East Bay Real Estate Market Update – February 2026
Gretchen Roethle March 4, 2026
Gretchen Roethle March 4, 2026
The East Bay real estate market continues to show strong activity in early 2026, with competitive buyer demand and notable price performance in key Berkeley neighborhoods. Here's a look at what we're seeing across the market this month.
Since the beginning of the year, the market has remained highly competitive across Berkeley, Albany, Kensington, and El Cerrito.
Key highlights:
65 homes sold
245 total offers submitted
3.7 average offers per sale
18 homes received 5+ offers
6 homes received 10+ offers
This level of competition reflects sustained buyer demand, particularly for well-located homes in desirable neighborhoods.
Competition remains especially concentrated in a few high-demand micro-markets.
21% of all offers were submitted in just three neighborhoods:
Northbrae
North Berkeley
Monterey Market
These areas continue to attract strong interest thanks to their walkability, proximity to amenities, and classic Berkeley architecture.
Pricing remains strong in the East Bay.
15 homes sold for over $1,000 per square foot
7 of those were located in Northbrae, North Berkeley, and Monterey Market
Nearly half of all $1,000+/sqft sales occurred in North Berkeley, reinforcing its reputation as one of the most sought-after real estate pockets in the region.
Luxury properties also saw strong performance this month.
The top three sales reached:
$3.205M
$3.075M
$2.930M
These high-end transactions were concentrated in North Berkeley’s premier neighborhoods, where demand for architectural homes and view properties remains strong.
Median list price: $1,048,000
Market action index: 55 (moving toward a seller’s market)
Inventory: 705 homes
Median list price: $880,262
Market action index: 47
Inventory: 971 homes
While both counties remain active, Alameda continues to show slightly stronger seller conditions.
Several trends are shaping the East Bay housing market right now:
Single-family home prices continue to post modest year-over-year gains.
Condo markets remain softer, particularly in Contra Costa County where prices have declined year over year.
Inventory is significantly lower than this time last year — down roughly 20% across both counties.
Single-family homes in Alameda County are moving quickly, while condos are spending more time on the market.
Overall, limited inventory combined with steady buyer demand is keeping the market competitive.
1343 Navellier St — El Cerrito, CA
Offered at $995,000
This beautifully updated mid-century home sits above it all, offering sweeping views of San Francisco, the Golden Gate Bridge, and Mount Tamalpais.
The thoughtfully renovated 2-bedroom, 2-bath home blends classic architectural charm with modern upgrades.
Elevated hillside setting with panoramic views
Stylishly updated bathrooms with artisan tile and brass fixtures
Heat pump system and EV charger for modern efficiency
Wood-burning fireplace anchoring the living space
Expansive deck perfect for entertaining
Low-maintenance landscaping
Located near parks, schools, and local amenities, the home offers a rare combination of design, accessibility, and iconic Bay Area views.
There’s plenty happening around the East Bay and San Francisco this season:
Noise Pop Festival – Feb 19–March 1
SF Music Week – Feb 23–March 1
Oakland Black History Comedy Night – Feb 28
Lantern Festival – Oakland Chinatown – March 1
International Women’s Day Event – Oakland – March 8
East Bay Innovation Awards – March 26
It’s a great time to get out and explore the community.
At Salt & Pine Real Estate, we’re grateful to be part of such a vibrant community. The East Bay market continues to evolve, and we’re here to help our clients navigate every step — whether you’re buying, selling, or simply staying informed.
If you’d like to discuss the market or learn more about opportunities in Berkeley, Albany, or El Cerrito, feel free to reach out.
Stay up to date on the latest real estate trends.
Let us guide you through every step of your real estate journey.