How Competitive is the Crystal Lake, IL Housing Market?

by Fel Salgado

Crystal Lake, a city near Chicago, IL, is a highly competitive housing market. About 50% of homes sold above list price in the 3 months ending June 2026, with homes selling at 101% of asking on average.

1138 Ridgewood Cir

The National Picture

Across the U.S., 24.6% of homes sold above list price in June 2026. Crystal Lake more than doubles that rate at 50.9%, making it one of the more intense markets in the Chicago metro. The national sale-to-list ratio of 98.3% also pales next to the local 101.0%.

Sales Climb 25 Percent as Buyers Flock to McHenry County

Homes sold jumped 25% year over year to 187—the fastest sales growth rate in McHenry County. Active listings rose 21%, but demand grew even faster, keeping the market competitive. Within Crystal Lake, Prairie Ridge (61% sold above, 84% off-market) and Coventry (63%, 84%) draw particularly fierce bidding, while The Villages (33% off-market) moves much more slowly.

Why is Crystal Lake Highly Competitive?

Crystal Lake is highly competitive because rising buyer demand is absorbing homes faster than the market can replace them. At 2.3 months of supply, the market tilts firmly toward sellers. Pending sales surged 16% year over year, confirming strong buyer demand. Price drops affect just 14% of active listings, showing most sellers price accurately. The pace remains fast at 46 days, unchanged from a year ago.

Nearby Neighborhoods

Neighborhood	Sold Above List	Sale-to-List	Days on Market	Off Mkt in 2 Wks
Crystal Lake	50.9%	101.0%	46 days	65.6%
Four Colonies	55.8%	101.0%	42 days	60.2%
Prairie Ridge	61.4%	101.7%	38 days	84.1%
Coventry	63.0%	102.3%	48 days	83.9%
Downtown Crystal Lake	49.9%	102.4%	40 days	75.5%
The Villages	53.7%	99.2%	66 days	32.9%

Limited to neighborhoods with at least 10 home sales in the period.

All data comes from Redfin and represents a three-month rolling average ending June 2026. This article has been generated, in whole or in part, using generative artificial intelligence (AI) technology, with input from Redfin head of economics research Chen Zhao. While efforts have been made to ensure the accuracy and reliability of this information, you should independently verify all data, facts, and citations contained in this article before relying on it for any purpose. This information is not a substitute for advice from a real estate agent, financial advisor, or other licensed professional. Check the Redfin Data Center for additional in-depth housing market data.