In the latest report on global office fit-out expenses, Hong Kong holds the 28th position worldwide. Within the Asia-Pacific region, it ranks fourth with an average cost of $1,040 per square foot, trailing behind Tokyo, Singapore, and Sydney. The highest costs in the region are observed in Tokyo, averaging $1,753 per square foot. Meanwhile, New York tops the global list. JLL's findings also highlight that a significant portion of organizations in the Asia-Pacific plan to boost their investment in office renovations, particularly in India and Australia.
According to recent data, in the vibrant yet competitive environment of the Asia-Pacific, Hong Kong's standing in office renovation costs is notable but not at the top. In the radiant landscape of 2025, while New York leads globally, Hong Kong finds itself nestled in the middle range. Within this context, Tokyo emerges as the costliest city for office fit-outs, significantly surpassing other regional hubs.
The Asia-Pacific region demonstrates a robust inclination towards enhancing office spaces, especially in emerging markets like India and established ones such as Australia. Notably, these countries exhibit higher-than-average intentions to increase spending on office renovations.
Ryan Wong, a leading figure in Project and Development Services at JLL Hong Kong, explained that despite climbing labor expenses, material costs have remained stable. This stability, coupled with intensified competition among contractors vying for projects, has kept Hong Kong’s office fit-out costs steady over the past year. With decreased activity since early 2025, market rivalry has only grown fiercer, prompting contractors to offer more competitive bids.
Looking ahead, Wong anticipates a substantial decline in fit-out costs for the remainder of 2025, driven by persistent efforts from contractors to secure contracts amidst challenging economic conditions.
From a journalistic perspective, this report underscores the dynamic nature of office fit-out costs influenced by various factors, including labor and material prices, as well as market demand. For readers, it highlights the importance of strategic planning and timing when considering office renovations. Understanding regional trends can help businesses make informed decisions about where and when to invest in property enhancements, ensuring they remain competitive and adaptable in an ever-changing global economy.