According to our Local Expert John Heffington, South Congress is performing like a top-tier retail corridor—tight inventory, premium rents, and new concepts driving foot traffic. Brands want in, but cost is the gatekeeper

Market Vibe:

South Congress remains ultra-active. Brands are aggressively pursuing space—even as inventory tightens and asking rates surge. Competition is strong, but sky-high rents are beginning to put a brake on some deals.

Openings This Quarter:

• Jones Road launched in May – the first clean-beauty flagship by Bobbi Brown on the corridor

• La La Land Kind Cafe debuted in July – already drawing large, Instagram-friendly crowds around its launch

Spaces to Watch:

• 1716 S Congress – 2,956 sf; former Neighborhood Sushi; available at low triple-digit $/sf NNN. A rare second-generation restaurant opportunity.

• 1610 S Congress – plan underway for redevelopment of the former Vespaio site; soon to be on the market.

Trends & Activity:

Demand remains robust, but with base rents hovering in that $175–230/sf range, we’re nearing upper limits—and some deals are stalling as a result.

Foot Traffic & Sales:

Traffic continues strong. Tenants report solid performance, even outside peak season—underscoring South Congress’ year-round strength.

Rent Outlook:

Base rents holding steady in the $175–230/sf bracket. With no signs of new supply and sustained demand, there’s no evidence of softening anytime soon.