Summer is in full swing here in Kingston, and the real estate market is showing some interesting shifts. I've been through more than a few market cycles in my 23 years in this business, and what I'm seeing right now is a market that feels balanced, fair, and full of opportunity for both buyers and sellers. Let's break down the July 2026 numbers.
The Numbers at a Glance
Here are the key July 2026 statistics from the Kingston and Area MLS System. These are the numbers that tell the real story of where our market stands today.
Sales Activity Holds Steady
We saw 309 homes change hands through the Kingston and Area MLS System in July. That's a modest uptick over the past couple of months, and it keeps us virtually even with where we were this time last year. For context, that kind of year-over-year stability is a healthy sign. It tells me buyers are out there, they're engaged, and they're making decisions at a steady pace.
What's driving the slight upswing in recent months? I'd point to a few factors: more inventory to choose from, renewed confidence among buyers who had been sitting on the sidelines, and the undeniable appeal of Kingston and its surrounding areas as a place to call home. People are still moving here from Toronto, Ottawa, and beyond, drawn by our quality of life, our waterfront, and our relative affordability compared to the GTA.
Inventory Levels Climbing
New listings hit the fourth highest July on record this year, pushing inventory levels above the long-term average. With approximately 4.3 months of inventory on hand, we are firmly in balanced market territory. That is a welcome change after years of tight supply.
A balanced market means neither buyers nor sellers hold all the cards. There is enough selection for buyers to take their time and make informed decisions, while sellers still see strong demand for well-priced, well-presented homes. It is a fair playing field, and in my experience, that is when the best deals happen for everyone.
What This Means for Buyers
If you have been waiting for more choice before jumping into the Kingston market, this is your moment. With inventory up and days on market sitting at a reasonable 30 days, you have breathing room. You can visit multiple properties, compare options, and negotiate from a position of strength.
The median home price around $650,000 and the single-family detached median near $809,200 reflect a market that has settled into a sustainable range. That does not mean prices are dropping. It means they are stabilizing, and for buyers, that predictability is valuable. My advice: get pre-approved, know what you want, and work with an agent who knows Kingston neighbourhoods inside out.
What This Means for Sellers
For sellers, the message is clear: pricing and presentation matter more than ever. In a balanced market, buyers have options. If your home is overpriced or not showing well, they will move on to the next listing. Homes that are priced competitively, marketed aggressively, and presented in move-in condition are still selling at or very close to asking.
The fact that we hit the fourth highest July on record for new listings tells me sellers are feeling confident. If you have been considering listing, now is an excellent time to have a conversation about your home's value and a strategy that gets results. With 30 days as the median time on market, well-prepared sellers are not waiting long.
Beyond Kingston: The Surrounding Areas
While Kingston is the heart of our market, the surrounding communities each have their own rhythm. Here is a quick look at what is happening across the region.
Brockville
The Brockville market continues to attract buyers looking for small-town charm with easy access to the St. Lawrence River. Inventory has been steady, and we are seeing interest from young families and retirees alike. The waterfront condos and heritage homes remain popular with buyers from Ottawa and the GTA looking for a more relaxed pace of life.
Thousand Islands & Gananoque
The luxury waterfront market in the Thousand Islands and Gananoque is as strong as ever. These properties are truly one-of-a-kind, and they attract discerning buyers who value privacy, natural beauty, and recreational access. The summer season always brings heightened activity, and this year has been no exception. If you are considering buying or selling a waterfront property, this is a segment where local expertise makes all the difference.
Belleville
Belleville's market echoes Kingston's in many ways, with balanced conditions and steady demand. It continues to benefit from its location between Toronto and Ottawa, drawing commuters and remote workers who want more space for their money. The city's ongoing development and revitalization efforts are adding to its appeal.
South Frontenac
South Frontenac offers a blend of rural tranquility and proximity to Kingston. With its lakes, forests, and generous lot sizes, it is a favourite for buyers seeking acreage, recreational properties, or a weekend escape. The market here moves at its own pace, and properties with water access or waterfront continue to command a premium.
The Big Picture
What I love about this market right now is the balance. We are coming off a period where everything moved at lightning speed and buyers had to make snap decisions. Now, there is room to breathe. Buyers can be thoughtful. Sellers can be strategic. And as a real estate professional, that is the kind of environment where I can truly deliver the best results for my clients.
Looking ahead, I expect we will continue to see steady activity through the late summer and into the fall. Interest rates, economic conditions, and seasonal patterns will all play a role, but the fundamentals of the Kingston area market are strong. We have a diverse economy, a growing population, and a quality of life that keeps people coming.
Whether you are thinking about selling your home, looking to buy your dream property, or just curious about what your home is worth in today's market, I would love to hear from you. Let's chat.
Cheers, Pierre Nadeau