U.S. office sector deep dive
A closer look at the data driving commercial real estate strategy for banking, finance, insurance, and real estate (FIRE), life sciences, law firms, and tech sectors.
U.S. banking, finance, insurance, and real estate (FIRE) H1 2025 insights
The FIRE industry led U.S. office leasing in H1 2025, accounting for 28.9% of new activity—more than double the next highest sector—and driving a continued flight to quality, with over 80% of deals in trophy or class A properties. With 88,000 job postings and a 31% year-over-year increase, FIRE’s momentum signals robust expansion and sustained demand for premium workspace.
U.S. life sciences H1 2025 insights
Life sciences leasing remains 36% below H1 2019 levels, with just 4.6 million square feet signed and uneven recovery across markets—though Boston and the Bay Area are regaining their lead. With nearly 60 million square feet available and subleases driving down rates, tenants now face record-high availability and prime opportunities for flexible, discounted deals.
U.S. law firm H1 2025 insights
Law firms have steadily expanded their leasing footprint, accounting for 13.4% of total activity through H1 2025—up from 9.5% pre-pandemic—while average lease terms have grown by over 30% since 2021. With nearly 25% of lease value now tied to concessions, especially in trophy and class A assets, the sector reflects a strategic shift amid easing market uncertainty.
U.S. tech H1 2025 insights
Tech leasing activity rebounded to 21.1% in H1 2025, fueled by renewed momentum in gateway markets and a surge in job postings following late-2024 interest rate cuts. With $71.5 billion in AI venture funding already deployed—representing 58.2% of all VC investment—AI is now the dominant force driving growth across the tech sector.
Snackable insights to get you through the quarter
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Strategic demand drivers propel DTLA class A office absorption to a post-pandemic high -
Across top LA submarkets, tenants prioritize Class A office space while recalibrating footprint size -
Tech is driving Manhattan office leasing activity, but not lease duration -
West Palm Beach office market could see single digit vacancy rate before 2030
