Like any other Monday, I started my day traveling on the Metra from the northwest suburbs—a commute that, for the past four years, often felt like stepping onto a ghost train. Entire cars to myself, eerily quiet rides and a trickle of passengers even during peak hours at Ogilvie Transportation Center.
But this past Monday was different. With the summer heat finally here, the train was bustling. For the first time in years, I struggled to find a seat—and not just once. All week long, trains were packed, standing-room-only in both directions.
Nearly five years since COVID cast its long shadow over Chicago’s commercial real estate market, we’re finally seeing a surge in professionals returning to the office—and it’s backed up by data.
According to Kastle Systems, office occupancy in the top 10 U.S. metros, including Chicago, has risen to around 54.2% of pre-pandemic levels, with a 6.5 percentage point jump in just one month.
On peak days (generally Tuesdays), Chicago’s office occupancy has reached approximately 74%, with recent reports from Kastle Systems stating occupancy ranging from 74% up to 94% in Chicago’s Class A+ buildings.
Still, Chicago lags behind other major U.S. cities—office visits here remain about 40–45% below the pre-pandemic benchmark.
But the direction is clear—and that optimism is reflected in how spaces are being used and leased. According to Crain’s/Chicago Fed report, Chicago’s office vacancy has continued climbing, reaching a 30-year high of roughly 15% by late 2024. With digital access data showing office visits steading at 50-55% range.
And industry sentiment remains strong—Avison Young named Chicago a top market to watch in 2025 as leasing and foot traffic begin to accelerate.
With a busy and bright first half of 2025 behind us, it’s thrilling to see River North regaining the hustle and bustle we remember from pre-COVID days. Auctions are turning, transit is packed, and desks are getting filled once again.
Nicole McAleese is a Leasing Associate with Chicago’s Urban Innovations.
