Market Overview
Home Prices in Washington, DC
The median home value in Washington, DC is $579,159 as of mid-2026, according to Zillow's Home Value Index (ZHVI).That's down 2.3% compared to a year ago and down 3.8% from two years prior.
Compared to the U.S. national median of $410,000, homes in Washington are priced41% above average. Washington is part of the Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV metro area.
Over the past five years, Washington home values have fallen by approximately10.3%, reflecting softening conditions in this market.
Price History
Washington Home Price Trend
City Comparison
Washington vs. National Median
At $579,159, homes in Washington cost 41% above the national median of $410,000. Buyers in Washington should expect to pay a premium compared to most U.S. markets.
Affordability
What Does It Cost to Buy in Washington?
20% Down Payment
$115,832
on $579,159
Monthly P&I
$3,021/mo
30-yr @ 6.8%
Total Monthly Est.
~$3,837/mo
incl. taxes & insurance
Income Needed
$153,480
gross annual (30% rule)
10% Down Option
$57,916
+ PMI applies
Loan Amount (20% dn)
$463,327
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 Washington, DC?
The median home value in Washington is $579,159 as of mid-2026, according to Zillow's Home Value Index (ZHVI). That's down 2.3% year-over-year.
How much have home prices changed in Washington?
Over the past year, home values in Washington have decreased by 2.3%. Over five years, prices have fallen approximately 10.3%.
How much do I need to earn to buy a home in Washington?
To comfortably afford the median home price of $579,159 with a 20% down payment ($115,832) at today's rates (6.8%), you'd need a gross annual income of approximately $153,480. This assumes keeping total housing costs at or below 30% of gross income.
How does Washington compare to the national average home price?
The national median home value is approximately $410,000. At $579,159, homes in Washington are 41% above the national average.
What metro area is Washington part of?
Washington is part of the Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV metropolitan area. Home prices and market conditions can vary across the broader metro region.