Inventory levels increased across several major U.S. housing markets in January 2026, reflecting continued growth in active listings to start the year. The Cincinnati metro area led this group with a 40.3% year-over-year increase, bringing total inventory to approximately 7,512 homes for sale.The Detroit metro area followed with an 18.4% annual rise, reaching about 11,019 active listings. Charlotte recorded a 17.1% increase, ending the month with roughly 7,834 homes on the market.Houston continued to show elevated supply levels, posting a 16.6% year-over-year gain and reaching approximately 52,805 active listings. Meanwhile, Seattle reported a 15.1% increase, with inventory climbing to around 6,736 homes.Overall, January data indicates sustained inventory expansion across these key markets compared to the same period last year.