As downtown Seattle offices empty, city facing years of 'zombie' towers
Downtown Seattle is experiencing a severe office vacancy crisis, with nearly 37% of space empty and property values plummeting by $15 billion since 2020. Experts suggest that remote work and changing market dynamics have rendered a significant portion of the city's office supply obsolete.
Why it matters
The 'zombie tower' phenomenon poses a long-term threat to urban tax bases and the economic viability of major U.S. city centers.
Downtown Seattle may be sending strong “we’re back” vibes during its World Cup star turn. But downtown’s economic engine is still stuck on the sidelines.
The article presents data-driven economic analysis while acknowledging multiple viewpoints on the causes of the decline.
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