New Avison Young analysis shows growing demand for larger office footprints in early 2026
BOSTON — The average office lease size in Downtown Boston increased 18.1% from 2025 to the first quarter of 2026, reaching 28,783 square feet, the highest level recorded since 2020, according to a new analysis from Avison Young.
The findings suggest continued momentum in return-to-office activity across the region, with tenants increasingly committing to larger, long-term space requirements.
The report also noted a slight decline in average lease size for Trophy and Class A properties, which decreased 9.8% year-over-year. However, analysts expect that trend to be temporary, citing anticipated demand for large blocks and corporate consolidations among major Boston firms.
According to Nils Taylor, Boston Market Intelligence Analyst at Avison Young, the increase in average lease size reflects growing confidence in the Downtown Boston office market.
“The jump in average lease size underscores growing confidence in Downtown Boston’s office market,” Taylor said. “While last year’s outsized deals created a tough comparison for Trophy/Class A assets, we’re already seeing interest build around large blocks and consolidations. With more teams returning to the office, tenants are positioning themselves for expansion rather than contraction.”
The report indicates that overall leasing activity is being shaped by shifting workplace strategies, as companies reassess space needs following several years of hybrid and remote work models. Larger lease sizes suggest that some organizations are preparing for increased in-office attendance and longer-term occupancy commitments.
Market observers note that while premium Trophy and Class A properties experienced a temporary dip in average lease size following a strong period of large transactions in newly developed towers, demand fundamentals remain active. Leasing activity tied to consolidations and relocations is expected to support renewed growth in this segment.
With return-to-office trends gaining further traction in Boston, analysts expect continued expansion in average lease size throughout 2026, particularly as firms evaluate space efficiency, collaboration needs, and long-term workforce strategies.
Avison Young’s analysis highlights Downtown Boston’s ongoing recovery and repositioning in the post-pandemic office market, with leasing patterns increasingly signaling a shift toward larger, more centralized office footprints.
