In a recent report by JLL, Hong Kong has been identified as one of the most expensive cities globally for outfitting offices. The city stands alongside other international hubs such as New York, Singapore, Tokyo, Zurich, and London in terms of office fit-out costs. These expenses are driven by high demand for premium office spaces and limited availability of Grade A office buildings. Additionally, there is an increasing emphasis on quality workspaces, employee experience, and sustainability, which further contributes to rising costs.

Details of the Expensive Office Fit-Outs in Hong Kong

In the heart of a bustling global economy, Hong Kong continues to dominate discussions about exorbitant office fit-out expenses. According to JLL’s latest Global Office Fit-Out Cost Guide 2025, the city is among the world leaders in this category. The analysis compares various cities' relative costs against London as a benchmark, focusing on contemporary offices within central business districts featuring moderately open layouts and medium-quality finishes. While average costs in the Asia-Pacific region range from US$1,350 to $1,590 per square meter depending on design specifics, Hong Kong significantly surpasses these figures due to its tight market for top-tier office spaces.

Tenants in these elite cities increasingly prioritize both quality and performance. With a growing focus on in-office attendance, enhancing employee experiences, and promoting sustainable practices, investments in superior work environments have become paramount. Moreover, infrastructure plays a crucial role in escalating costs. In areas with insufficient supplies of Grade A office buildings, tenants and property owners often allocate substantial resources toward renovating existing spaces, including costly upgrades to mechanical and electrical services.

As companies adapt to post-pandemic office dynamics, they not only spend more but also strive to make their workplaces smarter and greener. Demand for eco-friendly renovations has skyrocketed, with 60% of global markets experiencing an uptick in projects adhering to stringent sustainability standards.

From a journalistic perspective, this trend underscores the evolving nature of workplace environments. Companies worldwide are recognizing the importance of investing in high-quality, sustainable spaces that enhance productivity while fostering positive environmental impacts. This shift reflects broader societal values prioritizing well-being and ecological responsibility in professional settings.