BOSTON— Boston’s legal sector is making bold moves in commercial real estate this year, as law firms continue to drive leasing activity in the city’s evolving office market.
According to new data from Avison Young, law firms now account for 16% of all office square footage leased year-to-date—marking an eight-year high and the third consecutive year of growth for the sector. This uptick signals a strategic shift among firms as they invest in modern, high-end office spaces to support return-to-office mandates and project long-term brand strength.
Class A Over Trophy: A Shift in Strategy
While trophy buildings—those offering the most prestigious addresses and top-tier amenities—continue to command the highest rents and longest lease terms, law firms are increasingly turning to Class A assets as a more strategic and cost-effective option.
In 2025, Class A buildings made up 79% of law firm leasing activity, a significant pivot from past years when trophy assets dominated. In contrast, trophy leasing has dropped by 56% compared to the same period in 2024, now comprising just 16% of total activity.
“Law firms are clearly prioritizing quality and flexibility,” said a market analyst at Avison Young. “They want spaces that reflect stability and prestige, but with more favorable terms than trophy buildings typically offer.”
Notable Transactions Reflect Premium Preferences
Several major law firms have already made significant real estate commitments this year:
| Firm | Address | Date | Size (SF) | Transaction Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nutter McClennen & Fish | 115 Seaport Blvd | Feb 2025 | 125,260 | Direct Renewal |
| ArentFox Schiff | 800 Boylston St | Apr 2025 | 39,200 | Direct Renewal |
| Manning Gross & Massenburg | 125 High St | Mar 2025 | 38,000 | Direct Renewal |
| Sidley Austin | 60 State St | Feb 2025 | 29,537 | Direct Renewal |
| Manatt Phelps & Phillips | 1 Beacon St | Mar 2025 | 29,461 | Direct New Lease |
These transactions underscore the legal industry’s ongoing investment in prime locations with updated amenities—especially in Boston’s Back Bay, Financial District, and Seaport neighborhoods.
A Brand-Forward, Talent-Driven Strategy
Behind the data is a broader trend: law firms are using real estate as a tool to attract and retain talent, foster collaboration, and reinforce their brand identity.
Even as hybrid work remains the norm, firms are recalibrating office layouts to encourage in-person engagement—often through upgraded shared spaces, hospitality-style amenities, and smart technology integrations.
“We’re seeing law firms take a long-term view,” said a senior broker involved in several of this year’s deals. “They’re making calculated investments in environments that support not only today’s hybrid models but also tomorrow’s growth.”
What This Means for Boston’s Office Market
The legal sector’s steady demand provides a measure of stability for Boston’s broader office market, which has seen significant shifts since the pandemic. With law firms embracing long-term leases in premium buildings, their influence is helping redefine what the post-pandemic workplace looks like in one of America’s most competitive legal hubs.
Largest Law Firms Activity H1 2025 (Source: Avison Young)
