The latest house price data suggests the housing market has continued to show steady and measured activity as we move further into 2026.
After a stable start to the year, the most recent figures indicate that while headline prices remain broadly stable, underlying activity levels and regional trends continue to shape the overall picture.
Here’s a clear snapshot from the main indices covering February and early March 2026.
Halifax House Price Index – February 2026
According to the latest Halifax House Price Index, the average UK house price in February 2026 stood at £300,087, representing a -0.1% monthly change and +1.0% annual growth.
Halifax noted that while house prices have remained broadly stable, affordability continues to play a key role. Wage growth and increased availability of sub 4% mortgage deals have helped support activity, although buyers remain price sensitive.
Nationwide House Price Index – February 2026
The Nationwide index reported that annual house price growth held steady at +0.7%, with prices showing little movement month-on-month.
Nationwide highlighted that while conditions have improved compared to last year, affordability constraints remain a key factor influencing the pace of growth.
Rightmove Asking Prices – March 2026
Rightmove’s latest data for March, based on new seller asking prices, showed a modest seasonal increase, reflecting the start of the spring market.
This increase follows the typical early-year pattern, where new listings come to market with renewed confidence. At the same time, the number of available properties remains elevated, giving buyers more choice and helping to keep price growth in check.
Hometrack UK House Price Index – Early 2026
Hometrack’s latest report indicates that overall UK house price inflation remains modest, broadly in line with the trend seen at the end of 2025, at around +1% annually.
The report highlights that:
- Sales activity remains resilient
- First-time buyers continue to be a key driver of demand
- Regional variations remain significant across the UK
What This Means in Practice
Across the different measures, the most consistent theme is stability rather than rapid change.
- Annual price growth remains positive, but modest
- Month-on-month movements are relatively small and vary by index
- Asking prices and transaction-based data continue to show slightly different trends, which is normal
This reflects a market where:
- Buyers have more choice
- Affordability continues to shape behaviour
- Sellers are adjusting expectations to match current conditions
Regional differences continue to matter. More affordable areas have generally shown stronger relative demand, while higher-value regions have seen more subdued growth.
Our Thoughts
The housing market in early 2026 continues to feel balanced.
Prices are not falling sharply, but neither are they rising quickly. Instead, we are seeing a more measured environment where activity is supported by improving mortgage availability, but still shaped by affordability and buyer behaviour.
For homeowners and prospective movers, this type of market can be helpful. It allows decisions to be based on planning and data, rather than reacting to short-term headlines.
If you are considering moving, remortgaging or reviewing your position, understanding how your local market compares to national trends remains key.
Information correct at time of writing – March 2026.




