Office

Washington, D.C. Q1 2026 Quarterly Report

Andrew Eichberg May 08 < 1
  • Overall Direct Vacancy Holds Steady:
    Direct vacancy across Washington, D.C. remained relatively flat in Q1 at 20.0%, as modest leasing activity and continued move-outs largely offset one another.
  • Trophy and Class AA Assets Continue to Lead:
    The market’s top two asset classes remain the strongest performers, posting vacancy rates of 11.6% and 16.5%, respectively, as tenants continue to prioritize best-in-class buildings and amenities.
  • Premium Rents Continue to Climb:
    Limited availability at the top of the market is driving upward pressure on rents, with premier trophy space increasingly pushing into the $100+ PSF NNN range.
  • Capital Markets Gain Momentum:
    Investor activity continues to build, with renewed interest in high-quality assets signaling growing confidence in Washington’s office market fundamentals.
  • East End Leads Quarterly Absorption:
    The East End delivered the strongest submarket performance in Q1, recording 171,044 SF of positive net absorption, supported by major renewals, expansions, and continued supply reduction through conversions.