Ottawa housing market shows seasonal lift but lags last year
May saw 1,616 home sales, up from April but down 10.6% compared to May 2025 as inventory remains elevated.
Ottawa's housing market remained balanced in May as seasonal activity picked up, though sales continue to trail last year's spring pace.
A total of 1,616 homes sold in May, up from 1,336 in April, reflecting the typical lift as the spring market progressed. However, sales were down 10.6% compared to May 2025.
The sales-to-new-listings ratio rose to 48.2%, while months of inventory eased to 3.0, indicating demand kept better pace with new supply than in April. Active listings remained elevated at 4,917, keeping pressure on sellers to price strategically.
Average prices across market segments were mixed, though overall pricing remained relatively stable. The average residential sale price was $721,270 in May, up from $712,184 in April, and relatively flat at 0.9% below May 2025. The median sale price rose to $660,000 from $650,000 in April while remaining 1.6% lower than last May.
Single-family homes remained resilient, with average prices essentially unchanged year over year. Townhomes and apartment-style properties continued to face softer conditions, with both average and median prices below last year's levels.
According to the Ottawa Real Estate Board, economic uncertainty continues to influence market activity. The question moving into summer will be whether demand continues to keep pace with supply. The market remains active, but inventory levels, employment trends, and buyer confidence will all shape the months ahead.