The 18 states back above pre-pandemic 2019 housing inventory levels

It’s interesting to see how housing inventory is shifting: while national numbers are up 3.8% over last year, they’re still 7.7% below where we stood in 2019. Most states have only seen gentle growth—or even a dip—but 18 states, especially in the Sun Belt and Mountain West, are now hovering near or even above those pre-pandemic levels. Prices in those areas? Mostly holding steady. For families in Shelby and Jefferson Counties, these trends can feel distant, but understanding the broader landscape helps put our local options in perspective. After more than a decade of guiding buyers and sellers through upsizing, downsizing, and everything in between, I’ve learned that context matters—especially when finding a home that truly fits your life.