If you're interested in the Southern Oregon real estate market, you’ve probably wondered: between Grants Pass and Medford, which city offers the best opportunities for buying, selling, or investing in property? This is a common question, and it often sparks a friendly rivalry between the two cities. As someone who lives right between Grants Pass and Medford and works as a licensed real estate agent in Southern Oregon, I want to give you an unbiased, fact-based look at these two markets.

In this article, I’ll share which city I would personally invest in if I had to choose, backed by current data and trends. I’ll also reveal the specific neighborhoods and types of homes I think represent the best investment opportunities in Southern Oregon right now. And stick around until the end—there’s some surprising recent market activity that you’ll want to know about.

Table of Contents

• Understanding the Local Southern Oregon Real Estate Market
• The Friendly Rivalry: Grants Pass vs Medford
• Comparing Home Values: Grants Pass vs Medford
• New Construction: A Major Market Differentiator
• Population Growth and Economic Development
• Where to Invest in Medford: Targeting East Medford
• Summary: Grants Pass vs Medford Real Estate Market
• Recent Market Activity: What Happened Last Week?
• FAQs about Grants Pass vs Medford Real Estate Market
• Conclusion

Understanding the Local Southern Oregon Real Estate Market

When it comes to real estate, local and current information is king. What’s happening in New York, Los Angeles, or Texas doesn’t necessarily impact your decisions if you’re focused on Southern Oregon. That’s why it’s important to look closely at what’s going on in Grants Pass and Medford specifically.

Both cities are major players in Southern Oregon’s housing market, but they differ in many ways—population growth, new construction, price trends, and economic development. These factors influence the health and future potential of their real estate markets.

The Friendly Rivalry: Grants Pass vs Medford

There's no denying there’s a friendly rivalry between Grants Pass and Medford, especially when comparing real estate markets. Each city has its supporters and unique charm, but when it comes to investing money, it’s important to cut through the emotion and look at the facts.

So, which city has the better real estate market? Let’s dive into the numbers and trends that matter most.

Comparing Home Values: Grants Pass vs Medford

Let’s start by comparing home values based on units sold over the last year, focusing on 2022 versus 2023. This gives us a clear picture of how the market has shifted recently in both cities.

Medford Market Trends

• Median sold price: down 1% from 2022 to 2023
• Average sold price: down about 1% in the same period
• Total sales volume: down 28%

Looking just at 2023 from January to December, Medford’s median and average sold prices actually increased by 12% each. This shows significant price growth within the year despite a slight overall decline compared to 2022.

Grants Pass Market Trends

• Median sold price: down 2% from 2022 to 2023
• Average sold price: down 1%
• Total sales volume: down 26%

For 2023 alone, Grants Pass saw a median sold price increase of 6% and an average sold price increase of about 7%. While these are solid gains, they are notably lower than Medford’s 12% increases.

Overall, the median and average sold prices between the two cities are quite comparable and within about $10,000 of each other, hovering around $474,000. But price trends alone don’t tell the whole story.

New Construction: A Major Market Differentiator

One of the biggest differences between Grants Pass and Medford is the amount of new construction happening in each city. New homes are a key indicator of growth and future demand.

• Grants Pass: Only 30 new homes built in the last year
• Medford: 164 new homes built in the last year

This stark contrast highlights Medford’s stronger development pipeline. More new construction means more housing options, more jobs, and more opportunities for buyers and investors. It also suggests Medford is positioned for more significant growth in the near future.

Population Growth and Economic Development

Population growth is another critical factor when evaluating real estate markets. I look at county-level data because Grants Pass is the largest city in Josephine County, while Medford is the largest city in Jackson County.

• Josephine County (Grants Pass): Expected population growth of 6%
• Jackson County (Medford): Expected population growth of 1%

At first glance, Josephine County’s 6% growth rate looks more promising than Jackson County’s 1%. However, it’s important to consider the broader economic context and development activity, which currently favors Jackson County and Medford.

Medford is seeing more positive economic developments, including:

• Amazon Warehouse in Central Point: Under construction, this facility will bring new jobs and boost the local economy.
• Rogue X Community Complex: A new, large-scale community center with water parks, pools, and an event center, enhancing quality of life.
• Major Builders Active in Medford: National and regional builders like D.R. Horton and Hayden Homes are actively constructing homes in Medford, but not as much in Grants Pass.

These developments create jobs, attract residents, and stimulate housing demand. While Josephine County’s population growth is higher, the scale and impact of new projects in Jackson County make Medford’s market more dynamic and promising in the long term.

Where to Invest in Medford: Targeting East Medford

If I were to invest my money in Southern Oregon real estate today, Medford would be my choice, specifically East Medford. Here’s why:

• Neighborhood Quality: Quiet, well-established neighborhoods with good-sized lots and spacious homes.
• Home Characteristics: Homes mostly built 20+ years ago, with solid “bones” but in need of updates and renovations.
• Potential for Appreciation: Investing in these homes with renovations can significantly increase their value over time.

There is a specific area I recommend between Delta Waters and Lone Pine, stretching from Spring Brook up to Foothill. This neighborhood has many homes that fit the profile I just described. Another promising area is the Hillcrest Road area on the hill, which also features older homes on spacious lots.

By investing in these areas, you’re not just buying a property—you’re investing in a community that’s likely to see increasing home values as more owners renovate and improve their homes.

Summary: Grants Pass vs Medford Real Estate Market

To answer the question, “Grants Pass vs Medford: Which Southern Oregon City has the BEST Real Estate Market?” —for my money, Medford currently stands out as the better choice for real estate investment.

Here’s a quick recap of why:

• Stronger Price Growth: Medford’s 12% increase in median and average sold prices in 2023 outpaces Grants Pass.
• More New Construction: Medford has over five times the number of new homes built in the past year.
• Economic Development: Medford is benefiting from significant projects like the Amazon warehouse and Rogue X complex, creating jobs and attracting residents.
• Investment Potential: East Medford offers neighborhoods with older homes on large lots that are ripe for renovation and value growth.

That said, every buyer and investor’s situation is unique. Grants Pass may still be the right choice depending on your personal goals, budget, and lifestyle preferences. If you’re considering buying, selling, or investing in Southern Oregon real estate, I encourage you to reach out at 541-954-7758 so we can discuss your specific needs and help you make the best decision. Additionally, you can explore homes for sale in Southern Oregon . VIEW HOMES FOR SALE IN GRANTS PASS VIEW HOMES FOR SALE IN MEDFORD

Recent Market Activity: What Happened Last Week?

Now, let me share a surprising update on the Southern Oregon real estate market from just last week. The data for Jackson and Josephine counties, focusing on single-family residential homes, shows some wild activity:

• 97 homes on the market as of January 10th
• 85 new listings added in the past week
• 92 price changes within the week
• 27 homes came back on the market
• 80 homes went pending (under contract)
• 58 homes closed
• 29 listings expired, withdrawn, or canceled

The number of new listings nearly doubled compared to the same week last year, which is remarkable. Additionally, the 80 new pending transactions are significantly higher than last year’s low 60s. This shows strong buyer activity despite the increase in inventory.

This uptick in market movement is a great sign and indicates a lively and competitive real estate environment in Southern Oregon right now. I’ll continue to monitor these trends closely and keep you updated.

FAQs about Grants Pass vs Medford Real Estate Market

Which city has better long-term real estate appreciation potential?

Medford currently shows stronger long-term appreciation potential due to more new construction, economic development projects, and consistent price growth.

Is Grants Pass a good place to buy a home?

Yes, Grants Pass is still a solid choice for buyers, especially those looking for a smaller market with slightly lower prices. However, it currently has less new construction and slower price growth compared to Medford.

What types of homes are best to invest in Medford?

Older homes (20+ years) in established neighborhoods with large lots, especially in East Medford areas like between Delta Waters and Lone Pine or Hillcrest Road, offer great renovation and appreciation opportunities.

How is new construction impacting the market?

New construction increases housing supply and attracts new residents. Medford’s significantly higher number of new homes built recently points to a more dynamic and growing market.

Are there any major economic developments affecting the real estate market?

Yes, Medford benefits from major projects like the Amazon warehouse in Central Point and the Rogue X community complex, which bring jobs and amenities, boosting demand for housing.

Should I invest in real estate in Southern Oregon now?

It depends on your goals. Medford offers strong investment potential, but personal factors such as budget, lifestyle, and timing should be considered. Consulting with a local expert can help you make the best choice.

Conclusion

Choosing between Grants Pass and Medford for your real estate investment or home purchase is a significant decision. Both cities have their strengths, but based on recent data and market trends, Medford currently leads as the best real estate market in Southern Oregon.

Medford’s stronger price growth, abundant new construction, and ongoing economic developments make it a promising place to invest. Targeting neighborhoods in East Medford, especially those with older homes on large lots, can maximize your investment returns through renovations and community revitalization.

However, your unique situation matters most. If you’re considering buying, selling, or investing in Southern Oregon real estate, I encourage you to reach out for a personalized consultation. Together, we can analyze your goals and find the perfect fit for your needs. Feel free to book a consultation at your convenience .

Stay informed, stay proactive, and make smart real estate decisions in Southern Oregon!