Market Statistics at a Glance
Culver City Pricing
- Typical Culver City home value (ZHVI): approximately $1,250,700
- Year-over-year change: down roughly 2.3% (data through December 31, 2025)
- Current price band: $1.0M–$1.6M
- Market designation: “family hot spot” with moderate upward price trend into 2026
Los Angeles County Overview
- LA County median home price: $895,000–$942,000 range (January 2026)
- Year-over-year county price change: up 0.1–0.6% (stabilizing market)
- Citywide LA median: $1,270,000 (December 2025), down from $1,372,500 (November 2025)
- Month-over-month December drop: 7.5% (attributed to seasonal holiday slowdown)
Market Timing & Activity
- Average days on market (LA County): approximately 56 days (January 2026)
- Inventory levels: up roughly 20% year-over-year
- Market characterization: shifting to more balanced, buyer-friendly conditions
Financing Conditions
- Current 30-year fixed mortgage rate: approximately 6.15–6.16% (early January 2026)
- Rate comparison: roughly one percentage point below one year prior
- 2026 projection: rates may dip below 6% by year-end
2026 Outlook
- Projected LA County price appreciation: 1–4% for 2026
- Market characterization: more intentional, needs-based transactions replacing speculative activity
How is the Housing Market Right Now in Culver City?
Have you seen dropping mortgage rates on the news and thought, “Are home prices dropping in California?” Wondering about listing a home when prices might be falling in major markets? The answer for Culver City is nuanced. It’s true we have seen a modest year-over-year decline of 2.3%. But the local market tells a story of stabilization rather than collapse.
Culver City continues to hold its position as one of Los Angeles’ most desirable communities. It consistently attracts families and professionals. These new residents value walkability, excellent schools, and vibrant community amenities. The typical home value is around $1.25 million. This places Culver City firmly in the premium Westside market. Despite the slight pullback from 2024’s peaks, demand remains robust. This means for sellers that stabilization brings predictable conditions and serious, qualified buyers. Strategic pricing can still generate multiple offers.
Understanding Recent Home Prices and Housing Market News
In 2021-2022 the appreciation rates for homes were really high. Unsustainably high. Since then Culver City home prices have moderated slightly. This actually represents a healthy correction rather than reflecting a market in distress. In fact, savvy sellers who work with experienced Culver City listing agents are still achieving strong results.
So, take a look at the broader home prices. Housing markets across Los Angeles saw the citywide median shift from $1,372,500 in November to $1,270,000 in December. That’s a 7.5% month-over-month decrease. However, this drop is largely attributable to normal holiday season patterns. Fewer premium properties close during the holidays and transaction volume naturally slows. Real estate professionals expect this seasonal dip to reverse as we move into the traditionally active spring market.
At the county level, LA’s median price range of $895,000 to $942,000 has remained remarkably stable. Year-over-year growth sits at just 0.1-0.6%. This steadiness suggests the market has found its footing after years of volatility.
What is the Average Days on Market for Homes?
One of the most telling indicators of market health is the average days on market. This metric reveals significant shifts from the frenzy of recent years. Currently, homes across Los Angeles County are averaging about 56 days on market as of January 2026. The key for sellers is positioning. Homes that show well and are priced right for current conditions are still moving in the typical 56-day window or faster.
So, think about that for a moment. This represents a dramatic change from 2021-2022. Homes often received multiple offers within days of listing. The current us national average days on market housing 2026 trends similarly show a return to more normalized timeframes. Buyers now have breathing room to conduct thorough inspections, secure financing, and make informed decisions. No more pressure of instant bidding wars. And, the right agent can help sellers stand out in this competitive inventory environment. Realtors know how to effectively use professional photography, targeted marketing, and expert negotiation to get sellers the best sale.
For Culver City sellers, it’s important to understand the average days on market for homes in your specific price range. It helps you to set realistic expectations. Premium properties in the $1.5M+ range may take longer to find the right buyer. Meanwhile, well-priced homes in the $1.0M-$1.3M range that appeal to families still move relatively quickly. The neighborhood’s enduring appeal hasn’t gone anywhere.
Current Mortgage Rates and Financing Landscape
Anyone asking “what are the mortgage rates today” will find reasons for optimism. The 30 year mortgage rates today are hovering around 6.15-6.16%. This represents one of the more favorable rate environments we’ve seen in the past year. We’re talking roughly a full percentage point below rates from early 2025.
These current mortgage rates, while still elevated compared to the historic lows of 2020-2021, have improved buyer purchasing power significantly. Let’s give you a concrete example. For a $1.25 million home in Culver City with 20% down, the difference between a 7% rate and today’s 6.15% translates to savings of approximately $450 per month. That’s over $5,000 annually that stays in your pocket. That also translates directly into buyer purchasing power. This benefits sellers looking to maximize their sale price.
Looking ahead, the rates could dip below 6% by the year-end of 2026… if inflation continues to moderate and the Federal Reserve adjusts policy accordingly. This potential rate relief, combined with moderate price appreciation forecasts of 1-4% for the year, creates an interesting dynamic. Buyers who purchase now may benefit from both current pricing and future refinancing opportunities. It’s a scenario worth considering carefully.
What Are Closing Costs on a House in California?
For buyers planning a Culver City purchase, understanding what are typical closing costs is essential for budgeting. In California, total closing costs typically range from 2-5% of the purchase price. The exact amount varies based on the property value, loan terms, and specific transaction details.
On a $1.25 million Culver City home, buyers should budget approximately $25,000 to $62,500 for closing costs. When people ask, “how much are closing costs” here’s what goes into that number:
Loan origination fees and points eat up 0.5-1% of your loan amount. Appraisal fees for high-value properties run $600-$1,000. Then you’ve got title insurance and escrow fees that vary by property value. Property taxes get prorated to your closing date. You’ll pay your first year homeowners insurance premium upfront. Recording fees and transfer taxes add to the total. And don’t forget home inspection costs, typically $400-$800.
In California, what are closing costs on a house also depends on negotiation between buyers and sellers. While buyers traditionally cover most closing costs, there’s room to negotiate with sellers over those expenses. I’ve seen this work out favorably for different buyers and sellers.
The Culver City Advantage in 2026
Culver City’s fundamentals remain strong. The neighborhood’s transformation over the past decade has been steady. In many ways Downtown Culver City has been revitalized with a tech boom establishing several office campuses.
The current inventory increase of roughly 20% year-over-year across LA County means Culver City buyers have more options to choose from than they’ve had in years. This shift toward a more balanced market doesn’t diminish Culver City’s appeal. Instead it creates opportunities for serious buyers to find the right home. Without the artificial urgency that characterized recent years, sellers need a good real estate agent now more than ever.
A More Intentional Market
The Westside real estate landscape going into 2026 is characterized by buyers and sellers who are more strategic and intentional. Gone are the days of speculative purchases and panic buying. Today’s transactions are driven by genuine life needs. Growing families will seek better schools. Professionals relocate for career opportunities. Downsizers look to capture equity and simplify.
This return to needs-based purchasing positions 2026 as a year when affordability improves. Income growth may outpace home price growth. For Culver City, this means the market can sustain its premium positioning while becoming incrementally more accessible to qualified buyers.
Looking Ahead
The data paints a picture of a Culver City market in transition. It isn’t collapsing, but instead recalibrating to more sustainable levels. With typical values around $1.25 million, modest appreciation projected for 2026, improving mortgage rates, and a more balanced inventory, conditions favor both thoughtful buyers who can afford the Westside premium and realistic sellers who understand current market dynamics.
For those wondering whether now is the right time to buy or sell in Culver City, the answer depends on individual circumstances, but the fundamentals are sound. The neighborhood’s lifestyle amenities, strong schools, and community character continue to command premium pricing, while the broader market’s stabilization provides more predictable conditions for planning major real estate decisions.
Why Seller Representation Matters More Than Ever
In a balanced market, amateur pricing mistakes can cost sellers tens of thousands. An experienced listing agent brings comparative market analysis, neighborhood expertise, and negotiation skills that maximize your net proceeds. Professional representation means access to pre-qualified buyers, expert staging advice, strategic timing, and the marketing reach to attract serious offers… not just lookers.
For personalized guidance on buying or selling in Culver City and throughout Los Angeles, contact Martin Feinberg for expert local market knowledge and strategic advice tailored to your specific needs.