Fullerton, CA, located in northern Orange County, has become one of Southern California’s most desirable places to live. Known for its historic downtown, strong schools, and easy access to Los Angeles and the beaches, it attracts both families and investors. The housing market here has stayed active, with most homes selling around the $1 million mark. Depending on which data source you look at, the median home price is between $937,000 and $1.1 million.
That means Fullerton is more expensive than many parts of California, but still more affordable than high-demand areas like Irvine, Newport Beach, or Los Angeles’ Westside.
Price Trends
Over the past year, the market has shown mixed signals:
- Redfin reports a median sale price of about $1.06 million, up over 11% from last year.
- Zillow shows a smaller increase, with average home values rising about 1.4% to just above $1 million.
- ATTOM Data paints a slightly different picture, showing prices down 7.4% year over year, even though the median sale price still sits above $1.1 million.
Why the difference? Each platform uses different timeframes and data sets. But the big takeaway is that Fullerton homes are holding their value well, even when the broader California market has cooled in some places.
How Fast Homes Sell
In Fullerton, homes usually sell in about 50 to 56 days. That’s slower than last year, but still quicker than many national averages. In hotter ZIP codes like 92832 and 92833, homes often move in just over a month and sometimes receive multiple offers.
Compared to the national average of about 52 days, Fullerton is a competitive market. Buyers can’t sit around for weeks deciding, but sellers also don’t have to expect bidding wars on every listing.
Neighborhood Differences
Fullerton’s market changes a lot depending on the neighborhood:
- 92832: Homes here average about $995,000, with values climbing nearly 19% in the past year. It’s considered very competitive, and many homes sell within 44 days.
- 92833: Prices are a little lower, around $950,000, but they’ve actually fallen about 10% compared to last year. Despite that dip, homes here move quickly—often in about 32 days—showing strong demand.
- Other areas: Family-friendly parts of Fullerton, with bigger homes near schools and parks, tend to attract buyers willing to pay above list price.
Rentals in Fullerton
Buying isn’t the only story. Renting in Fullerton costs about $2,900 per month on average, compared to the national average of around $2,000. That’s a big gap, which shows two things:
- Renters are willing to pay more to live in Fullerton because of its location and amenities.
- Investors who buy property here can expect strong rental demand.
For families or individuals unsure about buying right away, renting is an option—but it comes at a high cost compared to nearby areas.
Why People Choose Fullerton
Fullerton offers more than just homes—it’s the lifestyle that draws people in. The city has a mix of old historic homes, new developments, and mid-century neighborhoods. California State University, Fullerton brings a young energy, while the downtown area offers restaurants, shopping, and nightlife. Families are attracted to the strong schools and the city’s many parks. For commuters, the location near the 5 and 91 freeways makes it easier to get to Los Angeles, Anaheim, or the coastal cities.
What It Means for Buyers and Sellers
- For buyers: Expect to pay around $1 million for a home. Act quickly in competitive ZIP codes, but know that not every property has bidding wars like during the pandemic years.
- For sellers: Homes are still selling in a reasonable amount of time. Pricing your home correctly is important—overpricing can leave it sitting on the market longer, even in hot neighborhoods.
- For investors: Strong rental demand makes Fullerton an attractive city, especially with rent averaging nearly $3,000. Long-term value is supported by the city’s central location in Orange County.
Final Thoughts
The real estate market in Fullerton is steady and strong, with prices holding near $1 million and homes selling in about two months or less. While some neighborhoods are cooling slightly, others remain very competitive. Whether you’re a family looking for a forever home, a first-time buyer, or an investor, Fullerton continues to offer solid opportunities in Southern California.
