Monthly Real Estate Market Update - March 2026 | High River, Okotoks, Calgary

The High River real estate market is continuing its transition into a more balanced spring market. Looking at February and March together, we’re seeing steady pricing, rising inventory, and a slower pace of sales — trends that are consistent across Okotoks and Calgary.

📊 Prices: Holding Steady

After a strong rebound in February, High River’s median price came in at $548,000 in March, up 2% year-over-year.

This stability suggests that while the market has cooled from peak conditions, overall home values are holding.

By comparison:

• Okotoks: $651,000 (-6% YoY)
• Calgary: $575,500 (-2% YoY)

High River continues to show relatively stable pricing compared to surrounding markets.

📉 Sales: A Softer Spring Start

Sales in High River were down 15% year-over-year in March, reflecting a slower pace of activity.

Across the region:

• Okotoks sales were slightly down (-2% YoY)
• Calgary saw a larger drop (-13% YoY)

This suggests buyer activity is still present, but more measured than in previous years.

📦 Inventory: More Choice for Buyers

Inventory remains significantly higher than last year:

• High River: +32% YoY
• Okotoks: +21% YoY
• Calgary: +5% YoY

More available homes means buyers have options — and that reduces the urgency that defined the market in recent years.

The sales-to-new-listings ratio in High River dipped slightly (79% → 74%), reinforcing the shift toward balance.

⏱ Days on Market: A Noticeable Slowdown

Homes are taking longer to sell:

• High River: 57 days (+159% YoY)
• Okotoks: 37 days (+61% YoY)
• Calgary: 35 days (+21% YoY)

This is one of the clearest signs of a changing market, as buyers take more time to evaluate their options.

What’s Driving These Changes?

Interest Rates & Affordability

Higher borrowing costs continue to impact affordability, causing buyers to be more cautious and selective.

Alberta’s Economic Strength

Alberta remains economically strong within Canada, supported by:

• Job growth
• Energy sector stability
• Strong interprovincial migration

This helps maintain underlying housing demand.

Supply Catching Up

After years of low inventory, more homeowners are listing, increasing supply and balancing the market.

Changing Buyer Behaviour

Buyers are no longer rushing — they’re comparing options, negotiating, and taking more time.

What This Means for You

Buyers

• More selection
• Less competition
• More negotiating power

Sellers

• Prices are holding, but strategy matters
• Expect longer timelines
• Proper pricing is critical

The Bottom Line

High River’s market is not slowing down — it’s stabilizing.

Compared to Okotoks and Calgary, pricing remains relatively steady, but increased inventory and slower sales are creating a more balanced and sustainable market in spring 2026.