The housing market in Southern Oregon has been on a wild ride over the past few years. From record-high home prices during the pandemic to rising mortgage rates and shifting buyer demand in 2024, many residents are now asking the big question:
Is a housing crash coming to Southern Oregon in 2025?
We asked real estate experts, economists, and local agents for their take—and here’s what they had to say.
What’s triggering talk of a housing crash?
Several national and local factors are fueling fears of a housing downturn:
- High Mortgage Rates: With rates hovering between 6% and 7% in early 2025, affordability has taken a hit. Buyers are more cautious, and sellers are reluctant to give up their low-interest mortgages.
- Price Corrections: After steep pandemic-era gains, prices in some parts of Southern Oregon—like Medford and Grants Pass—have stabilized or declined slightly.
- Longer Days on the Market: Homes are sitting longer than they did in 2021–2022, prompting speculation about a bubble popping.
But is a crash really on the horizon?
What the Experts Say
“This Isn’t 2008” – Local Appraiser
“We’re seeing softening, not collapse. Unlike 2008, today’s homeowners have equity, strong credit, and fixed-rate mortgages. We don’t have the same toxic lending that caused the last crash.”
— Tom R., Certified Appraiser in Jackson County
“Supply Is Still Tight” – Broker Perspective
“There’s no surge of foreclosures or overbuilding here. In fact, inventory in Ashland and Talent is still below pre-pandemic levels. That scarcity is keeping prices relatively stable.”
— Sarah M., Principal Broker, Medford
“Rural Demand Remains Strong” – Land Specialist
“People are still leaving cities and looking for rural life—especially around Applegate, Jacksonville, and Rogue River. Lifestyle buyers aren’t as rate-sensitive, so we’re not seeing a collapse in demand there.”
— Lucas B., Rural Property Expert
Key Market Indicators in Southern Oregon (May 2025)
Metric Jackson County Josephine County
Median Home Price $410,000 (↓ 3.5% YoY) $370,000 (↓ 2.1% YoY)
Inventory Up 15% from 2024 Up 12% from 2024
Average Days on Market 44-52
Foreclosure Activity Stable, below 1% Stable, below 1%
So… Housing Crash or Correction?
Most local experts agree: Southern Oregon is experiencing a market correction, not a crash. That means:
-Home prices may dip slightly or flatten
-Homes may take longer to sell
-But a significant collapse in values is unlikely
The fundamentals—limited supply, lifestyle-driven demand, and substantial owner equity—hold the market steady.
What This Means for You
Buyers:
- You may find better deals than during the pandemic boom.
- Negotiation power is improving—but expect competition on quality listings.
- Focus on long-term value, not timing the market.
Sellers:
- Price realistically. The days of aggressive overpricing are gone.
- Staging, marketing, and condition matter more than ever.
- If you don’t need to sell, it may still be worth holding until rates ease.
Talk to a Local Expert
Whether buying, selling, or just watching the market, navigating this changing landscape takes real insight. Reach out to me today for a personalized look at how these trends affect your neighborhood or property.
Chris Pfau-
(458)220-8881
chrisrealtorpro@gmail.com
chrisrealtorpro.com