Market Overview
Home Prices in Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA
The median home value in Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA is $2,463,695 as of mid-2026, according to Zillow's Home Value Index (ZHVI).That's up 4.3% compared to a year ago and down 0.5% from two years prior.
Compared to the U.S. national median of $410,000, homes in Carmel-by-the-Sea are priced501% above average. Carmel-by-the-Sea is part of the Salinas, CA metro area.
Over the past five years, Carmel-by-the-Sea home values have risen by approximately26.3%, reflecting strong long-term appreciation in this market.
Price History
Carmel-by-the-Sea Home Price Trend
City Comparison
Carmel-by-the-Sea vs. National Median
At $2,463,695, homes in Carmel-by-the-Sea cost 501% above the national median of $410,000. Buyers in Carmel-by-the-Sea should expect to pay a premium compared to most U.S. markets.
Affordability
What Does It Cost to Buy in Carmel-by-the-Sea?
20% Down Payment
$492,739
on $2,463,695
Monthly P&I
$12,849/mo
30-yr @ 6.8%
Total Monthly Est.
~$16,318/mo
incl. taxes & insurance
Income Needed
$652,720
gross annual (30% rule)
10% Down Option
$246,370
+ PMI applies
Loan Amount (20% dn)
$1,970,956
at current rates
Estimates assume a 30-year fixed mortgage at 6.8%. Monthly total includes estimated property taxes and homeowner's insurance. Actual costs vary.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average home price in Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA?
The median home value in Carmel-by-the-Sea is $2,463,695 as of mid-2026, according to Zillow's Home Value Index (ZHVI). That's up 4.3% year-over-year.
How much have home prices changed in Carmel-by-the-Sea?
Over the past year, home values in Carmel-by-the-Sea have increased by 4.3%. Over five years, prices have risen approximately 26.3%.
How much do I need to earn to buy a home in Carmel-by-the-Sea?
To comfortably afford the median home price of $2,463,695 with a 20% down payment ($492,739) at today's rates (6.8%), you'd need a gross annual income of approximately $652,720. This assumes keeping total housing costs at or below 30% of gross income.
How does Carmel-by-the-Sea compare to the national average home price?
The national median home value is approximately $410,000. At $2,463,695, homes in Carmel-by-the-Sea are 501% above the national average.
What metro area is Carmel-by-the-Sea part of?
Carmel-by-the-Sea is part of the Salinas, CA metropolitan area. Home prices and market conditions can vary across the broader metro region.