U.S. Southeast

The Southeast is moving with confidence, powered by population growth, business-friendly markets, and a surge of investment across multiple sectors. Two distinct stories are unfolding across the region. In the Mid-Atlantic, cities like Philadelphia, Baltimore, and Washington, D.C., are focusing on reinvention by reinvesting in their historic downtowns through major mixed-use and civic upgrades along Market Street, the Inner Harbor, and the arena district in D.C. Meanwhile, the Carolinas, Atlanta, and Florida are experiencing extraordinary momentum. Hospitality, healthcare, and residential development are booming, supported by strong demographic trends, major transit upgrades in Charlotte and Raleigh, and new aviation investment in Tampa. While climate and affordability pressures are real, the Southeast’s story is about reinvention driven by quality of experience, strategic adaptability, and a long-term focus on community value.

What’s Next

Sports-anchored mixed-use districts drive economic impact across the Southeast.

From Atlanta’s Centennial Yards to Tampa’s Water Street, the Capital One Arena transformation in Washington, D.C., and new investment around Philadelphia’s Stadium District, sports-led developments energize the region’s cities. These mixed-use districts combine hospitality, residential, retail, and entertainment to generate lasting economic impact.

Data centers and advanced manufacturing define new industrial opportunities.

Across the Southeast, demand for mission-critical facilities accelerate as companies expand data center capacity, modernize energy infrastructure, and invest in advanced manufacturing. From power generation to high-tech production, tThese projects create steady, long-term demand for secure, sustainable, and tech-integrated real estate solutions.

Healthcare investment redefines the real estate landscape.

From Florida to the mid-Atlantic, clinics, outpatient facilities, and innovation campuses expand rapidly, creating opportunities for design and development that support wellness, efficiency, and patient-centered care.

Hospitality remains a reliable engine for growth.

Hospitality continues to anchor investment, especially in Miami and resort destinations across the region. Developers are pursuing experience-rich projects that merge wellness, entertainment, and community to meet evolving traveler expectations.

Notable Projects

A group of people in a large building. — **Pittsburgh International Airport Terminal Modernization Program**, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

A large building with a large screen. — **Capital One Arena**, Washington, D.C.

A person sitting on a bench. — **Under Armour Global Headquarters**, Baltimore, Maryland

A large building with a glass front. — **Folio House**, Atlanta, Georgia

Insights from the Gensler Research Institute

Everyday Vitality Defines the Southeast Region

Residents across some of the largest cities in the Southeast, such as Washington, D.C., Atlanta, and Miami, report high satisfaction levels for overall city experience, lifestyle, and access to neighborhood amenities. Eight in 10 say their city offers a great experience, with strong marks for atmosphere, recreation, and economic confidence. While affordability and transit remain weak points, these factors haven’t diminished the region’s appeal and underscore why investment continues to flow into experience-driven development.

How satisfied are you with the following aspects of your city?