2025 U.S. Guide Highlights
Cushman & Wakefield’s Office Fit Out Cost Guide evaluates current costs for projects across 40 U.S. cities.
In 2025, while the macroeconomic outlook shows promising improvements, driven by easing global supply chain stress and inflation reduction, the sector continues to face challenges. Persistent labor shortages and permitting delays remain significant obstacles.
Key cost guide findings include:
- Flight to quality continues to trend across major markets in the U.S.
- Occupiers intending to lease high-quality offices will be affected by slower new construction activity, meaning they will need to consider fit outs over new construction.
- Approximately 86% of general contractors surveyed in the region feel clients are spending as much or more on ESG features compared to recent data. This accelerated spend has contributed, in part, to price increases in commodities used for electrification.
- Finding skilled talent remains a challenge.
The top three most expensive markets in the U.S.: | The three most cost-effective markets in the U.S.: |
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Calculating a Market’s “All-In” Costs:
Fit out construction costs mentioned above and published in our guide are limited to physical construction. Most of our projects have other cost categories including soft costs, low voltage cabling (IT, A/V, and Security) as well as Furniture, Fixtures & Equipment that make up a total project spend. This year, we are pleased to provide additional thought leadership by providing users with a process to arrive at an “all in” fit out project cost.
Following is an example for a Tier 1 market using a percent of hard cost calculation. For other market tiers, please refer to the 2025 Office Fit Out Cost Guide. You’ll also see high and low ranges provided as an alternative to percent of hard cost calculation.
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Cushman & Wakefield offers a range of services to help you create your ideal office space. We are a trusted partner for occupiers and investors managing their capital expenditure and project delivery across the Americas. By providing consistent, trusted client service, we have created an excellent reputation locally, across the U.S. and globally. Our experienced team can guide you through the entire fit out process from concept to completion.Project & Development Services
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Project & Development Services (PDS) clients require skilled project and development teams that can transform any idea or strategy into a tangible reality in the built world. This means going above and beyond to find practical solutions that outthink and outdo the most difficult construction challenges facing our clients and communities. Our teams deliver end-to-end solutions globally, living out Cushman & Wakefield’s ethos of “Better never settles.” We’re not just conceiving of some of the biggest and brightest projects—we're bringing them to life.REGIONAL TEAM CONTACTS
Our team is here to support you through the fit out process. Contact a regional team lead to learn more about our services and how we can help you create your ideal workspace.ACCESS THE GUIDE
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