Market Overview
Home Prices in Merced, CA
The median home value in Merced, CA is $397,690 as of mid-2026, according to Zillow's Home Value Index (ZHVI).That's down 1.5% compared to a year ago and down 0.2% from two years prior.
Compared to the U.S. national median of $410,000, homes in Merced are priced3% below average. Merced is part of the Merced, CA metro area.
Over the past five years, Merced home values have risen by approximately18.4%, reflecting steady appreciation in this market.
Price History
Merced Home Price Trend
2020
$280,116
$280K
—
2021
$335,953
$336K
+19.9%
2022
$408,740
$409K
+21.7%
2023
$383,027
$383K
-6.3%
2024
$404,413
$404K
+5.6%
2025
$403,558
$404K
-0.2%
2026
$397,690
$398K
-1.5%
City Comparison
Merced vs. National Median
🏠 Merced
$397,690
National Median
$410,000
At $397,690, homes in Merced cost 3% below the national median of $410,000. This makes Merced a relatively affordable market for buyers seeking value.
Affordability
What Does It Cost to Buy in Merced?
20% Down Payment
$79,538
on $397,690
Monthly P&I
$2,074/mo
30-yr @ 6.8%
Total Monthly Est.
~$2,634/mo
incl. taxes & insurance
Income Needed
$105,360
gross annual (30% rule)
10% Down Option
$39,769
+ PMI applies
Loan Amount (20% dn)
$318,152
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 Merced, CA?
The median home value in Merced is $397,690 as of mid-2026, according to Zillow's Home Value Index (ZHVI). That's down 1.5% year-over-year.
How much have home prices changed in Merced?
Over the past year, home values in Merced have decreased by 1.5%. Over five years, prices have risen approximately 18.4%.
How much do I need to earn to buy a home in Merced?
To comfortably afford the median home price of $397,690 with a 20% down payment ($79,538) at today's rates (6.8%), you'd need a gross annual income of approximately $105,360. This assumes keeping total housing costs at or below 30% of gross income.
How does Merced compare to the national average home price?
The national median home value is approximately $410,000. At $397,690, homes in Merced are 3% below the national average.
What metro area is Merced part of?
Merced is part of the Merced, CA metropolitan area. Home prices and market conditions can vary across the broader metro region.