As the seat of Kansas government, the Shawnee County housing market remains a primary destination for those seeking a balance of stable public-sector employment and exceptional Midwest affordability. Anchored by Topeka, this market is increasingly attractive to first-time buyers and remote workers who prioritize a lower cost of living without sacrificing urban amenities. This report dives into the latest trends and data shaping the 2026 outlook for Shawnee County.
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Key Market Statistics (January 2026)
- Median Home Price: $240,000 in Shawnee County, showing a significant 32.6% increase compared to last year.
- Active Inventory: Approximately 645 homes are listed for sale, indicating a stable inventory base that provides meaningful options for buyers.
- Days on Market: 31 days on average, up by 12 days compared to the same period last year.
- Monthly Sales: 173 homes were sold in the most recent full month (December 2025), a slight 1.7% decrease year-over-year.
Price Trends by Zip Code & Neighborhood:
- Westboro: $334,791 average home value, known for its upscale properties and historic charm.
- West Topeka (66610): $365,000 median, remaining a popular choice for larger family homes.
- College Hill: $164,446 median real estate price, offering architectural heritage at a more affordable entry point than the city average.
- Central Topeka: $139,900 median, ideal for investment and entry-level buyers.
- Oakland: $105,000 median sale price, among the county’s most affordable areas.
- Highland Crest: $138,975 median listing price.
Market Trends
- Government-Backed Stability: A heavy concentration of state government and healthcare jobs continues to provide a stable floor for Shawnee County property values.
- Inventory Shifts: While the nationwide inventory recovery slowed in early 2026, Shawnee County maintains a stable base of roughly 645 active listings.
- Top-Rated School Demand: Demand remains highest in the Auburn-Washburn Unified School District, currently ranked as the #1 Best School District in Shawnee County for 2026.
- Normalized Momentum: Market momentum has normalized, with median days on market rising nearly 10% year-over-year, suggesting listings may stay active slightly longer than in previous peak seasons.
Factors Driving the Shawnee County Housing Market
Several economic levers are influencing Topeka’s real estate trajectory for 2026:
- Job Market Strength: Major employers in the Topeka MSA continue to support a stable 3.9% unemployment rate.
- National Affordability Rankings: Topeka home prices remain approximately 45% lower than the national average, attracting relocating professionals.
- Interest Rate Impact: As of early 2026, Kansas 30-year fixed rates are averaging around 6.13%. Check current mortgage rates to plan your purchase.
Tips for Buyers, Sellers, and Investors
Home Buyers
- Be Ready with Pre-Approval: Although homes are sitting longer on average, desirable properties in top neighborhoods can still move into pending status quickly.
- Loan Limits: The 2026 Conforming Loan Limit for Shawnee County is $832,750, offering plenty of headroom for local buyers.
- First-Time Programs: Explore the Kansas First-Time Homebuyer Program for down payment assistance.
Home Sellers
- High List-to-Sale Ratio: In the current market, sellers are still achieving high returns, with homes typically receiving close to their original list price.
- Professional Staging is Key: As median days on market have increased to 31 days, focus on staging to beat the competition and reduce time on market.
- Stage Well: Check staging tips on HGTV to maximize appeal.
For Investors
- Consistent Rental Demand: The median rent for all property types in Topeka stands at $900 per month, supporting a balanced market for residents and investors.
- Yield Potential: One-bedroom units are averaging $825, while three-bedroom houses can reach $1,482 or more.
- Target Growth Areas: Southwest Topeka and College Hill remain top picks for long-term rental appreciation.
Looking Ahead: Shawnee County in 2026
The 2026 outlook is one of “healthy normalization.” While the extreme appreciation of previous years is cooling, the stable inventory and government-backed economy make it a resilient market. To explore your options in the Topeka metro or get a custom rate quote, reach out to our Kansas City mortgage loan team today.