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The San José housing market continues to show strong performance as of September 2025, with median home prices reaching approximately $1.5 million. While price growth has moderated from pandemic highs, the market remains competitive with increasing inventory levels and cooling buyer demand compared to previous years.
If you want to go deeper, you can check our pack of documents related to the real estate market in Costa Rica, based on reliable facts and data, not opinions or rumors.
San José's housing market shows median prices around $1.5 million with 5% year-over-year growth, though inventory is increasing and sales volumes are declining slightly.
The market is transitioning from a seller's to buyer's market, with rental yields for investors averaging 8.25-8.6% across the city.
| Market Indicator | Current Status (Sept 2025) | Trend |
|---|---|---|
| Median Home Price | $1,498,500 - $1,500,000 | +5% YoY |
| Average Days on Market | 20-21 days | +5 days vs last year |
| Active Inventory | 3,100 listings | +34% vs last year |
| Sales Volume (July) | 514 homes sold | -6.9% vs prior year |
| Average Rental Yield | 8.25-8.6% | Stable |
| 6-Month Forecast | 1-2.6% price decrease | Market cooling |
| 3-Year Forecast | 2-4.6% annual appreciation | Moderate growth |
What are the current average home prices in San José right now?
As of September 2025, the San José housing market shows median home prices between $1,498,500 and $1,500,000.
The average home value sits at $1,414,393 according to recent data, while the average sale price reaches $1,549,374.
These prices represent the culmination of several years of strong appreciation, positioning San José among the most expensive housing markets in the region.
Single-family homes command the highest prices in this range, while condos and townhouses offer slightly more affordable entry points for buyers.
How have prices changed in the past 3 to 6 months?
San José property prices have increased 5% year-over-year, showing continued but moderated growth compared to previous periods.
Month-over-month data reveals a slight cooling, with average sale price ratios declining 0.6-2.1% since July 2025.
This represents a seasonal moderation after the spring peak, when bidding wars and above-list sales were more common.
The market has transitioned from the intense buying frenzy of previous years to a more balanced environment where sellers are increasingly reducing asking prices.
What's the short-term outlook for prices over the next 6 months?
The San José housing market is expected to experience a slight price correction over the next six months.
Forecasts predict a 1-2.6% decrease in home values by March 2026 as the market enters a period of leveling.
This cooling reflects reduced buyer competition, increased inventory levels, and the end of pandemic-driven housing demand surges.
Bidding wars have largely disappeared, and more properties are staying on the market longer than in previous years.
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What's the medium-term forecast for prices over the next 1 to 3 years?
Medium-term projections for San José real estate show moderate but steady appreciation through 2028.
Annual home value increases of 2-4.6% are forecast, driven by continued tech industry growth and ongoing supply constraints.
By 2030, average home prices could reach $1.45 million, representing a projected 17.8% increase from current 2025 levels.
This growth trajectory reflects the city's strong economic fundamentals while acknowledging the market's transition to more sustainable appreciation rates.
The forecast assumes continued job growth in technology sectors and limited new housing supply relative to demand.
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How are sales volumes and transaction activity trending this year?
San José housing sales volumes show a cooling trend compared to peak market activity.
In July 2025, 514 homes were sold, representing a 6.9% decrease compared to the same period last year.
Transaction activity has slowed significantly from the buying frenzy peak, reflecting reduced buyer urgency and increased market selectivity.
Average days on market have increased to 20-21 days, up 5 days from last year, though "hot" properties still sell within 9-11 days.
This trend indicates a shift toward a more balanced market where buyers have more time to evaluate options.
What's happening with inventory levels — are there more homes on the market or fewer?
San José housing inventory has increased substantially, with active listings reaching 3,100 in April 2025, a 34% increase from the previous year.
The market has experienced 21 consecutive months of inventory growth, signaling a clear shift toward a buyer's market.
Despite this increase, inventory levels remain below pre-pandemic levels, indicating the market is normalizing rather than oversupplying.
This inventory growth provides buyers with more options and negotiating power compared to the highly competitive conditions of recent years.
How do price trends differ between condos, townhouses, and single-family homes?
| Property Type | Median Price (Sept 2025) | Price Trend |
|---|---|---|
| Single-Family Homes | $1,390,000 - $1,500,000 | 5-9% YoY increase |
| Townhouses | ~$1,398,000 | Strong, stable growth |
| Condos | Varies, typically lower | Steady appreciation |
| Luxury Properties | $2,000,000+ | Premium market strength |
| Entry-Level Condos | $800,000 - $1,200,000 | High demand segment |
Which neighborhoods or districts in San José are seeing the strongest growth or declines?
Evergreen Hills continues to show steady appreciation with median prices around $1,350,000, attracting families and tech professionals.
Central San José and well-connected urban areas experience the strongest growth driven by technology jobs and urban living preferences.
Suburban districts with family-sized homes are gaining interest, with proximity to green spaces and amenities driving value appreciation.
Rohrmoser and Mata Redonda offer slightly better value while maintaining good quality of life standards for residents.
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How does affordability compare across different areas and property types?
Central and city neighborhoods command the highest prices with the lowest affordability for average buyers.
Suburban and exurban areas like Evergreen Hills, Rohrmoser, and Mata Redonda offer better value while maintaining good quality of life.
Townhouses and condos provide more accessible entry points compared to single-family homes in similar locations.
First-time buyers often find better opportunities in emerging neighborhoods with good transportation connections to the city center.
The affordability gap between central and suburban areas continues to widen as urban properties appreciate faster.
What rental yields can investors expect in different parts of the city?
San José offers attractive rental yields for real estate investors, with city-wide averages ranging from 8.25% to 8.6% gross.
| Neighborhood | Gross Rental Yield | Property Type Focus |
|---|---|---|
| Rohrmoser | 7.7% - 8.3% | Family homes, condos |
| Mata Redonda | 8.1% - 9.2% | Apartments, townhouses |
| Escazú | 7.2% - 8.0% | Luxury properties |
| Santa Ana | 7.7% - 8.6% | Mixed residential |
| Heredia | 7.7% - 8.6% | Student housing, families |
| Central San José | 8.0% - 8.5% | Urban apartments |
If I'm buying to live, where are the best areas for value and quality of life right now?
Evergreen Hills, Escazú, and Curridabat offer excellent combinations of good schools, green space, and newer homes that attract families and professionals.
Suburban areas provide family-sized homes with outdoor space and quiet neighborhoods while maintaining reasonable commute times.
Districts that balance urban access with livability offer the best value for owner-occupants seeking long-term residence.
Areas with established infrastructure, good public services, and community amenities provide superior quality of life returns on investment.
Consider neighborhoods with planned development projects that will enhance future livability and property values.
If I'm buying to rent out or resell, which budget range and property type make the most sense today?
Tech-equipped, energy-efficient apartments in urban locations generate high demand among professional tenants.
Suburban family homes offer steady appreciation potential and strong rental yields for long-term investors.
The $155,000-$310,000 budget range for 2-3 bedroom units in central or stable suburban areas provides optimal 8-9% gross yields.
Properties with modern amenities and good connectivity to business districts command premium rents and faster appreciation.
Focus on areas with planned infrastructure improvements or development projects that will enhance future investment returns.
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Conclusion
This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Readers are advised to consult with a qualified professional before making any investment decisions. We do not assume any liability for actions taken based on the information provided.
The San José housing market as of September 2025 presents a transitioning landscape with opportunities for both residents and investors.
While prices remain high, increasing inventory and cooling competition create more favorable conditions for buyers compared to recent peak market periods.