Workplaces that employees can reach more quickly are less likely to have high office vacancy rates, a new analysis finds.

An analysis from Moody’s Analytics reveals that metro areas with shorter commute times have lower office vacancy rates, reports Erik Sherman for Globe St. While the analysis acknowledges the role of many other factors in office vacancy and downtown recovery, “ we continue to hear chatter that firms are more reluctant to maintain/expand space in metros where employees have greater difficulty getting to the office.”
According to the analysis, “Four of the top five metros with the largest office vacancy rate decreases were Rust Belt cities including Dayton, Buffalo, Cleveland, and Rochester. At least as of 2021, Dayton, Buffalo, and Rochester featured above average share of commutes less than 15 minutes of one-third or greater.”
On the other end of the spectrum, “four of the bottom 5 metros (San Francisco, Charlotte, Austin, and Louisville) have a share of commutes less than 15 minutes at or below the average of one-quarter with San Francisco having the lowest share of 15%.”
FULL STORY: Short Commutes Help Reduce Office Vacancy Rates

Trump Administration Could Effectively End Housing Voucher Program
Federal officials are eyeing major cuts to the Section 8 program that helps millions of low-income households pay rent.

Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.

Canada vs. Kamala: Whose Liberal Housing Platform Comes Out on Top?
As Canada votes for a new Prime Minister, what can America learn from the leading liberal candidate of its neighbor to the north?

Washington State’s Parking Reform Law Could Unlock ‘Countless’ Acres for New Housing
A law that limits how much parking cities can require for residential amd commercial developments could lead to a construction boom.

Wildlife Rebounds After the Eaton Fire
Following the devastation of the Eaton Fire, the return of wildlife and the regrowth of native plants are offering powerful signs of resilience and renewal.

LA to Replace Inglewood Light Rail Project With Bus Shuttles
LA Metro says the change is in response to community engagement and that the new design will be ready before the 2028 Olympic Games.
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