New Haven-Fairfield County
Office Market Report

Availability declining in Fairfield County as New Haven faces select strain. Performance diverged across counties in 2025, with Fairfield posting the nation’s sharpest vacancy decline as both Class A and B/C rates fell by over 200 basis points. Although large-block leasing has slowed, the county’s deep professional base and appeal to firms seeking proximity to New York City at lower costs should support further tightening in 2026. By contrast, New Haven County saw net move-outs in 2025, but they were confined to a few properties. Quantum-Si terminated its 65,000-square-foot headquarters lease, and upgrades at a Long Wharf tower prompted exits. Nevertheless, New Haven’s vacancy near 10 percent — versus over 16 percent in Fairfield County — suggests these spaces should be leased again over time. Despite federal policy headwinds, the local university system is expected to remain a key driver of office demand, backed by a recent $50 million state investment in research facilities and infrastructure for life-science and technology firms.