Through the end of September 2026, the St. Louis metro area has seen 26,661 homes sold, reflecting a 3.66 percent increase compared to the 25,720 homes sold over the same period last year. This uptick in transaction volume is a key signal for both buyers and sellers, indicating a subtle but meaningful shift in the local real estate landscape. For those actively navigating the market, understanding how these changes in sales activity affect inventory, competition, and opportunity is essential.
How This Year Compares to Recent Years
One of the most common questions from both consumers and agents is whether this year’s pace of home sales is typical or if it represents a significant departure from the recent past. The year-to-date figure of 26,661 homes sold is not only up from last year’s 25,720 but, when measured against four years ago, this year represents an increase of 0.00 percent. In other words, the current sales pace is almost exactly where it stood four years back, suggesting a return to a level that might be considered a new normal for the St. Louis metro area.
It’s important to note that, according to the available data, there were zero sales recorded at this point in September for the years 2024, 2023, and 2022. This could be due to data collection differences or reporting lags, but the consistent comparison available is with last year and four years ago. The year-over-year growth of 3.66 percent in closed transactions shows a modest, steady market rather than dramatic swings in activity.
What Increased Home Sales Mean for Buyers and Sellers
For buyers, a higher number of home sales typically translates to more active listings and potentially more choices. As of now, there are 12,419 homes on the market across the St. Louis metro area. This inventory equates to 4.13 months of supply, a figure that suggests the market is balanced, though it leans slightly in favor of sellers. The median time on the market stands at 54 days, which means homes are taking just under two months to sell on average. This is a key metric for buyers deciding how quickly to act and for sellers gauging how long their home might be listed before going under contract.
For sellers, the increase in transaction volume means there are more buyers completing purchases, but also more homes being listed. With 12,419 homes currently available, sellers face real competition. The 4.13 months of supply indicates that while homes are moving, they are not flying off the shelves overnight. Sellers should expect to compete on presentation, condition, and marketing, working closely with their real estate professionals to stand out. The median 54 days on market further underscores that patience and preparation are required in today’s environment.
For agents, these numbers highlight the importance of accurate pricing and strategic marketing. With transaction volume up, opportunities abound, but so does the need for diligence and client education. Buyers may find themselves with more options but should be prepared for steady demand, especially with the current 30-year fixed mortgage rate at 7.37 percent influencing affordability and purchasing decisions.
Putting the Numbers in Context
In summary, the St. Louis metro area is experiencing a modest but meaningful increase in home sales so far in 2026, bringing transaction volume back to levels seen four years ago. For both buyers and sellers, this means a market that is active but not overheated, with a healthy number of listings and a balanced pace of sales. Agents and consumers alike benefit from understanding these trends and using them to inform their strategies in the months ahead.
For those interested in a detailed look at the full sales history, MORE, REALTORS® provides a comprehensive chart at the end of this article. Staying informed about transaction volume helps all participants in the St. Louis real estate market make confident, data-driven decisions.
More St. Louis real estate coverage
- St. Louis Metro Area Real Estate Trends: A Look at YTD Home Sales in 2025
- St. Louis Metro Area Real Estate Trends: A Look at YTD Home Sales in 2025
- St. Louis Metro Area Real Estate Trends: A Look at YTD Home Sales in 2025
- From Record Peaks to New Norms: January Home Sales Trends in St. Louis