San Carlos Real Estate Market: Predictions & Analysis for 2026

Is the San Carlos Real Estate Market Still Hot in 2026?

Yes, and hotter than ever. The San Carlos and Lake Murray neighborhoods in the 92119 zip code continue to show strong demand, low inventory, and quick sales. Buyers are moving fast, sellers are seeing multiple offers, and sale prices are outpacing original list prices. Top San Diego agent Melina Rissone is positioned to help clients act quickly to buy and sell in this active market.

Between April and October 2025, homes here sold for a median of $905,000, compared to a median list price of $730,000. The typical home spent only 22 days on the market, underscoring how active this part of San Diego remains.

Prices Are Rising Steadily in 92119

The gap between list and sold prices is a key indicator of market strength. A 24 percent increase from asking to sale price shows that competition is fierce and buyers are willing to pay a premium for the right home. The median price per square foot now sits around $572, supported by steady demand for smaller, well-located homes with access to the Lake Murray recreation area and nearby hiking trails.

Property values here continue to climb thanks to the area’s friendly atmosphere, quality schools, and easy access to natural wonders like Mission Trails Regional Park.

What’s Driving Buyer Demand in San Carlos and Lake Murray

The 92119 ZIP code attracts a wide range of buyers. Families appreciate the quiet, suburban feel and well-rated schools, while professionals value the central location and proximity to major freeways. The nearby I-8 allows easy access to the shopping of Mission Valley, relaxing beaches, and all that the Downtown district has to offer.

Outdoor enthusiasts are drawn to Lake Murray, Cowles Mountain, Mission Trails Golf Course, and nearby parks. That combination makes this one of the most flexible neighborhoods in San Diego for buyers seeking an active lifestyle.

According to Melina Rissone, the blend of community amenities, affordability compared to other central neighborhoods, and the limited number of available homes has created a steady stream of motivated buyers. Most listings that show well and are priced correctly are receiving strong offers within the first two weeks.

Inventory Remains Tight, Keeping Sellers in Control

There are currently only 42 active listings in 92119, compared to 104 homes sold in the same six-month period. That ratio translates to less than two months of supply, a clear sign of a seller’s market.

Low inventory means sellers have the upper hand. Homes that are move-in ready and well-marketed are not just selling quickly but often exceeding expectations in terms of price. Melina notes that professional presentation and realistic pricing are key to maximizing results in this environment.

What This Real Estate Market Means for Buyers

If you’re hoping to buy in San Carlos or Lake Murray in 2026, you’ll need to be both strategic and proactive.

• Get pre-approved before you start touring homes. This step signals to sellers that you’re serious and ready to move.

• Be prepared to act quickly when the right property hits the market. Waiting even a few days can mean missing out.

• Consider expanding your search radius slightly to find value opportunities near the edges of Lake Murray Boulevard or Jackson Drive, and even into adjoining Del Cerro and La Mesa

• Partner with a local expert like Melina Rissone who can help you identify upcoming listings and negotiate effectively in multiple-offer situations.

What This Real Estate Market Means for Sellers

For homeowners, the current conditions in 92119 are excellent. With homes selling in an average of just 22 days and prices steadily rising, now is one of the best times of the year to list.

Melina recommends that sellers:

• Prepare the home thoroughly. Staged and well-maintained properties consistently attract more offers and stronger prices.

• Set the right initial price. Homes priced slightly below recent comparable sales tend to create more excitement and competition.

• Invest in professional marketing. High-quality photography, virtual tours, and social media exposure can significantly expand your reach and bring in qualified buyers.

San Carlos Market Segments at a Glance

• Starter homes below $750,000 are selling quickly, often within 10 to 15 days.

• Mid-range homes between $750,000 and $1 million continue to attract strong demand from move-up buyers and young families.

• Luxury homes above $1 million remain limited in number, but are holding their value thanks to the neighborhood’s high quality of life and proximity to outdoor recreation.

Condos are also performing well in this market, providing entry-level options for first-time buyers and investment opportunities for landlords who want to benefit from the area’s high rental demand.

Final Takeaway

The San Carlos real estate market remains one of San Diego’s most desirable and active areas. With a median sale price of $905,000 and homes selling in just over two weeks on average, conditions strongly favor sellers. For buyers, competition remains intense, but opportunities still exist for those who come prepared and move quickly.

Melina Rissone continues to guide both buyers and sellers through this fast-paced market. Her deep knowledge of the San Carlos and Lake Murray neighborhoods helps clients make confident, data-driven decisions.

If you’re thinking of selling or buying in 92119, now is the time to act. Contact Melina today to schedule a consultation or request your free, data-backed home value report tailored to your property and neighborhood.

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• Is Clairemont Real Estate Still Affordable? 2025 Market Update

• Point Loma 92106 Housing Market Update

• Is the Mission Valley Real Estate Market Cooling Down or Heating Up?

• What’s Happening in the South Park & Golden Hill Real Estate Market?

• Perfect Time to Buy or Sell in University City? Fall 2025 Market Update

Melina Rissone

Having sold properties for more than 20 years and earning various prestigious awards throughout the course of her career, Melina Rissone has more than earned her reputation as one of San Diego's most skilled and trustworthy real estate brokers selling homes and luxury condominiums. Her loyal clientele would share that Melina brings structure and planning to chaos. She specializes in supporting her clients and their referrals; families and individuals going through divorce and seniors and active adults planning their moves and financial decisions during their retirement years.

• Coldwell Banker Global Luxury and Institute of Luxury Home Marketing certified.

• Certified Senior Advisor by the Society of Certified Senior Advisors

• RCS-D Designation, a Real Estate Collaboration Specialist for Divorce.

• SRES Certification through NAR is a Seniors Real Estate Specialist certification.

• Melina is bilingual in English and German.

• Recognized as the Top 4% of all real estate brokers in San Diego County in 2021 and the Top 3% of Coldwell Banker International.

• Coldwell Banker Presidents Elite Award.

• Recognize as the Top 2% of Coldwell Banker West in 2024.

• Coldwell Banker Global Luxury and Institute of Luxury Home Marketing Certified.

Melina is a true professional! She is responsive and thorough. She offers important insights through the home buying and selling process. She has a network of connections so that specialists may be brought in when needed. Melina was our real estate broker when buying a home in 2017. And she is the person I have returned to as we consider selling. Melina is a top notch broker in San Diego!
                                                                     -Catherine