Solano County Market Update | Latest Snapshot + Q1 Outlook

The Solano County real estate market is kicking off 2026 with a balanced, thoughtful vibe, one where preparation and realism are paying off for both buyers and sellers. Here's a fresh look at the latest local snapshot, drawn from the most current data, along with insights into what it means and what we might expect as we head into the first quarter of the year.

Current Market Snapshot (as of mid-January 2026)

Inventory levels remain steady across most Solano County cities, providing buyers with reasonable choices without overwhelming supply. Contract activity (homes for sale going under contract) shows pockets of solid demand, particularly in more affordable or mid-range market segments. Days on market (DOM) have improved slightly in some areas compared to earlier in the year, though homes are still taking a bit of time to move, reflecting a market that's active but not frenzied.

Here's a breakdown by key cities:

• Vacaville: 140 active listings | 75 DOM | Average price $760,970 | 21 homes in contract last week. Vacaville continues to show the strongest contract momentum in the county, likely driven by its mix of single-family homes and relative affordability compared to nearby Bay Area options.

• Fairfield: 135 listings | 72 DOM | Average price $1,217,833 | 8 in contract last week. Higher average prices here reflect premium locations and larger properties, with steady but more selective buyer interest.

• Dixon: 32 listings | 53 DOM | Average price $855,999 | 4 in contract last week. Shorter DOM and solid activity suggest Dixon is appealing to buyers seeking value and space.

• Winters: 16 listings | 78 DOM | Average price $1,305,237 | 0 in contract last week. Lower volume and longer DOM indicate a more rural, selective market. Properties here often require the right buyer match.

• Suisun City: 39 listings | 62 DOM | Average price $555,668 | 6 in contract last week. The most affordable option in the snapshot, with decent contract flow appealing to first-time and budget-conscious buyers.

• Napa: 224 listings | 140 DOM | Average price $2,223,837 | 13 in contract last week. Napa's higher prices and much longer DOM highlight how Solano remains far more accessible while still benefiting from proximity to the Bay Area and wine country.

Mortgage rates are holding relatively stable but elevated: Recent national averages show 30-year fixed rates around 6.06%–6.21% (as of mid-January 2026, per sources like Freddie Mac), with 15-year fixed closer to 5.38%–5.75%. While not as low as pandemic-era levels, this stability has helped keep buyers engaged without major disruptions.

What This Data Tells Us

• Buyers are active, especially in the mid-price ranges where value feels strongest. Cities like Vacaville, Dixon, and Suisun City are seeing the most contracts, suggesting demand from families, commuters, and those priced out of pricier neighboring markets.

• Homes are moving, but patience is still required. DOM in the 50–80 range means well-prepared properties stand out.

• Pricing and presentation are key. The market rewards realistic sellers who price competitively and stage homes effectively. Overpriced listings linger, while move-in-ready homes attract quicker interest.

Overall, this is a balanced market, not a seller's frenzy or a buyer's flood, but one where strategic moves win.

Q1 2026 Outlook: Steady with Spring Potential

As we move deeper into the first quarter, expect gradual improvements in buyer activity heading toward the traditional spring surge. Several factors point to this:

• Seasonal momentum often builds from January/February into March/April, especially if weather cooperates and rates remain stable (or dip slightly into the high-5% or low-6% range, as some forecasts suggest possible).

• Well-priced, move-in-ready homes in Vacaville, Fairfield, and Dixon should continue to see decreasing DOM and stronger contract rates.

• No dramatic swings anticipated, inventory may tick up modestly as more sellers list post-holidays, giving buyers additional options without flooding the market.

Broader context from recent reports aligns with this: Solano County's market enters 2026 with cautious optimism, featuring flat-to-modest price trends (some areas seeing slight dips year-over-year but potential stabilization or small gains), and a focus on realistic expectations amid affordability challenges and interest rate sensitivity.

Bottom line: This is a thoughtful, opportunity-driven market. Buyers who are pre-approved, realistic about budgets, and quick to act on good fits are finding success. Sellers who price smartly, invest in strong presentation, and avoid over-optimism are closing deals efficiently.

If you're considering buying or selling in Solano County this year, now is a great time to get positioned before spring brings more competition. The data shows demand is there; it's just waiting for the right match.