Annual Columbus Office Tenant Report | 2026

Written by: Stephanie Morris & Jake Lord

Colliers | Columbus is excited to present the 7th edition of this exclusive report!

The Columbus office market is evolving and showing sustained promise for building owners and tenants alike. From premium Class A space to efficient, renovated Class B options, along with infrastructure revitalization occurring downtown and in suburban office hubs like Dublin, Columbus provides strong fundamentals for new and existing market players. This report explores dynamic tenant demand trends and exciting revitalization projects around Columbus that will impact the office market, while highlighting new opportunities for occupiers and owners. This report delves into workplace trends, tenant behavior analysis utilizing curated data, migration patterns, interviews with brokerage and office design leaders and forecasts for Columbus office space in 2026.

Columbus remains one of the Midwest’s most compelling growth stories. Thoughtful development, revitalized districts and a diverse economic base continue to attract capital and occupiers.

-Stephanie Morris, Senior Research Analyst

The 2026 outlook points to a market defined less by headline transactions and more by disciplined, steady deal flow. Large, highly visible Class A commitments will continue to shape perception, but underlying activity will be driven by smaller users making precise, experience-focused decisions. Tenants will continue to prioritize well-located, amenitized environments with footprints that reflect stabilized hybrid policies and measured hiring plans.

Volume = Momentum

Deal volume, rather than single-tenant absorption, will shape momentum. With nearly two-thirds of 2025 leases signed under 5,000 square feet, 2026 is positioned to reward owners who can efficiently accommodate smaller users. Flexible floor plates, spec suites and speed-to-market strategies will become increasingly important competitive advantages, particularly for Class A assets seeking to maintain lease velocity without relying on infrequent large commitments. 

Demand Continues for Dublin & CBD

Geographically, competition will remain concentrated in Dublin and the CBD. Dublin is expected to lead suburban activity, supported by continued interest from healthcare and financial services users. Ongoing revitalization projects and central connectivity, bolstered by highway improvements, will keep the CBD in the conversation. Layered onto this dynamic, revitalization efforts across Central Ohio are reshaping the broader office landscape. Public and private investment in infrastructure, placemaking and mixed-use development is elevating the environments surrounding office assets, strengthening walkability, safety and access to retail and hospitality. These improvements enhance the daily employee experience and reinforce the competitive positioning of well-located properties.

Strategic Precision for Owners & Tenants

In 2026, success will hinge on alignment. Owners who calibrate product, pricing and leasing strategy to a market driven by smaller, deliberate decisions will be best positioned to outperform. For tenants, the environment offers optionality and leverage but also increasing competition for high-quality space in proven districts. The market is no longer defined by broad recovery narratives; it is shaped by precision, infrastructure investment and strategic positioning.

Sustained demand for Class A space has clarified where value creation opportunities exist across the broader market. As tenants prioritize quality and experience, Class B assets are entering a new cycle of revitalization. With limited new construction underway, investors who modernize well-located properties can deliver competitive, experience-driven environments at a more attainable price point, positioning these assets to capture the next wave of demand.

-Paul Krimm, President

View the 2026 Foresight Report