Tech Industry Geographically “Follows the Talent”

Revathi Greenwood, Americas head of research, Cushman & Wakefield

NEW YORK CITY—In major metropolitan areas, companies, regardless of the vertical, are often competing for space to attract talent—and tech companies are no different. Both small start-ups and established conglomerates have recognized the need for a major presence in places outside of the Bay Area including Austin, Nashville, Seattle, Boston, Washington DC, and now with an imminent fervor—New York City. They have begun to take large portions of high-rise buildings and trophy assets in dense urban areas, while simultaneously building campuses in suburban areas.

The talent pool is critical for all occupiers in general but never more so for technology companies. As they compete for top talent, we would expect the cities that have deep talent pools will continue to attract big tech tenants.