The Hamptons real estate sector kicked off February 2026 with notable vigor, as 19 properties spanning from Westhampton to Montauk moved into contract during the week of February 3. This figure reflects a 12 percent increase compared to the previous week, though it represents a 24 percent decline from the same period in 2025. Among the deals, one transaction exceeded $20 million, another fell within the $10 to $15 million bracket, and the total dollar volume for the week approximated $96 million, based on comparative annual data. Meanwhile, the market saw an influx of 34 new listings, pushing total inventory to 1,569 by February 10, with 1,232 active and 337 under contract, a net gain of 15 properties. This activity highlights a market navigating constrained supply while maintaining appeal for high-net-worth individuals.
Recent quarterly data, released in 2026 for the final months of 2025, paints a picture of escalating values in the region. The median sales price in the Hamptons soared to a record $2.34 million, a striking 25 percent rise year-over-year, while the average price climbed to $3.76 million. This surge is largely attributed to an influx of cash buyers from sectors like Wall Street and technology, who continue to prioritize multimillion-dollar estates. Inventory levels have tightened to just 6.8 months of supply, down 24 percent from 2024, with luxury properties lingering longer at 16.4 months. Demand remains particularly acute for oceanfront residences and move-in-ready homes in coveted areas such as Southampton, Sag Harbor, and East Hampton. Broker Hofer noted the unique allure of certain properties, stating, 'Waterfront and properties with protected water views continue to command outsized demand, and sophisticated buyers understand that scarcity.'
“Waterfront and properties with protected water views continue to command outsized demand, and sophisticated buyers understand that scarcity.”
Beyond sales, the rental market offers additional insight into buyer sentiment. According to Gary DePersia of Corcoran in East Hampton, many premium properties have already been secured for the summer of 2026, including a waterfront estate leased for nearly $1 million from July through Labor Day. Such early commitments at elevated rates suggest a sustained confidence in the Hamptons as a premier lifestyle destination, often serving as a precursor to purchase decisions among the elite.
Adding to the luxury narrative, a newly constructed generational compound in Amagansett Lanes, Amagansett, has entered the market at $26.245 million, garnering attention ahead of the peak season. This listing aligns with broader trends, as sales above $5 million accounted for 17.4 percent of transactions in the last quarter of 2025, up slightly from 16.6 percent the prior year. Together, these elements underscore a Hamptons market in early 2026 that remains a bastion of exclusivity, driven by scarcity, prestige, and unwavering demand from discerning buyers. The interplay of robust contract activity, historic price growth, and strong rental interest points to a resilient outlook, even as inventory constraints pose ongoing challenges for market participants.
