows a Return to Pre-Pandemic Conditions
Huntsville’s housing numbers highlight a market settling into healthier patterns:
• Homes spent an average of 48 days on market in Q2 — close to 2019 levels.
• In September, the average rose to 54 days, according to HAAR.
• Madison County’s inventory jumped 22% year-over-year in June 2025.
• 30% of second-quarter sales were new construction.
• The median sales price held steady at $339,000.
• Fewer homes are selling above list price, while 44% more are now selling below list.
One striking shift: inventory of homes under $150,000 grew an impressive 81%, reaching 69 listings — an encouraging sign for budget-conscious buyers.
Huntsville Remains a Bright Spot
Nationally, the housing market is split, with slower sales across much of the South. Yet Huntsville — one of the fastest-growing mid-sized cities in America — continues to stand out for its stability and affordability.
Fox said the current climate gives buyers time to make careful decisions. “The current outlook suggests that well-priced, well-maintained properties will still sell quickly, but buyers no longer have to rush or waive contingencies,” she said.
For now, Huntsville remains one of the most resilient and balanced housing markets in the region.