The last two weeks of May are the best time of year to sell a home in the United States — by a typical margin of about $6,000, according to a new report from Zillow.

Analyzing 2025 home sales in the 35 largest U.S. cities, the listing giant found that homes listed in late May sell for 1.7% more than those listed other times of the year. That averages out to about $6,000 for a typical U.S. home.

In Seattle, though, the most profitable time of year is early April, with sellers seeing a 2.9% boost — about $22,600.

Among the 35 largest U.S. cities, sellers stand to gain the most with strategic listing timing in Boston, where listing in late May yields a 3.4% benefit (about $25,300). By dollar value, sellers gain the most in San Jose, Calif., where a 3.1% benefit equates to $53,800 in profit.

Optimal listing times range from early February in San Jose to late June in Baltimore.

Though the most lucrative week to list varies by city and region, spring is undoubtedly the smartest season to list. That’s because buyer demand peaks before Memorial Day, Zillow said, giving families enough time to settle into a new home before the upcoming school year.

“Late spring is when motivation and momentum meet,” said Zillow Senior Economist Kara Ng. “Buyers are eager to move before summer vacations and the new school year, and sellers who hit the market at that moment can benefit from heightened competition. But the best week to list ultimately depends on what is happening in your local market.”

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