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An analysis of recent housing data reveals a clear national divide: homeowners in Sun Belt and government-centric metros are most likely to sell, while those in established Northeastern and Midwestern markets are opting to stay put. According to a 2026 report from real estate data firm ATTOM Data Solutions, Wilmington, North Carolina, leads the nation in home turnover, a trend driven by retiring baby boomers and relative affordability. This article breaks down the markets with the highest and lowest turnover rates and the economic factors behind these trends.
What is the home turnover rate? The home turnover rate is an index measuring the average ratio of homes likely to be sold in a specific metropolitan area. This metric, calculated by firms like ATTOM Data Solutions from residential mortgage application data, serves as a reliable indicator of housing market activity. A higher rate signifies a more dynamic market where properties change hands frequently, while a lower rate suggests a more stagnant environment. This data provides a "heat check" on which markets are expected to see strong or weak sales in the coming quarter.
Which housing markets have the highest turnover? The top five metropolitan areas with the highest home turnover rates in 2026 are primarily located in regions experiencing significant inbound migration. Following Wilmington, the list includes:
Based on our experience assessment, the common thread among these markets is strong demand from new residents. Wilmington, for instance, has become a popular destination for retirees from the Northeast seeking a warm climate without Florida's high costs. The city's median listing price remains accessible compared to larger coastal cities, and an unemployment rate below the national average supports a stable economy. Similarly, Washington DC's high churn is often linked to federal government job transitions, which directly impact the local housing market as employees move in and out.
Why are homeowners in Wilmington, NC, selling so frequently? The high turnover in Wilmington is not due to resident dissatisfaction but rather to high demand. The city's appeal to retirees, known as baby boomers (the demographic cohort born between 1946 and 1964), is a primary driver. This group is often selling homes in more expensive, colder states and purchasing properties in warmer, more affordable markets. Wilmington offers a coastal lifestyle, home to the University of North Carolina Wilmington, and a median list price around $329,050, which is significantly lower than many major Northeast and West Coast cities. This combination creates a steady stream of buyers, encouraging frequent property sales.
Where are homeowners choosing to stay the longest? On the opposite end of the spectrum, markets with the lowest home turnover rates indicate stability or constraints. The top five metros where homeowners are most likely to stay put are:
In these areas, low turnover often stems from one of two factors: weak buyer demand or critically low housing inventory. For example, San Jose, in the heart of Silicon Valley, has immense buyer demand but an extremely limited supply of homes for sale. This scarcity prevents transactions from occurring at a higher rate. Conversely, other markets on this list may not have the same level of inbound migration, resulting in less competitive pressure and giving homeowners less incentive to sell.
What economic factors influence these trends? Several key economic indicators correlate with high and low turnover markets. Areas with high turnover typically feature:
Markets with low turnover often face:
Practical advice for buyers and sellers in these markets Understanding turnover rates is crucial for making informed real estate decisions. For buyers in high-turnover markets like Wilmington or Colorado Springs, be prepared for competitive conditions. A pre-approval for a mortgage can make your offer stronger. For sellers in low-turnover markets like Providence or Albany, pricing your home correctly from the start is critical because buyer activity may be less frenetic. In all cases, reviewing local market data, including median prices and time on market, provides a realistic expectation for your transaction timeline.
